The University of Georgia has named Bethany Bagwell director of the Office of Academic and Community Engagement. Bagwell began her appointment April 1. An experienced higher education leader, she will advance the office’s efforts to foster inclusive and welcoming learning environments for students, faculty, staff and university partners.
“Bethany brings a deep understanding of student success and a demonstrated ability to build meaningful connections across campus,” said Alton M. Standifer, vice provost for academic and community engagement. “Her leadership has strengthened UGA’s mentoring culture and expanded opportunities for students to engage in impactful learning experiences. I am confident she will elevate the Office of Academic and Community Engagement and help ensure that every student can learn, grow and thrive at the University of Georgia.”
Bagwell most recently served as director of mentoring for the UGA Mentor Program, where she worked since 2022. During her tenure, she led a 112% increase in mentoring relationships and helped develop several high-impact initiatives with campus partners, including the Beyond the Arch Career Readiness Program, Bulldogs Connect and the Women in the Workplace Mentorship Dinner. Her work emphasized data-informed strategies to strengthen student belonging and institutional connectivity.
“I have invested my professional life in building and leading initiatives that strengthen belonging, deepen institutional connectivity and create pathways for students to thrive,” Bagwell said. “I am committed to helping make UGA the destination of choice for Georgia’s brightest students by ensuring their lived experience is supported by meaningful engagement and opportunity.”
In addition to her work with the UGA Mentor Program, Bagwell has served as a member of the Career Center Administrative Leadership Team and led a faculty learning community focused on mentorship to support university-wide training and funding requirements. She previously held leadership roles in K-12 education, serving as an assistant principal and graduation coach in Forsyth County, where she focused on trauma-informed, student-centered practices.
A Double Dawg, Bagwell earned her doctorate in educational leadership and her master’s degree in educational administration and policy from the University of Georgia. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in English education from Kennesaw State University.
Demetrius Smith served as interim director of the Office of Academic and Community Engagement while also continuing his role as associate vice president for student affairs.
“I am deeply grateful to Demetrius Smith for his steady leadership and service to the Office of Academic and Community Engagement during this transition,” Standifer said. “While also serving as associate vice president for student affairs, Demetrius ensured continuity and provided thoughtful leadership that supported the office’s mission.”