University System of Georgia chancellor Sonny Perdue retiring

Georgia college budget issues: Sonny Perdue, the 14th chancellor of the University System of Georgia, speaks during the Investiture Ceremony of George Ervin "Sonny" Perdue III in the House of Representatives Chamber at The Georgia State Capitol in Atlanta, on Sept. 9, 2022. Perdue told lawmakers on Wednesday, Jan. 18. 2023, that if state appropriations fall because of enrollment, it could weaken Georgia's public universities. (Hyosub Shin/Atlanta Journal-Constitution)

By WSBTV.com News Staff

ATLANTA — University System of Georgia Chancellor Sonny Perdue announced on Wednesday he will retiring.

The former Georgia governor and US Secretary of Agriculture says he will serve until a successor is named.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

“Serving as chancellor has been one of the most impactful roles of my life, and stepping away is not a decision I make lightly,” Perdue said. “My career has been guided by a simple belief: public service is a calling, and we’re meant to lift others and leave things better than we found them.”

Perdue took over as chancellor on April 1, 2022. USG says it has seen record enrollment across its 25 public colleges and universities during his four years. USG also located a new University of Georgia School of Medicine during Perdue’s tenure.

Gov. Brian Kemp thanked Perdue for decade of service.

“His time leading the University System of Georgia has solidified a legacy of impact that will continue for generations to come.” Kemp said.

USG will launch a nationwide search for its next chancellor.

TRENDING STORIES:

[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]