USG chancellor Perdue announces his retirement

Staff report

University System of Georgia chancellor Sonny Perdue announced his retirement on April 15.

USG announced a national search will be conducted to find a replacement for Perdue, 79, who will stay on the job until that search is completed.

Perdue, who gave the commencement address at Augusta University in May 2024, has been on the job since April of 2022. He served two terms as governor of the state (2003-2011) and would later lead the U.S. Department of Agriculture (2017-2021).

“Serving as chancellor has been one of the most impactful roles of my life, and stepping away is not a decision I make lightly,” Perdue stated on the USG website. “From Houston County to the governor’s office to Washington and back home again, my career has been guided by a simple belief: public service is a calling, and we’re meant to lift others and leave things better than we found them.”

Perdue has emphasized education at USG colleges and universities is one of best values in the country. The system also has seen enrollment increases the last three academic years under Perdue.

“As I prepare to retire, I’m grateful for our presidents, faculty and staff, our students and the many communities that make up this remarkable system,” Perdue said. “USG is a family, and I know it will continue to thrive, grow and serve Georgia.”

Perdue supported the Medical College of Georgia’s merger with Wellstar. The Dental College of Georgia has also been expanded under Perdue’s leadership.

A native of Perry, Perdue has a doctor of veterinary medicine degree from the University of Georgia. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1971-1974.

Note: At the top of the page, USG chancellor Sonny Perdue at the Spring 2024 Commencement at the Marriott Convention center in downtown Augusta. (photo by DCM)