Troy University names interim senior vice chancellor for academic affairs
The leadership change followed Kerry Palmer’s selection as Georgia Southwestern State University president and takes effect July 1.
Judson Edwards, dean of the Sorrell College of Business, was named interim senior vice chancellor for academic affairs at Troy University on Tuesday.
The move follows the University System of Georgia’s announcement that current Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Kerry Palmer will become president of Georgia Southwestern State University.
“I have often said that if other institutions are not pursuing our people, we have the wrong people,” Chancellor Jack Hawkins Jr. said. “I congratulate Dr. Palmer on his appointment, and I am confident he will accomplish great things in his new role. I am thankful for Dr. Edwards’ willingness to serve in this interim role. His experience and commitment to excellence will ensure our academic future is in good hands.”
Edwards’ appointment is effective July 1.
“I am deeply proud of what we have accomplished together in the Sorrell College during my 16 years as dean, but I am even more excited about the future,” Edwards said. “Troy University is strong because of its people and its shared commitment to students. I look forward to working with all our colleges in this interim role, and I have no doubt that TROY’s best days are ahead.”
Palmer, a TROY alumnus who was a three-time Sound of the South drum major as a student, previously served as dean of the College of Education and was head of school at Trinity Presbyterian School in Montgomery.
“Stepping into the presidency at Georgia Southwestern State University is an incredible honor,” Palmer said. “It has been a privilege to serve my alma mater in a senior leadership role, and I am proud of the work we have done to realign our academic colleges, develop innovation programs to meet workforce needs and position TROY for success as a center for learning and research. I look forward to continuing that work at GSW.”
Palmer joins the ranks of TROY alumni who have become college presidents, including Lance Tatum at Northwest Missouri State University and Bill Johnson at Youngstown State University.
