Dr. Cecil Staton

VALDOSTA  —  Dr. Cecil Staton, vice chancellor for Extended Education for the University System of Georgia, has been named the interim President of Valdosta State University.

Staton, 57, will assume the position July 1 when William McKinney steps down.

“Cecil has an extensive academic background in higher education

combined with solid experience in leading a business operation that makes him uniquely qualified to provide leadership at Valdosta State during this important period,” said Hank Huckaby, chancellor for the USG. “We are fortunate to have someone of Cecil’s caliber in the University System who can step in and ensure Valdosta State continues to move forward.”

Staton has served as associate provost, associate professor, and university publisher at Mercer University, and an assistant professor at Brewton-Parker College in Mount Vernon.

Staton was also a state Senator, serving the 18th District from 2004 to 2014, serving as the vice chairman of the Senate Republican Caucus and as the Majority Whip.

Staton earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Furman University in Greenville, S.C., a master of divinity and master of theology degrees from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary from Wake Forest, and a doctor of philosophy from the University of Oxford in England.

McKinney announced his resignation from VSU April 2, and his resignation will be effective July 1.