In a year defined by purposeful advancement, Augusta University meticulously chronicled a period of extraordinary achievement and strategic growth, illustrating how deliberate momentum can reshape an institution’s trajectory. The journey through 2025 was not merely a sequence of isolated successes but a cohesive narrative of a university deeply committed to its mission as a student-centered research institution. Each milestone, from record-breaking enrollment to landmark investments in research, contributed to a broader impact felt across the local community, the state of Georgia, and beyond. As the year unfolded, the impressive accomplishments in academics, healthcare, and community engagement collectively established a new benchmark for excellence. This period of exceptional progress has not only solidified the university’s current standing but also created a robust foundation for its future aspirations, marking 2025 as a truly transformative chapter in its history. This comprehensive review synthesizes the key themes and overarching trends that defined this pivotal year, highlighting a coordinated and holistic approach to institutional advancement that has set the stage for continued success.
Unprecedented Growth and Student-Centered Success
A Decade of Sustained Enrollment Growth
The most prominent indicator of Augusta University’s flourishing reputation and strategic planning was its remarkable and sustained growth in student population, marking the tenth consecutive year of surpassing enrollment targets. The institution welcomed a total of 12,337 students, a figure that represents a significant 6.5% increase over the previous fall’s numbers and includes a record-breaking freshman class of 1,288 students. This expansion was not just a numerical achievement but a testament to the university’s growing appeal to a diverse and ambitious student body. The comprehensive enrollment figures, which included 6,405 total undergraduate students and 5,932 graduate, professional, and post-professional students, underscore the institution’s capacity to serve a wide range of academic and career aspirations. This consistent upward trend signals a strong institutional health and an increasing recognition of the value and quality of an Augusta University education, positioning it as a destination of choice for students across the region and the nation.
This impressive expansion was anything but uniform; it was a strategically managed growth distributed across key academic areas, reflecting a clear alignment with regional and national workforce demands. At the undergraduate level, the College of Nursing experienced a notable 13% increase, a direct response to the critical need for highly skilled healthcare professionals. This was closely followed by the College of Science and Mathematics, with an 11% rise, and the College of Education and Human Development, which grew by 9%, highlighting the university’s commitment to foundational STEM and educational fields. At the graduate level, the growth was even more pronounced in specialized programs. The Katherine Reese Pamplin College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences saw the largest percentage increase, driven primarily by the launch of a new PhD program in Intelligence, Defense, and Cybersecurity Policy. Similarly, the James M. Hull College of Business and the School of Public Health posted impressive growth of 26% and 24%, respectively, demonstrating the university’s agility in developing advanced degree programs that meet the evolving needs of modern industries and public service sectors.
Cultivating Achievement and Opportunity
Beyond the impressive enrollment figures, Augusta University demonstrated a profound commitment to student outcomes and success, which was clearly reflected in the number of graduates prepared to enter the workforce. Throughout the calendar year, the university conferred a total of 3,308 degrees, a significant contribution to the state’s talent pool. This total included 1,067 undergraduate, 1,881 graduate, 334 professional, and 26 post-professional degrees, showcasing the breadth and depth of the institution’s academic offerings. Each graduate represents the culmination of a rigorous educational journey and the fulfillment of the university’s promise to cultivate skilled, compassionate, and innovative leaders. The caliber of these graduates was epitomized by individuals like Dr. Brooke Amero, a 2025 Medical College of Georgia graduate who received the prestigious John F. Beard Award for Compassionate Care for her exceptional advocacy in women’s health. Her achievement is a powerful example of the values instilled in Augusta University students, who are encouraged not only to excel in their chosen fields but also to serve their communities with empathy and dedication.
The university’s commitment to student success was further solidified through the implementation of several targeted initiatives aimed at enhancing access, affordability, and comprehensive support. Recognizing that a diverse student body requires tailored resources, the university launched a new program specifically designed to support the unique challenges and opportunities faced by first-generation students, ensuring they have the guidance and community needed to thrive. In a continued effort to make education more accessible, the university also announced the second cohort of Augusta Promise Scholars, a program that provides financial assistance and mentorship to deserving students from the local area. This commitment was further bolstered by the acquisition of a $1.3 million grant specifically designated for the expansion of student support services. This influx of funding allows the university to strengthen its academic advising, mental health resources, and career development programs, creating a holistic support network that empowers every student to reach their full potential, from their first day on campus to their graduation and beyond.
A New Era of Research and Innovation
Building the Future of Discovery
A central pillar of Augusta University’s 2025 narrative was its rapid ascent as a formidable hub for groundbreaking research and discovery, culminating in a milestone that promises to redefine its scientific landscape. The most significant achievement in this domain was the Georgia General Assembly’s approval of $99.8 million for the construction of a new translational research building. This monumental investment, championed by Governor Brian P. Kemp, Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones, and a bipartisan coalition of state legislators, represents a transformative commitment to the university’s research enterprise. The new facility is poised to dramatically accelerate the translation of scientific discoveries from the laboratory to real-world clinical applications, bridging the critical gap between basic science and patient care. This strategic infusion of capital will not only enhance the university’s physical infrastructure but will also attract top-tier researchers and foster a dynamic environment of collaboration, fundamentally strengthening Augusta University’s capacity to address some of the most pressing health challenges facing society today.
