KENNESAW, Ga. | Jan 5, 2026

Georgia Trend magazine has named Kennesaw State University President Kathy S. Schwaig to its annual 100 Most Influential Georgians list for 2026.

Among a distinguished mix of individuals from business, education, government, health care, and more, the magazine cited Kennesaw State’s impressive gains in economic impact and enrollment growth under Schwaig’s administration since becoming president in 2022.

“I am honored to be listed among my colleagues who are making an impact throughout our state, and for the acknowledgement of Kennesaw State’s commitment to students, families, and communities,” said Schwaig. “We boldly embrace our part in expanding access, empowering learners, creating career-ready graduates, and contributing to a prosperous Georgia.”

The magazine also cited Schwaig’s commitment to fostering student success and raising Kennesaw State’s national profile.

“In selecting the state’s most influential people each year, the Georgia Trend staff has the tough job of narrowing down a rather sizable list of impressive people to just 100. It takes time and effort, but ultimately we feel the group chosen represents the best qualities the state has to offer,” Georgia Trend wrote in introducing its list.

Under Schwaig’s leadership, Kennesaw State has launched “Taking Flight,” a strategic plan aimed at achieving national prominence and institutional excellence. During Schwaig’s tenure, KSU has embarked on a comprehensive student success initiative; established more than 50 new undergraduate and graduate degrees and minors, professional programs, and credentials for in-demand fields like aerospace engineering, artificial intelligence, financial technology, and cybersecurity, among others. The university also realized an 81% increase in external research awards; nearly tripled research expenditures; boosted annual fundraising by more than 300%; and launched FLIGHT, a student success engagement program for first-year students focused on community, progress, and retention.

The University has also made significant investments in academic, research, and technology infrastructure and facilities, including nearly 20 capital projects that have enhanced the learning, living, and working environments on both campuses. Schwaig also oversaw KSU’s move to Conference USA, garnering exciting results across various sports, including the 2025 football conference championship and the first FBS bowl berth in program history.

Schwaig also relaunched HatchBridge, a community-focused business incubator, that has assisted more than 170 companies raise more than $29 million since 2023.

An Atlanta-based business magazine, Georgia Trend has been publishing the list of Most Influential Georgians for 28 years, and several Kennesaw State presidents have been included over that time. Schwaig was also named to the 2025 list.

A leader in innovative teaching and learning, Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees to its more than 51,000 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 8 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu.