John Banter, Ed.D. has been selected to serve as assistant vice president for Organizational Effectiveness, Leadership Development, and Engagement (OELDE), effective August 1.

“John listens before he decides,” said Dominique Quarles, Ph.D., associate vice president for Organizational Effectiveness, Leadership Development and Engagement. “Colleagues across campus trust him, and he follows through without being asked twice. Those instincts are what set him apart, and they are why I have full confidence in his ability to lead in this capacity.”

Banter has built a strong record of measurable and meaningful work since joining the OELDE team as director of the Office of Organizational Effectiveness. He served as strategic planning administrator in the development of the University Strategic Plan, Soaring Beyond 2030, and has since led the centralized data collection process for the institutional key performance indicators tied to that plan. 

He also developed and launched the Leadership Development Institute for Emerging Leaders. He co-leads the University Strategic Engagement and Alignment Committee, ensuring the university’s strategic priorities translate into coordinated action across campus.

“I am excited to serve in this role and to partner with colleagues across the university as we develop leaders, strengthen engagement and take purposeful action to advance Georgia Southern’s mission and vision,” said Banter

Banter will work alongside Quarles to help align leadership development, institutional engagement, and organizational effectiveness work with the University’s mission and strategic plan and will assume administrative oversight of the Office of Institutional Engagement and the Office of Student Engagement and Support. 

That also includes strengthening the leadership and professional development ecosystem, including the Leadership Development Institutes and the employee e-learning platform, while building out systems to track data and results. 

Banter brings 20 years of progressive leadership experience in higher education to his new role. 

STATESBORO, GA 鈥� Forbes Magazine has named 快猫app短视 as one of . 

Forbes has released the names of employers across the United States committed to providing pay equity, career development opportunities, parental leave, work-life balance, childcare and eldercare benefits, and proper assessment and management of incidents related to sexual misconduct and discrimination. 

Georgia Southern was one of two universities from Georgia to be named within the list, ranking  #138 out of 700 employers across the country. According to research from , women account for more than half of the workforce today, a stark contrast to the 1990s, when men held about 7 million more jobs than women.

In partnership with , more than 176,000 women working for companies employing at least 1,000 people throughout the U.S. were surveyed, and results from the last three years were considered in the findings. Statista also accounted for the percentage of women in executive and board positions within the research.  

For the ninth consecutive year, Forbes recognizes standout employers making strides to improve pay equity and providing employees opportunities to advance in their careers, and achieve the highest levels of success within leadership positions. 

快猫app短视, a public Carnegie Doctoral/R2 with a Carnegie Community Engagement classification, offers approximately 149 different degree programs serving nearly 31,600 students through 11 colleges on four campuses in Savannah, Hinesville, Statesboro, Swainsboro and online instruction. Founded in 1906, Georgia Southern is a leader in higher education in southeast Georgia with expert faculty and a focus on public impact research and engaging learning opportunities through knowledge and know-how that prepare our students to soar beyond and take ownership of their lives, careers and communities. Visit .

STATESBORO, GA 鈥� For the 2026-27 academic year, has named 快猫app短视 a College of Distinction for Eagle Nation鈥檚 commitment to serving undergraduate students and championing the leaders of the future.聽

These merits signify a school鈥檚 adherence to what Colleges of Distinction calls its Four Distinctions: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community and Successful Outcomes. In addition, Eagle Nation was also named a 2026-2027 Military Support, Business, Education, and Nursing College of Distinction.

鈥淭oday鈥檚 students are navigating a college landscape shaped by rising costs, rapid technological change, and real uncertainty about the future of work,鈥� said Tyson Schritter, chief operating officer at Colleges of Distinction. 鈥淲hat they need from higher education isn鈥檛 just a credential, but preparation for the world ahead. 快猫app短视 delivers that through the kind of intentional, high-impact education that equips students for whatever comes next.鈥�

Since 2000, Colleges of Distinction has been committed to recognizing schools across the United States for their remarkable contributions to higher education. Colleges of Distinction was founded on the premise that a college is the experience it provides, not its place for numerical rankings alone. Georgia Southern鈥檚 inclusion reflects its commitment to actionable, qualitative values. 

From undergraduate research and collaborative coursework to immersive service-learning and mentored internships, Georgia Southern students are active participants in their own education.

鈥淣o two students arrive on campus with the same goals, background, or definition of success,鈥� Schritter added. 鈥淭he institutions we recognize understand that. Georgia Southern has built an environment where students are supported and challenged in ways that translate into real academic, professional, and personal outcomes.鈥�

快猫app短视 Golden Eagles Athletics has completed its head coaching staff ahead of the program’s inaugural NAIA season, announcing the addition of Justin Tucek as head men’s basketball coach and Dustin Wager as the new men’s and women’s cross country programs’ first head coach.

