Highlander Magazine - Fall/Winter 2018

HIGHLANDER The official magazine of Georgia Highlands College

Fall/Winter 2018

IN THIS

ISSUE

OPENING DOORS

New academic building opens in Cartersville

GHC cited as “best bang for your tuition”

Meet the fastest Charger! Race car driver Logan Palmer

Table of Contents

...in this issue 3

Message from the President

4

New Academic Building Opens

9

Campus News

26

Retiree Spotlight

28

Academic Spotlight

29

Faculty Spotlight

30

Staff Spotlight

31

Student Spotlight

32

Alumni Spotlight

33

Alumni & Friends Update

34

Foundation Spotlight

36

Charger News

Writer Nick Godfrey

newest academic building at the Cartersville site on October 16, 2018.

(Pictured L-R) Vice President for Finance & Administration Jeff Davis; Vice President for Academic Affairs Dana Nichols; Vice President of Student Affairs Todd Jones; Cartersville Campus Dean Leslie Johnson; President Don Green; USG Chancellor Steve Wrigley; Vice President of Advancement and Government Relations Mary Transue; Student Government President Danielle Griesemer; and Director of Plant Operations Phillip Kimsey.

KEEP UP WITH GEORGIA HIGHLANDS ON SOCIAL MEDIA

/gahighlands

@GaHighlands @GHC_Athletics @ChargerInCharge

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Georgia Highlands College is a multi-campus, state college of the University System of Georgia. Founded in 1970 as Floyd Junior College, it now serves more than 6,000 students in Northwest Georgia across five locations in Rome, Cartersville, Marietta, Dallas, and Douglasville. GHC currently offers an associate degree in over 30 areas of study, as well as a Bachelor of Science in nursing for registered nurses, a Bachelor of Science in dental hygiene, and a new Bachelor of Business Administration in healthcare management and in logistics and supply chain management. Ten areas of study are offered fully online.

2 | Fall/Winter 2018

Editor and Designer Sheila Jones Photography Jeff Brown Nick Godfrey

ABOUT THE COVER: GHC held the ribboncutting and opening of its

/GeorgiaHighlandsCollege /GHCAthletics /GHCAlumni

The Highlander is published twice a year by the Office of Advancement at Georgia Highlands College 3175 Cedartown Highway Rome, GA 30161 • 706.802.5473 highlands.edu

Donald J. Green, Ed.D., President The Advancement Division encompasses the GHC Foundation, development, communications, marketing, digital media, print services, and alumni relations.

Vice President of Advancement & Executive Director of the GHC Foundation Mary Transue Senior Administrative Assistant to the Vice President Cindy Gomez Foundation Accountant Liz Jones Senior Director of Marketing & Communications Sheila Jones Director of Digital Media Services Jeff Brown Print Services Manager Ken Davis Communications Manager Nick Godfrey Digital Media Specialist Justin Sucre

I suspect, if you are like the vast majority of people, there have been times in your life when you wanted more. You wanted to accomplish something important to you. Of course, you have! It is part of growth and achievement; some call it the American dream!

But here is the tough question: When you came to that door, did you always open it and walk through? Did you ever find the door locked, or did you ever fear stepping beyond your current reality to explore a new opportunity? A new normal? A new you? Did the perceived risks ever prevent you from pursuing the perceived benefits? Did you ever want GHC has graduated thousands of students over the someone to help you through that passage? years by providing access to career-focused college At Georgia Highlands College we are degrees with little to no debt upon completion. blessed to provide that guidance!

This issue of the Highlander explores opening doors and stepping through, something we help people do every day. Take, for example, Dr. Ike (page 32) who came to GHC to pursue his dream of becoming a doctor. He says without GHC he would not have achieved his dream of practicing medicine. Dr. Ike had the intent. We helped him step into his future!

Or what about William Evans (page 10) and Michael Copeland (page 11), both students finishing college at very different times in their lives. William was a young man intent on completing his associate degree and high school diploma at the same time through dual enrollment. Michael was working and wanted to both further his career and fulfill a commitment to himself by graduating with a college degree. Both had a dream and both needed to step through our doors toward fulfillment.

At Georgia Highlands College, our mission is about changing lives. Whether you’re a high school student, traditional student or what they might call a non-traditional student, those changes often involve overcoming fears, opening doors, and going beyond.

Do you know someone with aspirations? Do they need guidance and an open door? Please send them our way. We are honored to provide direction and help people accomplish their dreams.

Each year, President Green leads and works with a group of employees from across all GHC’s locations in Leadership Cohorts with the goal of cultivating the next generation of leaders at Georgia Highlands College.President Green pictured with Financial Aid Counselor Ana Clayton (left) and Student Accounts Manager Amelia Blackmon (right).

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From the President

Opening Doors

New Academic Building Opens

USG Chancellor Steve Wrigley addresses the crowd.

Over 300 people celebrated as Georgia Highlands College cut the ribbon for its new academic building in Cartersville on October 16th.

The 52,000-square foot building will be focused on STEAM-based (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) areas of study and will have a full slate of classes starting January 2019.

The building adds an art studio, computer labs, science labs, and several classrooms to GHC’s site in Cartersville.

“We always get excited about a new building, but the most important thing is what happens inside. And what will be happening inside that building is quality instruction from faculty to our students. That’s what ultimately makes the difference in our communities with respect to economic development and workforce, and that’s where our focus is. The investment is in the students,” said University System of Georgia Chancellor Steve Wrigley.

Vice President of Academic Affairs Dana Nichols echoed the chancellor’s remarks, noting the extra room allows GHC to schedule more sections of high-demand classes and help ensure students get the courses needed to graduate on time.

“In recent years, our society has called upon higher education institutions to equip students with the skills and knowledge they will need to be successful innovators in a 21st century workforce,” she said. “This beautiful new building is a physical representation of one of the ways in which GHC plans to accomplish this important task.”

Student Government President Danielle Griesemer was happy to see the progress being made to help students at GHC. “Seeing GHC continuing to grow for the success of students fills me with pride,” she said. “It means that our institution truly cares about its students and will do everything in its power to help them succeed.”

GHC pursued funding for the building and was approved under the fiscal year 2017 state budget which was approved by Legislature and signed

by Governor Deal.

“We would like to especially thank our legislators for all they do to support GHC, the USG and education in the state,” said Vice President of Advancement Mary Transue, who also serves RIBBONCUTTING – continued on page 6

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Thank you to our

Premier Partner

Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company.

Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.5 million customers in all but

We’re building a stronger state, one new job at a time.

four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy at rates below the national average, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-

New jobs have a powerful effect. Every factory or tech firm that opens its doors makes surrounding communities that much stronger. That’s why Georgia Power works hard to bring new businesses here, creating over 134,000 new jobs in the last 10 years alone. And showing people across our state more possibilities than ever before.

class service to its customers every day and the company is consistently recognized by J.D. Power and Associates as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.

GeorgiaPower.com and

To see how we’re generating opportunity, visit GeorgiaPower.com/growth.

connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook. com/GeorgiaPower), Twitter (Twitter.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram. com/ga_power).

©2018 Georgia Power. All rights reserved.

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Thank you to our

RIBBONCUTTING – continued from page 4

Executive Partners

Bond, James Bond, Inc. Bond, James Bond, Inc. was founded in 1992 as a Bail

GHC President Don Green and Dr. Randy Pierce, GHC President Emeritus, visit at the open house.

Bonds, Risk Management Company and began with one owner and one office.

We have since grown to ten offices, each open 24/7, along with new employees and many of the original employees. Our core principals and values have always remained the same with customer service being at our forefront.

GHC Student Government Association President Danielle Griesemer welcomes guests.

We realize our clients find themselves in challenging situations and we appreciate the opportunity to help them. We also value the opportunity to give back to the communities we serve in and appreciate all the people that have been so good to us.

Bond, James Bond, Inc. supports Georgia Highlands College’s efforts to provide support to help our youth with an affordable and convenient quality education when they are first starting out or helping non-traditional students seeking to advance their current careers.

For more information visit: BondJamesBondInc.com

Brother 2 Brother members Jairus Blackwell and Jalen Caldwell serve as student ushers.

in GHC’s Government Relations role. “Without their tireless support and dedication, this venture would not have been possible.”

GHC received a total $22.5 million in state funding to advance the project: $2.2 for design, $17.7 for construction and $2.6 for equipment.

The new academic building was designed by the EYP Architecture and Engineering Firm (formerly Stanley Beaman & Sears) and was constructed by Juneau.

“The addition of this new academic building will include spaces for laboratories, classrooms, a lecture hall, study rooms and more,” President Don Green said. “This increases GHC’s ability to directly impact and support the community workforce through STEAM-based degrees, and it allows GHC to better serve as the University System of Georgia’s primary access institution in the region.”

