In Savannah, Georgia, Mayor Van Johnson revealed on Wednesday that the Savannah State University College of Education will now be known as the Hyundai College of Education. This change follows the endorsement from the Georgia Board of Regents.

The university will receive a donation of $5 million as part of the naming agreement.

According to a statement from Hyundai, this contribution marks the most significant corporate investment in the university’s 135-year history.

Jermaine Whirl, the president of Savannah State University, remarked, “This gift is more than just a name change; it exemplifies the powerful outcomes when academia and industry collaborate to open doors of opportunity. Hyundai’s commitment to Savannah State will enhance educational access, bolster our teaching programs, and inspire innovation that extends well beyond our campus.”

“This gift represents more than a name — it’s a statement about what happens when higher education and industry work together to create opportunity,” said Jermaine Whirl, Savannah State University president. “Hyundai’s investment in Savannah State will expand access to education, strengthen our teaching programs and fuel innovation that reaches far beyond our campus.” 

The transition will begin effective immediately, with new branding and scholarship opportunities expected to launch early 2026.