News Summary
Dr. Russell T. Keen will become the new president of Augusta University starting July 1, succeeding Brooks Keel. With extensive experience in administration, Keen has played a vital role in the university’s substantial growth in enrollment and research funding. He aims to foster a culture of excellence, innovation, and community involvement as he leads the institution into a promising future.
Exciting Changes Ahead for Augusta University with New President at the Helm
Augusta, get ready for some exciting news! Starting July 1, Dr. Russell T. Keen will step into the role of president at Augusta University. After a vote by the University System of Georgia’s Board of Regents, Keen has been named the sole finalist for the presidency, taking over from the esteemed Brooks Keel, who has been in the position since 2015 and will retire effective June 30.
Experience and Leadership
Dr. Keen is no stranger to Augusta University; he currently serves as the executive vice president for administration and the chief of staff to the president. His long tenure in the university system spans over 22 years, including 13 years at Georgia Southern University in various administrative roles. Keen’s background also includes a stint at the University of Georgia, where he honed his fundraising skills.
He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and a master’s degree in higher education administration from Georgia Southern University, along with a doctorate in higher education management from the University of Georgia. This impressive qualifications list showcases his commitment to educational excellence and leadership within the academic community.
Significant Impact on Enrollment and Research
During his time at Augusta University, Dr. Keen has been instrumental in achieving remarkable growth and progress. Under his stewardship, the university experienced a boost in enrollment by over 25% and research funding surged by more than 35%. Not just that, the overall economic impact of Augusta University has jumped by upwards of 45%. These numbers reflect Keen’s strategic vision for growth and development at the institution.
A Vision for the Future
As Keen prepares to take on his new role, he is eager to promote a culture of excellence and respect on campus. His vision revolves around enhancing research, sparking innovation, and ensuring student success. Keen’s leadership style focuses on building a diverse and engaged campus culture, where collaboration is key and every individual feels valued.
A Call to the Community
Dr. Keen has also highlighted the importance of community involvement. He believes that the best way to elevate Augusta University is through a collective effort that brings together students, faculty, and local residents. By working hand in hand, he envisions transforming both the university and the surrounding community into hubs of opportunity and growth for all.
A New Chapter Begins
With Keen’s upcoming appointment, Augusta University is poised to enter a new chapter. The Board of Regents is set to confirm Keen’s appointment formally after a five-day waiting period mandated by state law. His leadership is expected to not only maintain the momentum that Augusta University has built but also drive it toward becoming a leading research university on a national level.
There’s a tangible buzz in Augusta as people look forward to what Dr. Russell T. Keen will bring to the table. With a strong emphasis on collaboration and community, the future looks bright for both Augusta University and its surrounding community as they embark on this journey together.
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Additional Resources
- Augusta Chronicle: Russell Keen Announced as New President of Augusta University
- Grice Connect: Augusta University Ushers in a New Era with Dr. Russell Keen’s Leadership
- WRDW: Augusta University Starts New Era Under New Leadership, Dr. Russell Keen
- Augusta Chronicle: Augusta University Vice President Russell Keen Finalist for President
- Wikipedia: Augusta University
- Google Search: Russell Keen
- Google Scholar: Russell Keen Augusta University
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Augusta University
- Google News: Augusta University
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
