KENNESAW, Ga. | Aug 1, 2017

Michael Parkerson brings wealth of experience in state government and higher education

Kennesaw State University has appointed Michael Parkerson as associate vice president of government relations, effective August 1.

Parkerson brings 10 years of experience in state government and higher education, most recently as a budget and policy analyst for the Georgia House of Representatives Budget and Research Office. Parkerson consulted with state officials to review spending needs and make budget recommendations, and developed spending policy and priorities for Georgia’s higher education agencies.

In his new role, Parkerson will promote Kennesaw State University’s goals and objectives to state and federal policymakers, University System of Georgia officials, and business and civic leaders. He also will identify priorities for KSU and develop action plans that require governmental, legislative and community support.

“Michael’s expertise in government relations and higher education will be a tremendous asset to our efforts to expand the University’s reach and impact,” Kennesaw State President Sam Olens said. “His skill set combines broad knowledge of how government functions at all levels and valuable expertise in public-sector administration and management. Michael will be a highly effective representative and persuasive advocate for Kennesaw State.”

Prior to working with the Georgia House of Representatives, Parkerson was the deputy director of operations for the Georgia Public Safety Training Center. He also has been the fiscal services director and legislative liaison for the Prosecuting Attorneys Council of Georgia and the homeland security director for the Georgia Department of Agriculture.

Parkerson has taken an active role in higher education, serving on the Middle Georgia State University Board of Trustees and as president of the Middle Georgia College Alumni Association. He earned an associate’s degree in business management from Middle Georgia College and a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Georgia.

“I believe strongly in higher education,” Parkerson said. “I look forward to increasing the investment in Kennesaw State University and enhancing KSU’s reputation and partnerships throughout Georgia as well as nationally and internationally.”

Parkerson’s community involvement also has included serving on the Georgia Fiscal Management Council and the Georgia Economic Developers Association, and volunteering with the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America program. He and his wife, Lauren, have two sons, Grant and Rhett.

A leader in innovative teaching and learning, Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees to its more than 47,000 students. Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia with 11 academic colleges. The university’s vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the country and the world. Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 7 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu.