Whirl Maps out Ambitious Path for SSU as New President
Company - People | Apr 14, 2025 | EIN
Jermaine Whirl was named the 15th president of Savannah State University (SSU) on February 11, 2025, following his tenure as president of Augusta Technical College. Under his leadership, Whirl aims to enhance SSU's reputation by focusing on student success, cultural improvement, and expanding workforce development programs in response to opportunities presented by companies in the Savannah area. His approach includes plans for new institutes in fields like political science and film, aiming to attract funding and interest in the university. Despite challenges due to leadership turnover, Whirl is committed to fostering stability and growth at SSU by working closely with the local community and stakeholders.
Sectors
- Higher Education
- Workforce Development
Geography
- United States – The main events of the article take place in Georgia, USA, with references to the states of Georgia and South Carolina.
- Georgia – Primary focus on Savannah State University and Augusta Technical College, both located in Georgia, highlighting the geographic scope of Jermaine Whirl's leadership and vision.
Industry
- Higher Education – The article focuses on the leadership change and strategic direction in a higher education institution, specifically within the realm of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
- Workforce Development – Whirl's plans emphasize workforce training and development to align with industry opportunities in Savannah, enhancing job readiness and skills development.
Financials
- $15 million – Investment in renovating the Augusta Municipal Golf Course and building Augusta Tech facilities.
- $2.3 million – Federal appropriation for a cyber tech incubator secured by Senator Raphael Warnock.
- $4 million – Raised for purchasing and converting an old car dealership into a training facility.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jermaine Whirl | President | People | Newly appointed president of Savannah State University, known for his previous role at Augusta Technical College. |
| Savannah State University (SSU) | Target company | Company | Public university in Georgia, part of the University System of Georgia and an HBCU. |
| Augusta Technical College | Former company | Company | A technical college in Augusta, Georgia, where Jermaine Whirl previously served as president. |
| University System of Georgia (USG) Board of Regents | Appointing body | Government | Governing body that appointed Jermaine Whirl as the president of SSU. |
| Sonny Perdue | Chancellor | People | Chancellor of the University System of Georgia, involved in reassuring the SSU community about consolidation concerns. |
| Garnett Johnson | Mayor of Augusta | People | Proclaimed March 20, 2025, as Jermaine Whirl Day in Augusta. |
| Cynthia Robinson Alexander | Interim President | People | Served as interim president of SSU before Jermaine Whirl's appointment. |