Leading with Purpose: Advancing Academic Excellence

At Georgia Southern University, academic leadership means setting a high standard for learning, innovation, and community impact. Guided by the Office of the Provost, our Academic Leadership Teams work in concert to drive excellence across all areas of the university. Their dedication to academic growth, inclusivity, and real-world learning ensures that our programs remain impactful, relevant, and responsive to the needs of a changing world.

The Office of the Provost, alongside the Academic Leadership Team and college deans, champions a collaborative approach to elevate each student’s journey. Through initiatives that strengthen curriculum, enrich faculty mentorship, and expand research opportunities, these leaders bring Georgia Southern’s vision to life. They are instrumental in building pathways that prepare students to succeed not only academically but also as engaged citizens and leaders in their fields.

Together, our academic leaders exemplify “Excellence in Action,” working tirelessly to empower our community and create lasting impact. Their commitment to high standards, forward-thinking strategy, and student success exemplifies the values that define Georgia Southern and inspire our students to soar beyond boundaries.

Driving Innovation and Academic Growth

The Office of the Provost is dedicated to advancing academic excellence and fostering a supportive environment where students, faculty, and staff thrive. Under the guidance of Dr. Avinandan “Avi” Mukherjee, Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs, these teams steer the strategic direction of Georgia Southern’s academic programs, ensuring a dynamic, inclusive, and impactful educational experience.

Provost Leadership Team

• Dr. Avinandan “Avi” Mukherjee, Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs
• Dr. Diana Cone, Senior Vice Provost
• Dr. Delena Gatch, Associate Provost, Institutional Assessment, Accreditation, and Curriculum
• Dr. Da’Mon Andrews, Assistant Provost, Academic Analytics and Efficiency
• Glenn Gibney, Assistant Provost, Career Readiness
• Dr. Cynthia Groover, Assistant Provost
• Dr. Delana Schartner, Assistant Provost, Academic Policies and Initiatives
• Dr. Brad Sturz, Assistant Provost, Academic Strategy and Decision Support
• Dr. David Weindorf, Vice President for Research & Economic Development
• Mary Kate Allen, Communications Manager
• Trina Smith, Chief of Staff
• Melissa Joiner, IT Business Owner

Deans’ Council Leadership Team

• Rami Haddad, Ph.D., Interim Dean
  • Allen E. Paulson College of Engineering and Computing
• David Owen, Ph.D., Dean 
  • College of Arts and Humanities
• Ryan Schroeder, Ph.D., Dean 
  • College of Behavioral and Social Sciences
  • Interim Dean: Jack N. Averitt College of Graduate Studies
• Amy Lingo, Ph.D., Dean 
  • College of Education
• Michael Huggins, Ph.D., Dean 
  • College of Science and Mathematics
• Stuart Tedders, Ph.D., Dean
  • Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health
• Britton McKay, Ph.D., Interim Dean
  • Parker College of Business
• Scott Gordon, Ph.D., Interim Dean
  • Waters College of Health Professions
• Steven Engel, Ph.D., Dean
  • Honors College
• Lisandra Carmichael, Ph.D., Dean
  • University Libraries