Dr. Indiren Pillay Appointed Dean of the College of Arts & Sciences at Georgia College & State University
In an exciting development for Georgia College & State University, Dr. Indiren Pillay officially steps into the permanent role of Dean of the College of Arts & Sciences beginning November 1, 2025. This pivotal announcement was made by Provost Dr. Holley Roberts, which underscores a commitment to academic excellence at one of Georgia’s leading institutions.
Dr. Pillay has been a valued member of the Georgia College community since 2011, previously serving as chair of the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences. His expertise was recognized earlier this year when he took on the role of interim dean, where he showcased his leadership skills and vision for the college’s future. Over the span of his 14-year tenure, Dr. Pillay has significantly influenced the college’s growth trajectory, overseeing faculty expansions and spearheading the development of innovative research initiatives. Notably, he played a key role in the establishment of the GCSU Aquatic Sciences Center, which opened its doors in 2021, and he successfully secured a Major Research Instrumentation Grant from the National Science Foundation in 2015.
In a statement about Dr. Pillay’s appointment, Provost Roberts expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “Dr. Pillay brings a wealth of experience, a deep commitment to academic excellence, and a visionary approach to interdisciplinary collaboration. His leadership will be instrumental in fostering innovation and scholarship, ensuring that our students succeed across the liberal arts and sciences.” This sentiment reflects a general optimism surrounding his capabilities as a leader.
Dr. Pillay’s academic journey is impressive, with a Ph.D. in Microbiology & Immunology from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, and 30 years of experience in higher education spanning South Africa, Tennessee, Missouri, and Georgia. His appointment marks a historical milestone as he becomes the second College of Arts & Sciences dean with a science degree since 1977.
Upon hearing the news, Dr. Pillay expressed his gratitude: “I am humbled by this unexpected appointment. I thank Provost Roberts and President Cox for their confidence in me. Together, we have a fantastic team, and we are excited about continuing to support the college faculty and staff as we work towards ensuring our students’ success at GCSU.”
As the university community gears up for this change, there is a palpable sense of anticipation about the positive direction in which Dr. Pillay will take the College of Arts & Sciences. His commitment to excellence in education, combined with an innovative mindset, promises to advance the college’s mission and invigorate the rich academic environment at Georgia College & State University.
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