Green added that the building will also contribute to raising GHC’s nearly $150 million economic impact in Northwest Georgia. GHC has five locations across Northwest Georgia in Rome, Cartersville, Marietta, Dallas and Douglasville. He stat-

ed that the building also strengthens and broadens GHC’s ability to maintain a strong relationship with K-12 school systems across Northwest Georgia.

Green also extended thanks to all GHC’s new corporate and foundation partners: Premier Partner Georgia Power; Executive Partners Bond, James Bond, Inc., Century Bank of Georgia, Community Criminal Justice Foundation, and Juneau Construction Company; Visionary Partner McWhorter Capital Partners; Leader Partners Steve Moore with Mystique Consulting Services, Inc., and Synovus Bank; Champion Partners City of Cartersville, and Excel Graphic Services; and Innovator Partners Cartersville-Bartow Chamber of Commerce, Mark Weaver with Excel Graphic Services, and Randy Quick, Rome City Commission, Ward Two. The new Corporate and Foundation Partnership program through the GHC Foundation creates strong partnerships and works to make education a priority in Northwest Georgia while providing support to students and programs at the college with the goal of encouraging economic development and building stronger communities.

RIBBONCUTTING – continued on page 8

Thank you to our

Executive Partners

Cartersville Campus Dean Leslie Johnson shares her excitement for seeing the building completed.

Century Bank of Georgia, originally known as Century Bank of Bartow County, opened for business on June 29, 2000, becoming the second state-chartered bank headquartered in Bartow County and ushering in a new era of community banking. We are Cartersville’s only locally owned community bank

Student leaders Sydney McDonald, Sally Fairbanks, and Sierrah Gani give guided tours of the building.

with offices in Cartersville, Rockmart and Calhoun. We pride ourselves on offering the latest technology combined with hometown personal service and are dedicated to building strong, long-term relationships with our clients. Invested in our communities, we proudly support numerous local business, schools and

Vice President of Finance and Administration Jeff Davis addresses the crowd before the ribbon cutting.

non-profit organizations.

Century Bank of Georgia is insured by the FDIC, member Equal Housing Lender.

Century Bank of Georgia believes in GHC’s mission of providing a quality and affordable post-secondary education. GHC is a great asset to Northwest Georgia and Century Bank of Georgia is proud to partner with GHC! For more information visit: centurybanknet.com

Science • Technology • Engineering • Art • Math

Students, faculty, staff, and event attendees participated in a number of activities in the new classrooms related to STEAM-focused areas, like chemistry experiments, CPR training, drawing and painting, singing, and more.

Thank you to our

Executive Partners The Community Criminal Justice Foundation (CCJF) is a non-profit Foundation established in 1999 to provide opportunities to all levels of those who serve in criminal justice. The Foundation provides annual college scholarships and supports fellowship through an annual BBQ for anyone (local, state, and federal) in the profession of criminal justice. The intent of the BBQ is to express gratitude for their service and provide an opportunity to network and form positive working relationships with each other. The scholarship is a representation of the Foundation’s desire to promote higher education in criminal justice and a better quality of life for the citizen’s whom they protect and serve. The CCJF provides $3000-$5000 annually for higher education scholarships.

As an access institution, GHC, has a strong reputation for providing a quality education for a responsible price.

The board of directors for CCJF wants to ensure it can maximize the funds they raise, on behalf of its donors, to increase the number of college graduates who work in the profession of criminal justice. This has been a tacit effort since the beginning that has paid dividends that change the trajectory of life for its recipients and the community, state and country they serve.

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Juneau Construction Company was founded in 1997 by husbandwife duo Les and Nancy Juneau. Since then, Atlanta-based Juneau has consistently ranked among the top contractor’s in the country within the core markets that they operate in. For the last several years Juneau has appeared among the Top Builders of Institutional, Multi-Family, and Hotel Buildings in the country. Juneau is also a Top Miami and Atlanta Contractor, ENR Top 400 Contractor, and the #1 ranked woman-owned construction firm in Georgia. Core markets include Higher Education Auxiliary Facilities (Housing, Dining, Student Centers, Parking Decks), Higher Education Academic Buildings, Recreation & Athletic Facilities, Multi-Family & Mixed-Use, Senior Living, Hospitality, and Historic Restoration.

Juneau Construction Company first collaborated with Georgia Highlands College (GHC) in 2010 when Juneau built the new Student Recreation Center on the Cartersville campus. Most recently, Juneau completed GHC’s new STEAM Academic Building on the Cartersville campus in time for the Fall 2018 semester. From the beginning, Juneau’s mission of striving to be best in class mirrored GHC’s purpose to provide high quality classes for enhanced educational options with little or no debt upon completion. Juneau is proud of the relationship it has established with GHC. For more information visit: juneaucc.com

Georgia Highlands College’s accreditation has been officially reaffirmed by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The reaffirmation continues GHC’s accreditation for a 10-year period through 2028.

The SACSCOC visited GHC in 2017 for its review.

“All the time, effort, and collaboration leading up to the SACSCOC review team onsite visit culminated in a three-day review at GHC that ended with a great deal of praise,” said GHC President Don Green.

“They were impressed with our ‘one campus culture,’ stating that astoundingly we have developed a cohesive ‘one college’ and ‘one mission’ mentality across our multiple locations.”

GHC currently serves over 6,000 students across five locations in Rome, Cartersville, Dallas, Douglasville, and Marietta.

In addition to reviewing the college overall, the SACSCOC reviewed GHC’s new Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP), which describes a course of action for enhancing educational quality that focuses on student learning and/or the environment supporting student learning.

GHC’s QEP is called “Quest for Success” and places advising at the forefront of student academic and personal success. “Quest for Success” aims to increase the value of the student experience at GHC by emphasizing advising as a core component of learning in a two-pronged effort where students receive ongoing, goal-focused advising and faculty and staff advisors receive intensive training.

Once the review concluded, President Green extended his thanks to everyone at GHC and to all the chairs, committee members, reviewers, writers, logistic teams and everyone involved in working with SACSCOC throughout the process.

“SACSCOC said GHC was a ‘dynamic, vibrant community’ that is open, enthusiastic, displays mutual respect between faculty and staff, encourages open dialogue between students and employees, and overall has a ‘commitment to students and to the mission of the college,’” Green said. “I can’t help but think of our common mantra that continues to resonate with students, faculty, and staff today: We are GHC.” GHC was given Level II status by SACSCOC in 2012, allowing the institution to begin offering four-year degrees. GHC currently offers over 30 areas of study with associate degree and bachelor’s degree options. GHC offers a Bachelor of Science in both nursing and dental hygiene and a Bachelor of Business Administration in both healthcare management and logistics and supply chain management.

To gain or maintain accreditation with the SACSCOC, an institution must comply with the standards contained in the Principles of Accreditation: Foundations for Quality Enhancement and with the policies and procedures of the Commission.

The Commission applies the requirements of its Principles to all applicant, candidate, and member institutions, regardless of type of institution (public, private for-profit, private not-for-profit).

To learn more about the accreditation process, please visit: sacscoc.org

GHC cited as ‘best bang for your tuition’ Georgia Highlands College was listed as one of the top two colleges in Georgia with the “best bang for your tuition,” according to The Penny Hoarder.

The Penny Hoarder is one of the largest personal finance websites and was ranked the No. 1 fastestgrowing private media company in the U.S. for the second consecutive year and #25 on the overall list of the fastest-growing private companies in America in 2017.

In its article “We Crunched the Numbers and Found the Best College Bargains in Each State,” The Penny Hoarder analyzed annual tuition cost, net cost, enrollment, acceptance rates, and other factors for every college in the country with available data to produce a “bang-for-your-buck ratio.”

The Penny Hoarder “dug into hundreds of mega-

bytes of data and used a statistical technique to weigh the following factors: enrollment; acceptance rate; average net cost (the total cost of attending college, including tuition, books and housing, minus scholarships and other financial aid); in-state tuition cost; median earnings 10 years after graduation; and student loan default rate.”

Georgia Highlands College was listed as one of two colleges in Georgia with the best “bang-for-yourbuck ratio,” including Georgia Institute of Technology.

Currently, a GHC student can earn a two-year degree for less than $8,000 and a four-year degree for less than $16,000.

To read the full article, please visit: thepennyhoarder.com

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Campus News

Accreditation reaffirmed by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools

Campus News

Spring 2018 Commencement Highlights

Mace Bearer - Dr. Watterson

Georgia Highlands College conferred 759 diplomas during the May commencement held at The Forum River Center in downtown Rome.

The nursing pinning ceremony was held at the First Baptist of Cartersville the evening prior to the commencement.

The faculty chose Renva Harmon Watterson as the 2018 Mace Bearer and Carla Byram Patterson as the recipient of the Wesley C. Walraven Faculty Award.

