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Georgia Tech offers a variety of programs and resources designed to support employee growth, development, and success. This month, we are highlighting two staff members who have taken advantage of opportunities available through the Institute and experienced meaningful personal and professional growth as a result. From advancing their education through the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) to strengthening their leadership skills through the Culture Champion Academy, their stories showcase the impact of investing in learning, leadership, and continuous development at Tech.

Xinia Richards oversees a high-volume, compliance-driven function that helps support travel and business expenses across the Institute. With requirements stemming from the state, the University System of Georgia, and Institute policies, Xinia is known for her ability to translate complex regulations into clear, practical processes. Colleagues and customers alike value her expertise, thoughtful guidance, and dedication to continuous improvement. Whether resolving complex policy questions, mentoring team members, or collaborating with stakeholders to enhance processes, Xinia consistently demonstrates a commitment to service excellence. Learn more about Xinia.

The Everyday Excellence Recognition Program highlights A&F staff who go above and beyond in their daily work. It celebrates the meaningful contributions that reflect Georgia Tech’s values – whether through excellent service, collaboration, innovation, or actions that make a lasting, positive impact on our community.

Celebrating Rafael Soares, business analyst for Student Engagement and Well-Being. 

Campus Services' Employee Recognition Program recognizes employees who demonstrate individual achievement, contribution, and performance in their jobs beyond expectations while living out the Institute Values. Please join us in congratulating those who have received this award. 

Photo: Kasey Helton, associate vice president for Campus Services, featured left; Rafael Soares featured right

The D.M. Smith Building, home to the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School of Public Policy, has officially earned LEED v4 Platinum certification. The century-old building, constructed in 1923, underwent a $26 million renovation that preserved its historic character while significantly improving energy efficiency, water use, and accessibility.

A third-party assessment validated the Institute's ability to support Department of Defense-related projects and protect sensitive information.

Karin Elliott, vice chancellor for Human Resources for the University System of Georgia, has been named the interim vice president and chief human resources officer for Georgia Tech. Elliott will begin her new role on Sept. 1 and will report directly to Tricia Chastain, executive vice president for Administration and Finance.

Deputy Chief Carla Cook will begin serving as interim associate vice chancellor for Safety and Security and University System of Georgia (USG) chief of Police effective Sept. 8. During the interim appointment, the Georgia Tech Police Department (GTPD) will implement temporary leadership changes while the USG conducts a search for a permanent successor.

Greg Spiro has been named interim vice president of Infrastructure and Operations, following the departure of Jim Stephens. In this role, Spiro will provide leadership and strategic direction for the unit's broad portfolio, including facilities, grounds, infrastructure, utilities, environmental health and safety, and operational services during this transition. Spiro begins his interim role on Sept. 1 and will report directly to Tricia Chastain, executive vice president for Administration and Finance. 

Kim Wilson has joined Georgia Tech as its new associate vice president of Planning, Design, and Construction. Wilson began her new role on Aug. 10, reporting directly to Jo Lamb, vice president and deputy chief business officer for Administration and Finance.  

The 2026 Fall Biannual Compliance Training will launch on Monday, Aug. 31. All faculty, staff, and students who are active employees as of Aug. 21 will be required to complete the online training by 11:59 p.m. EDT on Monday, Sept. 21. It takes approximately 120 minutes to complete. 

For the 2026–27 academic year, service changes will align the Stinger and Stingerette schedules to create a more efficient, unified transportation system. This allows Parking and Transportation Services (PTS) to maximize transit coverage during times of highest demand. Additionally, a new partnership with Uber, the Yellow Jacket Voucher Program, will allow PTS to continue providing an on-demand transportation option after midnight.

President Ángel Cabrera will highlight recent Institute accomplishments and opportunities ahead for Georgia Tech, followed by a conversation with Institute leaders. Join in person or watch live on president.gatech.edu.

Email your questions in advance to townhall@gatech.edu. Questions should be submitted by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 2.

The Office of Sustainability, in partnership with the Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems and the Student Government Association (SGA), will host a Living Learning Campus Symposium on Wednesday, Oct. 7, at the Marcus Nanotechnology Research Center. The symposium will bring together partners advancing applied campus research, provide opportunities for strengthening collaboration across groups, and feature a pitch competition for SGA student sustainability funds.

Join us for Leveraging Learning: Turning Growth into Action, and explore how Learning & Development can support your professional growth at every stage of your career. Learn about the resources available to you, connect with colleagues and leaders, and discover practical ways to build skills, navigate career conversations, and take ownership of your development at Georgia Tech.

When: Wednesday, Sept. 30 | 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.  
Where: Exhibition Hall, multiple rooms

Generating $6.3 billion in economic impact for Georgia’s economy in fiscal year 2025, Georgia Tech surpassed its own record and continues to lead all state public universities, according to a University System of Georgia study. 

Named in honor of Georgia Tech’s 11th president and first lady, the residence hall is the first of its kind to be built on campus since 1969.

After an extensive two-year renovation, Brittain Dining Hall reopened on Monday, Aug. 17. The facility's exterior and main dining area retain the same Collegiate Gothic architecture that has been a campus staple since its original construction in 1928, but the kitchen, service areas, and systems have all been modernized.  

In addition to Brittain Dining Hall, there are also new dining options on campus this fall semester. 

Join us on Wednesday, Sept. 23, from 3 to 4 p.m., to learn how A&F is delivering Service Excellence for the Georgia Tech community. The team will share information on how they are working to reduce administrative burdens and improve how faculty and staff experience working with A&F units.

This is a virtual only event.