Heimmermann touts key accomplishments in State of the University Address

USCA Chancellor Daniel Heimmermann delivered his annual State of the University Address on Tues., Sept. 9, celebrating a year of progress in academics, research, partnerships, and academic excellence over the university's past 12 months.

Heimmermann emphasized the university’s commitment to student success and community engagement.

“Our fidelity to these principles is being pursued through the fulfillment of our Strategic Plan, 2030: Educate. Innovate. Inspire., which calls for reaffirming and supporting the primacy of our academic mission by developing high-quality academic programs that respond to current and future workforce needs,” he said.

This past year, USCA faculty developed a Master of Science in strength and conditioning, along with new baccalaureate programs in cybersecurity and electrical engineering.

Heimmermann said more than 105 employers provided internships for USCA students, many in collaboration with local industries and organizations, underscoring the university’s strong regional ties and its dedication to real-world learning experiences.

USCA’s cybersecurity program remains the best in the nation, he said, with its close collaboration with the Department of Energy and Department of Defense, focusing on preparing the next generation of professionals for the nation’s fastest-growing careers.

Heimmermann celebrated faculty excellence, saying Dr. Heather Peterson, associate professor of history, and Michelle Vieyra, associate professor of biology, led an inter-disciplinary study abroad trip to Costa Rica, expanding students’ experiences and world views through the liberal arts.

Research and innovation also took center stage. Heimmermann said USCA researchers secured nearly $4.4 million in external funding over the past year from prestigious agencies including the National Institutes of Health, National Science Foundation, Department of Commerce, and Department of Energy. Notably, the university’s engineering and cybersecurity programs have collectively received close to $5 million in support over the past two years, demonstrating growing confidence from federal, state and local partners in these critical areas.

Expanding its global reach, Heimmermann said USCA welcomed 20 students from MIT World Peace University in India last summer as part of an immersive learning and cultural exchange program. This partnership reflects USCA’s ongoing efforts to build global connections and enrich the student experience, he said.

Heimmermann also touted athletics.. He said the men’s basketball team captured the Peach Belt Conference Tournament title for the third consecutive year, reinforcing USCA’s strong athletic tradition and competitive spirit.

Looking ahead, Heimmermann shared updates on a new feasibility study exploring public-private partnerships to support future campus investments, including housing and student amenities. Early initiatives under consideration include a lighted pedestrian path, updates to the central quad, and enhancements to campus entrances, he said.

Heimmermann ended with a nod to the new USCA brand launched Aug. 23 and forecasted the university’s first comprehensive marketing campaign this fall. He said based on the market research of prospective students outside of 35 miles from the campus, the university was not well known, however, new marks and marketing investment will ensure USCA’s enrollment climbs year over year.

“Together, we are building momentum,” Heimmermann said. “The achievements of this past year reflect the strength of our community and our shared vision for USCA’s future.”

For more information, contact USCA Marketing & Communication at news@usca.edu.