Retiring GSC President Martha Nesbitt recognized by Board of Regents

GAINESVILLE - At this week's state Board of Regents meeting, Gainesville State College President Martha Nesbitt was recognized for her leadership and accomplishments as her June 30 retirement draws near.

Dr. Nesbitt, the third president of GSC, has held the office since 1997, the first woman to hold the position.

During her 15 years at GSC, the college was granted State College status, became one of the first tobacco-free campuses in the nation and developed the Oconee Campus (in 2003).

Other accomplishments credited to Nesbitt include the establishment of the college's first Presidential Leadership Program and the first Eminent Scholar at a two-year institution in the state.

Under her leadership, the College experienced a 200 percent enrollment increase from fall 1997 to fall 2011, with enrollment increased from 2,849 students to 8,569 students.

"A hallmark of Dr. Nesbitt's career has been her dedicated focus on ensuring a strong college access mission for students," said University System of Georgia Chancellor Hank Huckaby when he announced her pending retirement last fall. "She has been singularly effective in this work within the University System, both at DeKalb College (now Georgia Perimeter College) and at Gainesville State."

During his presentation, Huckaby acknowledged Nesbitt's "respected" role in the promotion and progression of education in the state, region and nation. He also pointed out her keen intelligence, passion for education and fearless approach to tackling issues that has benefitted Gainesville State, the University System, and, most importantly, the thousands of students who have matriculated at the two institutions where she has served and led.

Huckaby concluded his comments by thanking Nesbitt, wishing her well and stating, "I suspect you will continue to be a strong and forceful advocate for education."

http://accesswdun.com/article/2012/5/248431