AMERICA | At just 36 years old, Dr. Jermaine Whirl has achieved a feat many spend years pursuing. He has been appointed as the 15th President of Savannah State University (SSU), Georgia’s oldest public Historically Black College and University (HBCU).
His appointment makes him the youngest person in history to lead the prestigious institution, marking a defining moment in his two-decade-long academic leadership journey.
Jermaine's Story and How He Did It
Jermaine’s story is one of continuous academic growth, professional discipline, and a clear vision for educational excellence.
His higher academic journey began at Trident Technical College, where he earned his associate degree before moving on to obtain a bachelor’s degree in economics from Winthrop University.
Determined to broaden his academic depth, he went on to earn a bachelors degree in Economics at Whintrop University, and an MBA in Business Administration from Charleston Southern University in the United States.
He also holds a Masters of Education (M.Ed.) in Adult Education & Community Leadership – Armstrong State University (now GSU)
These qualifications laid the groundwork for a truly scholarly career, demonstrated through his rising leadership in higher education for nearly 20 years across South Carolina and Georgia.
EXPLORE SCHOLARSHIPS
Before his new role at SSU, Whirl distinguished himself as President of Augusta Technical College (ATC) beginning in 2020. His academic leadership also spanned several reputable institutions, including Greenville Technical College (GTC), and Savannah Technical College (STC).
He has also passed through Georgia Southern University (GSU) and East Georgia State University (EGSU). These experiences built the foundation for the historic appointment that followed.
Returning to Savannah, where part of his academic and professional journey began, Whirl describes the moment as both meaningful and purposeful.
“I am looking forward to returning to the beautiful city of Savannah and helping to shape the next generation of leaders in our area and region,” he said. “Together with alumni and community partners, we can elevate SSU education and expand opportunities for Tiger Nation.”
As he steps into this presidency, Dr. Whirl has laid out ambitious, future-shaping goals for the next decade. His vision includes transforming SSU into a doctoral-degree-granting institution, the largest and first-choice HBCU in Georgia.
He also wants the institution to be a leading driver of economic development and social mobility in the region, a nationally recognized center for innovative programs, partnerships, and academic excellence, and a Top 25 HBCU by 2035 according to U.S. News & World Report.
This strategic blueprint not only reflects his academic insight but also his longstanding commitment to community impact and higher education transformation.
Dr. Whirl’s work has been widely celebrated. He has received numerous awards, including GSU’s 2024 George and Lucy Armstrong Alumni Award, Leadership Award, Greater Augusta Black Chamber of Commerce, and Paragon Award for New Presidents, Phi Theta Kappa.
These recognitions mirror the scholarly excellence, leadership influence, and community engagement that define his career.
Follow our Social Media Channels:
- WhatsApp: Scholarship Region WhatsApp
- Facebook: Scholars Region
- Twitter: @scholarsregion
- Telegram: Scholarship Region