USC Aiken
Mayoral Proclamation Honors Retiring Provost
Aiken, SC (05/31/2018) — Aiken Mayor Rick Osbon recognized the contributions University of South Carolina Aiken's executive vice chancellor for academic affairs has made both on campus and in the community during his 30-year career.
Dr. Jeff Priest received a proclamation from the mayor that celebrated some of his significant achievements.
As the provost for the university, Priest has ushered in several new degree programs, including clinical lab science, industrial process engineering and an MBA. He has laid the groundwork for several other programs, which are currently being developed. He has also strengthened international programs and signed five memoranda of understanding with institutions in India.
During the last three decades, Priest has served not only in his current position but as the dean of the School of Education and director of the Ruth Patrick Science Education Center.
"Dr. Priest is most significantly known for his vision, design and launching of the Ruth Patrick Science Education Center which provides support for science education for teachers in K-12 and now serves over 80,000 students and faculty on a yearly basis," the proclamation stated.
In addition to his responsibilities to students and faculty, Priest has dedicated his time to serving the community. He has been a member and leader in approximately 40 service organizations.
The mayoral proclamation celebrated Priest's "legacy and the many contributions that he made to USC Aiken and to the Aiken community."
"Receiving the proclamation was a total surprise and humbling experience," Priest said. "I am very appreciative of being recognized for doing what I have enjoyed doing for 30 years.
"Although the proclamation has my name on it, all of the accomplishments mentioned were not done in isolation.
"I've been very fortunate to have a team of people who have worked with me, who had the same vision, and who made these accomplishments possible."
Priest, who was hired by the university in 1988, retires June 30.
Media Attachments
Mayor Rick Osbon, left, presents Dr. Jeff Priest with a proclamation honoring his 30-year career at the University of South Carolina Aiken. In addition to his USC Aiken responsibilities, Priest and his wife, Ellen, center, serve on numerous community boards and committees.
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