James T. “Jim” Rogers

Rogers presided over some of the most significant social and academic transformations at Brenau – most striking of which was the introduction of co-educational studies.

Rogers, who has a doctorate from Florida State University, is a respected and influential figure in the field of education.

Soon after beginning his presidency, Rogers created the Professional College to offfer degrees to adult male students as well as master’s degree programs in professional fields for all students. It marked the move from an all-female school to the beginnings of co-educational education.

Another significant change came in 1978 when Rogers led the merger with the Hall School of Nursing. Soon after, the first bachelor’s degree in nursing was offered; today, nursing is one of the biggest programs at Brenau.

Rogers also built a new natatorium, gym and amphitheater, all of which are still in use today, and celebrated the reopening of the newly renovated Pearce Auditorium in 1984. During his presidency, the Gainesville Theatre Alliance was created through one of the first-ever collaborations in higher education between a private institution, Brenau, and a public institution, then called Gainesville College but now known as the University of North Georgia. The merger, called the Gainesville Theatre Alliance, has brought accolades and honors, regionally and nationally, to all involved.

Following his tenure as president of Brenau, Rogers served more than two decades as executive director of the Southern Association of College and Schools Commission on Colleges. The group annually presents the James T. Rogers Distinguished Leadership Award, which is designed to recognize outstanding involvement in and support of the organization.