Adam Fouche has been named associate vice president for environmental safety, risk and resiliency at the University of Georgia, according to a May 20 announcement. He had served in the position on an interim basis since July 2025.
Ryan Nesbit, vice president for finance and administration, said, “Adam brings a unique combination of operational expertise, calm leadership and deep institutional knowledge to this role. Over the past year, he has helped guide several critical areas of the university’s safety, preparedness and resiliency efforts while building strong partnerships across campus and beyond. I am confident his leadership will continue strengthening the university’s ability to prepare for, respond to and navigate complex challenges.”
In his new role as associate vice president, Fouche will lead the university’s Risk and Resiliency Division. This division includes the Environmental Safety Division, Fire and Life Safety unit as well as offices focused on Emergency Preparedness and Insurance and Claims Management. His responsibilities include overseeing initiatives related to campus safety, environmental stewardship, regulatory compliance, risk management and improving long-term operational continuity at the university.
Nesbit also said: “Throughout the search process, Adam distinguished himself through his thoughtful leadership, operational expertise and strong relationships across the university community. I also want to thank the search committee chaired by James Shore…and the many campus partners who participated in this process.”
Since taking on interim duties in July 2025, Fouche coordinated responses to two snow and ice storms in January 2026. He partnered with UGA’s Institute for Resilient Infrastructure Systems on flood mitigation strategies for campus facilities. He has also advised senior leaders about emergency management issues affecting students or staff.
Previously serving as executive director of OEP (Office of Emergency Preparedness) and ICM (Insurance & Claims Management), Fouche managed emergency programs covering more than $5.5 billion in assets. During that time he helped develop a University Assistance Center plan supporting students or employees during emergencies; coordinated recovery efforts after Hurricane Helene; assisted with tornado response in January 2023; secured nearly $500k from FEMA reimbursements; established a workers’ compensation coordinator post; led changes transferring workers’ compensation claims from Human Resources into ICM operations.
Before joining OEP/ICM teams nearly twenty years ago with University Police Department—most recently deputy chief—Fouche oversaw major event operations around campus including emergency response coordination.
Fouche holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from Grady College at UGA plus a Master’s degree in Public Safety Administration from Columbus State University.
