Longtime Berry College president, Steve Briggs, to retire at end of next school year 

Since 2006, Steve Briggs has served as President of Berry College near Rome, but those days will come to an end as Briggs announced his plans to retire after nearly two decades in the position.

The small liberal arts college revealed this week that Briggs will step down at the conclusion of the 2024-2025 academic year. The board of trustees intends to initiate a national search for Briggs’ successor, with the process set to commence early in the summer. Officials aim to select a new president by the end of 2024.

Known for its picturesque 27,000-acre campus in northwest Georgia, Berry College is approximately 70 miles outside Atlanta and currently enrolls around 2,200 students.

Under Briggs’ leadership, the college experienced significant growth and development. Academic offerings were expanded, and a dozen buildings were updated and opened. Moreover, Berry joined the NCAA Division III during Briggs’ tenure.

Additionally, the college collaborated with a nonprofit organization to establish The Spires at Berry, a retirement community situated on its grounds. Furthermore, the Rome Tennis Center, featuring approximately 60 courts, was created under Briggs’ presidency.

Reflecting on his time at Berry, Briggs expressed excitement about the college’s continued progress, stating, “The college is thriving, and I am excited about how we are elevating Berry’s distinctive student experience and exploring forward-looking programs and partnerships. The years ahead are full of possibilities.”

Rick Gilbert, Chairman of the Board, commended Briggs for his transformative leadership, noting that Briggs has “radically transformed” the college. Gilbert extended gratitude to Briggs for his dedicated service, emphasizing Briggs’ profound impact on the Berry community, donors, trustees, and local leaders alike.