The Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia (USG) today named Dr. Robert Scott president of Albany State University (ASU), effective May 1, 2025.

Dr. Scott, who holds a Ph.D. from the Georgia Institute of Technology, will return to higher education after almost two decades working in the private sector. He is currently the president of research and development at The Kraft Heinz Co. Dr. Scott has also served in executive roles at Abbott Nutrition and The Coca-Cola Co. He spent his early career teaching and serving as an administrator at Boston College, Spelman College and Norfolk State University.

“Dr. Scott is a five-star recruit, someone with both industry expertise and academic experience who will advance Albany State’s mission and cement its impact helping students find success in today’s workforce,” USG Chancellor Sonny Perdue said. “He has experience in improving large organizations, simplifying processes and making the best use of resources. More importantly, he’s committed to fostering an environment at this important HBCU where all faculty, staff and students can thrive.”

“We’re also deeply grateful to interim President Lawrence Drake for his work to advance ASU’s commitment to student success and strengthen its engagement with the community,” Perdue said.

Dr. Scott’s appointment to the presidency follows a rigorous seven-month national search in which he was named the sole finalist. ASU has been led by Drake since July 1, 2024, following the departure of President Marion Ross Fedrick to serve as executive vice president and chief of staff to the president of Georgia State University.

“My goal as president will be to ensure that Albany State University operates at the highest level of efficiency and effectiveness and maintains financial health, all while expanding growth opportunities for students and the university,” Dr. Scott said. “I believe that ASU is more than a great institution — it is also an amazing brand that must be cultivated and elevated.”

“Everything we do speaks to the brand of Albany State,” Dr. Scott said. “From academic programs to athletics, student services to community engagement, alumni successes to corporate partnerships, we must ensure our actions reflect excellence, innovation and a commitment to developing the next generation of leaders. My executive accountabilities at some of the world’s largest corporations and top-tier universities have uniquely prepared me to lead ASU into a new era of recognition, growth and innovation.”