Additionally, the Golden Eagles have finalized the administrative staff with the hiring of Justin Gray as assistant athletic director for administration and communication, and Jonathan Clasen as compliance director.

The appointments finalize a leadership group that will help the Golden Eagles reach new heights in intercollegiate competition and continue the growth of athletics on the East Georgia Campus.

鈥淐ompleting our head coaching staff is an important milestone as we continue elevating Golden Eagles Athletics,鈥� said Athletic Director Joe Heikkinen. 鈥淲ith the addition of outstanding new head coaches, new full-time assistant coaches, a compliance director who is widely respected across the NAIA as an expert in the field, and our new Assistant AD for Administration and Communication, we have strengthened every level of our department. This group gives us the leadership, experience and vision needed to serve our student-athletes at a high level as we begin this new chapter. Our goal is clear: to build Golden Eagles Athletics into a premier NAIA program.鈥�

In addition to the two new coaching appointments, four head coaches will return, bringing with them a tradition of success established during the Bobcats era and helping guide the transition into a new chapter as the Golden Eagles. Their experience and continuity provide a strong foundation as Golden Eagles Athletics prepares to compete in its first year as an NAIA member institution. 

Cross Country

As the first head coach in program history, Wager will be tasked with building the Golden Eagles’ men’s and women’s cross country programs from the ground up, including recruiting the inaugural student-athletes and establishing the foundation for long-term success. 

Wager said he is eager to begin building the program and recruiting student-athletes to the East Georgia Campus.

鈥淚鈥檓 honored for the opportunity to lead the Golden Eagles Cross Country program,鈥� said Wager. 鈥淚鈥檓 excited to invest in our student-athletes and build a program that reflects hard work, accountability and pride. I look forward to building strong relationships on campus and throughout the community.鈥�

He previously served as an assistant coach for cross country and track and field at Nicholls State University, where he worked closely with student-athletes in training development, recruiting, travel coordination and team operations.

A former student-athlete at Nicholls State, Wager has developed a strong foundation in athlete mentorship and program development while pursuing graduate studies in higher education administration.

鈥淲e are excited to welcome Dustin to the Golden Eagles family,鈥� said Athletic Director Joe Heikkinen. 鈥淒ustin brings tremendous energy, enthusiasm and a genuine passion for helping student-athletes grow both competitively and personally. We believe he will do an outstanding job building our men鈥檚 and women鈥檚 cross country program and creating a strong culture for the future.鈥�

Wager has already begun recruiting efforts and preparations for the upcoming cross country season.

Men’s Basketball

Tucek brings an impressive background of collegiate coaching experience and success at multiple NCAA programs, including Southern Arkansas University, Emporia State University and Northwestern State University.

Most recently, Tucek served as assistant men鈥檚 basketball coach at Southern Arkansas University, where he played a key role in player development, recruiting, scouting, community outreach, travel coordination and academic support. He also helped lead one of the nation鈥檚 top community service programs in NCAA Division II basketball.

Prior to Southern Arkansas, Tucek spent three seasons at Emporia State University, where he helped guide the program to multiple 20-win seasons, a school-record 23-win campaign, and an NCAA Division II Tournament appearance that included the program鈥檚 first-ever NCAA Tournament victory.

Throughout his career, Tucek has built a reputation as a high-energy coach with a strong focus on player development, recruiting, academics and relationship-building.

鈥淲e are thrilled to welcome Justin to the Golden Eagles,鈥� said Heikkinen. 鈥淛ustin is an outstanding young coach who brings tremendous passion, work ethic and leadership to our department. His experience, energy and vision for building a competitive culture make him a tremendous fit for our program. We are excited about the future of Golden Eagles Basketball under his leadership.鈥�

Tucek expressed excitement about the opportunity to lead the program.

鈥淚鈥檓 incredibly grateful for the opportunity to lead the Georgia Southern Golden Eagles men鈥檚 basketball program,鈥� said Tucek. 鈥淭his is a special opportunity to build something meaningful both on and off the court. I鈥檓 excited to connect with our student-athletes, campus community and supporters as we build a culture centered around accountability, development and competitiveness.鈥�

Women’s Basketball

John Hines will lead the Golden Eagles women鈥檚 basketball team in the NAIA. With more than 20 years of playing and coaching experience, he most recently served as the former East Georgia State College (EGSC) head coach in the 2025-26 season, assistant women鈥檚 basketball coach during the 2024鈥�25 season, assistant men鈥檚 basketball coach from 2010鈥�14 and again from 2021鈥�23, and coached the Middle Georgia Tarheels AAU program from 2015鈥�2021. He has also coached at both Swainsboro High School and West Laurens High School.

