source -UGA Today

Erik Ness, a distinguished figure in Higher Education research and leadership, has been appointed as the new director of the Louise McBee Institute of Higher Education at the University of Georgia. His selection follows a rigorous national search to find a successor for the prestigious role.

Ness, who has been part of the McBee Institute faculty since 2009, brings a wealth of experience to his new position. Currently serving as a professor of higher education and graduate coordinator, he has been instrumental in shaping the academic landscape within the institute. His tenure as director commences on July 1, marking a significant milestone in the institute’s history.

President Jere W. Morehead commended Ness’s dedication to the institute’s mission and vision, citing his exemplary track record and visionary leadership. Ness’s appointment underscores the university’s commitment to fostering excellence in higher education research, policy, and leadership.

Founded in 1964, the McBee Institute has been at the forefront of advancing higher education policy, management, and leadership. Offering a range of graduate programs, including a doctoral program, an executive doctor of education program, and a master’s program, the institute has consistently ranked among the nation’s top 10 by U.S. News and World Report for nearly two decades.

Ness’s academic pursuits have centered on higher education politics and policy

Expressing his gratitude for the appointment, Ness stated, “I am truly honored to serve as the next director of the Louise McBee Institute of Higher Education.” He acknowledged the contributions of his predecessors and reaffirmed his commitment to leading the institute towards continued excellence and innovation.

Ness’s academic pursuits have centered on higher education politics and policy, with a focus on public policy effects and the policymaking process. His research initiatives have earned acclaim, culminating in accolades such as the First-Year Odyssey Teaching Award in 2021 for his seminar on “Research Evidence, Alternative Facts and Fake News.”

In addition to his scholarly endeavors, Ness has played a pivotal role as the McBee Institute’s graduate coordinator, facilitating invaluable experiential learning opportunities for students through assistantship placements across the university.

Ness held academic and policy roles at institutions

Prior to joining the University of Georgia, Ness held academic and policy roles at institutions such as the University of Pittsburgh and the Tennessee Higher Education Commission. He holds a doctorate in education policy from Vanderbilt University, complemented by a master’s degree in comparative international education from Loyola University Chicago and a bachelor’s degree in political science from North Carolina State University.

S. Jack Hu, senior vice president for academic affairs and provost, lauded Ness’s appointment, emphasizing his potential to make a positive impact on students and the broader higher education community.

Ness succeeds James C. Hearn, who served as the McBee Institute of Higher Education’s interim director since July 1, 2022. The appointment follows a meticulous selection process led by a seven-member search advisory committee chaired by Meg Amstutz, dean of the Jere W. Morehead Honors College, and supported by the UGA Search Group.

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