Valdosta State University President William McKinney has announced he will step down as president effective July 1, 2015.

McKinney was named president of Valdosta State University in 2012.

Under McKinney’s leadership, Valdosta State University:


• Established a new mission statement, vision, and strategic plan focused on better serving students.


• Launched the first comprehensive capital campaign that has already raised more than $30 million in the first eight months, including the largest gift in Valdosta State’s history – an estate gift of $17 million.


• Invested in academics, business intelligence, and enrollment management to position Valdosta State as a national leader in the use of information technology in enrollment management


• Initiated the development of a Master Facilities Plan to assure the optimal living, learning, and working environments for students, faculty, and staff.

University System of Georgia Chancellor Hank Huckaby recognized McKinney’s leadership of Valdosta State University, saying, “Dr. McKinney developed and launched the first comprehensive capital campaign for Valdosta State University that will have a lasting impact for generations of students. I thank Dr. McKinney for his contributions to Valdosta State University and the University System of Georgia and appreciate his commitment to higher education.

“We wish Dr. McKinney and his family the very best.”

Information regarding the search for the next president of Valdosta State University will be announced in the coming months.