Savannah State University Executive and Leadership Team

Derrin Davis, the Sophomore Class President SGA at Savannah State University, represents the interests of second-year students within the student government framework. Leading initiatives to enhance campus engagement, Davis organizes events that foster community and academic belonging. This role involves advocating for student needs to university administration, ensuring that the sophomore experience aligns with institutional support goals. By facilitating open dialogue between the student body and leadership, Derrin Davis drives improvements in campus services and extracurricular programming. The Sophomore Class President SGA coordinates with other student leaders to promote a culture of inclusivity and academic achievement. Through active participation in university committees, Davis influences policies affecting student life and campus resources. This position requires strong communication skills to mobilize peers and address concerns effectively. Ultimately, Davis strengthens the student voice, contributing to the overall success and retention of the university population.

Tara Damroze, the President, Accounting Association at Savannah State University, leads professional development efforts for students pursuing careers in finance and accounting. Organizing workshops and networking events, Damroze connects peers with industry professionals to bridge the gap between classroom theory and real-world application. This role involves managing the association budget and planning activities that highlight the importance of financial literacy and ethical practice. By fostering partnerships with regional firms, Tara Damroze drives career readiness and internship opportunities for members. The President, Accounting Association collaborates with faculty advisors to ensure that association programming complements the rigorous academic curriculum. Through these efforts, Damroze supports the university mission of empowering learners with practical skills for the modern workforce. This position requires strategic planning to maintain high levels of student participation and engagement. Ultimately, Damroze prepares the next generation of accounting professionals for success in the competitive global economy.

Philip Omunga, the Faculty Senate President at Savannah State University, represents the collective voice of the teaching staff in matters of academic policy and governance. Overseeing senate meetings, Omunga facilitates discussions on curriculum development, faculty welfare, and institutional standards. This role involves collaborating with the administration to ensure that academic integrity remains the cornerstone of the university experience. By advocating for resources that support research and teaching excellence, Philip Omunga drives the continuous improvement of the educational environment. The Faculty Senate President serves as a critical link between the faculty and the board, ensuring that academic perspectives inform strategic decision-making. Through rigorous review of university policies, Omunga maintains the high standards expected of a public institution. This position requires a deep commitment to shared governance and the long-term success of the student body. Ultimately, Omunga upholds the academic mission and fosters a culture of scholarly achievement.

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 robust connectivity for students and faculty across the institution. This leadership role involves modernizing data systems to facilitate seamless access to research tools and administrative resources. By implementing advanced cybersecurity protocols, Gary Miller protects sensitive institutional information while driving digital transformation initiatives. The Chief Information Officer collaborates with academic departments to integrate emerging technologies into the classroom experience, enhancing learning outcomes. Through strategic investment in hardware and software, Miller maintains the technological edge necessary for a premier public university. This position requires constant monitoring of system performance to guarantee uptime for critical university services. Ultimately, Miller secures the digital foundation required for student success and operational efficiency within the broader Georgia higher education landscape.

Michelle Thomas, the Interim Chief of Staff at Savannah State University, coordinates executive operations and facilitates communication across the university leadership team. Managing high-level administrative projects, Thomas ensures alignment between institutional goals and daily campus activities. This role involves streamlining decision-making processes to support the strategic vision of the university administration. By organizing cross-departmental initiatives, Michelle Thomas drives organizational cohesion and operational transparency. The Interim Chief of Staff acts as a primary liaison for external stakeholders, representing the university in regional partnerships and community engagements. Through meticulous oversight of executive priorities, Thomas maintains focus on student-centered outcomes and long-term institutional growth. This position requires balancing immediate administrative demands with the broader mission of providing transformative education. Ultimately, Thomas optimizes the internal workflow to sustain the vibrant campus life and academic excellence defining the university experience.