As the head of the central public relations function for Tech, the associate vice president reports directly to the president, serves as a member of his cabinet and as the Institute’s chief communications counselor.

Earlier this week, the president announced the formation of a search committee to identify and recommend candidates for the position. Peterson said he intends to charge the search committee with finding a strong advocate for Tech as it moves forward with key initiatives, such as the 25-year strategic plan and the capital campaign. Committee members include:

• Dene Sheheane, executive director, Government and Community Relations (chair) 
• Andy Altizer, director of emergency preparedness, Georgia Tech Police 
• Jane Ammons, associate dean, College of Engineering 
• Rebecca Burnett, professor, School of Literature, Communication and Culture 
• Rick Clark, director, Undergraduate Admissions 
• Kim Harrington, associate director, Student Center 
• Paul Houston, dean, College of Sciences 
• Dana Lupuloff, undergraduate student representative
• Danielle McDonald, assistant dean and director of student involvement, Student Affairs 
• Cassandra Spiller, associate director, Institutional Research and Planning 
• Trisha Sisk, associate director, Development Stewardship 
• Jeff Smith, director of online communications, Communications and Marketing

“With a passion for the Institute and its mission, Jim has been a singular force in developing communication strategies that have advanced Georgia Tech’s prestige and influence,” Peterson said. “I want to thank him for his contributions during his years of service to Georgia Tech.”

Fetig’s last day as AVP will be June 30, after which he will serve as a special assistant to the president until August 31. Peterson has tapped Amelia Gambino, assistant vice president for Communications and Marketing, to assume the leadership role in an interim capacity.