During Fiscal Year 2007, the University System began a series of focus groups to identify critical issues that needed to be addressed System-wide. Consultants working with the groups identified more than 75 of these critical issue areas, and from those, an initial ten were selected to be addressed based on their importance.

All of the projects operate in two distinct phases:

Phase One involves the assessment of the needs and conditions of the state and the USG with reference to the project focus. The most effective practices were identified, whether found inside or outside of the University System. Scalable and innovative approaches are being developed into models or principles of practice for implementation throughout the System. During Phase Two, the project team will be transformed into an implementation team and will include supportive professional staff dedicated to each project. Measurable outcomes for all institutions will be defined and monitoring mechanisms developed, along with implementation strategies. Presidential leadership for each team and for the System-wide implementation of the new models or practices will continue.

During Phase Two, the project team will be transformed into an implementation team and will include supportive professional staff dedicated to each project. Measurable outcomes for all institutions will be defined and monitoring mechanisms developed, along with implementation strategies. Presidential leadership for each team and for the System-wide implementation of the new models or practices will continue.

Emergency Operations Initiative
Team Leader: Dr. Everette Freeman,
Albany State University

Enhancing Health Professions
Team Leader: Dr. Daniel Rahn,
Medical College of Georgia

Enhanced Advising Processes
Team Leader: Dr. Ronald M. Zaccari,
Valdosta State University

Developing Early Outreach Programs to Students in At-Risk Situations – and Their Parents – to Get Ready for College
Team Leader: Dr. Martha Nesbitt,
Gainesville State College

African American Male Initiative – Middle School Focus
Team Leader: Dr. Dorothy L. Lord,
Coastal Georgia Community College

Improving Enrollment Management and Planning
Team Leader: Dr. J. Randolph Pierce,
Georgia Highlands College

Improving Retention and Graduation Rates
Team Leader: Dr. Bruce Grube,
Georgia Southern University