Kennesaw State appointed Julia Ayers as its new vice president for government relations, effective Monday, Oct. 22.
Ayers’ new appointment as vice president for government relations includes duties such as promoting KSU’s goals to state and federal policymakers, University System of Georgia officials and business and civic leaders, according to KSU’s website. She will also be responsible for developing action plans for KSU that require governmental, legislative and community support.
Ayers currently serves as the senior executive director of economic development for the Technical College System of Georgia. In her position, Ayers works with vice presidents of economic development at over 20 colleges to develop curriculum and industry outreach initiatives, according to KSU’s website.
Before serving as senior executive director at TCSG, Ayers worked with Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal as his deputy chief of staff for legislative and external affairs.
Ayers began working with Gov. Deal in 2009 as a field representative and administrative assistant for his campaign, according to KSU’s website. After Gov. Deal took office, Ayers served as the legislative liaison to the Georgia Legislature and then the legislative liaison for the Georgia House of Representatives. She later took over as the manager of state legislative affairs at the state House of Representatives.
Ayers left the Governor’s office in January 2015 to work with the TCSG, but later took another position in the Governor’s office in September 2015, according to KSU’s website.
“Julia’s experience in government relations and her commitment to education, particularly here in Georgia, will be an asset in advancing Kennesaw State University’s mission and impact,” said Alex McGee, KSU’s vice president for external affairs and chief of staff. “Julia will be a strong advocate for Kennesaw State. Her proven skills will enhance the University’s reputation and partnerships throughout the state as well as nationally and internationally.”