The Honorable Bobby Lee Cook gave the commencement address, and Student Government Association President David Hill spoke on behalf of the student body.

Regent Sarah-Elizabeth Reed brought greetings from the Board of Regents.

The Honorary Faculty Marshal was Kristie Kemper and Donnie Denson spoke on behalf of GHC alumni.

Nursing Pinning Ceremony

The Honorable Bobby Lee Cook

Walraven Award Winner - Dr. Patterson

High school student, adult learner each achieved major milestone at graduation Evans graduates high school and college at the same time William Evans joined hundreds of other college graduates at Georgia Highlands College’s Commencement in May at The Forum River Center in downtown Rome. The only difference was William was a high school student who walked in a college graduation a few weeks before he walked for his high school graduation.

He joined a number of other high school students who also tossed two caps in the air this graduation season.

Each of these students is part of the Dual Enrollment program at GHC. Dual Enrollment is a program that allows high school students (9th – 12th grade) to earn tuition-free college credit while working on their high school diploma.

10 | Fall/Winter 2018

“I decided to participate in the Dual Enrollment program at GHC after attending a GHC Preview Day,” William said. “Deciding to become a Dual Enrollment student at GHC is one of my proudest decisions in high school.”

William graduated with his associate degree at GHC, and then two weeks later, he received his high school diploma from Paulding County High School.

“When I first started taking college courses in fall 2016, I really did not know what to expect. I took courses with other Dual Enrollment students, traditional and non-traditional students. I learned how to better communicate in group environments. I also learned how to adjust my work and study habits to better perform in my courses,” he said.

William admitted at first the whole process was a bit “overwhelming,” but he said the atmosphere at GHC helped propel him toward his goal of graduat-

First adult accelerated degree graduate credits program for success Michael Copeland made a commitment to his family and himself several years ago: he was going to earn his college degree.

Michael made good on that promise to his family in May when he walked across the graduation stage at Georgia Highlands College.

This was a first for both Michael and GHC’s fairly new adult accelerated program called NOW, which stands for Nights, Online, and Weekends.

GHC launched the program in an effort to make earning a college degree faster and more convenient for working adults.

NOW is an accelerated two-year degree program crafted specifically for working adult learners who want to earn a business-focused Associate of Science degree but need the scheduling flexibility offered by evening, online, and hybrid courses.

The program also is a great pathway that easily transitions to baccalaureate programs in other University System of Georgia institutions.

Michael said the program has perfectly set him up to achieve his final goal of earning his bachelor’s in business from the University of Georgia’s Terry

College of Business.

Originally from Buffalo, New York, Michael works for a national bank on a global network team.

He said seeing both of his daughters go through college prompted him to take his first step toward a lifelong dream.

“The biggest thing for me was to commit and eliminate my many excuses,” he said. “I set a goal to graduate by spring 2018 and devoted the necessary time and energy to achieve that goal.”

Michael decided to go through GHC’s accelerated program for working adults and has found it to be one of the best choices he could have made.

“The NOW program was a god send,” he said.

“The Program Coordinator Maria Wilson is the best counselor, cheerleader, and life coach on the planet.

Without her, I would not have been successful in graduating so soon.”

In his time at GHC, Michael wanted to do more for students like himself who were working fulltime and going to college, so he helped start the Adult Student Association.

As president of the student group, he helped craft their mission: to encourage adults and other non-traditional students to become an effective integral part of the GHC community.

He said getting involved at GHC is one of the best ways to maintain a clear path to graduation, Evans especially for adult learners.

“I suggest coming on campus and meeting others that previously experienced the same trepidation and can offer recommendations to succeed. You will develop a support system at GHC through the NOW students and faculty,” he said. “You will meet students that started just like you and can share how they juggle family, jobs, and other obligations and how they find time to complete their school work.”

Copeland

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Campus News

ing with a two-year degree at nearly the same time he would bring home his high school diploma.

“The faculty and staff at GHC are dedicated, enthusiastic and proud of GHC and student success,” he said. “The students at GHC are intelligent, diverse and welcoming. I never felt that I was looked at less than others because I was a Dual Enrollment student.”

William stated another key to his success was joining several student organizations, including Brother 2 Brother (B2B), Phi Theta Kappa, the Six Mile Post, and Emerging Leaders.

William especially credited much of his success to B2B, which is part of the GHC initiative GHAME (Georgia Highlands African American and Minority Male Excellence), which is a part of the USG’s statewide program AAMI (African American Male Initiative).

“I would definitely recommend Dual Enrollment to other high school students,” he said. “Becoming a Dual Enrollment student will save you thousands of dollars in the long run after entering an undergraduate program and it’s a great way to get an early start on your college career.”

Next, William plans to attend the University of Georgia, where he wants to double major in art and women’s studies. He wants to go on to obtain his doctorate and become a humanities professor.

Campus News

Dana Nichols named vice president for Academic Affairs Georgia Highlands College has appointed Dana Nichols as the new vice president for Academic Affairs.

Nichols will oversee the deans in each academic area, including Health Sciences, Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Physical Education, Humanities, Social Sciences, Business and Education, and Libraries and Testing, as well as directors for the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning, Academic Success and New Student and Retention Programs.

Nichols comes from Chattanooga State Community College (a college spanning three campuses and two time zones) where she served as vice president for Academic Affairs.

She began her academic career at Gainesville State College serving first as a tutor in the Foreign Language and Writing Labs and then as associate professor of both English and Spanish.

Nichols has also served as the assistant vice president and dean of Academic Affairs at Lanier Technical College.

Nichols holds a doctorate in English from Georgia State University, dual bachelor’s degrees in English and Spanish from Mercer University and two associate degrees from Gainesville College.

She was recently one of only 40 selected nationwide to take part in the Aspen Presidential Fellowship for Community College Excellence, as well.

“I am looking forward to working with an outstanding group of faculty, staff, and administrators, to helping students unlock their potential, and to charging forward into a bright future,” Nichols said.

Nichols stated she plans to focus on retention and graduation efforts at GHC by having a strong commitment to student success strategies, creating new degree programs and certificates that complement local workforce needs and pursuing strategic scheduling across GHC’s five locations in Rome, Cartersville, Dallas, Douglasville, and Marietta.

Two new deans appointed Dean for Planning, Assessment, Accreditation and Research Jesse Bishop has been appointed as the new dean for Planning, Assessment, Accreditation and Research (PAAR).

He will oversee the office of PAAR, which provides services, guidance Bishop and facilitation in support of the college’s mission and pursuit of continuous improvement through planning, assessment and institutional research.

Bishop graduated from GHC in 2002. He returned in 2005 as part-time instructor in Developmental English and earned his Master’s in English from the University of West Georgia in 2006. He was hired fulltime tenure track in 2007.

He was selected as a Governor’s Teaching Fellow for the 2010-2011 academic year as he was named Director of Diversity Initiatives. Since then, Bishop has served as an Instructional Designer and as founding Director of the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning. He earned his doctorate in 2015.

Bishop also served as editor-in-chief of the student newspaper the Six Mile Post while he was a student at GHC. Additionally, he has participated in National Endowment for the Humanities workshops, received grants from the Georgia Writer’s Association to host literary events and a few of his poems have been nominated for the Pushcart Prize.

Currently, Bishop also serves as the President of the Rome International Film Festival Board of Directors and is a Youth Academy soccer coach for Arsenal Rome (YMCA).

Bishop said he is looking forward to his new position and plans to build upon the work completed by those who came before him.

“I plan to expand our institutional research efforts and begin exploring more ways that we can use data to enhance student and faculty success at GHC,” he said.

“I plan to help other departments and offices use data and analyses to improve their work and the quality of the experiences we have at GHC.” Bishop stated he is excited to do more at GHC to give back to the college that helped him get this far and to pay it forward to other students by helping them do the same.

“We work at a college that literally changes lives and family trees,” he said. “That’s made possible by the dedication of the folks who work, teach and learn here.”

DEANS – continued on page 13

12 | Fall/Winter 2018

at GHC’s Douglasville Georgia Highlands site, including classes on College has partnered with campus or online. For the the University of West second two years, UWG Georgia to jointly offer will offer select courses at students in Douglasville the GHC’s Douglasville site opportunity to earn a bachand others at the UWG elor’s degree in mass commain campus in Carrollton. munications with a concenThe core classes at tration in public relations.

GHC will offer a broad The new mass comintroduction to collegemunications degree partnerlevel learning in history, ship began fall 2018 and math, and science, as well offers students two years as a focus on written and with GHC and another two verbal communication. years with UWG. Students will gain practical After completing GHC President Don Green and University of West experience in the foundatheir Associate of Arts Georgia President Kyle Marrero tional ideas and theories Communication Pathway necessary to understand degree at GHC, students can the multitude of messages in day-to-day life and build continue their journey to becoming a public relations toward a specialization in public relations. professional by transferring to UWG and completing a The second half of the mass communication degree Bachelor of Science in Mass Communications with a with UWG will teach students how to strategically concentration in Public Relations.

