GCSU Foundation sets fundraising records, announces new Board members and leadership

The Office of University Advancement at Georgia College & State University is celebrating a record-breaking year of fundraising, including a new institutional record for private donations.

The GCSU Foundation, which serves as the fundraising body for GCSU, reported $9,597,197 in private philanthropic support – a new institutional record. This represents a 9% increase over last year’s record-setting total and a 240% increase compared to FY23. GCSU also expanded its fundraising reach, receiving support from 985 new donors.

“As institutional leaders, we’ve always known GCSU is a special place and it’s inspiring to see that sentiment shared by so many alumni, families, foundations and corporate partners who believe in our unique approach to higher education,” said Seth Walker, vice president for University Advancement and executive director of the GCSU Foundation.

Additionally, Georgia College Athletics had its best fundraising year ever, raising over $636,000 – a 24% increase over the previous year and a 169% increase compared to FY23.

As the new academic year begins, both the GCSU Foundation and Alumni Association boards of directors welcomed new members and leadership to continue fundraising and financial stewardship for Georgia College. The GCSU Foundation adds five new board members, as well as a new Chair and Vice Chair.

The GCSU Foundation 

The new chair of the GCSU Foundation Board is Derek Chitwood (’07) from Greensboro, Georgia, founder and owner of Peach State Pride.

“During my time at this great university, I made countless walks along Milledgeville’s tree-laden sidewalks, past the Old Governor’s Mansion and throughout our beautiful campus,” Chitwood said. “Georgia College is a place that never leaves you and my education there has propelled me and shaped my life. It is my distinct honor to serve as Chair of the Foundation Board.”

Anresa Davis (’75) – a retired registered nurse from Savannah – is the incoming Vice Chair of the Foundation.

“Fifty years ago, I received an excellent education and cultivated a wonderful circle of friends making my time at GCSU a lifelong highlight. Now as a board member and vice chair, I hope to make that same experience the norm for future generations,” Davis said.

“Derek Chitwood and Anresa Davis represent the passion and dedication of two highly engaged GCSU alumni. I’m confident their leadership will ensure the Foundation continues to serve our students, faculty and staff with excellence,” Walker said.

The five new members of the GCSU Foundation Board are: Melanie Biersmith (’96) from Madison, Georgia, the State 4-H Leader for UGA Cooperative Extension; April Bragg (’00) from Bonaire, Georgia, President and CEO of the Robins Regional Chamber of Commerce; Zach Mullins (’11) from Milton, Georgia, Chief Strategy Officer for Locality; Larry Edwards of Milledgeville, a previous trustee who served nine years; and Ted Smith of Milledgeville, also a previous trustee who served 17 years, and also served as Chair.

Alumni Association Board of Directors

Five new members were also added to the Board of Directors of the Georgia College Alumni Association: Anastasia Brown (’10), Matthew Cobb (’13, ’14), Sabrina Ellis-Friday (’99), Kristi McBryar (’10) and Denita Thomas (’97).