Dear Faculty and Staff,

It is with great sadness that I share the passing of a dear friend and colleague: to me personally, to us as a University, to the USG as a system and to the State of Georgia. This morning I learned of the passing of former Chancellor, Henry “Hank” Huckaby. Hank’s role in the life of the state is legendary, as a staff member and then Executive officer of UGA overseeing its financial operations, as an elected official in the Georgia Assembly, and finally as Chancellor of the University System of Georgia. After his retirement he enjoyed life with his wife of many years, Amy, and their family. For me and for Middle Georgia we were honored by his continued involvement even after his retirement as Chancellor, serving as a valued member of the MGA President’s Advisory Board. I spoke with Hank just a few weeks ago, and he and his dear wife Amy were doing well and coping with pandemic limitations admirably.

I was very fortunate to know Hank Huckaby, and will forever be grateful that he entrusted me with the presidency of our wonderful University. As Chancellor upon my arrival, he supervised my work and our institutional fortunes with such consideration, elegance and acumen. Georgia lost a very fine citizen, and humanity lost a very fine person today. And, of course, his family lost a wonderful devoted husband, father and grandfather. His legacy will live on at this University for decades to come, and I personally thank and honor him for helping me become a better person and educator in my time in Georgia. Rest in peace, former Chancellor Hank Huckaby.

Chris