The first two years can be completed entirely PARTNERSHIP – continued on page 17 DEANS – continued from page 12

Dean of Libraries and College Testing Georgia Highlands College has appointed Julius Fleschner as the new Dean of Libraries and College Testing. Fleschner will oversee all of GHC’s libraries, which are open to students and the public in Cartersville, Douglasville, Paulding, and Rome.

Between 2015 and 2016, GHC’s libraries had a combined total of over 250,000 visits. And the library faculty taught 239 librarian instruction classes for over 5,500 students.

Fleschner will also be in charge of College Testing.

Fleschner’s hometown is Merrick, New York. He has a master’s in library and information science and a bachelor’s in psychology from the University of South Florida. He previously worked as the Director of Library and Information Services at Briar Cliff University, where he led the Bishop Mueller Library.

Some of his previous work includes creating new mission and vision statements for the library, re-branding the library, launching student-based technology and research mentor programs, creating a “maker space,” promoting library services through a campus-wide cele-

bration of scholarship, as well as reshaping the collections.

He previously served as Chairman of the Iowa Private Academic Libraries Consortium.

Fleschner said he is most excited about working with students at GHC. “I feel incredibly grateful and humbled to join GHC. The librarians here are extremely talented, dedicated and student focused,” he said. “I was a firstgeneration college student and started Fleschner my education at a college similar to GHC. A great library, caring faculty and associate degree opened the door for me to be successful.

This is a prime opportunity to give back and contribute the next generation of leaders.”

Along with working with students, Fleschner said he plans to set a few goals for the library, including adding new and emerging technologies, serve as a bridge between student success initiatives and traditional academic excellence, create compelling programming to excite students about learning and visiting a library, and systematically introduce information literacy across the curriculum.

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Campus News

Partnership with West Georgia brings bachelor’s in mass communications to Douglasville site

Campus News

New semester starts by welcoming 14 new full-time faculty members GHC started another academic year by welcoming 14 new fulltime faculty from varying educational backgrounds.

Biology Mahirah Baker holds a master’s degree in pharmacology and toxicology from Michigan State University and joins GHC as an instructor of biology.

Ejiroghene Ogaga holds a master’s degree in biology from Georgia State University and joins GHC as an instructor of biology.

Business Administration Lucinda Montgomery holds a master’s degree in logistics and supply chain management and joins GHC as an assistant professor of logistics and supply chain management.

Shanika Wright Turner holds a master’s degree in business administration from the Florida Institute of Technology and joins GHC as assistant professor of business administration.

Chemistry Matthew Summerlin holds a doctorate in medicinal chemistry and pharmacognosy from the University of Illinois at Chicago and joins GHC as an instructor of chemistry.

English Marc Dawson holds a master’s degree in creative writing from National University and joins GHC as an instructor of English.

Charles Grimm holds a doctorate in English rhetoric and composition from Georgia State University and joins GHC as an instructor of English.

Mesrop Najarian holds a master’s degree in English literature from the University of Oxford and joins GHC as an instructor of English.

Shannan Rivera holds a master’s degree in professional writing from Kennesaw State University and joins GHC as an instructor of English.

Sean Zearfoss holds a master’s degree from Kennesaw State University and joins GHC as an instructor of English.

Mathematics Erna Anderson holds a master’s degree in systems engineering from George Mason University and joins GHC as an instructor of mathematics.

Marlene Goodrum holds a master’s degree in mathematics from Kennesaw State University and joins GHC as an instructor of mathematics.

Tara Suswal holds a master’s degree in secondary mathematics from Kennesaw State University and joins GHC as an instructor of mathematics.

Nursing Lisbeth Hyde holds a master’s degree in nursing education from Western Governors University and joins GHC as an instructor of nursing education.

CHARGE UP YOUR WELLNESS GHC joins the University System of Georgia in a system-wide well-being initiative to create a comprehensive approach to achieving well-being that engages and empowers the entire USG community through health initiatives. GHC held an employee walk around each location to kick the event off.

14 | Fall/Winter 2018

Georgia Highlands College’s pilot STEMFIT “math boot camp” is the first of its kind in the University System of Georgia.

Its aim is to help incoming high school dual enrollment students or college freshmen be prepared to start at a collegiate mathematic level of pre-calculus or higher.

“In order to complete a STEM pathway in a timely manner and maintain momentum toward graduation, students should at a minimum start with pre-calculus,” Dean of the Division of Mathematics and Computer Science Melanie Largin said. “Often times, students enter at the lower college algebra-level but can take an exemption exam if their SAT/ACT scores are high enough to then get to precalculus.”

Largin explained that the pass rate for the college algebra exemption test is historically low due to those topics being covered early in a student’s high school career. To combat low pass rates, GHC developed a week-long “math boot camp” to prepare students for the first years of college and to pass the college algebra exemption test.

This is particularly advantageous for freshmen entering STEM fields, Largin added.

STEM is an acronym for the fields of science, technology, engineering and math. STEM relates to academics and careers focused in corresponding fields.

The pilot program was free and is sponsored by the GHC Center for STEM Learning and a University System of Georgia STEM Initiative grant.

Five students completed GHC’s first camp. Three went on to pass the college algebra exemption test and registered for pre-calculus in the fall. Two went further and passed the pre-calculus exemption test, as well, and registered for calculus in the fall.

“We are excited that this effort will help to propel these students forward,” Largin said. “We look forward to continuing to expand this effort through our STEM grant, to utilizing some of the lessons used during the camp in our ongoing college algebra classrooms at GHC and to presenting our results to our colleagues across the state.”

The camp will continue next summer and expand to more students. The camp and the in-house exams are free.

For more information or to register for the next one, contact math@highlands.edu or call 678/872/8099.

FULL “STEM” AHEAD Kids learned the fundamentals of science at GHC’s STEM camp this summer.

ADVANCEMENT BRINGS HOME SEVERAL NATIONAL AWARDS Georgia Highlands College was honored with seven gold awards, two silver, and three bronze from two national award programs for work completed in communications, marketing, advertising, and promotions of the college by the Advancement Division.

GHC was up against over 900 entries from across the U.S. in the Collegiate Advertising Awards (CAA).

CAA awarded GHC the Gold Award (top 5 percent in the nation) for its “Be a Take Charger” billboard campaign, a series designed and implemented in cooperation with World Design Marketing (WDM). A second Gold Award was presented for a Photo Series based on GHC’s Wyoming Field Course.

GHC/WDM were honored with a Silver Award (top 12 percent in the nation) for the “Be a Take Charger” internet advertising series.

A second Silver Award was given for Promotional Graphics Series used on social media to promote the basketball season.

Additionally, GHC received a Bronze Award (top 16 percent in the nation) for its Highlander magazine.

GHC was also a frontrunner in the 33rd annual Educational Advertising Awards (EAA), competing against nearly 2,500 entries from over 1,000 colleges, universities, and secondary schools from all 50 states and several foreign countries.

EAA awarded GHC and WDM the Gold Award for “Be a Take Charger” T-shirt design; implementing an integrated “Be a Take Charger” marketing campaign; and the “Be a Take Charger” billboard campaign.

GHC was presented the Gold Award for social media for Charger Athletics promotions and another Gold Award for a special video production centering on the “Charger Garden.”

The GHC Highlander magazine received a Silver and Bronze Award, and an additional Bronze was awarded for a special video production centering on “Charger Basketball – 50 wins.”

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Campus News

Pilot GHC STEMFIT ‘math boot camp’ counted a success

Campus News

Funding granted for Paulding renovations Georgia Highlands College has received a total of $4.1 million in state funding to renovate its Winn Building in Dallas near the current Paulding instructional site. The project will transform the facility into a modern academic building and expand degree and program offerings in the area.

“This much-needed space was made possible by the generous support of Paulding County through the donation of the building, as well as support by our local legislators to fund the renovations,” said Vice President of Advancement Mary Transue, who also serves in GHC’s Government Relations role. “They have worked tirelessly to support their communities and enhance educational and economic development opportunities for their citizens.”

GHC was approved for funding under the fiscal year 2019 state budget which was approved by Legislature and signed by Governor Deal.

The Winn Building, a former bank building, was gifted to GHC in 2010 from Paulding County.

GHC President Don Green stated the renovations

will help raise graduation and retention rates as well as grow the site by increasing the capability for students to earn degrees and graduate on time without needing to leave Dallas.

“The new academic building will include more classrooms, a physical education lab, an academic success center for tutoring and advising, and a new chemistry lab to accommodate students who take classes at our Paulding location,” Green said.

Increasing the program and class offerings will directly impact and support the community workforce through degree completion from a University System of Georgia college that is an affordable, quality-driven, access institution like GHC, he added.

The building is also expected to contribute to raising GHC’s current economic impact of nearly $150 million in Northwest Georgia.

Additionally, Green stated the building also strengthens and broadens GHC’s ability to maintain a strong relationship with K-12 school systems across Northwest Georgia.

Year-round Pell Grant funds now available Georgia Highlands College’s students now have access to year-round Pell Grant funds, which makes funds available during summer.

Before the change, students could only receive the Pell financial aid for fall and spring semesters, GHC’s Director of Financial Aid Donna Childres explained. Now, students can attend the summer semester and receive additional Pell funding.

For example, if a student’s “expected family

16 | Fall/Winter 2018

contribution (EFC)” is $0 as determined by filling out the FAFSA, then that student could expect to receive $2,960 for fall and $2,960 for spring while taking 12 or more credit hours each time. If that same student enrolled for at least 6 credit hours in the summer, they could receive another $2,960.

Childres stated this is one of the best forms of financial aid for qualified students.

“Pell is grant money that does not have to be

PARTNERSHIP – continued from page 13

manage communication for businesses and organizations. Through sequenced study and working first-hand with clients, students will learn and practice the theory and art of public relations communication, research, policymaking, problem-solving, and creative and analytical decision-making.

Students will also have an opportunity to develop a portfolio and professional network through UWG’s student-managed public relations firm as well as through various internships.

“Digital natives are accustomed to the modern open relationship between the public and local, regional, and national brands,” said GHC Assistant Professor of Communication Steve Stuglin.”

The GHC-UWG partnership program in Public Relations provides a path for students that want to build a hands-on career improving those relationships, while helping businesses perform better or helping non-profit organizations to better advocate for prosocial causes.”

Students may apply for this pathway through GHC and UWG today by visiting: highlands.edu A breakdown of the program: Years 1 & 2 – Georgia Highlands College Complete requirements for Associate of Arts in Communication Pathway, and earn a C or higher in ENGL 1101; ENGL 1102; COMM 1110; COMM 2230; and COMM 2254.

Years 3 & 4 – University of West Georgia Complete requirements for Bachelor of Science in Mass Communications – Public Relations Concentration.

Transfer Requirements • 30 transferrable hours or an associate degree • Cumulative grade point average of 2.00 on all attempted transferrable coursework • Ability to prove English, math, and reading proficiency Completion of the Associate of Art Communication Pathway degree at GHC does not guarantee admission to UWG. For information about admission to GHC and this program, contact Amina Blackmon at 678-872-4225 or amblackm@highlands.edu

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Campus News

paid back,” she said. “The benefits of having year-round Pell means more students can take summer classes and have part or all of that tuition cost covered and be able to graduate sooner.”

Currently, GHC students can take 15 or more credit hours (in-state) for a total cost of $1,922 (tuition and fees). If a student were to take 6 credit hours (in-state) for the summer, the total cost would be $1,088.02 (tuition and fees).

To receive the Pell Grant for summer, students will need to additionally have a current FAFSA on file with GHC, which can be completed at FAFSA.ed.gov and then complete the Summer Aid application found at: sites.highlands.edu/financial-aid/summer-aid-request/ For a full breakdown of GHC’s tuition and fees, please visit: highlands.edu/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/ Tuition-and-Fees-2017-2018.pdf GHC also hosts a series of free workshops called “First Friday FAFSA.” The workshops are designed to educate about and promote the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Workshops are free and open to the public.

Attendees will learn more about Federal Student Aid, which is responsible for managing the student financial assistance programs authorized under Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965. These programs provide grants, loans, and work-study funds to students attending college or career school.

Workshops will take place the first Friday of each month at each GHC location.

All events are from 9AM to 11AM. If you have further questions about what to bring or have more questions about the Pell Grant, you may contact GHC’s financial aid office at: finaid@highlands.edu To reserve your space in one of the upcoming free FAFSA workshops, please visit: sites.highlands.edu/ forms/fafsa/fafsa-days/

Campus News

13th annual summer Foundation Camp for boys held at GHC Hundreds of boys between the ages of 10 and 14 attended the 13th annual Foundation Camp at Georgia Highlands College last summer.

The two-week camp, which is a partnership between the 100 Black Men of Rome-Northwest Georgia and Georgia Highlands College, is funded primarily by the GHC Foundation and other donors, giving students the opportunity to attend the camp free of charge, including transportation and a breakfast and lunch.

The camp focuses on academics, athletics, and enrichment courses intended to build self-respect and confidence, and to allow the young men to

18 | Fall/Winter 2018

experience college.

Well over 100 kids attend Foundation Camp each year and enjoy numerous activities, such as canoeing, tennis, basketball, soccer, STEAM-related projects, biology, and chemistry projects utilizing liquid nitrogen and a hovercraft, derby car racing, storytelling with live animals like an alligator, and more.

The cost of Foundation Camp is covered by donations, and there are a limited number of spaces available that are filled on a first-come, first-serve basis.

To apply for next year or for more information, contact Jon Hershey at jhershey@highlands.edu.

Clinical Medical Assistant, Pharmacy Technician, and Phlebotomy Technician Programs Added for Spring 2019 Georgia Highlands College Center for Continuing and Professional Education is pleased to announce the launch of its Health Careers Training Institute.

Beginning spring 2019, GHC will introduce three new programs: Clinical Medical Assistant, Pharmacy Technician, and Phlebotomy Technician.

The new programs are offered in partnership with Career Training Solutions, a Georgia company, which specializes in allied health certificate training.

Director of Continuing Education George White recognized the need for affordable, short-term allied health training in Bartow, Cobb, Cherokee, Douglas, and Floyd Counties after examining the programs at other local colleges.

“What sets GHC’s Health Careers Training Institute apart from other local training programs is the affordability. The tuition for each program is between $1,599 and $2,399. Also, through our partnership with

CTS, students will have the option of enrolling in an interest-free payment plan.”

White continued, “Additionally, tuition for all three programs includes externships, where students will receive hands-on, realistic, on-the-job experience.”

These three new programs will join the already successful Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program.

“The success of the CNA program is due to its affordability and the fact that CNA certification is a pre-requisite to enter the highly-selective nursing program at GHC,” stated White.

Beginning in January, allied health career training programs will be offered at the Cartersville and Douglasville locations and at Heritage Hall in Rome.

Anyone interested in learning more about the GHC’s Health Careers Training Institute and its programs should call (888) 308-0737.

Tomb of the Unknown Soldier exhibit visits GHC Georgia Highlands College hosted a Tomb of the Unknown Soldier exhibit on the Floyd campus in the Lakeview Building Art Gallery in September with presentations and information sessions.

The display was open to the public.

The Student Veterans of America Club sponsored the visit and members of the Rome Exchange Club volunteered to present and hold information sessions.

The exhibit belongs to the Exchange Club of Rome and was constructed entirely in Rome by The Phillip Burkhalter Builders. Local Rome artist Chuck Schmult created the artwork, both the sculpturing and painting, to make it appear as marble.

The replica is 50 percent the size of the real one in every respect.

The exhibit has been shown to 10,215 people including students, veterans and church groups, including a tour throughout the country at the Eisenhower Museum in Kansas, as well as in Alabama, Colorado, Nevada, Florida, and Tennessee.

The replica is based on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier which is a monument dedicated to American service members who have died without their remains being identified. The bodies of many American soldiers killed in World War I could not be identified. To honor them, the remains of one soldier were brought to the U.S. Capitol to lie in state, and on Armistice Day of 1921, it was ceremoniously buried in Arlington National Cemetery.

The tomb bears the inscription “HERE RESTS IN HONORED GLORY AN AMERICAN SOLDIER KNOWN BUT TO GOD.” Congress later directed that an “Unknown American” from subsequent wars – World War II, Korea, and Vietnam – be similarly honored. Located just behind the tomb are the three crypts that hold the remains of the World War II and the Korean War. The third crypt is now empty with the identification of the Vietnam War service member in 1998.

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GHC’s Continuing Education Department launches Health Careers Training Institute

Campus News

Study abroad trip concludes yearlong academic focus on China Students, faculty, and one member of the local business community spent nine days in China this summer on a “Business and Culture” study abroad program.

The group visited the cities of Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai, including historical and cultural sites such as the Great Wall of China, Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden Palace, the Terracotta Army museum, and the Shanghai Tower.

“Our trip to China was a great success,” said Associate Professor of History Bronson Long, who is also the director of global initiatives and study abroad. “It was a tremendous learning experience for everyone who participated.”

Additionally, the group visited a hospital in Shanghai called St. Michael Hospital.

CEO and President of Floyd Medical Center Kurt Stuenkel, who joined the GHC group as a business traveler, met with the CEO of St. Michael Hospital.