While at EGSC, Hines supported basketball programs through recruiting, scouting, training, scheduling and program operations. He holds a bachelor鈥檚 degree in sports and health Sciences from American Military University and a master鈥檚 degree in sports management administration from Liberty University.

Softball

Matthew Gillespie will lead the Golden Eagles softball team in the NAIA. Gillespie joined the coaching staff at the former EGSC in 2025 with more than a decade of coaching experience. He has managed nationally competitive travel softball teams, highlighted by winning the 2021 Alliance National Championship. His coaching philosophy centers on player development, competitive excellence and character building, preparing athletes to succeed both on and off the field.

Gillespie and his family are deeply connected to the sport. His daughter plays softball at 快猫app短视, and his son plays for the Golden Eagles at the East Georgia Campus.

Beyond coaching, Gillespie has held senior leadership roles in finance and program management, including a role as vice president of finance. He holds a bachelor’s in accounting from Georgia Gwinnett College and is currently pursuing a master’s in sport management from 快猫app短视.

Baseball

Jason Mock will lead the Golden Eagles baseball program after serving as head coach of the baseball team at EGSC since 2023. An Effingham County native, Mock previously served as an assistant coach and pitching coordinator for the Bobcats before being elevated to head coach. A member of the Effingham County High School Hall of Fame, Mock played collegiately at Brewton-Parker.

During his four seasons at EGSC, Mock led the Bobcats to 102 wins overall. His best season came in 2023-24, when he hoisted a 32-24 record and one of the best offenses in the Georgia Collegiate Athletic Conference.

Mock holds an Associate of Arts from EGSC and is currently completing his bachelor鈥檚 in organizational leadership at 快猫app短视.

eSports

Ashley Woods will lead the Golden Eagles eSports program after serving as head coach at EGSC since 2023. Woods also serves as Director of Information Technology at 快猫app短视’s East Georgia Campus. Under Woods’ leadership, the program has experienced significant growth and national success, highlighted by three straight seasons with a national championship. 

The first came in the game Super Smash Bros. Ultimate NJCAAE Tier 3 in the Spring season of 2025. Following that up, the program took home the national championship in Rocket League 3v3 NJCAAE Tier 3 in back-to-back seasons (Fall 2025 and Spring 2026). In addition, the program boasts five national runner-up finishes in NJCAAE Tier 3 and three third-place finishes in the same tier.

Assistant Athletic Director, Administration and Communication

As assistant athletic director for administration and communication, Justin Gray will bring his extensive experience in sports media, communications and athletics operations to help support the continued growth of Golden Eagles Athletics. He joins Georgia Southern from Augusta University, where he gained experience across multiple areas of athletics, including serving as sports editor for the student newspaper, The Bellringer, social media coordinator for the men’s basketball team, technical writer and play-by-play broadcaster.

Beyond his work at Augusta University, Gray has served as a sports writer for publications including The Forest Blade and The Augusta Press and worked in operations for CBS Sports during the 88th and 89th Masters tournaments. A graduate of East Georgia State College, where he earned an Associate of Arts, and Augusta University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in communication, Gray is focused on connecting Golden Eagles Athletics with the East Georgia Campus and surrounding community while creating opportunities for fans and supporters to engage with the program.

Compliance Director

Jonathan Clasen started his college coaching career as a volunteer assistant men鈥檚 basketball coach in 2008 at Hope International University (HIU) in Fullerton, California, where he earned a bachelor鈥檚 degree in human development in 2006. During his time as a volunteer assistant coach, Clasen earned his master鈥檚 in coaching and athletic administration from Concordia University Irvine in 2011. Clasen worked his way up to part-time assistant coach, and then to a full-time assistant coach and compliance officer in the HIU athletics department. The HIU men鈥檚 basketball program had its greatest season in 2014-15, when it won its regular season and its conference tournament before advancing to the Fab Four in the NAIA National Tournament. After the 2019-20 season, Clasen decided to focus his college athletics career on compliance (athletic eligibility) and event management. The 2026-27 season will be Clasen鈥檚 14th season of NAIA compliance and event management.

鈥淚 am excited for the opportunity to move my family to Georgia this summer and be a part of the first-ever NAIA season for 快猫app短视 East Georgia Campus,鈥� Clasen said. 鈥淚 look forward to working with the coaches and athletes to keep everyone on track with NAIA eligibility and produce athletic events that create a big college feel for a small college community.鈥�

Some students come to college determined to earn their degree. Spring graduate Jaylee Kilgo was determined to leave a legacy.

