Name: Dr. Alton M. Standifer

Family: Wife – Brittany B. Standifer (2016). Son – AJ Standifer.

Hometown: Monticello, Georgia

Current Town: Athens, Georgia

What years at UGA: 2016-2021

School/Degree: SPIA – Ph.D. Public Administration and Policy

Accolades: UGA 40 Under 40, Georgia Southern 40 Under 40, Leadership Georgia Class of 2022.

What life lessons did you learn while at UGA? The importance of relationships. I have heard multiple UGA presidents say that the future of the state of Georgia flows through this university. When I look at our alumni and the opportunities that the Bulldog network creates, it emphasizes that the people are what make UGA such a special place.

 What professor did you admire most? Dr. Brian Williams taught me Urban Policy and the manner in which he instructed was so informative and impactful. Dr. Williams is also from a rural Georgia town and he navigated the course so well, not introducing his biases but facilitating spirited discussions that forced students with varying beliefs on the issues and opportunities in both urban and rural communities to consider the intended and unintended implications of their policy decisions, to value your own thoughts while respecting and hearing those of others, and recognizing that “wicked problems” don’t have simple solutions. He and his wife eventually left UGA for Charlottesville where Dr. Brian Williams is on the UVA faculty and Dr. Carla Williams serves as Athletic Director.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

Before a year and 10 months ago I would’ve said earning a Ph.D., an achievement that the University of Georgia afforded to me. I was the first in my family to achieve this feat, and it has opened so many doors for me. However, being a dad to AJ and a husband to Brittany are achievements that I do not deserve and are only achieved by God’s grace. AJ is the coolest kid I know and Brittany is way out of my league – sometimes it’s better to be lucky than good!

What historical figure do you most identify with? King David in the Bible was a man after God’s own heart. He was called from lowly beginnings to do great things. He was not without failures and shortcomings but was a deeply faithful leader whose legacy endured. I hope to limit the shortcomings and show others around our state who come from small towns and large cities, that with hard work, an open mind, and a positive attitude, you can have a lasting positive impact on the world.

Who are your heroes in real life? Mr. Paul Holmes has been an enduring example of how you treat people, all people. When I was kid working in our local grocery store he encouraged me and his support of me has never wavered. He and his late wife, Mrs. Susan Dykes Holmes always reminded me that people have the right to their own beliefs and decisions that you may or may not agree with, but people’s heart and their work ethic is what you want to consider them by. This led them, two republican elected officials, to support a lifelong democrat as mayor of our hometown, who happened to be my uncle and the first Black mayor of Monticello, Georgia. Mr. Paul remains one of my heroes, role models, and greatest supporters to this day. (Mr. Paul and Mrs. Susan were both UGA grads)

Quote to live by: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela

What is your idea of perfect happiness? Other than the Dawgs and the Georgia Southern Eagles never losing another game… Or Tiger Woods somehow winning another major! Our friends have a farm that sits along the Flint River. Spending a weekend there with family and friends has been the source of great joy, a place to clear my mind and consider major decisions, it’s as close to perfection on this side of heaven.

What is your most marked characteristic?

I always want to make people feel seen, valued, alive!

What do you value most in your friends?

Honesty, loyalty, care for others, the ability to keep it real, and fun!

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

Make me as intelligent and as good of a leader as President Morehead! The ability to eat as many sweets as I wanted without health implications would be close second. Especially my Aunt Cat’s Pound Cake and Cinnamon Rolls from Anne Thompson who serves as President Morehead’s Executive Assistant

Who are your favorite writers?

Biggie Smalls – Juicy is an all-time favorite track! Mitch Album – Tuesdays with Morrie is one of my favorite books. Emphasizes the importance of mentorship. Malcolm Gladwell – Outliers is book I often return to. Chris Whipple – Gatekeepers: How the White House Chiefs of Staff Define Every Presidency. A friend bought me this book when I got the job as Deputy Chief of Staff to President Morehead, and I have referenced it many times. It was a fun read, and it included a chapter on a few of Georgia’s own.

Favorite social media and who to follow?

Twitter, currently known as X, and Instagram. I mainly looked to this for news and insights so my recommendation is to follow people with similar and opposing views for the best experience.