University System of Georgia (USG) Chancellor Hank Huckaby has named Dr. Arthur N. Dunning as interim president at Albany State University.

Dunning recently completed three years of service as vice chancellor for International Programs and Outreach for the University of Alabama System in Tuscaloosa. He is currently a professor and senior research fellow in the University’s Education Policy Center, where he serves on state and national boards and has teaching duties in the higher education program.

He will begin his new assignment on December 2, taking over from Kimberly Ballard-Washington, who served temporarily as interim president since November 1, following the departure of former president Everette J. Freeman.

“Art Dunning has a long and distinguished track record in higher education and particularly in the University System of Georgia,” said Huckaby. “I have known Dr. Dunning personally and professionally for many years and am delighted he is available to bring his leadership skills to Albany State University.”

Dunning had a 27-year career in the University System of Georgia, including faculty and administrative responsibilities with Kennesaw State University, and senior administrative positions with the Board of Regents System Office, including vice chancellor for Services, acting executive vice chancellor, and senior vice chancellor for Human and External Resources.

He also served as vice president for Public Service and Outreach at the University of Georgia, and was a tenured full professor in UGA’s Institute of Higher Education. In his administrative role at UGA, Dunning was instrumental in the development of the University’s Archway Program, which brings the resources of the UGA to help local officials meet the social and economic needs of Georgia communities.

While in Georgia, Dunning also for three years was chief executive officer of the Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education. Prior to coming to Georgia, he served for seven years in various faculty and administrative roles at the University of Alabama.

Dunning is well known for his work in international programs, economic development initiatives, and innovative research partnerships.

He served on the board of directors for the Latin American Association and has worked with the Carter Presidential Center and the United Nations in Vienna, Austria.

Dunning has lived and worked in roles related to higher education and non-profit activities in more than 30 countries, including Ghana, Tunisia, China, India, Thailand, and Brazil. His work in Southeast Asia included executive responsibilities for the postsecondary education needs of Department of Defense dependents.

Dunning earned his bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees from the University of Alabama, and was a participant in Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government’s management development program.

Huckaby also noted Ballard-Washington’s service as the temporary interim president. “I extend my thanks to Kimberly Ballard-Washington for agreeing to step in at Albany State. Her service allowed us to conduct a thorough search for an interim president. While I appreciate Kimberly’s flexibility, I also will be glad to see her return to the University System Office and her critical duties in our legal affairs office.”