Arriving on 快猫app短视鈥檚 campus, Kilgo already loved storytelling. Michael Van Wagenen, Ph.D., associate professor in the Department of History, showed her how a degree in history could help her preserve and share stories in a meaningful way.

鈥淒r. Van Wagenen showed me all the things I could do with a history degree,鈥� she said. 鈥淚 had already been thinking about changing my major, and I felt like it was a sign. He helped me get an internship and really changed the direction of my education.鈥�

Through her program, she received hands-on experience in research, preservation and interpretation of historical artifacts. Kilgo was especially drawn to projects featuring the stories of influential women at Georgia Southern. Her drive to uncover and share overlooked stories served as a defining part of her collegiate experience, leading her to work on projects including Georgia Brown Watson, the and a World War II memorial.

鈥淥ne of my favorite things has been preserving the history of Georgia Southern,鈥� she said. 鈥淚 want students years from now to still have the opportunity to learn about the people and stories that helped shape this institution.鈥�

Kilgo took her passion for history further by studying abroad at Georgia Southern鈥檚 Learning Center in Wexford, Ireland.

鈥淚reland was unlike anything I had ever experienced,鈥� she said. 鈥淭hat was the first time I鈥檇 been abroad. The architecture is just absolutely beautiful in Ireland, and being able to walk to class while also walking in the middle of a town was really cool and unique to experience.鈥�

While in Wexford, Kilgo attended classes and took educational excursions throughout Ireland. The unique structure allowed her to connect classroom lessons directly to real-world applications.

鈥淏eing able to learn about something in the classroom and then go see it for yourself was incredible,鈥� she said. 鈥淟earning hands-on from the native Irish communities and experiencing their history, culture and landscapes was extraordinary.鈥�

Kilgo never expected her college path to include so many opportunities for leadership, research and service, but she seized each one that came her way. From studying abroad in Ireland to serving as a Southern Ambassador, earning a role as Panhellenic president and preserving University history through archival projects with , she met every chance with open arms.

鈥淚鈥檝e lived every single day to the fullest that I could,鈥� she said. 鈥淚 have no regrets about my time here at Georgia Southern.鈥�

Her engagement, including work with the , helped her appreciate just how special the Georgia Southern community really is. It was that bond to the Georgia Southern community that became the foundation for her experience.

She credits faculty members Howard Keeley, Ph.D., Brian Feltman, Ph.D., William (Bill) Allison, Ph.D., and Shana Bridges, Ph.D., as well as her advisors and staff members Daniel McBurney and Megan Bowen, and the teams within Special Collections and Fraternity and Sorority Life, as key to her success. From helping her navigate graduate school applications to supporting her research ideas or simply assuring her that she is doing amazing things, these mentors were crucial to her.

鈥淭here were plenty of times I would walk into someone鈥檚 office and just need guidance,鈥� she said. 鈥淭he people at Georgia Southern are always willing to help.鈥�

When asked how she hopes to be remembered, Kilgo doesn鈥檛 point to titles or accomplishments, but to her impact.

鈥淚 want to leave behind a legacy of someone warm and kind, but also made a difference in the people around her,鈥� she said. 鈥淗aving the opportunity to continue to have an impact on the institution through preserving Georgia Southern history and that potentially being a learning outcome for someone years down the road, that鈥檚 what I want to leave a legacy of.鈥�

Having crossed the stage at commencement, Kilgo leaves not only with a history degree and a communication studies minor, but also with a collection of memories. As she prepares for graduate school in Tennessee, she believes it is time to carry the impact of Eagle Nation beyond her home state of Georgia.

鈥淢y impact has already been made here,鈥� she said. 鈥淣ow it is time for me to go do that somewhere else.鈥�

As for future students searching for their place on campus, her advice is simple.

鈥淛ust do it,鈥� she said. 鈥淕et involved. Talk to people. Don鈥檛 be afraid to try something new. You only have a few years here, and before you know it, you鈥檒l be graduating. Make every opportunity count.鈥�

The Allen E. Paulson College of Engineering and Computing (AEPCEC) at 快猫app短视 hosted its annual Student Research Symposium showcasing the next generation of technological and engineering advancements. 

The 2026 symposium featured academic talent and innovative research, highlighting presentations from over 300 undergraduate and graduate students. More than 130 interactive technical posters were presented spanning research topics in cutting-edge computing, advanced infrastructure, robotics, smart energy, artificial intelligence and engineering innovation.  

The event drew participation from approximately 40 industry partner companies who actively engaged with the presented research, underscoring the symposium鈥檚 growing role as a bridge between student research, workforce development and industry needs. 

