The University of West Georgia Foundation Board of Trustees has proudly announced two new members of the board, as well as a new chair. 

Joining the board are Andy Johnson ’04 ’06 and Mary Tritt as trustees, with Gary Kinard ’91, chief financial officer for Verida Inc., serving as the board’s chair for a two-year term.

Foundation trustees are elected to a four-year term and serve on various committees, such as board development, finance and investment, resource development, audit, and more. In addition, trustees Josh Chapman and Vicki Kaiser will continue their service for an additional four-year term.

“We are delighted to welcome Andy and Mary to the UWG Foundation Board, accompanied by Gary stepping into his new role as chair,” said Dr. Meredith Brunen, CEO of UWG’s foundations and vice president for university advancement. “Their profound expertise and commitment to our university during a pivotal time in our institution’s history will elevate our efforts to further enhance students’ experiences through philanthropic support.”

The UWG Foundation serves to support the university in its mission to advance its strategic priorities for long-term enhancements of building a university town and enhancing experiences for all students and constituents.

Kinard, the newly appointed UWG Foundation board chair, expressed his deeply rooted family connection to the university and dedication to fulfilling the university’s mission. Kinard’s wife, Heather ’98 ’02, is a two-time alumna who is also currently working toward her third degree, and his son has enrolled at UWG to begin classes this fall.

“UWG’s profound impact on my family continues to inspire my unwavering commitment to this university,” said Kinard, who has served as a trustee for nearly a decade. “There is no better time than right now to be associated with UWG, and to be able to share in the growth and successes that are taking place at the university is something I am honored to be part of. I look forward to supporting my fellow trustees and ensuring their contributions continue the forward momentum of UWG and its students.”

Mary Tritt, managing broker and real estate agent for Tritt Realty, sees the value in connecting with local community members and is excited to serve the university in this role. 

“It’s important for us to invest in our community through volunteer work, scholarships and any other way that can enhance the community,” explained Tritt. “I’ve continued to be impressed by the stellar leadership at UWG. I believe in the vision of the strategic plan and the extended executive team, and I want to play a part in making UWG a first-choice university for current and future generations.” 

Andy Johnson, chief executive officer of GreenCourt, understands the importance of multigenerational connections to places like UWG, with his grandfather, Bob Stone, as one of the original UWG Foundation Board members. His mother, Cindy Stone Denney, also served as a board member as a three-time alumna of the university.

“It is natural for me to commit my time, energy and resources to giving back to the university that has had such an incredible impact on me and my family,” said Johnson.  “I am really looking forward to helping continue to bridge the gap between this great institution and the business communities in which UWG operates.”

The UWG Foundation was established in 1967 to serve as the philanthropic arm of the University of West Georgia. The foundation’s mission is to support UWG’s pursuit of excellent higher education by attracting and involving alumni and friends to invest in scholarships, program support, and capital projects. 

The foundation is governed by a board of trustees composed of business and industry leaders, community leaders, and alumni whose primary goals are in service to the university community. 

For more information about the UWG Foundation or how to make a gift in support of the university, please visit Give West.