From the President: Thank you, Americus

This story originally appeared in the Canes Corner section of the Americus Times-Recorder newspaper.

By Dr. Michelle Johnston

For the past two years, Americus has been home to me in a way that extends far beyond my role as president of Georgia Southwestern State University. Today, I am writing to share news that brings with it a great deal of emotion for me.

The University of Montevallo Board of Trustees appointed me to serve as their next president. After much prayer and reflection, I have accepted this opportunity with both excitement and a full heart to be closer to my parents and children.

At the same time, leaving Georgia Southwestern is not easy because this place and these people have meant so much to me personally and professionally.

I want to sincerely thank this community for the degree of understanding and genuine care you have so graciously shared with me as this decision unfolded. Your kindness and encouragement throughout this process have reminded me once again why Americus is so special.

From my very first days at GSW, I felt welcomed with open arms and open hearts. I quickly realized that this University is not just located in this community — it is deeply woven into its fabric.

One of the things I will treasure most is the way this community loves and supports Georgia Southwestern. Time and again, I have witnessed local businesses, civic leaders, alumni, donors, churches, educators and families rally around our students and our mission. That support has made a lasting difference and has helped position GSW for a bright future.

Together, we have celebrated incredible milestones. We have experienced record enrollment growth, expanded academic opportunities, strengthened student support services, won championships, launched new strategic initiatives and invested in campus improvements that will serve future generations. We have worked hard to ensure that GSW continues to provide students with an affordable, high-quality education while also serving as an economic and cultural driver for Southwest Georgia.

But what I will remember most are the people.

I will remember the students whose stories reminded me of why higher education matters. I will remember the faculty and staff who pour their hearts into this institution every day because they genuinely care about students. I will remember the community members who continually asked, “How can we help?” and who believed deeply in the future of this University.

Georgia Southwestern’s success has never belonged to one person. It belongs to all of us. It belongs to every individual who believes in the transformative power of higher education and its ability to shape the next generation.

As I prepare to begin this next chapter, I do so with immense gratitude and optimism. The future of GSW is incredibly bright. The momentum I have witnessed here will continue long after my departure.

While my next journey takes me to Alabama, a piece of my heart will always remain in Americus and at Georgia Southwestern. It has been one of the greatest honors of my career to serve this University and this community.

Thank you for your kindness, partnership and unwavering support. I will always be proud to be part of the Hurricane family.