鈥淭his event is an essential launchpad for our students to step out of the classroom and showcase their innovative work with real-world applications,鈥� said Reinhold Gerbsch, DSc, director of industrial relations for the college. 鈥淧resenting research across fields like robotics, civil engineering and artificial intelligence teaches students how to articulate complex concepts with clarity to industry professionals.鈥� 

The symposium also featured an on-site career fair, giving students the opportunity to connect with major industry employers, including Gulfstream Aerospace, Rolls-Royce, Thomas & Hutton and more. 

鈥淗aving companies on-site creates a dynamic professional network where industry leaders are not simply judging the students鈥� work, they are there to mentor, advise and hire,鈥� Gerbsch explained. 鈥淭heir involvement ensures our students understand what the engineering and computing sectors are looking for in new hires and how their research connects to emerging industry needs.鈥�  

Team and individual awards were presented to undergraduate and graduate students. These included:

UNDERGRADUATE AWARDS

AEPCEC Top Eagle Award 

Olaudo Victor-Ofoegbu, Jalen Mordica, Iniuobong Unah

Crider Foods – Manufacturing, Robotics & Automation Award

Elizabeth McGlone, Sebastian Oviedo, Ariana Story, Anish Goyal

Gulfstream Business Technology Computer Science Award 

Nicholas Hubbard

Gulfstream Business Technology Information Technology Award 

Michael Woodcock

Gulfstream Completions Engineering – Electrical and Computer Engineering Award

Tamera Gilmore, Jack Jones, Perrin Freeman, Bryan Bosely

Gulfstream Innovation, Engineering & Flight Excellence Award

Caleb Lewis, Jack Giles, Elsie Lappin

Rolls-Royce Power Systems Mechanical Engineering Award

Milton Tomas Santizo

Thomas & Hutton Civil Engineering and Construction Award  

Rosemarie Gante, Ariful Islam Shuvo, Peya Sharif, Yocelin Ramos-Perez, Natalia Alanis, Isabella Funes

AEPCEC- Computing Award 

Alejandro Gir贸n, Thi Tran, Nicholas-Paul Webster, Casey Morgan 

GRADUATE AWARDS

AEPCEC Top Eagle Award 

John Havenar

Crider Foods – Manufacturing, Robotics & Automation Award

Emmanuella Ogun,Yong Ann Voeurn

Gulfstream Business Technology Computer Science Award 

Mary Dufie Afrane

Gulfstream Business Technology Information Technology Award 

Temitope Elijah

Gulfstream Completions Engineering – Electrical and Computer Engineering Award

Jonas Chen

Gulfstream Innovation, Engineering & Flight Excellence Award

Chowdhury Irtiza

Rolls-Royce Power Systems Mechanical Engineering Award

Melinawo Vowotor

Thomas & Hutton Civil Engineering and Construction Award  

Md. Moshiur Rahman Tushar

AEPCEC- Computing Award 

Deborah Osahor

Industry and community partners interested in engaging with Georgia Southern engineering and computing students are invited to participate in future Student Research Symposium events through judging, sponsorship, career fair participation, technical mentorship and research collaboration opportunities.

For more information about participating in the Student Research Symposium and to view all of the 2026 award finalists, please visit: /colleges/engineering-computing/research/undergraduate-research/symposium. 

快猫app短视 is once again setting the standard for excellence at the National Model United Nations Conference in New York, receiving outstanding delegation distinction for the 15th year in a row. 

“Our success is due to the quality of our students,” said Barry Balleck, Ph.D., team advisor and professor of politics and international studies. “They have a passion for Model UN and they believe in the diplomatic process. They have not been jaded to believe that diplomacy is weakness and that international cooperation is pass茅.”

Georgia Southern has one of the longest-running Model United Nations programs in the country, beginning in 1972. Balleck says that the team’s wins this year have just reinforced what he’s known since he started leading the program 30 years ago. 

“Our students can match up to students from any university anywhere in the world,” Balleck said. “The difference between our students and others is that they have a passion for Model UN and for the standard of excellence that we have set in this program. We emphasize every year that our students are not just representing themselves in any particular year; they are representing the legacy of the Model UN established by 快猫app短视.”

The weight of that responsibility is heavy, but Balleck says it’s a crucial tool in preparing students for their future. 

“Our students learn research, writing and critical thinking skills that help them in whatever profession they choose,” he explained. “I have students who are teachers, diplomats, doctors, lawyers, government officials, peace corps volunteers, lobbyists — the list goes on and on.” 

