The University System of Georgia has announced the appointment of Dr. Ashwani Monga as the interim president of the University of West Georgia, effective August 19. Dr. Monga, who currently serves as the Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief Academic Officer at the University System of Georgia, steps into this role following Dr. Brendan B. Kelly’s departure to lead the Arkansas State University System.
Dr. Kelly, during his tenure, introduced new degree programs, established the College of Mathematics, Computing, and Sciences, and enhanced both fundraising and student retention efforts. The leadership transition between Dr. Kelly and Dr. Monga will occur before the end of August.
Dr. Monga brings extensive administrative experience from his previous roles, including his position as provost and executive vice chancellor at Rutgers University-Newark and faculty appointments at several prestigious universities. His expertise spans academic program management, student success initiatives, and faculty development. He holds a Doctor of Philosophy in business administration from the University of Minnesota and has been recognized for his teaching and research in consumer behavior.
Dr. Monga expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the university during this transitional period and aims to continue building on the progress made under Dr. Kelly’s leadership.
The University System of Georgia will initiate a national search for a permanent president, after which Dr. Monga will return to his role as Executive Vice Chancellor.
The University of West Georgia serves over 12,700 students and offers 106 fields of study. It has a significant regional economic impact and is consistently ranked as a top national university by U.S. News & World Report.
