"Dr. Bleicken has the fortitude and compassion a leader needs in these challenging times. She has a depth of experience that allows her to have a well-rounded understanding of the direction and goals of the University System of Georgia," said Chancellor Erroll Davis. "I have no doubt that she will be a great partner for the board in carrying out its strategic goals and policies while leading AASU into the next successful stage of its existence."

Regent Wanda Rodwell, chair of the Special Regents' Committee for the presidential search at AASU, added that Bleicken "comes equipped with all the necessary tools and skills to lead. The committee was extremely impressed with her accomplishments and her readiness for this new position."

Bleicken will assume her post on July 1, 2009, according to University System of Georgia Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief Academic Officer Susan Herbst. She will replace AASU President Dr. Thomas Z. Jones, who will retire June 30, 2009, after nine years in office.

Bleicken's service to Georgia Southern — an institution with 17,764 students and eight colleges — includes administrative appointments as: a member of the university's management faculty since 1990; acting provost and vice president for academic affairs from July 2004 to January 2005; vice president for student affairs and enrollment management from 2001 to 2004; associate provost for enrollment management and information technology from 2000 to 2001; acting provost and vice president for academic affairs from 1998 to 2000; associate dean of the College of Business Administration from 1995 to 1998; and acting chair of the Department of Management from 1994 to 1995.

In addition, she has served the University System of Georgia as a member of its Health Professions Task Force (2006), Core Curriculum Committee (2007-2008), Graduation Rate Task Force (2004), Tuition Rate Task Force (2004) and the Task Force to Develop eCore®, the USG's electronic core curriculum (2000).

Bleicken holds a Ph.D. in management earned in 1990, a master of science degree in management also earned in 1990 and a bachelor of business administration degree in marketing earned magna cum laude in 1984, all conferred by Georgia State University.

"I am honored to be selected to serve as the next president of Armstrong Atlantic State University," said Bleicken. "As a long-term citizen of coastal Georgia, I have an abiding respect for this region's legacy of accomplishment and for its potential and aspirations. I look forward to forging even stronger partnerships between the University and the community."