East Georgia State College name to reflect institution’s legacy upon consolidation with Georgia Southern University

The University System of Georgia and leadership of both East Georgia State College and Georgia Southern University have approved the new name for East Georgia State College’s campus in Swainsboro. The campus will be named Georgia Southern University – East Georgia Campus. The instructional sites in Statesboro and Augusta will be designated as Georgia Southern University – East Georgia Center Statesboro and Georgia Southern University – East Georgia Center Augusta. Name changes would become effective January 1, 2026, following an expected vote on consolidation approval by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) in December.

The new name honors East Georgia State College’s five-decade legacy—beginning as Emanuel County Junior College—while signaling its future as part of Georgia Southern University. It ensures that East Georgia State College’s impact will continue to be tied to Emanuel County and the surrounding communities.

Approved by the Board of Regents on April 15, the consolidation marks an important step in expanding East Georgia State College’s reach, resources and opportunities for growth. While the consolidation presents a strategic opportunity to unite the strengths of both institutions by expanding degree programs, enhancing the academic experience, and investing in robust support systems to empower every student’s success, honoring the distinct cultures, histories, and communities that lie at the heart is a top priority.

The Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia has also appointed Georgia Southern University President Kyle Marrero to simultaneously serve as the interim president of East Georgia State College, effective July 1, 2025, following the previously announced retirement of East Georgia State College President David Schecter. Marrero will lead the consolidated institution upon final consolidation approval by the Board of Regents.