Gordon State College CIO Graduates from USG Executive Leadership Institute
By Karolina Philmon, GSC marketing manager
Gordon State College Chief Information Officer Douglas Stewart has graduated from the University System of Georgia’s (USG) 2023-24 Executive Leadership Institute (ELI). This year's cohort convened on Aug. 29, 2023, and Stewart was part of the 14th cohort to graduate from the ELI program.
“This group includes some of the best among our faculty and staff across Georgia,” USG Chancellor Sonny Perdue said. “As one of the top public university systems in the nation, we are invested in supporting and growing the people already working hard right here in the university system. With this professional development, USG wants to help them reach their full potential.”
Born and raised in Atlanta, Stewart brings 34 years of IT experience to GSC. He served in the United States Navy as an Aviation Maintenance Administrationman. Stewart earned his Bachelor of Business Administration from Georgia State University and later pursued his Master of Business and Technology at the University of Georgia. Joining Highlander Nation in 2022, Stewart also serves as an adjunct professor of computer science.
“My objective is to enhance processes and overcome challenges using technology. Streamlining data flow and optimizing efficiencies for students, faculty, and staff throughout the institution is a core focus in my IT efforts,” Stewart said. “The connections and relationships I established through ELI have already yielded significant benefits in these endeavors.”
Since 2009, USG has hosted ELI for faculty and staff to develop new leaders within the university system and offer professional development opportunities to help them grow their careers in Georgia. University presidents nominate academic and staff leaders to participate. From the nominees, individuals are selected for the program and participate in a leadership development curriculum that includes content, personal reflection, job shadowing and cross-mentoring.