Augusta Tech’s President of four years is getting ready to assume the same position at Savannah State University effective April 1.
To commemorate Dr. Jermaine Whirl’s legacy, the college held a farewell celebration for him on March 20.
Dr. Melissa Frank-Alston is filling Whirl’s role as Interim President.
“I feel very confident in her abilities to lead in the interim,” said Dr. Whirl. “She’s going to do an incredible job.”
The Patch
The outgoing tech school president reflected on some of his most proud achievements during his tenure. He noted that he is especially happy with the college’s partnership with Augusta National, a la The Patch.
The Patch, a city-owned golf course that is undergoing restoration, is expected to be completed in spring 2026, and Whirl said he hopes to return to the area next year for the ribbon cutting.
Augusta National and Augusta Tech are working together on the Patch project with several goals in mind; in particular, it will expand Augusta Tech’s golf course management program and culinary arts programs.
Moving on to Savannah State
As for his move from a two year institution to a four year institution, Whirl said he plans to continue focusing on program strengthening.
“All of the things that we think of traditional college whether that’s housing, the band, the football games, homecoming, those things I’m excited about, but really it’s about the economic development and workforce development that’s happening in there…There’s a lot of programmatic things that i’m excited to be a part of and help that region grow even further,” he said.
“Savannah State has an incredible history…one that I’m excited to be a part of,” he added.
Continuing opportunities for students
Dr. Whirl leaves behind another legacy in the form of the Dr. Jermaine Whirl Presidential Leadership Scholarship.
Whirl and his wife pledged $10,000 to create an endowed scholarship fund at Augusta Tech, an annual award to be given to the student who is elected as the College’s Student Government Association President.
The first recipient of the new scholarship was 2024-2025 SGA President Rashell Tanner, who spoke at Dr. Whirl’s farewell celebration.
“He has been an inspiration, an example of success and an outstanding leader who has transformed opportunities for students in ways we will never forget,” said Tanner.