“China has a large public health care system that addresses the needs of most all of the residents, with large urban facilities and clinics as well as providers for rural areas,” Stuenkel said. “China also has other providers, some of whom have ownership and collaboration with organizations from other countries. We visited such an organization in Shanghai. It is a smaller hospital and it caters to visitors, hotel guests, and to some residents from the area. It was interesting to learn more about how medical care is delivered in this facility and to learn about Chinese health care.”

The trip concludes a yearlong academic focus on China for GHC. “We decided to have a whole host of Chinarelated events at GHC locations during the 20172018 academic year,” Long said. “In essence, this made China our ‘theme country.’”

Activities for students included creating a bamboo garden, watching the Atlanta Chinese Dance Company perform, learning how to cook Chinese cuisine with Chef Egg, and more.

In addition to these events, Long stated that GHC also hosted a major academic conference in October, which featured guests/attendees from across the University System of Georgia and the northwest Georgia business community, as well as speakers on China from several prestigious institutions.

20 | Fall/Winter 2018

The Great Wall of China

St. Michael Hospital

Forbidden Palace in Beijing

Street Vendors in Xi’an

Georgia Highlands College hosted a two-hour event on learning, hip-hop culture, and the art of freestyle rap at its Cartersville location.

The event featured Soul Food Cypher, an Atlantabased group who aims to provide “cultural events that create a place for positive social interactions, using the arts and shared neighborhood spaces as a cultural bridge through the use of hip-hop and the craft of freestyle lyricism.”

“We are an organization that showcases the positive aspects of rap through our cypher events, membership program, and community outreach,” the group stated. “Our aim is to provide Atlanta’s lyricist (rappers) community with a safe and nurturing environment where their voice and artistry can grow. In addition, we look to solidify the art of freestyling as a genuine aesthetic to the wider artistic community and carry this rich tradition to the next generation.”

Soul Food Cypher conducted an interactive performance using audience participation to create freestyle raps.

The event also featured speaker Bettina Love, also known as Dr. Love, who is an award-winning author and an associate professor at the University of Georgia.

Love talked about how hip-hop culture and acaSashti

demic success go hand-inhand.

Her research focuses on the ways in which urban youth negotiate hip-hop music and culture to form social, cultural, and political identities to create new and sustaining ways of thinking about urban education and social justice. Love is focused on transforming urban classrooms through the use of nontraditional educational curricula and classroom structures.

“This event has applicable learning outcomes across a number of academic areas, Love including history, education, art, communications, psychology, sociology, political science, business, marketing, public relations, English, journalism, and more,” said event organizer and GHC Associate Professor Sean Callahan. “Events like this are important because they showcase the ways hip-hop can be used to support academic success. Students can explore the musical, cultural, social, political, psychological, and historical aspects of hip-hop as topics for class assignments.

In addition, this particular event supports Complete College Georgia’s Momentum Year initiative, as cocognitive skills, like grit, are a primary focus of the lecture.”

For more information on Soul Food Cypher: www.soulfoodcypher.com/about/ For more information on Bettina Love: www.bettinalove.com/about/

Doing Business in Asia: Crossing the Cultural Divide In September, GHC hosted a Consortium featuring Fulbright Scholar Raj Sashti. This event is one of many planned to increase the knowledge, understanding, and awareness of countries and cultures in different world regions, which gives insight to those who are interested in travelling or conducting business in the global market. Sashti spoke to students about “Doing Business in Asia: Crossing the Cultural Divide.” He is the director of Nine University and College International Studies Consortium of Georgia.

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Campus News

Exploring the relationship between learning, hip-hop culture, and the art of freestyle rap

Campus News

Eighth annual Public Speaking Competition brings together 78 students to compete Nearly 80 students from across all Georgia Highlands College’s locations came together during spring semester to compete in the eighth annual GHC Public Speaking Competition at the Cartersville location. It was a record number of student competitors this year with a total of 78.

The event invites GHC students to prepare and deliver a persuasive speech to an audience of fellow students, faculty, family, and friends. Many students learn basic public address theory and practice in GHC’s Human Communication courses or Public SPEECH COMPETITION WINNERS – (L to R) William Evans, Riley Rule, Josh Mabry, Logan Maddox, and Javier Camacho Speaking courses.

It is an opportunity for students This year’s winner was Joshua Mabry, a 21-yearto demonstrate speech preparation, old communication major from the Floyd campus, verbal style, physical delivery, and to build experiwho gave a speech about limiting time spent on ence in front of unfamiliar audiences.

“This competition provides students with invalu- electronic devices. Finalists included: Logan Maddox (2nd), William Evans (3rd), Javier Camacho (4th), able experience. The ability to write, practice, and deliver a strong public speech for an unfamiliar audi- Riley Rule (5th).

Semifinalists Shayla Neufeld, Javier Camacho, ence is crucial to succeeding in most career paths,” Jacob Faile, Elijah Glick, and Logan Maddox were said Event Director and Assistant Professor of chosen by student judges for the “Values Award,” Communication Steve Stuglin.

“Additionally,” he added, “this process helps stu- which recognizes speeches and speakers that best represent GHC’s shared values of inclusiveness and dents learn the value of research to a well-informed argument, and the importance of meeting an audience freedom of expression.

Thirty semifinalists received GHC t-shirts and on common ground as a prerequisite of persuasion. sunglasses for making it into the second round of the These skills will serve the students in personal and event. civic life as well as in the workplace.”

SERVING IT UP! Green Highlands served fresh squash grown on campus by the student group.

This group strives to raise awareness and action towards a well-rounded, healthy lifestyle with emphasis being placed on mind and body well-being and environmental concerns.

22 | Fall/Winter 2018

They experience it !

Wyoming is where the untamed spirit of the west lives on and challenges your sense of adventure.

This field course, which combines lab time with actual field work in Wyoming, has been part of GHC’s summer curriculum since 1997. From a geological perspective Wyoming offers a diverse landscape that brings the earth’s past alive. Field work is combined with day hikes that provide students firsthand experience with geological features, including hydrothermal activity, volcanism, ecology, stream process, and more. The two-week trip includes stops in Casper, Thermopolis, Cody, Yellowstone, Teton National Park, and Fossil Butte National Monument. Non-science majors can complete their science sequence requirements with this course.

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Campus News

GHC students don’t just study Geology.

Campus News

Phi Theta Kappa Chapter named ‘Regional Top Distinguished Chapter Overall’ for third year in a row Georgia Highlands College’s Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) has had a busy year and has been named the “Regional Top Distinguished Chapter Overall” for the third year in a row at regionals.

PTK students completed several local service projects, including a Christmas Angel Tree program, knitting scarves for the homeless, and participating in Preview Days at each GHC location.

The PTK chapter also served on the regional level in the Regional Officer position of Chapter Relations.

Chapter President Aicha Bah was the official Regional Officer Representative and helped lead both the fall and spring Regional Conferences held at Albany State University in November and Atlanta Metropolitan State College in March.

Bah, Alexandra Deaton, Tabitha Boyd, and Margaret Gardner were selected for the CocaAlexandra Deaton Cola All-Georgia Academic Team and were and Aicha Bah honored at the awards luncheon in downtown Atlanta in March.

The honors continued with the chapter winning multiple regional and international awards, as well.

At the Regional spring conference, Bah, Deaton, Minh Nguyen, and Stephanie Corona won the Distinguished Officer Team award, the Distinguished Honors in Action Theme and Honors in Action Overall awards.

Additionally, Bah won the regional Hall of Honor award and Chapter Vice President of Membership Deaton won the Sarah Anne Staples award.

The chapter also won two Honors Institute scholarships and was elected as the Regional Vice Presidential Chapter for 2018/2019 and will be hosting the Fall Regional Conference at GHC’s Cartersville location.

At the International Centennial Spring Catalyst Conference in Kansas City, MO, the GHC chapter won a very competitive International Distinguished Officer Team award and the International Honors in Action Theme Award.

The new chapter President Andrew Beard participated in the PTK International Scholar Laureate Program in China, while the new chapter Vice President of Membership Lexii Daniels participated in the PTK Honors Institute at Villanova University this past summer.

Both trained new officers and members at GHC as well as helped lead on the regional level at an Honors in Action workshop.

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Georgia Highlands College’s student-run newspaper the Six Mile Post is celebrating another successful year with several awards from the Southern Regional Press Institute (SRPI) and the Georgia College Press Association (GCPA).

At the SRPI held at Savannah State University, the newspaper won first place for its website and then second place overall.

Xavier Freeman, Josh Mabry, and Gage Walker all took second place for individual awards in the small college division in photography, sports story, and editorial respectively.

The Six Mile Post brought home 12 awards from the GCPA held in Athens, four individual, and eight in general.

At the GCPA, individual awards are in competition between freshmen and sophomores from all colleges, while general awards are categorized according to enrollment.

