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As many of you are aware, after six fulfilling years serving as Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs at Georgia Southern University, I have decided to step down from this role to return to the faculty and focus more on my research and family. This journey has been incredible, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such dedicated and talented individuals. My time as Provost will end after the 2024-2025 academic year.
Throughout my tenure, we have navigated numerous initiatives together, always prioritizing our students. We successfully led the consolidation efforts, integrating academic colleges, programs, and faculty, which has strengthened our academic community and enhanced our ability to serve our students effectively.
Students were the driving force behind our decision to implement and expand our regional academic plan, fostering collaboration with regional USG institutions and building robust programs that empower them to achieve their greatest aspirations. And the student success numbers during my time here are something to be proud of. Freshmen retention rates have been maintained or increased each year to the goal of over 80%. Our six-year graduation rate has increased every year I have been Provost, and the four-year graduation rate has consistently gone up (with the exception of this year due to COVID-19).
Together, we developed 15 new academic degree programs, including three new Ph.D. programs that cater to this region's growing demand in various business sectors and equip our students with the knowledge to make a significant impact. We expanded the Graduate College, increasing personnel and programs, and established the Dean position to enhance recruitment and onboarding efforts. The creation and expansion of the Honors College, including the Savannah Scholars and Global Scholars programs, are also achievements we can be proud of.
Additionally, we made significant strides in the development of the Wexford Campus, the enhancement of the Liberty Campus identity, and the creation of the Army Education Program. A highlight and lasting legacy of our work is the establishment of the Office of Research and Economic Development and the creation of a vice president position to enhance our research infrastructure. Together, we saw research funding opportunities grow significantly, with expenditures increasing from $12 million in 2018 to over $40 million in 2024.
We even made it through a pandemic. And hurricanes. And weathered five years of budget cuts without having layoffs. We empowered deans by giving them control over their own budgets. Through it all, we persevered, driven by our commitment to teach, educate, and mentor.
I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude for your dedication and support. Our collective achievements have profoundly shaped our university, and I look forward to continuing our important work as a member of the faculty. Thank you for your collaboration, and I wish you all the best as we move forward.
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