Can you share a bit about your background and how long you've been a part of the Clayton County community?
I am originally from Connellsville, Pennsylvania, which is south of Pittsburgh. As the son of two educators, I learned early on the transformative power a quality education can have on a person’s life. My parents instilled in me a deep love of education, which, coupled with my interest in sports, particularly football, resulted in many awards as both a scholar and an athlete. I am proud to have been inducted into both my high school and college Halls of Fame.
Scholastically, I earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Business/Accounting, a Master’s of Arts in Counseling/Student Personnel, both from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Georgia Southern University. Professionally, given my background and deep love of helping others transform their lives through social, economic, and academic success, I was called to a life in higher education. I have served my community in higher education for nearly thirty years, with twenty of those years as a senior-level administrator in roles of dean, vice president, and president.
My family and I have been proud to call Georgia home since 2002, while living in the metro-Atlanta region since 2019. I have served as president at Clayton State University, as well as a resident in the southern crescent of Atlanta, since February 2023.
What do you think are the greatest strengths of Clayton County?
As a proud resident of the great state of Georgia for over twenty years, and a member of the Clayton County community for the past few, I can say without a doubt that our greatest strength is our people! My family and I have been so welcomed into an unparalleled community of hardworking, passionate, and talented individuals. The enthusiasm and hospitality with which we have been greeted has greatly inspired me. I am proud and honored to call the diverse community of Clayton County home.
In addition, I am impressed by the strong partnerships forged amongst educational, corporate, and nonprofit organizations, as well as at all levels of local, state, and national governmental agencies represented within Clayton County. These partnerships will be foundational in positively impacting the families of our region, now and for generations to come.
In your opinion, what are some of the biggest challenges facing Clayton County right now?
I believe the primary challenge for all of us in the metro region, not just Clayton County, is ensuring that our citizenry, particularly our young people, are knowledgeable about and have access to each and every opportunity available that will allow them to create a good, positive, healthy way of life, for themselves and their families.
The state of Georgia has rapidly developed a reputation as one of the premiere locations for business and economic growth within the whole United States, with the metro-Atlanta region ascending to position as sixth largest in the country. The potential positive impact of this growth is immeasurable in terms of providing opportunities to create fulfilling lives that allow our citizens to meaningfully contribute to our communities. By working together, I know we can provide access and opportunity to create a better, brighter tomorrow for all citizens of Clayton County.
Can you share a memorable experience or event that highlights the sense of community in Clayton County?
With such a robust, enthusiastic community, I can think of a hundred such experiences! I could mention the passion of the Lake Spivey Rotary Club, the community support provided by the Coalition of Christian Ministers of Clayton County, or the giving nature of the Clayton State and the Spivey Hall Foundation Boards. All of these groups exemplify the sense of community I have come to know and cherish within Clayton County. However, I will specifically note the example that is regularly set by the Clayton County Chamber of Commerce. Each month they host a networking series sponsored by Truist Bank. The conversations and collaborative relationships that are fostered through this series brilliantly illuminate the sense of community always evident in Clayton County.
How do you personally contribute to or engage with the Clayton County community?
I am blessed to serve in a role that affords me the opportunity to significantly engage with the community. Serving as president of the only four-year state university in Clayton County, as well as the only one located south of I-20 in the metro region, provides me the opportunity to contribute every day. I am privileged to regularly engage with leadership in the local school districts and government, as well as with the business and nonprofit communities. While I am a proud Rotarian, I also serve on several Chambers of Commerce, and represent the university throughout the county and region. My office as president is one of service and engagement seven days a week, and is an honor I do not take lightly or for granted. It is my privilege to have this opportunity and responsibility.
If someone wanted to get in contact with you, how can they reach you?
Since my schedule often keeps me on the go, the best way to reach me is always through email. Please reach out to me at presoffice@clayton.edu. I look forward to connecting with you!
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