by Miranda Hodges
The University of West Georgia Athletic Foundation has proudly announced three new members of its board of directors, as well as a new chair.
Joining the board are Heather Collings ’09 ’10, Calvin Scandrett ’90, and Skyler Evans as members, with Jay Gill ’91, senior vice president of member and external relations for Carroll EMC, serving as the board’s chair for a two-year term.
Board members are elected to a three-year term and support fundraising efforts to advance intercollegiate athletic programs at UWG.
“We are thrilled to welcome Heather, Calvin and Skyler to the UWG Athletic Foundation, accompanied by Jay stepping into his new role as chair,” said Allyson Bretch, interim CEO of UWG’s foundations and interim vice president for university advancement. “Their expertise and dedication to our university, especially as we transition to Division I athletics, will significantly enhance our efforts to elevate student-athlete experiences and our athletic programs through philanthropic support.”
Gill, the newly appointed UWG Athletic Foundation board chair, brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to advancing UWG’s athletic programs. With a strong vision for the future, he is eager to lead the board through the transition to Division I.
“I am honored to step into the role of board chair and work alongside such a dedicated group of individuals,” said Gill. “Our collective goal is to drive UWG’s continued success and growth, especially as we begin our Division I journey. I am excited to leverage my experience and leadership to ensure we enhance the university’s fundraising and connection strategies as we strengthen our community ties.”
Collings – realtor, partner in Sportsplex Health and Fitness Center in Carrollton, and owner of D-BAT Peachtree City, Carrollton, Lake Charles, and an unnamed fourth location – sees her new role as an opportunity to give back to the university that profoundly impacted her life.
“As an alumna and lifelong supporter of UWG, I am excited to serve and continuously find ways to give back,” said Collings. “It is important to invest your time and energy into things you believe in, and I truly believe in UWG’s mission and what it offers to students, athletes, faculty and staff, as well as the local community.”
Scandrett, dean of students and athletics in Butts County, is eager to bring his extensive experience from the last 30 years and dedication to the Athletic Foundation.
“As a proud alumnus of UWG, I have seen firsthand the transformative impact that this institution can have on its students,” explained Scandrett. “My goal is to leverage my background in education and athletics to contribute to the university’s growth, enhance academic programs, and improve campus facilities. I look forward to collaborating with fellow board members to drive positive change and ensure that future students have access to first-choice resources and opportunities.”
Evans, executive manager of Scott Evans Automotive Group, understands the importance of multigenerational connections to places like UWG, with his father, Scott, having long been a community-oriented supporter. The Evans family’s deep ties to Carrollton and UWG have inspired Skyler to bring his own expertise to the Athletic Foundation.
“Growing up in Carrollton, I’ve seen the powerful connection between the university and the community,” recalled Evans. “Joining the Athletic Foundation, I’m excited to contribute ideas that enhance both the student and fan experience, especially as we transition to Division I. I look forward to applying my expertise to help create memorable experiences and strengthen our community’s bond with the university.”
UWG’s Athletic Foundation is governed by a board of directors composed of business and industry leaders, community leaders and alumni whose primary goals are in service to the university community.
For more information about the UWG Athletic Foundation or how to make a gift in support of the university, please visit Give West.
