A New Dawn at Savannah State: Dr. Jermaine Whirl Ushers in Era of Revival and Reform"

August 2025

Savannah State University is stepping into a new era with the appointment of Dr. Jermaine Whirl as its next president. Currently serving as president of Augusta Technical College, Whirl is expected to bring a bold vision centered around workforce development, community partnerships, and academic revitalization. His leadership arrives at a critical time for the university which has faced years of declining enrollment, budget cuts, and program closures.

The Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia officially named Dr. Whirl as president following his strong record of accomplishments at Augusta Tech. During his tenure he oversaw a more than twenty percent increase in enrollment and established workforce training programs that directly connected students to in-demand careers. His impact was also seen in housing expansion, academic innovation, and leadership that elevated the institution’s reputation statewide.

Savannah State, founded in 1890 and recognized as Georgia’s oldest public historically Black college or university, has struggled to regain footing after seeing its student body shrink from nearly five thousand in 2016 to just under three thousand in recent years. This enrollment drop led to a loss of funding and forced the university to eliminate several degree programs including Africana studies, history, and environmental science.

Faculty and students have long voiced frustration about the lack of investment and support for the university’s mission. Many now view Whirl’s appointment as a turning point and a potential answer to the calls for change. His experience building partnerships with industries and regional employers could align Savannah State’s offerings with today’s job market while restoring pride and purpose in the classroom.

Whirl has pledged to listen to student voices, strengthen academic programs, and explore new avenues for funding. He aims to position the university as a hub for Black talent and professional training across Georgia and beyond. His vision includes reconnecting with alumni, expanding online and technical degree options, and creating pipelines from high school to career success.

Campus athletics are also expected to receive renewed attention under his leadership. The Tigers' sports programs remain a central part of campus life and identity. With a new president who understands how athletics, academics, and culture intersect, many hope this will bring a fresh wave of investment in both the student-athlete experience and campus facilities.

The appointment of Dr. Jermaine Whirl represents more than a personnel shift. It signals a bold step forward toward restoring the legacy of one of the South’s most historic HBCUs