After 25 years at Georgia State University, Kerry L. Heyward will retire from her role as the university’s attorney and senior leadership team member. Heyward’s tenure was marked by involvement in major legal matters such as governance, real estate transactions, employment issues, research compliance, athletics, and litigation coordination.
Heyward played a significant role during the consolidation with Georgia Perimeter College, helping facilitate a smooth transition that contributed to Georgia State becoming one of the largest public research universities in the country.
Her responsibilities also included participation in university governance through service on committees like the Administrative Council, University Senate, and Senate Athletics Committee. As a member and secretary of the Georgia State University Research Foundation Inc., she provided oversight for the university’s research activities.
Beyond her work at Georgia State, Heyward served as interim president of Clayton State University during her career.
Georgia State President M. Brian Blake commented on her retirement: “Kerry’s impact on Georgia State cannot be overstated. For 25 years, she has provided thoughtful, steady and principled counsel through moments of tremendous growth and complexity for our university — from the consolidation to the everyday legal and governance matters that keep an institution of our size moving forward. She also led the Turner Field project, helping Georgia State secure the former Braves stadium, turning the 49,000-seat baseball venue into the 22,000-seat Center Parc Stadium, home of Panthers Football. Kerry has been an extraordinary partner and leader.”
Neal Bateman, Senior Associate General Counsel, will serve as interim university attorney while a national search is conducted for Heyward’s successor.