Those skills helped the Georgia Southern team stand out at the conference this year, bringing home multiple awards in categories like Outstanding Distinction for Position Paper Writing and Outstanding Delegate Distinction in Committee. Balleck says the group is already preparing for next year.  

“Our delegation will be conducting three middle and high school conferences next academic year,” he said. “These conferences will bring nearly 1,200 students to 快猫app短视. Then we’ll attend the National Model United Nations (NMUN) Conference next year in New York City at the end of March 2027.”

That will mark Balleck’s 31st year with the organization. After all this time, he still says that Model UN is the best academic tool he’s ever been associated with. 

“It teaches students advanced methods in public speaking, research, technical writing and diplomacy,” he said. “In my opinion, the experiential components of Model UN are unmatched by any other experience.”

Winners include:

OUTSTANDING DELEGATION

• Becerra, Ruby
• Benyehudah, Ellie
• Busboom, Emma
• Chavvakula, Varshita
• Collins, Logan — Assistant Advisor
• Dykes, Kierstin
• Franco, Jaelly
• Gibbs, Amiyah
• Hill, Xenovia
• Mason, Natassia
• Millan Merchan, Jorge
• Moore, Chloe
• Norman, Malachi
• Pagelsen, Logan
• Roberts, Lily
• Rumsey, Ava
• Sherrill, Jacob
• Taylor-Williams, Ariana — Head Delegate
• Wheeler, Jaden
• Williams, Emma
• Balleck, Barry — Advisor

OUTSTANDING POSITION PAPER WRITING 

General Assembly Third Committee (GA3)

• Chavvakula, Varshita
• Pagelsen, Logan

Commission on the Status of Women (CSW)

• Dykes, Kiersten
• Hill, Xenovia

Human Rights Committee (HRC)

• Williams, Emma
• Roberts, Lily

OUTSTANDING DELEGATES IN COMMITTEE

General Assembly First Committee (GA1)

• Millan Merchan, Jorge
• Franco, Jaelly

Commission on the Status of Women (CSW)

• Dykes, Kiersten
• Hill, Xenovia

Human Rights Committee (HRC)

• Williams, Emma
• Roberts, Lily

United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)

• Becerra, Ruby
• Mason, Nattassia

United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)

• Benyehudah, Ellie
• Moore, Chloe

Georgia native William (Xander) Russell chose 快猫app短视 for two reasons: scholarship and friendship.

Russell, a first-generation student, was awarded a full-ride scholarship through the Honors College, allowing him to pursue his dream of one day entering the medical field without the stress of debt. Knowing he鈥檇 have a built-in community through his two best friends, who had also committed to Georgia Southern, made the decision even easier.

鈥淚t was the perfect storm in deciding where I should go,鈥� Russell said. 鈥淗aving the full cost of my tuition covered was a major deciding factor. During my time in the Honors College, faculty mentors, student organizations and campus programs helped create an environment where I felt challenged, supported and encouraged to grow into the person I am today.鈥�

In his sophomore year, Russell became an inaugural Goel Scholar through the Honors College. His on-campus support network was an integral part of his success as a student and this scholarship provided an opportunity to become a leader for other students.

鈥淢y experience at Southern was shaped by an incredible support system of mentors, faculty, staff, peers and friends,鈥� Russell said. 鈥淚 had moments where I doubted whether I truly belonged in certain academic or professional spaces. However, these challenges ultimately became some of the most transformative parts of my experience because they taught me resilience, adaptability and the importance of seeking mentorship and community support. Becoming a part of this cohort truly bridged my relationships, allowing me to be both a mentee and mentor, passing on knowledge about university life to others.鈥�

A key supporter for Russell was his honors research mentor , assistant professor of chemistry in the Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry and Physics.

鈥淒r. P茅rez invested in my growth as both a researcher and student from very early on, allowing me to develop my thesis, present research at conferences, and grow tremendously as a scientist,鈥� Russell said. 鈥淧resenting my research at conferences showed me that the work I had spent years developing could contribute to larger scientific conversations and collaborations.鈥�

While research was a core focus of his academic experience, Russell didn鈥檛 limit himself to the lab or the classroom.

鈥淐oming into college as a first-generation student, I knew I wanted to fully take advantage of every opportunity available to me because I did not always know what pathways or experiences existed unless I actively sought them out,鈥� Russell said. 鈥淕etting involved helped me build confidence, friendships, mentorships and a sense of belonging very early on in my college career.鈥�

From serving as development chair for the to founding , completing the Sustainable Leadership Certificate, earning $75,000 in grants for Sustain Southern, and more, Russell was determined to experience every opportunity for growth that Georgia Southern had to offer.

