Atlanta — November 13, 2001

The and University System of Georgia Chancellor Stephen R. Portch today announced the reappointment of Dr. Carlton E. Brown, as president of Savannah State University, for Fiscal Year 2003.

The action was announced today at the meeting.

Brown was first named to the Savannah State presidency in March of 1997. Chancellor Portch tapped him for a five-year appointment to bring stability to the institution, which had been wracked with high turnover of six presidents in 18 years. Brown began his tenure in the post on July 1, 1997, and since that time has made significant strides in leading the institution to a new level of accomplishment.

“It is critically important to the future of Savannah State to sustain strong committed leadership,” Chancellor Portch stated. “We have that now, and I want to do everything possible to sustain that momentum.”

Under Brown’s leadership, enrollment at Savannah State has begun rebounding, while the average SAT scores of entering freshmen have simultaneously grown by an impressive 87 points. The president also is credited with building closer ties to the Savannah community, linking academic programs to area needs.

Savannah State also has regained a ten-year reaccredidation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, with three commendations of areas of excellence at the institution: Buildings & Grounds (which had previously been a nagging problem at the institution); communication of Institutional Research; and Program Review.

During Brown’s tenure, the institution also has secured approval for several new academic programs, including a master’s degree in marine science, and accreditation of the institution’s undergraduate and graduate programs in social work. In addition, Brown has overseen the development and funding of enhanced student housing, and implementation of a completely wireless technology infrastructure for the campus.

Commenting on his reappointment, Brown said: “This is an affirmation of the direction the university has pursued over the past four years. The faculty, staff, students and alumni of Savannah State are to be commended for our accomplishments, because they have been with us every step of the way. All of our work has truly been a team effort.”

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