Thomas Fanning Named Chancellor of Georgia University System
The former Southern Co. CEO will lead the state's 25 public colleges starting in January 2027.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in People
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The University System of Georgia Board of Regents has appointed former Southern Co. executive Thomas A. Fanning as the system's 15th chancellor. Fanning was selected to succeed Sonny Perdue, who has held the leadership post since 2022.
Why it matters
This leadership transition puts a veteran corporate executive in charge of one of the largest public higher education networks in the country. Fanning will take over the governance of 25 institutions as the state manages evolving academic and administrative priorities.
The university system comprises 25 public institutions that will fall under Fanning's administration. He is set to become the 15th individual to serve as chancellor in the history of the Georgia university system.
The players
Thomas A. Fanning
He is the former CEO of Southern Co. and the incoming 15th chancellor of the University System of Georgia.
Sonny Perdue
He has served as the chancellor of the University System of Georgia since 2022 and previously served as the Governor of Georgia.
University System of Georgia Board of Regents
This is the governing body responsible for the management and oversight of the 25 public colleges and universities in the state of Georgia.
The details
The Board of Regents confirmed the appointment of Thomas A. Fanning during a teleconference meeting held in early October. Fanning, best known for his long tenure as the CEO of Southern Co., was named as a finalist for the position in September 2026.
Timeline
Sonny Perdue began his term as chancellor in 2022.
Fanning was named a finalist for the role in September 2026.
The Board of Regents voted to appoint Fanning on October 1, 2026.
Sonny Perdue will retire from the position on December 31, 2026.
Thomas A. Fanning begins his tenure as chancellor on January 1, 2027.
Market Landscape
This transition follows the precedent set by the 2022 appointment of Sonny Perdue as chancellor. The move signals a continuity in the board's preference for high-profile executive leadership to manage the state's expansive educational infrastructure.
Students, faculty, and stakeholders within the 25-school system will see a change in top-level administration starting in 2027. This leadership shift may influence future administrative policies, tuition discussions, and operational strategies across the state's public colleges.
The takeaway
The appointment of a seasoned corporate executive as chancellor underscores the increasing trend of applying private-sector management models to state education systems. Readers should monitor upcoming board meetings for clarity on how this change in leadership may impact long-term institutional goals.
What happens next
Thomas A. Fanning is scheduled to officially assume the role of chancellor on January 1, 2027, following the retirement of Sonny Perdue on December 31, 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest leadership changes across the state in our People section.
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