Finalist named for Georgia Southwestern State University presidency

AMERICUS — University System of Georgia Board of Regents Chair C. Thomas Hopkins Jr. and Chancellor Steve Wrigley announced Tuesday that the Board of Regents has named Neal Weaver as the sole finalist for the position of president of Georgia Southwestern State University in Americus.

Weaver is currently the vice president for university advancement and innovation at Nicholls State University in Thibodaux, La.

“Everything I have seen and learned about Georgia Southwestern and the city of Americus has been very impressive,” Weaver said in a statement . “I am excited about the opportunity to become a part of the Georgia Southwestern community.”

Prior to joining Nicholls State, Weaver served West Texas A&M University 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.

“Dr. Weaver’s experience in higher education provides a strong foundation to drive innovation, increase enrollment and strengthen relationships with the community and region,” Wrigley said. “The University System is committed to the partnership with the Americus community, and Georgia Southwestern State would greatly benefit from his leadership.”

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 degree in speech/communications from Oklahoma Panhandle State University in Goodwell.

The Board of Regents is expected to take action on the formal selection of the GSW president at the board’s teleconference meeting scheduled for June 29.