Individual Six Mile Post awardees included Gage Walker for a first place in Best Editorial or Editorial Series; Josh Jones for a second place in Best Entertainment Feature; Larry Oswalt in second place for Best Column; and Moira Hale in third place for Best Investigative News Article.

The student newspaper won additional general

SMP Editor-in-Chief Catie Sullivan and Managing Editor for Online Nick Whitmire

awards for a first place in General Photography; first in Best Community Service (Editorials); third place in Improvement; third place in Best Campus Community Service (Features); third place in Best Campus Community Service (News); third in General Advertising Six Mile Post; third in Best Website; and third in General Excellence.

On top of an already busy year, the SMP also sponsored First Amendment Awareness Week and Ping Pong tournaments at Floyd and Cartersville.

Copies of the award-winning publication can be found at each GHC location, or you may visit the SMP site at: sixmilepostonline.com

OH, BOUY! Fifth grade students from every Floyd County elementary school participated in the first “Cardboard Boat Challenge” at GHC’s Paris Lake!

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Campus News

Six Mile Post celebrates another winning year

Retiree Spotlight

Former Interim President of GHC retires after 12 years of service, 46 years in education Renva Watterson worked briefly at Georgia Highlands College as a part-time instructor of communication in 2005. At the time, she was the dean of Liberal Arts at Shorter University. One of her faculty members at Shorter, who was slated to teach summer classes at Shorter and GHC, had an emergency come up at the last minute and asked if Watterson could fill in.

“I came out to GHC and did the course and it went beautifully,” Watterson said. “The students here were so wonderful. I went away with such a wonderful feeling about this college.”

A year later, Watterson applied for and was hired as chair of the Humanities Division at GHC. What may appear to some as a chance opportunity leading to a place she may not have otherwise expected is anything but to Watterson. To her, it was meant to be.

“The best part about GHC is the people,” she said. “This place is filled with purposeful, fair-minded, integrity-based people. People who chose this access institution with a great deal of intentionality.

People who care deeply about our students and want to see them succeed. It has been my complete pleasure to be here. I was led here.”

Watterson retires from GHC with 12 years of service and 46 years in education altogether.

She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Speech Education and Theater from Shorter College, a

Master of Arts in Interpersonal and Organizational Communication, and a Doctor of Education in Higher Education from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.

She was appointed as interim vice president for academic affairs in 2008, before moving into the position permanently in 2009.

The University System of Georgia Chancellor appointed Watterson as the interim president of Georgia Highlands College in May 2012, and she served in that role until September 2014 before returning to her previous VPAA

position.

During her time as VPAA and later as Interim President of GHC, Watterson worked to create proposals for the GHC locations in Paulding and Douglasville and see the sites to completion.

Additionally, she worked to help secure design funding for the new academic building recently completed at the Cartersville location.

Watterson plans to spend her retirement years travelling, spending time with her grandchildren, working in volunteer roles for non-profits, and starting something she’s always wanted to do: extensive reading.

Following in the footsteps of one of her former colleagues and professors, Watterson wants to pick an author each year and read all of that author’s work from start to finish. For her first author, she’s chosen: Toni Morrison.

TAKING CHARGE New bachelor’s in business administration students attended orientation to kick off fall semester. GHC offers a BBA in healthcare management and logistics and supply chain management.

26 | Fall/Winter 2018

Being labeled a “professional student” might be considered a jab to some, but for Carla Patterson, it was a goal… sort of.

Although the slang term, which often labels students who perpetually take classes for many years with no desire to finish, might not be an exact definition for Carla, it does help describe her philosophy on teaching and developing her skills over the course of 25 years at Georgia Highlands College.

“Working at GHC means being part of a learning team, of course among students, but also among col-

leagues,” she said.

“Yes, our focus is to help students realize their full potentials via academics, but to do that, faculty and staff must achieve their full potentials by learning all they can about what they do.”

Carla started at GHC (then Floyd College) in 1993 with that same mentality, beginning as a part-time Instructor of Developmental English.

She then served as Extended Learning Academic Specialist and as Director of Extended Learning where she started the Georgia Highlands Television station (then Floyd College Television) with George Pullen (former professor of history and founding member of the college), which ran programming 24/7.

In 1999, she began teaching again while GHC congratulates the following employees who retired during 2018. serving as Director of Extended Learning, Thank you for your years of service and dedication to our students, and then in 2001, she assumed a full-time our college, and our mission.

Instructional Technology and English position.

She earned tenure track status in 2004, was awarded tenure in 2008, and attained Professor rank in 2016.

She was awarded the Wesley C. Walraven DALE CARROLL BILL COX SANDIE DAVIS Faculty Award from GHC at the 2018 graduaAssociate Professor Grounds Maintenance Registrar tion.

12 years Supervisor 14 years 25 years “I always said that I wish I could be a student my whole life. As I look back at my GHC ANDY DAWSON DORIS JABLONSKI BRUCE JONES career, I know I was.”

Professor Administrative Professor As can be expected of an English teacher, 12 years Assistant 20 years Carla has collected a number of red pens over 10 years the years. She started collecting her expired pens about four years ago and plans to create a DIANE LANGSTON CATHY LEDBETTER SHERRY NEW makeshift clock out of them.

Senior Institutional Special Assistant to Faculty Affairs In addition to her clock, Carla has Research Analyst the President Specialist plans to travel, including trips to St. Louis, 16 years 15 years 26 years Albuquerque, Cumberland Island, and football tailgating weekends at her alma mater of RENVA WATTERSON CARLA PATTERSON SUSAN VINES Vice President of Professor Assistant Director Jacksonville State University.

Academic Affairs 25 years Libraries & College Carla retired from GHC with 25 years of 13 years Testing service to the college.

Congratulations!

2018 Faculty/Staff Retirees

25 years

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Retiree Spotlight

Longtime faculty member retires from GHC with 25 years of service

Academic Spotlight

Dental hygiene program gives students real world experience with volunteer initiatives Georgia Highlands College’s dental hygiene program is more than classes, textbooks, and labs.

Students get real world experience in the best way possible: volunteering to provide free oral health care to the community.

“It is important for our students and our community for our students to go outside the classroom to meet people and identify the needs of populations that do not have full access to preventive care, and to bring those populations into our clinic for care when possible,” said Assistant Professor Regina Gupta.

“We want every citizen in our community to establish care with a local dental practice. However, when they cannot, we believe our students have a unique opportunity to provide preventive care.”

Recently, dental hygiene students took advantage of a volunteer opportunity to do just this. They organized a visit from residents of Hickory Log House in Cartersville, which is a personal care home for men with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Gupta and Dean of Health Sciences Michelle Boyce worked with Hickory Log House to have 20 residents visit GHC’s dental hygiene students for oral care.

“This was an excellent opportunity to increase access to care for a dentally underserved population and for our students to gain experience in providing oral health care for patients with special needs,” Gupta said.

Under the direction of Kristin Bauman, First Year Clinic Coordinator, students also recently participated in an event called “BLESS Weekend,” volunteering to perform oral cancer screenings for Bartow county residents.

“BLESS Weekend” is a community outreach event that features health screenings, children’s activities, food and resources. The event is organized

by The Bless Coalition and was held at the Allatoona Resource Center in Acworth.

Dental hygiene students are also active in rotations at the Harbin Clinic Medical Oncology Center,

28 | Fall/Winter 2018

giving them the opportunity to interact with patients who are receiving treatment, primarily in the chemotherapy area of the clinic.

“We talk to patients about oral health and any problems they are experiencing. We hand out extrasoft toothbrushes, pamphlets, and products for dry mouth,” Gupta said. “Students have the opportunity to learn through this service-learning activity, gaining insight that will help them care for their own patients after graduation. The patients at Harbin in turn receive support and guidance with their oral health at a time when they are vulnerable to oral health problems related to cancer treatment.”

But not every trip out of the classroom has dental hygiene students polishing their skills. Professors also make time in the semester for students to visit the Capitol to meet with the Georgia Dental Hygienist’s Association, learn about new related legislation, and meet their legislators.

“We are very passionate at GHC about providing preventive oral health care in our communities and about teaching our students to do the same,” Gupta said. “We hope that our students discover a passion for volunteering within their future profession, as well.”

Susan Claxton shows off a tattoo of an anklet with a starfish pendant as she explains the story of the starfish.

It goes something like this: a boy is frantically throwing starfish on the shore back into the ocean when a man walks up and asks him what he is doing. The boy explains the tide is receding, and if the starfish don’t make it out with the tide, they’ll die. The man tells the boy he’ll never be able to save them all and points out the miles of beach littered with starfish. The boy replied by picking up one, throwing it, and saying, “I made a difference to that one.”

If you ask Susan, nothing embodies her life and mission more than this story. She has made it her personal goal to help as many people as she can and to help people learn how to help others.

