Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) recently spoke on the House floor to recognize the impactful career of Augusta University President Brooks Keel who is retiring later this week.
Congressman Allen's full speech has been copied here in its entirety and can be viewed below.
"I rise today to celebrate the successful and impactful career of Augusta University President Brooks Keel, who is retiring after more than fourteen memorable years in the University System of Georgia.
Dr. Keel arrived at Augusta University during a defining moment for the future of the institution in July of 2015, and his tenure has been defined by his steadfast leadership and commitment to the success of the university and its students.
As President, Dr. Keel ushered in eight straight years of enrollment growth and a 48% increase in the University’s economic impact on the state of Georgia.
I consider myself blessed to call Dr. Keel a dear friend, and while it saddens us to see this chapter end, I join the community in congratulating him on an extraordinary career and expressing our deepest gratitude for his unwavering dedication.
As Dr. Keel and Tammy embark on a well-deserved retirement, we will continue to follow his example and build on the foundation he established for a brighter future.
And in the words of Dr. Keel – go Jags! I yield back."