Savannah State University (SSU) has appointed Dr. Bradley S. Gardner as the new program director for the Center for Professional Excellence (CPE). Dr. Gardner will lead a dedicated team focused on supporting SSU’s faculty and staff through dynamic professional development, mentorship, and the sharing of best practices.

Leadership Background

Dr. Gardner joins the SSU community as a tenured associate professor of political science and international affairs. He comes to Savannah with a rich background in academic leadership, having recently served as the assistant dean of the College of Arts and Humanities and chair of the Department of Social Sciences at Bethune-Cookman University.

Dr. Gardner is an accomplished scholar, with research focusing on community policing, democracy, governance, and justice systems in post-colonial societies, particularly in the Caribbean. His most recent publications offer insights into the impacts of community policing in Jamaica.

“We are delighted to welcome Dr. Gardner to the Center for Professional Excellence,” said Dr. Jan Boulware, associate vice president of academic affairs. “He is a dedicated professional whose deep expertise in faculty development, administration, and civic engagement makes him the perfect fit to lead the center forward and support our campus community.”

Dr. Gardner’s diverse career spans international relations, conflict resolution, national security, and social justice. He brings hands-on experience to SSU, including previous leadership roles at Florida A&M University, Kennesaw State University, and valuable service within the Florida Senate.

“I am honored and humbled to join SSU during this exciting, transformative time,” said Dr. Gardner. “I am excited to contribute to the continued excellence and enduring legacy of this historic institution.”

Original reporting: The Savannah Tribune — read the source article.