(a) There is created at and in connection with the University System of Georgia, the Center for Rural Prosperity and Innovation to be physically located within a college or institution of the University System of Georgia which awards Bachelor of Science degrees in rural community development.
(b)
(1) The director of the Center for Rural Prosperity and Innovation shall be appointed by the president of the college or institution in which said center is physically located, provided that such appointment shall be subject to approval by a majority vote of the Georgia Rural Development Council. The director shall continue to serve in such position until his or her resignation or until the appointment of a new director by the president of the college or institution in which said center is physically located and such appointment is approved by a majority vote of such council.
(2) Subject to appropriations, the director shall be authorized to employ such personnel as are necessary to carry out the provisions of this chapter.