While the new research building represents a future cornerstone, the university’s existing research entities continued to gain national prominence and secure significant funding throughout the year. The Immunology Center of Georgia, housed within the Medical College of Georgia, further solidified its reputation as a leading research hub by securing a prestigious National Institutes of Health (NIH) pilot grant for pioneering research into chronic inflammatory diseases. This award was a strong endorsement of the center’s innovative approach and its potential to yield new therapies. Later in the year, the center also received its first IGNITE grant, a program designed to foster emerging and high-risk, high-reward research projects, demonstrating its commitment to pushing the boundaries of scientific inquiry. The university’s research portfolio was also diversified with the formation of a new lipidomics research group, a highly specialized team dedicated to reshaping the study of complex diseases by examining the role of lipids. These developments illustrate a multifaceted and thriving research ecosystem that is actively expanding its capabilities and impact.
Fostering a Culture of Innovation
The spirit of innovation at Augusta University extended far beyond the confines of traditional laboratories, permeating the academic and entrepreneurial culture of the campus and community. A prime example of this was the annual INNOVATE Pitch Competition, a vibrant platform that empowers both students and community members to develop and launch their entrepreneurial ideas. This event serves as a crucial bridge between academic ingenuity and real-world application, providing participants with the mentorship, resources, and exposure needed to transform concepts into viable ventures. This commitment to fostering a broader innovative culture was also evident in the critical role played by the university’s core research facilities. The Electron Microscope and Histology Core Lab, for instance, proved to be an indispensable asset, supporting not only the university’s own researchers but also providing vital services and expertise to educational institutions and discovery efforts across the entire state, thereby amplifying its impact far beyond its own campus.
This dynamic culture of innovation was guided and solidified by key leadership appointments and institutional milestones that marked a new chapter for Augusta University. The official investiture of President Russell T. Keen in the spring was a pivotal moment, formally ushering in his strategic vision for the institution’s future. His leadership was instrumental in driving the purposeful momentum that characterized the year’s many successes. The university’s academic leadership was further strengthened with the appointment of Dr. Maggy G. Tomova as the new provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. Her extensive experience and forward-thinking approach to higher education are set to play a crucial role in shaping the university’s academic programs and research initiatives. These leadership milestones were not merely ceremonial; they represented a deliberate fortification of the university’s intellectual and strategic core, ensuring that the culture of innovation is supported by a clear vision and an experienced and dedicated leadership team committed to advancing the institution’s mission.
Expanding Healthcare Leadership and Community Well-being
Extending the Clinical and Educational Footprint
As a cornerstone of its institutional identity, Augusta University’s health sciences enterprise demonstrated significant expansion and community impact throughout 2025. A landmark event that underscored this growth was the official ribbon-cutting for the new Medical College of Georgia (MCG) Atlanta campus, strategically housed within the Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center in Marietta. This expansion represents a pivotal development in the university’s partnership with Wellstar Health System and significantly broadens MCG’s educational and clinical footprint across the state of Georgia. By establishing a presence in the metro Atlanta area, the university is better positioned to train the next generation of physicians and address the state’s healthcare workforce needs in its most populous region. This strategic move not only enhances educational opportunities for medical students but also facilitates greater collaboration in clinical care and research, ultimately benefiting patients and communities throughout the state.
The university also reinforced its position as a leading authority on public health through the release of the fourth edition of “Healthy GeorgiOur State of Public Health.” This comprehensive, data-driven report offers crucial insights into the most significant health challenges and disparities facing the state. By meticulously analyzing health trends and outcomes, the report serves as an invaluable resource for policymakers, healthcare providers, and community leaders, guiding evidence-based decision-making and the development of targeted public health interventions. The publication of this report is a clear demonstration of the university’s commitment to its public service mission, leveraging its academic and research expertise to inform and improve the well-being of all Georgians. This initiative positions Augusta University not just as an educator and healthcare provider but as a critical thought leader actively shaping the conversation and strategy around public health for the entire state.
A Deep-Rooted Commitment to Service
Throughout 2025, Augusta University’s profound dedication to community health was consistently on full display through a variety of long-standing outreach events that have become pillars of community support. The Dental College of Georgia hosted its 26th annual Impressions Day, an event that provides aspiring dental students with valuable hands-on experience while offering free dental screenings and educational resources to the public. This was complemented by the college’s 22nd annual Give Kids a Smile event, which delivered essential dental services to hundreds of underserved children, addressing a critical need in the community and promoting lifelong oral health. The longevity and consistent impact of these programs are a testament to the university’s unwavering commitment to leveraging its resources for the public good. These initiatives not only provide vital care but also instill a deep sense of service in the university’s students, preparing them to be compassionate and community-minded healthcare professionals.
