Savannah State University News

  Savannah State University is deeply saddened by the passing of former Director of Athletics, Mr. Sterling Steward. A proud native of New Orleans, Mr. Steward served as SSU’s Director of Athletics from 2011 to 2018. Throughout his tenure, his leadership, dedication, and commitment to the success of student-athletes made a profound and lasting impact on the entire SSU community. Savannah State University will forever be grateful for Mr. Steward’s numerous contributions to SSU Athletics and the University as a whole. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of students, athletes, and staff. Our sincerest thoughts and prayers are with the Steward family, his friends, loved ones, and all who are affected by this loss.

Savannah State University (SSU) proudly marked its presence at the Georgia State Capitol during its annual "Savannah State University Day" on February 18, 2025. The event, which serves to highlight the university’s contributions to Georgia’s educational landscape and the broader community, provided an opportunity for SSU’s leadership, students, faculty, and alumni to engage with state legislators and showcase the university’s achievements. The event featured a series of greetings and networking opportunities, underscoring the vital role Savannah State University plays in shaping the future of Georgia’s workforce. It also provided an avenue for SSU to advocate for continued state support to enhance the institution's infrastructure. Interim President Cynthia Robinson Alexander. J.D. expressed her gratitude and enthusiasm for the university’s presence at the state’s Capitol: "Savannah State University is deeply honored to participate in this special event at the Georgia...

Savannah State University (SSU) is pleased to announce the 26th Anniversary Scholarship Gala will be held on Saturday, Apr. 5, at 7 p.m. at the Savannah Convention Center. The annual community event celebrates local leaders while raising funds to provide financial assistance to SSU students, 90% of whom receive some sort of financial assistance for college. Last year, the Gala was a sold out event, raising a record-breaking $412,000. “Our generous past donors are paving a brighter future for our current students,” said SSU Interim President Cynthia Robinson Alexander. “We are so grateful for the faithful community members who continue to support our historic institution and the promising young students who need their assistance to achieve their dreams.” This year’s theme is “An Evening of Elegance: An Orange Carpet Affair.” The event will feature an Awards of Excellence presentation, honoring a select group of distinguished individuals (alumni and friends of the university) for thei...

A theatrical production that brings to life the rich traditions and mystical tales of Haitian heritage What: Savannah State University proudly presents a captivating performance of Don't Sleep Under the Mapou Tree, a theatrical production inspired by Haitian folklore Written by Greer Sucke. This production brings to life the rich traditions and mystical tales of Haitian heritage, weaving a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. With a talented ensemble of student performers, this play promises an engaging theatrical experience that highlights the power of folklore and storytelling. The even is free and open to the public. Who: The play will be performed by students in the theatre ensemble class under the direction of Professor David I. L. Poole, a distinguished theater educator and director. Pool guides the ensemble in crafting a performance that celebrates cultural history while delivering a compelling artistic vision. When: Friday, February 21, 2025 at 7 ...

    Chairwoman, Dr. Clementine Washington  The Savannah State University Foundation elected new officers during its 2025 winter board meeting held January 18 on the Savannah State University campus. The new officers will serve a 3-year term and were sworn into their new roles effective immediately. The new officers include Chairwoman, Dr. Clementine Washington; Vice Chairman, Mr. Michael Kaigler; Secretary, Mr. James Melvin; Treasurer, Mr. John Kelley; and Financial Secretary, Mrs. Carolyn Price. “It is with profound humility and gratitude that I thank you for your vote of confidence in electing me to serve as Chairman of the Savannah State University Foundation, Inc.,” said Washington. “During my term of office, we will work together as ‘One SSU’ to conduct the business of the Foundation, pursue my campaign goals, and consider other initiatives that may be presented, evaluated, and approved by the board membership.” The Savannah State University Foundation, Inc. is ...

  Dear   SSU Campus   Community,   As we start the new year, I would like to take a moment to recount the many milestones we achieved as a campus family in 2024. This was a year of positive change, strategic growth and   major   accomplishments for our beloved Savannah State University (SSU). I am so proud of how our students, faculty, and staff have set and reached new goals and how many   of   our alums have lovingly supported their alma mater and inspired the next generation.   By strategically targeting expanding job markets, diligently pursuing grants, and writing winning proposals, we are now developing new courses in elementary education, forensic toxicology, and film. By collaborating with local, national, and international partners, we have secured internship opportunities for our students in manufacturing, healthcare, and several Dutch-owned companies, pursuant to a successful summer visit with the King and Queen of the Neth...

Dr. Jermaine Whirl   The Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia (USG) today named Dr. Jermaine Whirl president of Savannah State University (SSU), effective April 1, 2025. Whirl, an Aspen Fellow, most recently served as president of Augusta Technical College (ATC), a role he has held since November 2020. Whirl’s career includes nearly 20 years of service as a faculty member and administrative leader at public colleges and universities in his home state of South Carolina and in Georgia. He has previously worked at several institutions, including Greenville Technical College, Savannah Technical College, Georgia Southern University and East Georgia State University. “As we welcome Dr. Whirl back into the USG family, we deeply appreciate the steadfast and dedicated leadership of interim President Cynthia Robinson Alexander,” USG Chancellor Sonny Perdue said. “Cynthia has laid a strong foundation for Savannah State’s future, one that Dr. Whirl is well-equipped to build...

We are thrilled to share the highlights from our inaugural 40 Under Forty Awards held February 1 on the campus of Savannah State University. This initiative recognizes young alumni of the university for elevating the legacy of Savannah State, serving as leaders in their professional fields and supporting their communities. Each honoree stands as a true testament to the hard work that it takes to continue to cement the HBCU legacy. All members of the inaugural class have achieved remarkable success in their professions, and have served as trailblazers and change makers in their communities as they embody the spirit of SSU. We are proud to recognize their success and hard work. Congratulations to all the recipients of the Savannah State University inaugural 40 Under Forty Awards. Video highlights:  40U40 Social Media Cut.mov 40 Under Forty website:  Savannah State University's 40 Under 40

                                              What: Georgia Poetry Circuit Reading Craft Talks are discussions hosted by authors focusing on the elements of writing, language, imagery and creative techniques. The event is free and open to the public. Who: Shane McCrae, author of several poetry collections including Mule (2011); Blood (2013); The Animal Too Big to Kill (2015) and In the Language of My Captor (2017), which was a finalist for the National Book Award. McCrae grew up in Texas and California and is the first in his family to graduate from college. He earned a BA from Linfield College, an M.A. from the University of Iowa, an M.F.A. at the Iowa Writers’ Workshop, and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. When: Thursday, Feb. 6 at 2 p.m. Where: Savannah State University’s Asa ...

Dr. Jermaine Whirl The Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia (USG) voted today to name Dr. Jermaine Whirl as the sole finalist for president of Savannah State University (SSU). Currently president of Augusta Technical College (ATC), Whirl has spent nearly 20 years serving as a faculty member and administrative leader at public colleges and universities in Georgia and in his native South Carolina. “We prioritized finding a leader who values Savannah State’s historic legacy and embraces its modern role in moving this state and the region’s workforce forward,” USG Chancellor Sonny Perdue said. “Dr. Whirl understands the power of higher education and how earning a degree can transform a student’s life and prosperity. His enthusiasm and energy in doing that work make him an ideal candidate to lead the oldest public HBCU in Georgia.” Whirl has served as ATC president since 2020. He’s led the Predominantly Black Institution through enrollment and retention strategy change...