ATLANTA — After 25 years of distinguished service to Georgia State University, Kerry L. Heyward, the university’s attorney and a member of its senior leadership team, will retire, concluding a career marked by steady leadership, deep institutional knowledge and a focused commitment to the university’s mission.
Heyward helped guide the institution through an era of significant growth and transformation. She has been responsible for a broad portfolio of legal matters, including governance, corporate and real estate transactions, employment and student issues, research and compliance, Georgia State athletics and the coordination of litigation on behalf of the university.
Heyward provided critical legal leadership during one of the most pivotal moments in the university’s history — the consolidation with Georgia Perimeter College. Her work helped ensure a smooth transition, supporting the creation of one of the nation’s largest and most innovative public research universities.
In addition to her legal responsibilities, Heyward has been deeply engaged in university governance. She has served on numerous university committees, including the Administrative Council, University Senate and Senate Athletics Committee. She is also a member and secretary of the Georgia State University Research Foundation Inc., helping guide the legal and fiduciary oversight of the university’s research enterprise.
Her leadership experience extends beyond Georgia State. During her career, Heyward also served as interim president of Clayton State University, further demonstrating her breadth of expertise in higher education administration.
“Kerry’s impact on Georgia State cannot be overstated,” said Georgia State President M. Brian Blake. “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.”
Senior Associate General Counsel Neal Bateman will serve as interim while Georgia State conducts a national search for its next university attorney.