Vice President and University General Counsel

Provides counsel in decision making in all areas of the university including the President, Vice Presidents, Deans and Directors; faculty, supervisors and other employees acting in their capacity as employees; and student organization leaders regarding contracts and, in limited circumstances, legal issues confronting their organizations. Advising and assisting with property matters, human resources, equal opportunity, civil rights and Title IX matters, insurance and risk management, tax and business issues, patent, trademark and copyright issues, immigration and real estate and construction contracts.

Works with departments during audits, investigations, and other compliance reviews. Participates in student, faculty and staff grievance and disciplinary proceedings. Provides oversight to the administration of open records and records retention policies and practices in compliance with Georgia Open Records laws.

In coordination with USG Office of Legal Affairs, develops contracts for legal services and retains and manages outside counsel on behalf of the University. Proactively works with University leadership to ensure campus activities and practices are in compliance with federal, state and local laws and with University and USG policies. Provides policy-making input and advice on matters of substantial magnitude related to critical University activities, policy questions and operation procedures and, as needed, drafts, modifies, or reviews institutional policies, procedures, and practices.

Develops and maintains a framework of internal controls for evaluation and protection of the University's legal interests and reduction of legal risks. Provides leadership and ongoing communication and training on legal and risk management topics relevant to the University community. Maintains leading edge expertise on current and emerging higher education legal issues and challenges. Cultivates professional contacts with USG Offices and peers as well as with key higher education general counsel organizations.

Provides legal counsel and representation to the University on the full range of UWG legal concerns, ensuring coordination with the University System of Georgia's Office of Legal Affairs. In coordination with the Attorney General's Office and USG Office of Legal Affairs, assists with lawsuits filed against the University and with responses concerning appeals, grievances, or other litigation matters. Serves as the primary point of contact on all University legal issues and coordinates between the University and local, state, and federal regulatory and law enforcement agencies in collaboration with USG attorneys.