Birch Communications, Inc., a leading nationwide provider of communications, network and cloud services to small, mid-sized, enterprise and wholesale businesses, congratulates Dr. R. Kirby Godsey, Board Chairman of Birch, on his election to Board Chairman of the Peyton Anderson Foundation in Macon Georgia. The Peyton Anderson Foundation initiates projects to meet needs in the community, reacts to requests from charitable organizations and provides college scholarships to promising students with financial need.  

As Board Chairman of Birch, Dr. Godsey is a fervent advocate for corporate responsibility. Under his philanthropic leadership, Birch has committed resources to causes and foundations in Atlanta, Macon (original hometown of Birch) and throughout Georgia where Birch also employs over 1,000 people. Birch also maintains strong ties with Mercer University, supporting the school through a variety of activities, annual donations and private executive donations.  

Prior to his election, Dr. Godsey served 27 years as President and CEO of Mercer University in Macon Georgia. At the time of his retirement from that position, he had expanded Mercer's colleges and schools from four to seven, managed an annual budget of nearly $175 million, grew the school endowment to an estimated $200M and was credited with securing pledged gifts totaling $200M. He currently serves as the university Chancellor and was also named as one of the 100 most influential Georgians by Georgia Trend Magazine.  

Dr. Godsey's educational resume includes a bachelor degree from Samford University, Master of Divinity and Doctor of Theology degrees from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, Master of Arts in Philosophy from the University of Alabama and Ph.D in Philosophy from Tulane University. He was also awarded honorary doctorates from the University of South Carolina, Samford University, Campbell University and Averett University. A frequent lecturer and leadership consultant, Dr. Godsey has written numerous articles and authored several books.  

"Dr. R. Kirby Godsey's contributions to higher education, Mercer University and the state of Georgia cannot be overstated. He is a strong advocate for the community, dedicated public servant and great educator," said Vincent Oddo, President and CEO at Birch. "As our Board Chairman, Dr Godsey represents Birch in the community and provides thought leadership for our ongoing corporate philanthropy."