Atlanta — June 29, 2017

The Board of Regents today named Dr. Neal Weaver president of Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW) in Americus. Weaver will assume his new position on July 15, 2017. Weaver is currently the vice president for university advancement and innovation at Nicholls State University in Thibodaux, La.

“Neal is an experienced leader in advancement and external relations, including enrollment, recruitment, and fundraising,” said Chairman C. Thomas Hopkins. “His skills will serve Georgia Southwestern and the University System well, building on the success of the institution and our partnership with the Americus community.”

“Dr. Weaver understands that community support is essential to the success of the university and that a strong partnership is critical,” said Chancellor Steve Wrigley. “He will be an asset to the University System and play an important role in the economic development of the Americus community and the region.”

“What an honor to become part of Georgia Southwestern State University and to work with the faculty, staff, students, alumni and friends of the university to help the institution fulfill its mission,” said Weaver. “I look forward to getting out and around the Georgia Southwestern campus and getting to know the Americus community and the region.”

During his time at Nicholls State, the University saw four consecutive semesters of enrollment increases ending 16 semesters of enrollment decreases; a 40 percent increase in applications, and a 15 percent increase in admissions. He secured five endowed professorships supporting student success at Nicholls State. Weaver also served on several committees, including for accreditation compliance and leadership. In addition, he is active in community and professional organizations.

Prior to joining Nicholls State, Weaver served West Texas A&M University (WTAMU) in Canyon as vice president for institutional advancement and executive director of the WTAMU Foundation. He has also served in previous roles as vice president for university relations, director of university relations and director of public relations at Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, Okla.

Weaver holds a doctorate in organizational leadership from the University of Oklahoma in Norman. He earned an MBA from Southeastern Oklahoma State University in Durant and a bachelor of arts in speech/communications from Oklahoma Panhandle State University in Goodwell.

He and his wife, Kristi, have three children.

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