More than a title: AU provost leads with presence, passion and people-orientation

By Caelyn Dockal | News editor

It’s not unusual to see Augusta University’s provost walking across campus, stopping to talk with students or attending campus events, and that’s exactly how she prefers it.

Since arriving at Augusta University on July 1, AU provost Maggy Tomova has taken a noticeably hands-on, people-first approach to leadership, one in conversation, collaboration and genuine care for the student experience.

Provost Maggy Tomova’s meets with Bell Ringer news editor Caelyn Dockal, associate professor Carrie Reif-Stice, Rose Murray and professor David Bulla. (photos by Lydia Williams)

“After seven months, I actually haven’t sat behind my desk very much,” Tomova said. “Leading is all about relationships, and to establish relationships, you have to actually talk to people.”

That philosophy has translated into being seen across campus, from attending student events to walking between meetings and even living in Beacon Station during her first month at AU.

“I wanted to experience campus the way students do,” she said. “Being in student spaces helps me understand what’s working and what isn’t.”

A journey shaped by change

AU provost Maggy Tomova at her Boykin-Wright office. (photo by Lydia Williams)

Tomova’s path to Augusta has been all around the world. Born in Bulgaria, she moved to Japan at age 14 when her mother accepted a position as a biochemist, then later came to the United States for college at 18. She earned her undergraduate degree at California Lutheran University before completing a Ph.D. in mathematics at the University of California, Santa Barbara.

Her academic career includes 15 years at the University of Iowa, where she started from faculty member to department chair and associate dean. Then followed by four years as dean of the College of Math and Sciences at the University of Central Florida, one of the largest universities in the country.

That range of experiences, Tomova said, helped shape her leadership style.

“Every place teaches you something,” she said. “But what’s stood out to me about Augusta is how kind and collaborative people are.”

Teaching, anxiety and humanity

Though trained as a mathematician, Tomova said her favorite course to teach was not advanced math, but college algebra. A class many students approach with fear.

“It’s not really about the math,” she said. “It’s about helping students overcome anxiety and realize they’re capable.”

That focus and recognition on the human side of learning continues in her role as provost, especially as higher education deals with the rise of artificial intelligence.

Tomova said she views AI not as a threat, but as a tool that students must learn to use responsibly and creatively.

“If all you do is ask AI to do the work for you, you’re not contributing anything,” she said. “The question students should be asking is, ‘What am I adding that AI can’t?’”

She emphasized skills like communication, adaptability, and collaboration. Stating that these traits, rooted in humanity, will matter more than ever as technology evolves.

It’s the people that make the place

One of Tomova’s earliest impressions of AU came from an unexpected interaction. When she called to ask a question early in her tenure, the staff member she spoke with had no idea she was the provost. The staff member treated her with patience, kindness and genuine interest.

“That told me a lot about this place,” Tomova said. “People here help because they want to help, not because of a title.”

That sense of care aligns with AU’s growing student population. In fall 2024, Augusta University enrolled approximately 11,584 students, including its largest freshman and graduate classes to date. Undergraduate enrollment reached 6,078 students, according to institutional data.

Retention has also improved. First-year retention rates now fall in the mid-70 percent range, reflecting progress in keeping students on track academically.

Still, Tomova said retention remains a priority. This is not because of numbers alone, but because of what it means for students.

“It’s a tragedy when students spend time and money here and leave without a degree,” she said. “My focus is on understanding why students leave and figuring out what we can do better.”

Looking ahead

As AU continues to grow, Tomova said she aims to expand housing and dining options, improve classroom and advising experiences, and strengthen support systems both inside and outside the classroom. She also expressed interest in exploring SAT preparation opportunities as the university transitions back to test-required admissions for fall 2026.

Most importantly, she wants students to feel comfortable approaching her, not just to say hello, but to share ideas and concerns.

“I like solving problems,” she said with a laugh. “If students see something that isn’t working, I want them to tell me.”

Outside of work, Tomova is also an avid animal lover, fostering dogs and caring for a household full of pets. This includes cats, dogs, and even a gecko, a detail students might not expect from a provost.

“I don’t know if all provosts have houses full of animals,” she said. “But I do.”

As Augusta University continues to evolve, Tomova’s leadership stands out not for formality or distance from its students, but for presence grounded in conversation, curiosity and a genuine desire to see students succeed.

Contact Caelyn Dockal at cadockal@augusta.edu.