Review of Names on Buildings Used at UGA? Kirby Says Yes

ATHENS - UGA coach Kirby Smart said Wednesday that he is in support of a review of names used on campus at the University of Georgia. 

"As both a UGA alum & head FB coach, I fully support the USG Board of Regents & Chancellor’s decision to form this committee to study these important issues," Smart said on Twitter. "This is an important first step in the right direction to help us evaluate our history & work to bring us closer together.

Smart's comment move comes after a statement released by the University System of Georgia:

Board of Regents Chairman Sachin Shailendra and Chancellor Steve Wrigley of the University System of Georgia (USG) have asked an advisory group to review and study the names of buildings and colleges on all USG campuses and report to the Board on any recommended changes.

“It is important to the Board of Regents that USG represents the very best of our state and 333,000 students who are working to attain their degrees from our colleges and universities across the state,” Shailendra said. “I appreciate the time and commitment of all those who have agreed to do this review, and know they will work quickly and thoroughly.”

Members of the group include: • President Marion Fedrick, Albany State University; Group Chairwoman • Michael Patrick, Marketing and Strategic Growth, Chick-fil-A • The Honorable Herbert Phipps, Retired, Georgia Court of Appeals • Neal J. Quirk, attorney; Executive Vice-Chairman, University of Georgia Foundation • Dr. Sally Wallace, Dean, Andrew Young School of Policy Studies, Georgia State University

“USG’s mission is knowledge, and this action today is a step toward addressing how communities understand the history and context involving our campuses,” Wrigley said. “While the review may be one part of a much broader discussion, I believe it is essential to advance how we serve students and all Georgians. I am grateful to the group’s members and look forward to receiving their recommendations.”

Recommendations from the group will be announced publicly upon completion of its work.