Gwinnett Daily Post

LAWRENCEVILLE -- Georgia Gwinnett College President Daniel J. Kaufman said that Renee Byrd-Lewis has been selected as GGC's new vice president for Advancement. In that role, she will oversee the college's development, external affairs and public affairs functions.

"Advancement is the arena through which a college engages with the communities it serves," Kaufman said. ""Renee is an experienced community relations professional with an outstanding record of mutually beneficial relationships with local, state and federal elected and appointed officials, and business and civic leaders. She has the skills and expertise to lead GGC forward in expanding its relationships with our communities."

Byrd-Lewis received her undergraduate degree from Emory University and a master's in higher education administration from Georgia State University. She has 17 years of experience in higher education, nonprofit management and corporate community relations, most recently as community relations director for Cisco Systems Inc. She also has previous experience with Georgia Perimeter College and Scientific Atlanta Inc.

"GGC is changing the paradigm for higher education, and its students are at an epicenter of learning, innovation and accountability," Byrd-Lewis said. "The opportunity to join an organization committed to and engaging in educational transformation is extraordinary."

An active community leader, she services on the board of directors for the Metro Atlanta and Gwinnett Chambers of Commerce, United Way of Metro Atlanta, Gwinnett Hospital System, Georgia Gwinnett College Foundation, Gwinnett Clean and Beautiful and Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia.

Byrd-Lewis and husband, Tim Lewis, live in Buford with their sons, Will and Alex.