鈥淩esearch taught me persistence and analytical thinking, sustainability work taught me advocacy and systems thinking, and student organizations taught me how to collaborate and support others effectively,鈥� Russell said. 鈥淚 learned how interconnected different disciplines and communities can be. More than anything, involvement transformed Georgia Southern from simply being the university I attended into a community that genuinely felt like home.鈥�

Having now graduated with his bachelor鈥檚 in biochemistry and a minor in social science and medicine, Russell will continue working toward advanced medical degrees with the goal of becoming a physician-scientist.

鈥淎t Georgia Southern, I learned how to believe in my own potential,鈥� Russell said. 鈥淚 aim to continue contributing to research that improves patient outcomes while also practicing medicine in a way that emphasizes empathy, accessibility and advocacy for underserved communities. Ultimately, I want my career to combine scientific innovation with patient-centered health care so that I can contribute both in the laboratory and directly within clinical settings.鈥�

He encourages future Eagles to make the most of their time at Georgia Southern, too.

鈥淒on鈥檛 be afraid to take up space and pursue opportunities even if you initially feel underqualified or intimidated,鈥� Russell said. 鈥淐ollege moves much faster than people realize, so allowing yourself to explore different interests and take chances is incredibly important. As a first-generation student, I came into college uncertain about where I would fit, but I am leaving with lifelong mentors, friendships, leadership experiences, research accomplishments and confidence in my future goals.鈥�

快猫app短视 recently concluded the Spring 2026 cohort of the Leadership Development Institute (LDI) for Emerging Leaders. 28 faculty and staff members participated in the semester-long, cohort-based program to build leadership capability while emphasizing performance excellence. 

They participated in a series of learning experiences, such as interactive workshops, one-on-one coaching and leadership shadowing. John Banter, Ed.D., a director in the Office of Organizational Effectiveness, Leadership Development and Engagement, runs the program. The idea is to bring people from every division together to build relationships that support collaboration across the institution.

鈥淭his program is an embodiment of our vision statement – People, Purpose, Action: Growing Ourselves to Grow Others – as we invest in our people so they can be effective and influential leaders across our institution,鈥� said Dominique A. Quarles, Ph.D., Associate Vice President for Organizational Effectiveness, Leadership Development and Engagement. 鈥淲e involve departmental, institutional and executive leaders to make this program successful and I am so grateful for their expertise and willingness to contribute to the growth of our colleagues.鈥�

The Spring 2026 Emerging Leaders cohort included: 

• Kaitlin Anderson, University Communications and Marketing, Office of the President
• Brittiny Calles, Eagle Dining Services, Business and Finance
• Ariel Cornett, Ph.D., College of Education, Academic Affairs
• Joann Cottrell, Academic Success Center, Enrollment, Marketing and Student Success
• Jacob Crawford, IT Solutions Management, Business and Finance
• Steven Cushner, Public Safety, Business and Finance
• Katie C. Fester, University Housing, Business and Finance
• Casey Fountain, Admissions, Enrollment, Marketing and Student Success
• Jonathan Friedel, Ph.D., College of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Academic Affairs
• Melissa Gast-Goodman, Office of Research Services, Research and Economic Development
• Hunter Gatewood, PsyD, Counseling Center, Student Affairs
• Christopher Hagan, Grounds Operations, Business and Finance
• Catherine Bishop Hoopaugh, Office of Student Activities,Student Affairs
• Shainaz Landge, Ph.D., College of Science and Mathematics, Academic Affairs
• Kelli Lemieux, Enrollment Services, Enrollment, Marketing and Student Success
• Elizabeth Lustgarten, Bursar鈥檚 Office, Business and Finance
• Charles Marvil, Parker College of Business, Academic Affairs
• Courtney Meihoff, University Communications and Marketing, Enrollment, Marketing and Student Success
• Kylie Moore, Institutional Research, Enrollment, Marketing and Student Success
• Marcus Mosley, CARC, Enrollment, Marketing and Student Success
• Serena Murphy, Institutional Assessment and Accreditation, Academic Affairs
• Slade Richison, Student-Athlete Services, Enrollment, Marketing and Student Success
• Nalanda Roy, Ph.D., College of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Academic Affairs
• Shelley Salter, Office of Research Integrity, Research and Economic Development
• Peter Sciolis, NSFP, Enrollment, Marketing and Student Success
• Jessica Todd, College of Arts and Humanities, Academic Affairs
• Anthony Ursillo, Advancement Services, University Advancement
• Robert Yarbrough, Ph.D., College of Science and Mathematics, Academic Affairs

The Leadership Development Institute for Emerging Leaders is part of 快猫app短视鈥檚 broader Leadership Development Institutes, which also include programs for Executive and Institutional Leaders and for Departmental Leaders. Together, these programs create a clear and intentional pathway for leadership growth at every level. 
For more information about 快猫app短视鈥檚 Leadership Development Institutes, visit the Leadership Development Institute webpage.

