James MagazineJames_July-August_2026_web - Flipbook - Page 50
Lewis says are reshaping workforce
demand across the state.
“Clayton State has always
maintained a strong connection
to workforce development,” Lewis
said. “We are intentionally aligning
academic programs with industry demand while also preparing
students with the leadership,
communication, adaptability and
critical-thinking skills employers
consistently value.”
A FUTURE WORKFORCE
CENTERED ON SOCIAL MOBILITY
That commitment to transformation is at the center of the
institution’s strategic vision— one
Lewis describes as “Transforming
Today for Tomorrow.” Under his
leadership, the university is aggressively aligning itself with Georgia’s
evolving economy while maintaining a strong focus on affordability,
accessibility, and student-centered
support systems.
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JAMES JULY/AU G U ST 2 02 6
Over the next five years, Clayton
State aims to position itself as a national leader in social mobility and
student success through expanded
workforce partnerships, innovative
academic programming, and deeper
engagement with the industries
driving Georgia’s future economy.
Those industries include
healthcare, cybersecurity, artificial
intelligence, logistics, aviation, business and digital media— sectors
Healthcare remains one of the
university’s strongest focus areas, particularly as Georgia faces
increasing demand for nurses and
healthcare professionals. Lewis
points proudly to Clayton State’s
nursing program, which has earned
recognition as one of the top programs in metro Atlanta.
The university also makes significant investments in emerging technologies and digital innovation. Artificial intelligence and cybersecurity
