James Jan-Feb 2024 web - Flipbook - Page 29
We stress that a degree from our
university enhances the ability for a
graduate to get a higher paying job and
makes an impact on their lives.
partnership, Wellstar will invest
nearly $800 million over the next 10
years in facilities and infrastructure,
including more than $200 million
allocated to Augusta University Medical Center; and capital for a new
hospital, medical office building and
ambulatory surgery center in Columbia County.
“Through this partnership, we
are committed to training the next
generation of healthcare professionals,” said Keel.
When this writer asked about
rising education costs, the president
was sympathetic, saying: “We understand that students and families worry about the cost of higher education
and we try to keep the costs as low
as we can. We continually strive to
balance the college life experience
and still be affordable. We do stress
that a degree from our university
enhances the ability for a graduate
to get a higher paying job and makes
an impact on their lives.”
A BITTERSWEET RETIREMENT
Dr. Keel will conclude a remarkably successful career in research
and higher education administration
with his retirement at the end of
June of this year.
“This was one of the most difficult and one of the easiest decisions
I have ever made,” he says. “It’s definitely bittersweet for me but I have
always wanted to end my career
on a high note. It’s at a point when
First Lady Tammie Schalue and I can
most enjoy the next chapter of our
lives together. Serving as the president of Augusta University has been
the capstone of my career and one of
the greatest honors of my life.”
“I hate to leave my home, but
my career has gone full circle, and I
am going out with a big smile on my
face and a lot of pride in my heart.
The future has never been brighter
for Augusta University.”
Cindy Morley is a staff writer for James and James
Magazine Online.
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