KENNESAW, Ga. | Jan 6, 2023

Kennesaw State University has appointed Casey A. Tanner as vice president for government relations, effective Jan. 9.

Tanner is currently assistant vice chancellor for external affairs for the University System of Georgia (USG), where she develops and implements government relations strategies and advocates for system priorities. She previously served as Georgia Tech’s director of state relations.

In her new role, Tanner will promote Kennesaw State University’s goals and objectives to state and federal policymakers and USG officials, as well as business and civic leaders. She also will help identify strategic priorities for KSU and work to build governmental, legislative and community support for University initiatives.

“Throughout her career, Casey has distinguished herself as a strong, effective advocate for higher education in Georgia, and I’m happy to have her apply those skills on behalf of Kennesaw State,” KSU President Kathy Schwaig said. “Her work will enhance the University’s reputation and strengthen its partnerships across the state, nation and world.”

Tanner said she is excited to join Kennesaw State and contribute to its growing success. 

“It is an incredible honor to serve the students, faculty and staff at Kennesaw State in this role," Tanner said. “I am grateful to President Schwaig for the opportunity to join a thriving University community, and I look forward to contributing to the University’s extraordinary impact at the local, state and federal level.”

A Savannah native, Tanner earned a Master of Public Administration from the University of Georgia and a Bachelor of Science in International Affairs and Spanish from Georgia Tech. She recently participated in USG’s Executive Leadership Institute as well as an education policy fellowship sponsored by the Institute for Educational Leadership.

Tanner has served on several national professional organizations, including the American Association of State Colleges and Universities state relations taskforce and the Public Higher Education Legislative Advocacy Professionals steering committee. She is a past president of the Georgia Tech Alumni Association Atlanta Network and serves on the alumni board for the University of Georgia School of Public and International Affairs.

A leader in innovative teaching and learning, Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees to its more than 45,000 students. Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia with 11 academic colleges. The university’s vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the country and the world. Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 7 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu.