At the Rural Prosperity Summit held in Tifton, the Georgia Chamber of Commerce presented Valdosta State University President Dr. Richard Carvajal with the Rural Impact Award. This award is given in rare circumstances to leaders whose service has made a significant impact on rural Georgia.
Dr. Carvajal, who has led Valdosta State University (VSU) since 2017, was recognized for his contributions to rural communities during his nine-year tenure. In his remarks, Dr. Carvajal said, “I am honored and humbled to receive the Georgia Chamber of Commerce Rural Impact Award. At Valdosta State University, we believe that investing in rural Georgia is not just a commitment — it’s a calling. During my nine-year tenure as president of South Georgia’s flagship institution of higher education, it has been my mission to inspire thoughtful and intentional action that moves beyond symbolic gestures to enact real, systemic change. Investing in rural communities is about believing in the people who pour their heart and soul into every small business, every acre, every relationship, every life lived with pride. It’s about building a stronger, more connected future for everyone because we all benefit when rural Georgia thrives.”
Chris Clark, President & CEO of the Georgia Chamber, commented on Dr. Carvajal’s achievements, stating, “During his tenure at Valdosta State University, Dr. Richard Carvajal has been a tireless champion for rural Georgia, expanding educational access, strengthening workforce pipelines, and fostering partnerships that have driven growth across South Georgia and beyond. His commitment to students and to the region has elevated VSU into a powerful engine for opportunity and innovation. Dr. Carvajal recently announced that he will be stepping away from Valdosta State after nearly a decade of service. While his departure marks the close of an important chapter for the university, his impact on rural Georgia will continue to be felt for many years to come.”
Tiffany Holmes, Deputy Director of the Georgia Chamber Foundation and Director of the Georgia Chamber Center for Rural Prosperity, added, “The Georgia Chamber’s Rural Prosperity Awards are our opportunity to celebrate the remarkable work being done by champions and communities across the state. These awards shine a spotlight on the vision, leadership, and collaboration that fuel growth and resilience in rural Georgia, reminding us that prosperity in our state is truly built from the ground up. As President of Valdosta State University, Dr. Carvajal has been an invaluable partner to the Georgia Chamber, consistently working alongside us to expand opportunity, strengthen workforce pipelines, and ensure that rural voices are heard. His commitment and collaboration have made a lasting impact, and we are grateful for his continued partnership.”
Dr. Carvajal has more than three decades of experience in higher education. Before joining VSU, he served as president of Bainbridge State College and as interim president of Darton State College, where he helped with the creation of Albany State University. He holds degrees from East Central University (Oklahoma), Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, and The University of South Carolina.
The Rural Prosperity Summit took place on October 1, 2025, and included an awards ceremony that can be viewed on the Georgia Chamber’s YouTube channel.
The Georgia Chamber of Commerce, founded in 1911, represents businesses across Georgia and advocates for economic growth. In 2025, the organization launched its Georgia|2050 strategic plan to guide economic opportunity in the state over the next 25 years. More information about the organization can be found at https://www.gachamber.com/.
