Georgia Southern Professor Earns Top Leadership Role and Research Honor in Geography Field

Georgia Southern University Professor of Geography Amy Potter, Ph.D., has been elected president of the Southeastern Division of the American Association of Geographers (SEDAAG). She notes the University has a close connection with the organization as students receive real-world experience through many of its programs.   

“Georgia Southern students have quite a legacy at SEDAAG,” Potter said. “Our students have won the Geography Bowl twice and have received numerous awards recognizing the quality of their research. Each year, we bring both graduate and undergraduate students to the conference, where they engage with peers from other programs and with academics and professionals in the field. They have also gained valuable networking opportunities that have led to research collaborations.” 

Ultimately, Potter hopes her newly elected position will allow her to continue supporting students who are interested in studying and pursuing a career in geography. Focusing on opportunities for her students is the most important part of her job as an educator, she said.

“Georgia Southern is a special place, it really is,” said Potter. “The students are truly the best, and I love teaching them. I genuinely feel energized being surrounded by such brilliant minds.” 

Along with her new role in SEDAAG, Potter was also honored by the organization with the Excellence in Research Award for her work documenting historic communities throughout coastal Georgia. Her research has provided valuable insight into overlooked regional geographies. The award is presented annually to outstanding professionals in the field of geography.