Savannah State University Executive and Leadership Team

Philip Omunga, the Faculty Senate President at Savannah State University, represents the academic interests of the teaching staff while fostering collaboration with the administration. Leading the senate, Omunga advocates for policies that enhance the quality of instruction and support faculty research initiatives. This role involves facilitating dialogue between educators and university leadership to ensure that academic standards remain high across all 30 degree programs. By championing professional development, the Faculty Senate President contributes to the university's reputation for excellence in business, science, and the arts. Philip Omunga coordinates senate activities to address curriculum improvements and faculty welfare, directly impacting the overall learning environment. The Faculty Senate President works to maintain a vibrant campus culture that values shared governance and academic freedom. Through consistent engagement with the board and executive leadership, Omunga ensures that faculty perspectives inform strategic decisions. This leadership position remains essential for upholding the academic integrity and long-term vision of the institution.

Derrin Davis, the Sophomore Class President SGA at Savannah State University, serves as the primary advocate for second-year students within the student government framework. Organizing campus events and initiatives, Davis promotes student engagement and fosters a sense of community among the sophomore cohort. This role involves gathering feedback from peers to address specific needs related to student life and academic support services. By representing the student voice, the Sophomore Class President SGA ensures that the university's commitment to personalized learning remains a priority. Derrin Davis collaborates with other student leaders to plan activities that celebrate the cultural heritage of the campus. The Sophomore Class President SGA works to bridge the gap between the student body and the administration, ensuring that student concerns reach the appropriate decision-makers. Through active participation in campus governance, Davis helps shape the vibrant student experience that defines the university, ultimately contributing to higher retention and student satisfaction across the entire academic community.

Gary Miller, the Chief Information Officer at Savannah State University, directs the digital infrastructure and technological framework supporting the academic mission. Overseeing campus-wide network security, Miller ensures reliable access to essential learning tools for students and faculty. This leadership role involves modernizing data systems to improve administrative efficiency and student engagement across the institution. By implementing scalable cloud solutions, the Chief Information Officer supports the university's commitment to innovation in science and technology. Gary Miller manages complex IT projects that align with the broader goals of Georgia's first public Historically Black College and University. Through strategic oversight of digital resources, Miller maintains the integrity of academic data while facilitating seamless communication across the campus. The Chief Information Officer continuously evaluates emerging technologies to enhance the educational experience, ensuring that the university remains competitive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape while providing secure, high-performance connectivity for all academic departments.

Michelle Thomas, the Interim Chief of Staff at Savannah State University, coordinates executive operations and facilitates strategic alignment across administrative departments. Managing high-level institutional initiatives, Thomas ensures that university leadership executes the core mission of empowering diverse learners. This role involves streamlining communication between the president's office and various academic units to maintain operational cohesion. By overseeing critical projects, the Interim Chief of Staff supports the university's dedication to student success and community engagement. Michelle Thomas monitors institutional performance metrics to drive efficiency and accountability throughout the organization. The Interim Chief of Staff collaborates with senior leadership to refine policies that enhance the campus experience and promote cultural heritage. Through meticulous planning and resource management, Thomas strengthens the university's market position as a premier public institution. This leadership function remains vital for maintaining the momentum of ongoing academic programs and ensuring that administrative processes effectively serve the needs of the entire student body.