When Maggy G. Tomova, PhD, stepped onto the Augusta University campus in early July, she brought more than credentials and experience — she brought energy, vision and a palpable excitement for a future grounded in collaboration and inspired by possibility.

With a doctoral degree in mathematics and a deep appreciation for how academic communities thrive, Tomova says the equation at Augusta University is clear: teamwork plus innovation equals excellence.

“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be here at such an important time for AU, and I’m looking forward to working alongside everyone to continue the progress and momentum that drew me here,” said Tomova.

Tomova previously served as dean of the College of Sciences and vice provost for Strategic Initiatives at the University of Central Florida, where she played a pivotal role in boosting graduation rates and growing the university’s research enterprise.

In her first few months at AU, Tomova’s main priorities include building and enhancing direct connections with faculty and students and bringing supportive methods to preserve, explore and discover ways to achieve strategic goals, enhancing student success and research impact.  

“I understand that this is one of the largest and most qualified cohorts of incoming freshman students this year,” said Tomova. “I’m excited to walk alongside our students this year — encouraging growth, building relationships and strengthening our Augusta University family.”

Tomova has no plans to lead from behind a desk and has jumped right in to make meaningful connections in the first few weeks, traveling to AU events and experiencing firsthand the work that students and faculty are doing throughout the CSRA.

“I continue to be deeply impressed by how Augusta University takes care of our students and serves the broader community — thanks in large part to our outstanding faculty and staff,” said Tomova. “I recently had the pleasure of attending the Dental College of Georgia‘s White Coat Ceremony. While the students and their families were understandably excited, I was especially moved by how enthusiastic and proud the faculty were. For students, this is a once-in-a-lifetime milestone; for faculty, it’s an annual event — but you wouldn’t know it from their passion and dedication. It was clear that they are fully invested in every student’s growth and success.”

She also visited the 20th Costa Layman Farm Health Fair, gaining firsthand insight into AU’s impactful outreach initiatives.

“I also had the opportunity to visit the Costa Layman Farm Health Fair,” said Tomova. “It was another remarkable example of how AU supports the community while providing students with experiences they couldn’t gain anywhere else.

“Events like these are only possible because of the extraordinary commitment of our faculty and staff, who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that the experience is meaningful for both students and the community,” Tomova continued. “I’m truly inspired by everyone’s dedication and am so grateful to be part of this incredible team.”

President Russell T. Keen, who announced Tomova’s appointment after an extensive national search, expressed confidence in her transformative leadership.

“Dr. Tomova’s appointment underscores my commitment to advancing data-informed leadership strategies that will strengthen academic affairs, elevate our standards for students, faculty, staff and stakeholder experiences and help secure more funding for scholarships, research and facilities,” Keen said.

As she settles into her new role, Tomova said she remains inspired by AU’s trajectory — and is ready to be a catalyst for growth.

“I am inspired by the strategic path AU is pursuing, and my aim is to offer my contribution to further elevate and strengthen the outstanding achievements already in place,” she said.