Fort Valley State University President Larry E. Rivers has named the new dean of the College of Agriculture, Family Sciences and Technology. Dr. Govind Kannan will lead the division.
"Dr. Kannan was recommended highly to me by a search committee of his peers as having demonstrated top-quality leadership skills in addition to possessing excellent credentials as a scholar and researcher. His service as interim dean has convinced me that he is the person to lead the college," Rivers said.
Accepting the position, Kannan expressed his belief in the future for the unit and the university. "Our faculty and staff are primed to move ahead quickly in a variety of initiatives that will produce positive contributions to Georgia, the nation, and the world. In the meantime, our college will expand its academic offerings aimed at filling vital needs in our region and state."
Vice President for academic affairs Dr. Julius Scipio endorsed the selection. "Dean Kannan is a team builder, as well as an excellent administrator with a solid vision. I have no doubt that he possesses the skills necessary to bring his plans to fruition."
Kannan earned bachelor and master's degrees in veterinary science from India's Tamilnadu Agricultural University before receiving a doctorate in poultry science from the University of Maryland. He joined the FVSU faculty in 1997 and subsequently served as director of the Georgia Small Ruminant Research and Extension Center, interim assistant dean for research, and interim dean of the college.
The appointment takes effect immediately. "He'll hit the ground running and our constituents will soon hear about more great work produced by the FVSU College of Agriculture, Family Sciences and Technology."
In addition to being a comprehensive university within the University System of Georgia, Fort Valley State is Georgia's only 1890 land-grant institution.