GSW president accepts new position at university in Texas

AMERICUS, Ga. (WALB) - Georgia Southwestern State University president has accepted another position in Texas after seven years.

GSW President Neal Weaver, Ph.D., has been named the president of Stephen F. Austin University in Texas, according to a press release by the university.

Weaver accepted the position after it was officially voted on and announced by the University of Texas System on Monday, March 8. His final day as GSW’s president will be on May 10, which coincides with Commencement.

In his announcement, he expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the campus community:

Under his leadership, the release said GSW has seen the highest enrollment in the university’s history, improved retention and graduation rates, developed new academic programs, completed construction and renovation projects, realigned campus infrastructure, boosted the athletics program, and increased annual giving.

Weaver credits this to developing positive relationships with faculty and staff leaders, engaging with students, strengthening the university’s connection with the University System of Georgia’s Board of Regents, and energizing the GSW Foundation’s Board of Trustees, GSW Alumni Association and Canes 360.

“Each corner of the GSW campus holds memories I will cherish forever,” Weaver said. “As I transition to my new position, I leave with a sense of pride in all we have accomplished together and with tremendous confidence in the bright future of GSW. I will continue to support and advocate for its success in any way I can. I want to thank you for your support, collaboration, and friendship. You have made my time here unforgettable and professionally transformative. I am deeply grateful for the privilege to have served as GSW’s 11th President.”

The release said the university would continue to build upon the momentum sparked by Weaver’s leadership and vision, propelling the university toward continued growth, innovation and success.

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