Dr. Robert Scott is the new president of Albany State University. Scott was named president by the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia (USG) and will begin his position on May 1.
Dr. Scott, who is a native of Suffolk, Virginia, attended Norfolk State University as a DNIMAS Scholar. He went on to graduate from Norfolk State with a degree in biology, then went on to the Georgia Institute of Technology to earn his Ph.D. with a focus in cell and molecular biology. Dr. Scott is the first DNIMAS Scholar to receive a Ph.D. Before changing careers, Dr. Scott spent his early career in higher education, including institutions such as Boston College, Spelman College, and his alma mater, Norfolk State. He is the current president of research and development at The Kraft Heinz Co. He has also served in executive roles at Abbott Nutrition and The Coca-Cola Co.
“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.
The appointment of Dr. Scott as president comes after a thorough seven-month nationwide search in which he was identified as the only candidate. After President Marion Ross Fedrick left Albany State to become the executive vice president and chief of staff to the president of Georgia State University, Drake took over as Albany State’s president on July 1, 2024.
Dr. Scott released a statement on his new position as president:
“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, and 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.”