快猫app短视 has been named a member of the (GRA), joining a group of leading research universities including the University of Georgia, the Georgia Institute of Technology and Georgia State University. 

鈥淭his is an ideal moment for Georgia Southern to join GRA,鈥� said 快猫app短视 President Kyle Marrero. 鈥淥ur institutional momentum aligns closely with GRA鈥檚 mission to expand Georgia鈥檚 research capacity and economic competitiveness. As we continue our trajectory toward becoming a nationally recognized public impact research university, we are committed to advancing innovation, developing talent and addressing the critical needs of Southeast Georgia through research that strengthens communities, drives economic development and improves quality of life across the region.鈥�

The GRA is a nonprofit, public-private partnership affiliated with the and Georgia鈥檚 . Founded in 1990, the organization aims to drive research impact and entrepreneurship across the state. 

鈥淕RA is a proven catalyst for growing university research and entrepreneurship in our state, and our two newest members are certainly going to help accelerate that growth,鈥� said GRA President and CEO Tim Denning. 鈥淕eorgia Southern and Kennesaw State will make GRA an even stronger catalyst and will help strengthen the innovation ecosystem in new regions of our state. We are grateful for the support of Governor Kemp and the General Assembly for this expansion in the FY27 budget.鈥� 

The addition of Georgia Southern and Kennesaw State University to GRA brings the Alliance鈥檚 membership to 10 public and private research universities.

In fiscal year 2025, the alliance secured more than $1 billion in external public-private funding for research. That funding helped create more than 3,000 new jobs in laboratories and start-ups, .

Georgia Southern鈥檚 admission is a milestone for its growing research enterprise. In recent years, multiple faculty members have been awarded Fulbright Scholarships, and one was named a fellow in the National Academy of Inventors.

Georgia Southern has experienced record growth and momentum in recent years, with projected FY 2026 annual research expenditures surpassing $56 million. This trajectory puts the University on track to achieve Carnegie R1 classification in the upcoming review cycle. Carnegie R1 is the nation鈥檚 highest designation for doctoral research universities.

Georgia Southern has developed research strengths in fields like environmental science, early childhood education and advanced manufacturing and logistics. These strengths have directly benefited Georgia and the region, while showing potential to do the same on a national scale and global scale. The GRA can provide resources to help the University continue its current efforts and fulfill that potential.

Membership privileges include the ability to recruit researchers from the GRA鈥檚 . In a show of support, the Georgia General Assembly has appropriated the funds for Georgia Southern鈥檚 inaugural Eminent Scholar, the top level of talent within the Academy. 

As members of GRA, Georgia Southern also qualifies to join the GRA Core Exchange, a nationally unique program that allows researchers from any member university to access research equipment and facilities at fellow member institutions without paying external administrative fees.

David C. Weindorf, Ph.D., vice president for research and economic development, says the combination of these factors makes it an ideal time for Georgia Southern to join.

鈥淲e are excited to bring our distinct perspective to the GRA,鈥� Weindorf said. 鈥淚鈥檓 grateful for their support of our vision, and I can鈥檛 wait to deepen our partnership with fellow members, as we continue to pursue research that will improve our communities and our world.鈥�

About GRA

The Georgia Research Alliance drives greater impact out of university research and entrepreneurship to benefit Georgia and the world. GRA recruits star research talent to Georgia鈥檚 universities; provides sophisticated tools and core facilities to help researchers win more competitive grants; and seeds and shapes startup companies around university inventions. The Alliance鈥檚 cumulative 36-year ROI is over $16 billion (a 22-to-1 return on Georgia鈥檚 investment). GRA鈥檚 ten partner universities are: Augusta University, Clark Atlanta University, Emory University, Georgia Institute of Technology, 快猫app短视,

Georgia State University, Kennesaw State University, Mercer University, Morehouse School of Medicine and The University of Georgia.

About 快猫app短视
快猫app短视, a public Carnegie Doctoral/R2 with a Carnegie Community Engagement classification, offers approximately 149 different degree programs serving nearly 31,600 students through 11 colleges on four campuses in Savannah, Hinesville, Statesboro, Swainsboro and online instruction. Founded in 1906, Georgia Southern is a leader in higher education in southeast Georgia with expert faculty and a focus on public impact research and engaging learning opportunities through knowledge and know-how that prepare our students to soar beyond and take ownership of their lives, careers and communities. Visit .