Core Mission Statement for State Universities in the University System of Georgia
Within the context of the University System's mission and vision, Albany State University, Armstrong Atlantic State University, Augusta State University, Clayton College & State University, Columbus State University, Fort Valley State University*, Georgia College & State University, Georgia Southwestern State University, Kennesaw State University, North Georgia College & State University, Savannah State University, Southern Polytechnic State University and University of West Georgia share core characteristics as state universities. While these universities all embody the common characteristics presented below, variations in their purposes, histories, traditions, and settings allow each also to focus on its own distinctiveness and accomplishments.
The core characteristics include:
commitment to excellence and responsiveness within a scope of influence defined by the needs of an area of the state, and by particularly outstanding programs or distinctive characteristics that have a magnet effect throughout the region or state;
a commitment to a teaching/learning environment, both inside and outside the classroom, that sustains instructional excellence, serves a diverse and college-prepared student body, promotes high levels of student achievement, offers academic assistance, and provides developmental studies programs for a limited student cohort;
a high quality general education program supporting a variety of disciplinary, interdisciplinary, and professional academic programming at the baccalaureate level, with selected master's and educational specialist degrees, and selected associate degree programs based on area need and/or interinstitutional collaborations;
a commitment to public service, continuing education, technical assistance, and economic development activities that address the needs, improve the quality of life, and raise the educational level within the university's scope of influence;
- a commitment to scholarly and creative work to enhance instructional effectiveness and to encourage faculty scholarly pursuits, and a commitment to applied research in selected areas of institutional strength and area need.
*In addition to these core characteristics, Fort Valley State University has a unique and distinct statewide mission as an 1890 land-grant institution.