Augusta University is preparing for the 2026 Georgia General Assembly session, which began this week and will last for 40 days. The university’s Office of Government Relations works throughout the year to build relationships with government officials and monitor legislation that could impact its academic, research, and health care operations.
Reflecting on last year’s legislative achievements, Augusta University President Russell T. Keen highlighted a significant milestone: Georgia Governor Brian P. Kemp included $99.8 million in the amended 2025 fiscal year budget for constructing a new translational research building at Augusta University. This allocation marked the largest cash-funded capital project in the state’s amended budget.
The planned 150,000-square-foot facility will offer modern laboratory space, advanced equipment, and updated technology infrastructure to support ongoing research at both Augusta University and the Medical College of Georgia.
“The excellence of our academic programs, the dedication of our faculty and staff, and the talent of our exceptional students define Augusta University as an institution that is committed to learning, discovery, and innovation. As Georgia’s designated health sciences university, our lifesaving and life-changing work carries a profound responsibility: preparing the next generation of health professionals, advancing research that strengthens the state’s well-being, and serving communities through education and clinical care,” Keen said. “We are deeply thankful for the partnership of the governor, the leadership of the House and Senate, and the members of the Georgia General Assembly. Their continued support and commitment to Augusta University ensure that we can fulfill this mission for the benefit of the state we serve.”
In addition to state funding, nearly $30 million has been raised from philanthropic sources such as donations from community members as well as contributions from both AU Foundation and MCG Foundation alongside support from City of Augusta toward covering costs for what is expected to be a $146.2 million project.
Margie Miller, vice president of Government Relations at Augusta University, expressed optimism about maintaining progress during this legislative session.
“We prepare all year to put Augusta University in the best possible position,” Miller said. “Last year was incredible. The new research building will provide 150,000 square feet of space to create a physical environment that is centralized, advanced, flexible and conducive to collaborative discovery, particularly fostering clinical and translational research.”
“Augusta University is known throughout the state for providing a world-class academic and research community that positions students for opportunity and success,” she added. “We proudly serve all of Georgia, and we are excited for this year’s session and what the next 40 days will bring.”
For 2026 legislative priorities at Augusta University include seeking $4.4 million to replace fire alarm systems in its Interdisciplinary Research Building on Health Sciences Campus; advocating renewal for University System of Georgia’s Strategic Reserves policy before its July expiration; as well as requesting $264.83 million through USG Formal Funding.
Throughout this session—the Government Relations team led by Miller—will monitor all legislation affecting university interests while inviting interested parties to subscribe online via Capitol Connection newsletter which provides weekly updates including recaps on legislative activity or changes relevant at Capitol Connection.
Team members also include Director of Federal Government Relations Monty Philpot Brock; Director State Government Relations Ashton Blackwood Paine; Assistant Director State Government Relations Luke Ray.
Additionally three students—Anna Carver; Avery Robinson; Lahari Kamabathula—have been selected as interns with Georgia Legislative Internship Program gaining direct experience within legislature processes while another student intern Noah Ceyssens joins them working alongside staff in Atlanta office along with Kedesan Amanuel interning locally thanks Jags On-Campus Internship Program.
The Capitol Connection newsletter will feature stories about these interns’ experiences during their semester at session.