The university’s commitment to service extended well beyond its main campus, reaching diverse and often overlooked populations with targeted health initiatives. The School of Public Health organized the fifth annual AU-McCorkle Nurseries, Inc. Rural Health Fair, an event that brings vital health screenings, wellness education, and access to care directly to farm workers in a rural setting. This partnership highlights the university’s ability to collaborate with local industries to address specific community health needs. The rich history of this service ethos was celebrated with the 20th anniversary of the Costa Layman Health Fair, another long-term outreach effort that has had a lasting impact on the community. This dedication was personified by College of Nursing alumna Debbie Layman, who received a prestigious University System of Georgia award for her tireless work and leadership in community health. The university’s impact also resonated on a global scale, with students from the College of Allied Health Sciences participating in a service-learning trip to Rwanda, where they contributed to healthcare education and gained invaluable cross-cultural experience.
Strengthening Community and Campus Foundations
An Anchor Institution Driving Economic and Social Vitality
Augusta University powerfully reinforced its role as an indispensable anchor institution throughout 2025, with its influence extending deep into the economic and social fabric of the region. This was formally recognized when the university was named a top employer in Georgia, a distinction that highlights its significance not only as an educator but also as a major driver of employment and career opportunities. This was further quantified by a report affirming the university’s staggering $1.6 billion contribution to the state’s economy, a figure that underscores its vital role in fostering economic vitality and prosperity. This economic impact was complemented by a remarkable spirit of philanthropy and collective generosity. The annual Augusta Gives campaign, a university-wide fundraising initiative, successfully raised over $650,000 to support various programs and scholarships. This was matched by the success of the employee-focused IGIVE campaign, which concluded with more than $387,000 raised to directly support students and enhance university programs, demonstrating the deep commitment of faculty and staff to the institution’s mission.
The university’s integration with its community was further demonstrated through numerous partnerships and service-learning initiatives that applied academic knowledge to create tangible, real-world impact. Students in the Hull College of Business collaborated directly with local nonprofits, providing them with valuable consulting services in areas such as marketing, finance, and strategic planning, thereby strengthening the operational capacity of these vital community organizations. In another impactful initiative, the Dr. Paulette P. Harris Literacy Center launched a local chapter of the Get Georgia Reading campaign, a statewide effort aimed at improving childhood literacy rates by the end of the third grade. The campus itself frequently served as a vibrant community hub, hosting large-scale public events like the Augusta Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K, which brought thousands of participants to the university grounds. The institution’s engagement also extended to state-level advocacy through its annual Capitol Day, which brought students, faculty, and leaders to Atlanta to showcase Augusta University’s profound impact to lawmakers and policymakers.
Investing in a Safer, More Dynamic Campus Environment
The year 2025 saw significant investments in Augusta University’s physical and technological infrastructure, reflecting a strong commitment to creating a safe, modern, and supportive environment for students, faculty, and staff. A major focus was placed on campus safety, with the AU Police Department unveiling $2.7 million in technology upgrades. Supported by a federal grant, these enhancements included advanced surveillance systems, improved communication tools, and other state-of-the-art security measures designed to ensure a secure campus environment. Beyond safety, student life was significantly enriched with the opening of several new facilities. The new Outdoor Recreation Center provides students with expanded opportunities for physical activity and wellness, while the state-of-the-art Alvin and Yvette Harris Sports Performance Center offers student-athletes elite training and conditioning resources. Academics and collaboration were also bolstered by the grand opening of the CORE, a new, centrally located resource center designed to support student success and interdisciplinary engagement.
The university’s excellence was also recognized on a national scale, particularly in its leadership in the critical field of cybersecurity. The School of Computer and Cyber Sciences earned the prestigious National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations designation from the National Security Agency (NSA), a distinction that makes Augusta University the only institution in Georgia to hold both the cyber operations and cyber defense designations. This dual recognition firmly establishes the university as a premier hub for cybersecurity education and research. This leadership was further affirmed when the university received another CSO50 Award for its excellence in cybersecurity practices, an honor that recognizes top organizations for their innovative security projects. This national acclaim extended across other disciplines as well, with Augusta University Libraries being named a Preservation Steward by the U.S. Government Publishing Office for its commitment to preserving public access to government information, and a team of talented animation students earning national recognition and multiple awards for their outstanding short film.
A Foundation for the Future
Reflecting on the totality of the year, the achievements of 2025 were a clear and compelling demonstration of an institution operating with a unified and deliberate purpose. The interconnected successes across education, research, clinical care, and service were not a matter of coincidence but the result of strategic execution under the focused leadership of President Russell T. Keen. The year’s accomplishments, from the historic state investment in research infrastructure to the tenth consecutive year of enrollment growth, were not endpoints but rather crucial building blocks. They collectively established a new, higher standard of excellence and laid a confident and resilient foundation for the opportunities and challenges of 2026 and beyond. The momentum generated throughout this transformative year has positioned Augusta University on an upward trajectory, ensuring that its vision of becoming a premier student-centered research university is not just an aspiration but an actively realized reality.
