The University of West Georgia’s Vice President for Student Affairs, Dr. André Fortune, was recently selected to be part of the American Association of State Colleges & Universities (AASC&U) Millennium Leadership Initiative (MLI). This prestigious honor, the longest-standing leadership program AASCU offers, underscores Fortune's exceptional leadership and dedication to curating a first-choice university for UWG students.

“I am deeply honored to be selected for the Millennium Leadership Initiative,” said Fortune. “This opportunity will allow me to refine my leadership skills further and bring new perspectives to our efforts at UWG.”

The Millennium Leadership Initiative aims to diversify and elevate the American college presidency. By cultivating advanced skill sets and innovative mindsets, the MLI prepares leaders for the highest positions in higher education. The initiative focuses on crucial areas such as student success, policy and advocacy, leadership development, and much more. 

Fortune's selection to the MLI is a significant acknowledgment of his professional achievements and his potential to shape the future of academic leadership.

“I am grateful that President Kelly continues investing in my professional development and supports my participation in such a prestigious program. Being part of the AASC&U MLI is a tremendous opportunity to bring back innovative ideas and best practices to UWG,” said Fortune. “It’s essential to continue elevating our students’ experiences by creating an environment where they feel connected and supported, which ultimately drives their success and development.”

Throughout his tenure at UWG, Fortune has been instrumental in fostering a sense of belonging and connectedness among students. By nurturing student involvement outside the classroom, he has contributed to an increase in UWG’s first-to-second-year retention by almost 3%, the highest rate in the institution’s history. 

Fortune is a first-generation college graduate with bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Kansas City and a Ph.D from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He is a proud member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., and has taught in UWG’s doctoral program in higher education administration.