Albany State University (ASU) successfully concluded Ethics Awareness Week, held November 3–9, 2025, as part of the University System of Georgia’s annual initiative to promote integrity, ethical decision-making, and shared values across all institutions. Throughout the week, ASU hosted a series of activities designed to strengthen the university’s ethical culture and reaffirm its collective commitment to Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect.

Ethics Awareness Week is a key component of the USG Ethics and Compliance Program, which includes the USG Ethics Policy and Code of Conduct, ethics training, periodic refresher courses, compliance reviews, and the Ethics and Compliance Reporting Hotline. ASU’s 2025 theme, “The SPIRIT of USG,” emphasized Stewardship, Prevention, Integrity, Responsibility, Inspiration, and Trust.

The university’s schedule featured daily policy-related trivia, videos highlighting ASU leaders discussing USG core values, student and employee interviews, and content on Channel 19 promoting ethical awareness. Faculty and staff also participated in USG’s systemwide events, including the Chancellor’s Panel on leading with integrity and a virtual best-practices panel on ethical leadership.

A major highlight of the week was the campus presentation by Chief Judge Ingrid P. Driskell, an Albany State alumna and respected legal professional. Judge Driskell shared insights from her distinguished career in criminal defense, family law, public service, and judicial leadership, inspiring attendees with powerful reflections on responsibility, fairness, and community impact.

As part of Ethics Awareness Week, Albany State University recognized faculty and staff who exemplify the university’s core values through the Shining RAM Champion of Ethics Awards.

This year’s honorees are:

Shining RAM Champion of Ethics Faculty Award
Dr. Devi Akella, Chair of the School of Business and Professor of Management, College of Business, Education, and Professional Studies

Dr. Akella was honored for consistently demonstrating integrity, fairness, and ethical leadership. Known for her strong work ethic, humility, and collaborative spirit, she leads by example and fosters a culture of inclusiveness across her academic unit. Her commitment to transparency, accountability, and respect has earned the trust of colleagues and students alike.

Shining RAM Champion of Ethics Staff Award
Ms. Teresa Fleming, Certification Officer, School of Education

Ms. Fleming was recognized for her ethical stewardship of sensitive student information and her unwavering commitment to guiding teacher candidates with compassion and fairness. Her professionalism, positivity, and dedication to student success reflect the highest standards of integrity and service.

Through this year’s events, Albany State University reinforced the vital role ethics plays in learning, leadership, and public service. Ethics Awareness Week continues to serve as an important annual reminder that every member of the campus community shares responsibility for fostering a culture rooted in integrity and trust.