In recent years, South University has boldly reclaimed its independence. This decision marks a significant milestone, one that’s reshaping the university’s mission to deliver top-quality education. By regaining its autonomy, South University is better positioned to respond to student needs, innovate teaching methods, and stay true to its personal and professional student success values.
A Return to Their Roots
Founded in 1899, South University has a long history of providing students with career-focused education. For most of its history, the institution thrived independently, adapting to changing student demands and educational trends. However, in the early 2000s, South University became part of a larger educational organization. This move brought growth but also took the university further from its independent roots.
South University has made the strategic choice to stand on its own once again. This wasn’t just about separating from a larger group. According to Dr. Steven Yoho, the University’s chancellor, “The journey to independence was about reclaiming who we are. It was about reinforcing the values that have guided us for more than 100 years.” Independence allows South University to refocus on what’s most important—its mission and its students.
Strong Leadership for a New Direction
Guiding the university through this transition has been a team effort, but Dr. Yoho has been at the forefront—his vision balances respect for tradition with the need for innovation. “We knew this was going to be a complex process,” Dr. Yoho explained. “But we also knew that we had the right team and strategy in place to make this happen. Our students, faculty, and staff were our priority every step of the way.”
Studio Enterprise, an Education Services Platform (ESP) and partner specializing in educational shared services, is a key player in this successful transition. Studio Enterprise’s support has allowed South University to focus on its core strength—delivering high-quality education—while Studio handled the more operational complexities of becoming independent again.
Bryan Newman, CEO of Studio Enterprise, reflected on their role, saying, “South University has always been a unique institution. Our job was to ensure they had the tools and resources to reclaim their independence and succeed. Watching their journey back to autonomy has been incredibly rewarding.”
Brock Haas, MBA, Ph.D., vice chair of South’s board of managers, echoes the sentiment: “Focusing on student success and career-driven education have always been core values for South University. As an independent institution, we can be even more agile and responsive to the evolving needs of our students and industry. We will continue to develop leading-edge programs that prepare our graduates for the jobs of today and tomorrow.”
Pushing the Envelope with Educational Innovation
One of the most significant advantages of independence for South University is the freedom to innovate. The university has expanded its range of programs and integrated new technologies to improve the student learning experience. This includes updated curricula that reflect current industry trends, investments in online learning platforms, and the development of new programs aligned with workforce needs.
Dr. Yoho highlighted this shift: “Independence has allowed us to be more nimble. We can now respond more quickly to the needs of our students and the communities we serve. Whether it’s new technology or updated teaching methods, we’re committed to providing the best possible education.”
A critical area of focus has been online and hybrid learning formats. With many students seeking flexible learning options, especially working adults, South University has significantly expanded its online offerings. This shift has helped the university reach more students nationwide, ensuring a high-quality, accessible education no matter where they are.
Renewing Our Commitment to Students
As South University moves forward, its commitment to student-centered education has grown stronger. The university continually enhances its student services, offering career counseling, academic advising, and mental health support. These initiatives ensure that students are fully equipped to succeed in their academic careers and beyond.
“We’ve always put our students first,” Dr. Yoho emphasized. “Our independence allows us to deepen that commitment. Every decision we make now is with the best interest of our students in mind. We’re not just preparing them for a career—we’re preparing them to be lifelong learners and leaders.”
Additionally, South relies heavily on student surveys to keep its finger on the pulse of student needs and responds when possible to ensure the best student experience possible. Savannah Campus Director & Dean of Academic Affairs and Operations, Dr. Laurie Larson, provides an excellent real-world example:
“The Ruffalo Noel Levitz Student Survey drives so much of what we do on this campus to determine student needs and wants. The most noticeable impact to the Savannah Campus in 2024 was in classroom/lab space and Wi-Fi – both of which have been frequent comment areas within the Survey. On January 13th, 2025, we welcomed our Physician Assistant Class of 2027 into our newly constructed PA Skills Lab. This 2000-square-foot learning environment has seating for 80 students, 18 curtained exam room spaces, updated technology, and substantial storage. Our PA students are incredibly excited to learn and work in this new space!” Dr. Larson continues, “We upgraded our campus Wi-Fi to WIFI6. With this upgrade, we are not only taking undo pressure off our current Wi-Fi, but we are also moving existing access points to areas of the campus that make the most sense (i.e., high-traffic areas, classroom/lab spaces, etc.) while also making them easier to access when service disruptions occur.
As we move into 2025, we are heavily focused on Anesthesiologist Assistant and the needs of our students and our accrediting body. This focus includes a new classroom space and an AA Skills Lab remodel!”
Building a Stronger Community
Perhaps one of the most exciting outcomes of South University’s return to independence is the renewed sense of community. Faculty, staff, students, and alumni rallied together with a stronger sense of purpose. This collective energy has been key in shaping the university’s future and ensuring that academic programs, support services, and campus life all continue to evolve.
And students are taking notice. Coplyn Elam, a 2024 Associate of Science in Physical Therapist Assistant graduate, offers a student’s POV: “From being a recent graduate of South University (SU) in the Physical Therapy Assistant department, I have noticed a difference in how the University caters to each student’s personal learning styles and abilities to learn. I would also add that SU does a great job with providing ways to initiate critical thinking and problem-solving.” Elam continues, “Another part that goes unnoticed is their care and efforts to keep the students/staff safe. Lastly, I appreciate how SU seeks ways to improve tutoring, special needs accommodations, and counseling services. Overall, I feel South University does a fantastic job of putting students’ and prospective students’ needs first. That is what a university should be about.”
Studio’s Newman further commented on this transformation: “The level of engagement we’re seeing across the South University community is incredible. Students, faculty, alumni—everyone is coming together with renewed enthusiasm. That shared commitment to excellence will propel the university forward.”
Looking Toward a Bright Future
As South University steps into this new era, the future looks promising. With visionary leadership, a clear mission, and an engaged community, the university is well-equipped to build on its legacy of educational excellence. The focus remains on delivering career-driven, high-quality education that meets the needs of today’s students and tomorrow’s challenges.
“We’re just beginning,” Dr. Yoho remarked. “Independence has opened the door to new possibilities for South University. We are excited about what lies ahead and are as committed as ever to our students, faculty, and the broader community.”
South University’s path to independence isn’t just about organizational change. It’s about staying true to the values that have defined the university for over a century while embracing innovation to meet future needs. With a renewed focus on its mission, South University is poised to continue shaping the future of education for generations to come.