December 17, 2020
by Jere W. Morehead, President
As we wrap up one of the most difficult semesters in our institution’s history, I want to express my deep gratitude to the UGA community for their perseverance, determination, and resilience. Our faculty, staff, and students have worked harder than ever amid the challenging circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic to achieve their goals and to make a positive difference in the world.
Among the University of Georgia’s achievements this fall in which we can all take pride are:
- UGA researchers are contributing significantly to the fight against COVID-19 and helping to address its impacts on society.
- The University announced record-breaking research productivity in FY2020 with nearly $500 million in R&D expenditures.
- UGA ranked No. 15 on U.S. News & World Report’s 2021 list of the best public universities in the nation, marking the fifth consecutive year that we have placed in the Top 20.
- UGA’s four-year completion rates for undergraduate students increased to a record 71%, while the six-year completion rate held strong at 87%.
- Undergraduate student and Foundation Fellow Phaidra Buchanan became UGA’s 25th Rhodes Scholar.
- UGA received the Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award for the seventh consecutive year and made additional progress in the areas of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
- We launched the Engage & Learn initiative to enhance the learning and professional development of all UGA staff members.
- UGA was reaffirmed as an Innovation and Economic Prosperity University by the Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities.
- We completed the renovation of the Spring Street Building, which will be ready to serve as UGA’s Innovation Hub beginning in January.
I urge everyone in the UGA community to remain vigilant against COVID-19 so that we may start the spring semester on the right foot: wear face coverings, maintain social distancing, avoid large gatherings, use UGA or community testing sites, and maintain a period of quarantine where appropriate. I wish you a safe and restful winter break. May the new year bring renewed hope and health to our state, nation, and world.