'Moving with Maggy': Provost seeks to connects through campus strolls

Bringing connection through conversation

Provost Maggy Tomova talks to staff outside Greenblatt Library. (photo by Caelyn Dockal/the Bell Ringer)

By Caelyn Dockal | News editor

On a bit of a chilly February morning at Augusta University’s Health Sciences Campus, about 20 faculty, staff and students put on their walking shoes and gathered outside Greenblatt Library for a different kind of meeting. This one was without an agenda, a conference room, a Teams meeting, or a PowerPoint.

Instead, there was movement around campus, through conversation, and connection.

The event, titled “Moving with Maggy,” invited the Augusta University community to walk and talk with Provost Maggy Tomova in an informal setting, hoping to encourage a free space outside the office to share ideas. For 30 minutes, everyone walked the campus sidewalks, talking with one another and in small groups, sharing ideas and simply enjoying time together outside the usual structure of the workday.

Maggy Tomova will have more walks on campus this semester. (photo by Caelyn Dockal/the Bell Ringer)

“I thought today was really fun,” Maggy said during an interview after the walk. “I really enjoyed talking to people in a non-stressful environment and getting to know wonderful faculty and staff who do so much for AU.”

This meeting was unlike the traditional campus faculty and staff structured meetings. The walk was something new and different, and it offered something more relaxed. The conversations flowed more naturally. Everyone could ask questions, share feedback or simply get to know one another better, all while getting a bit of exercise.

Everyone got their steps in for the day and a bit of fresh air.

Maggy expressed hope that next month’s walk will bring an even larger crowd.

“Next time will be even bigger because it will be a little bit warmer,” she said with a smile. “I’m sure some people got scared this morning of going out. But by next month, it will be warmer. The Summerville campus is gorgeous, and we invite everybody to join us.”

She also noted that warmer weather comes with a greater opportunity for student engagement. “I know next time there will definitely be a lot more students around and a lot more opportunities to approach other students,” she added.

The Healthcare Sciences Campus provided a deeper insight for the provost and allowed her to get a different type of tour of the campus. One alongside meaningful conversation and connection. Though it was a chilly morning, the campus was still buzzing with people.

Everyone talked as they walked the grounds, pausing occasionally to continue conversations before moving along again.

Tomova walks with staff and faculty. ((photo by Caelyn Dockal/the Bell Ringer)

For many attendees, the event’s informality was its greatest strength.

Andrew Goss, interim associate provost for Teaching and Learning, described the walk as a refreshing change of pace.

“Oh, I thought it was a lovely event,” Goss said. “It was really nice to be able to chat with colleagues and friends whom I don’t usually see in an informal setting. So, yeah, it’s very special.”

Goss, who has worked at Augusta University for more than 11 years, said the walk offered a rare opportunity to connect face-to-face with colleagues he typically only interacts with through email or virtual meetings.

“There’s lots of people I’ve worked with for years who I don’t see very often, or I only see on a Teams meeting,” he said. “So having the chance to interact with them face-to-face while getting some exercise, it’s perfect.”

Participants also shared lighthearted moments about the weather. Though temperatures were cool, spirits remained high.

“I fully expect the provost will arrange the weather to be warmer next month,” Goss joked. 

Walking on the Health Sciences Campus. (photo by Caelyn Dockal/the Bell Ringer)

While Augusta’s mild winter allowed for an outdoor gathering, Goss compared it to conditions elsewhere. “At least there’s not three feet of snow,” he said, referencing colder states like Rhode Island. “We couldn’t do this right now.”

Humor aside, the event brought something meaningful: accessibility. 

By stepping outside of formal meeting spaces and walking alongside faculty and staff, Maggy created space for authentic conversations. Creating a truly ‘down-to-earth’ moment with her, something that’s new and open-ended.

The walk allowed for conversations that might not otherwise happen in structured settings. Everyone could voice ideas, share concerns, or simply enjoy casual conversation without the pressure of a scheduled appointment.

In many ways, the movement itself symbolized progress — walking forward together, side by side.

Exactly how Maggy Tomova plans to integrate herself within Augusta University, by uplifting and bringing the AU community a little closer, one step at a time.

As the event came to an end, there was a shared sense of relief and happiness that something valuable had begun. Not just a monthly walk, but an ongoing opportunity for connection through conversation.

Provost Maggy Tomova and professor Jennifer Sullivan give a high five. (photo by Caelyn Dockal/the Bell Ringer)

Maggy emphasized that the goal is to continue building community through these informal interactions.

Events like “Moving with Maggy” reflect a broader effort to create spaces where leadership feels approachable and conversations feel genuine. Sometimes, the most meaningful discussions don’t happen around a conference table — they happen on a sidewalk, walking side by side, in between laughter about the weather and shared stories about work.

With another walk planned for next month, participants are already looking forward to returning. 

Until then, step outside, get some fresh air, and keep the conversation moving.

Note: At the top of the page, AU provost Maggy Tomova greets faculty and staff in front of the gym on the Health Sciences Campus. (photo by Caelyn Dockal/the Bell Ringer)

Contact Caelyn Dockal at cadockal@augusta.edu.