Augusta Technical College has recently announced the appointment of Aherial Polite as the new dean for the School of Arts and Sciences.
Previously serving as the department chair of Chemistry, Physics and Nuclear Technology at Aiken Technical College, Polite said she is excited to be stepping into her new role at Augusta Tech.
“I am thrilled to embark on this journey as the dean of the School of Arts and Sciences at Augusta Technical College,” said Polite.
Polite, who has earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and Master of Arts in Teaching from the University of South Carolina, is currently pursuing a Doctor of Education in Leadership from Valdosta State University.
Prior to becoming department chair at Aiken Tech, Polite was also a chemistry instructor, the advisor for the Radiation Protection program and the coordinator of the Nuclear Fundamentals Apprenticeship.
“By joining [Augusta Technical College’s] leadership team, I can contribute to preparing students to not only meet the challenges of today but also lead the innovations of tomorrow,” said Polite.
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Before joining higher education, Polite also taught chemistry and physics at the high school level.
“Polite’s proven track record as an innovative instructor and administrator, as well as her commitment to workforce development and student success, align with the strategic vision of [Augusta Tech],” said College Provost Melissa Frank-Alston. “I am confident that she will provide outstanding leadership to the students and faculty in the School of Arts and Sciences.”
Serving as a board member for the Citizens for Nuclear Technology Awareness and the Savannah River Section of the American Nuclear Society, Polite is also known for serving on the South Carolina Governor’s Award Selection Committee.
Additionally, Polite is a member of the Kappa Upsilon Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, the American Chemical Society, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, the South Carolina Technical Education Association (SCTEA), and the National Organization for the Professional Advancement of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers.
According to a press release from Augusta Tech, Polite was most notably recognized and celebrated for her team’s success in winning the A. Wade Martin Award – the highest award in the South Carolina Technical Education System – for her work with the Nuclear Fundamentals Apprenticeship.
She was also recognized as a NISOD Excellence Award winner in 2023, Aiken Technical College’s Faculty Member of the Year in 2022, and as SCTEA’s Educator of the Year for 2020-21.
“This appointment resonates with my commitment to guiding students on their educational and professional pursuits,” she said. “I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to promote the growth and success of our academic community and the CSRA.”
For more information about Augusta Technical College, visit augustatech.edu.
Liz Wright is a staff writer covering education, lifestyle and general assignments for The Augusta Press. Reach her at liz@theaugustapress.com