She wants to be a light to those in dark moments… because she was alone when it happened to her.

In 1983, her son was stillborn.

She remembers being rushed down the hospital hall to an ultrasound room. It was her, the doctor, and a nurse. She felt alone in the cold room as the doctor pointed out the baby’s organs on the screen.

“So, I asked him, ‘Is everything okay?’ and he said, ‘No, there’s no heartbeat.’ I remember a tear rolling down my cheek and nobody said anything. I didn’t feel like anybody cared… it was so sterile… it was just unreal.”

The hospital staff attempted to call her family, but no one

answered. Everyone was on their way to the hospital expecting she would deliver soon.

“I went into shock. I remember lying in bed and saying, ‘I need Steven. It’s time to feed him,’ because I had already named him, and they told me, ‘Susan, he’s not here.’”

Later, they brought Steven to her, so she could hold him a while.

“After all that happened, I literally shut down.”

But one day while Susan was at church, she learned that one of the girls who was attending was deaf.

The choir director explained that the girl couldn’t hear anything and was praying that someone might start attending the church who knew how to sign.

“This was right after my son died, and it felt like this was what I was meant to do.”

Susan’s church paid for her to attend GHC (then Floyd Junior College) to take classes on sign language. But after she learned and started helping, she wanted to do more. It was helping her to help others. So, she went on to graduate from GHC and then transferred to Georgia State where she earned her master’s in human services.

Shortly after she graduated, she returned to work at GHC (Floyd College) and eventually became the director of human services.

She wanted to make sure she could teach others how to effectively help others going through dark moments like she had been through with her son.

“I cannot appreciate this college as a student or as a faculty member more. I can remember the first graduation I attended. I sat there and watched my human service students cross that stage and I cried,” she said. “It’s amazing to me, if I had

not started here, I don’t know where I’d be today.”

While working at GHC, Susan’s daughter, Felicia, contracted a rare heart virus at 13 and had to have a heart transplant. Although the procedure went as planned, her body eventually rejected the new heart. In 1999, shortly after graduating high school, Susan’s daughter died at 18.

She said the college supported her in a way she can’t describe, and she wasn’t alone when her second child died like she had felt with her first.

“This is the kind of climate GHC has,” she said. “We truly care about one another. That’s the kind of place this is. I felt like as soon as I walked through the doors here, I knew I was home. This place has my heart.”

Soon after, human services students worked to put together the Felicia Claxton Memorial Scholarship, which is an ongoing Foundation scholarship for human services students at GHC. Susan proudly continues to give to the GHC Foundation and plans to for the rest of her life.

“I truly believe that everyone at GHC generally wants our students to succeed,” she said. “I want to put my money here to help support that effort. GHC is the place where I want my money to go. I give to GHC because my heart lives here.

This is an amazing place. I can’t imagine being anywhere else or supporting any other cause. This is my home. It truly is.”

Susan, who goes by Dr. C to her students, recently completed her suicide prevention specialist course and passed her exam for the American Association of Suicidology. She is now the college and university suicide prevention specialist for GHC.

highlands.edu | 29

Faculty Spotlight

Charging up the light in the darkness

Maggie Schuyler has joined Georgia Highlands College as its new director of admissions to work with future students and the community, as the GHC Admissions team launches a revamped campus tour program called Charger Tours.

Schuyler graduated from Georgia Southern University with a master’s degree in higher education administration. Prior to GHC, she worked as the assistant director of admissions at Middle Georgia State University.

Originally from Moultrie, Georgia, she has over 10 years of higher education experience under her belt and is excited about her new position at GHC. “There is a sense of family here,” she said. “My goal is to increase awareness of the great educational opportunities that GHC has to offer its students.”

One way the Admissions team is opening up GHC’s locations throughout Northwest Georgia in Rome, Cartersville, Marietta, Dallas, and Douglasville is with the new campus tour program called Charger Tours.

Senior Admissions Counselor Maggie Jackson says the new tour program is a “great way to get an intimate look at GHC.” “We keep the maximum registration numbers low enough to allow for quality, one-on-one interac-

tions,” she said. “We hope that each potential student leaves feeling how excited we would be to include them in our GHC family.”

Jackson explained students can easily sign up for a Charger Tour by filling out a form at visit.highlands. edu where they can list which location they would like to visit and receive parking and sign-in instructions.

Charger Tours begin with GHC’s “Taking Charge” video and a brief admissions presentation, then participants are guided around campus by current GHC students.

To learn more about opportunities to visit GHC or to begin working with an admissions counselor one-on-one via a personalized website, please visit: go.highlands.edu

BLUE AND ORANGE ON PARADE Employees from the Douglasville site showed their school spirit and represented GHC in the City of Douglasville’s Independance Day parade.

30 | Fall/Winter 2018

MEET OUR ADMISSIONS COUNSELORS

Staff Spotlight

Admissions team launches Charger Tours, brings on new director of admissions

Maggie Jackson Cartersville Site

Ali Robinson Floyd Campus

Amina Blackmon Douglasville Site

Lauren West Paulding Site

Anna Daniels Marietta Site

Breanna Moss Dual Enrollment

Charger

GHC student takes classes during the day and drives over 100 mph at night A crate late model race car bullets into the curve of a dirt race track in Georgia. Over 2,000 pounds of chassis, shocks, springs, tires, and sheet metal body careen at over 100 mph. The turn is so sharp, the car drifts sideways with its front toward the interior of the track and its bumper hissing inches from the wall. Over 6,800 rpms let the driver know he’s getting every bit of the 475 horsepower his engine has been fine-tuned to reach…

This is a typical Saturday for Georgia Highlands College student Logan Palmer.

When Logan was young, he raced karts on a pro circuit throughout the South. When he turned 15, he took a seat behind the wheel of a crate late model race car at a dirt track racing event at the Dixie Speedway in Woodstock…and he hasn’t stopped since.

“To be a driver, it’s an honor and a blessing to get to perform and race and have the ability to go out and do something not everyone gets the opportunity to do,” he said. “When you strap in and hear the engine roar, you feel like you’re a part of the car.”

Logan has been travelling across Georgia racing for several years now.

“It’s fun travelling around racing on different tracks. Every track feels different. You feel a lot of g-force. This car accelerates instantly, and your reaction time has to be perfect,” he said. “You have all these emotions going, but the actual feeling is indescribable.”

Logan snagged his first win in 2018. He said winning is all about seconds and the driver’s precision.

“Time is key. Time goes down to the hundredths, tenths of hundredths of a second. Time is critical.”

Despite how much skill it takes to race and win as a driver, Logan doesn’t take all the credit. He points out the car’s nose, body, tires, springs, shocks, and engine

in his garage near Resaca, Georgia.

“There is no part of this car somebody did not put their hands on. Everything is custom, completely custom. There’s a lot of geometry and math that goes into making this car go,” he said. “Everything is made, adjusted, and customized to handle the speed and turns, and it all makes a huge difference. It takes everyone to make this car run.”

Logan stressed the importance of his crew and the preparation needed to make it into the victory lane.

“You have to trust your car. You have to trust the people setting up your car. And you have to trust yourself, because when a driver goes into the corner of a track hitting 100 mph, they have to trust all of it to get out of that corner. You can’t drive your car without that trust. That trust is going to help you take the car to the extreme and get the job done.”

Logan currently takes classes at GHC’s Cartersville location. He is working on his business degree and is glad he chose to start at GHC. “I chose to go to GHC because it’s close to home. I can still go to school, I can still work, and it also gives me the ability to work on my car and be close to our shop,” he said. “I also have time to do what has to be done to maintain the car and get it ready to go to the race track each week.”

Logan said GHC’s caring faculty has really resonated with him.

“I was struggling in one class and my professor met with me after the class and that really helped me,” he said. “With me, that’s how I learn, having that one-onone connection with my teacher.”

To follow Logan or attend one of his races, you can follow him on Facebook at Logan Palmer Racing.

highlands.edu | 31

Student Spotlight

The fastest

Alumni Spotlight

Hard work pays off!

FOUNDATION CAMP VOLUNTEER SHARES HIS STORY WITH CAMPERS Chukwuemeka Nwokike was born in Nigeria. But around here, he’s called Dr. Ike. He’s sitting on some bleachers in the gym when five or six kids he’s been mentoring for two weeks dive on top of him. Foundation Camp is coming to a close. He’s spent most of his time connecting with the group of boys between the ages of 10 and 14. His goal: make a difference in their lives.

For Dr. Ike, support and encouragement are paths to success… and not to mention a lot of hard work.

Dr. Ike moved to Georgia from Nigeria in 1999. He was the oldest of six kids, so he spent his entire life taking care of his siblings. And it stuck. He was drawn to the medical field where the focus is taking care of people.

His first job in health care was as a janitor. He eventually became a medical assistant after obtaining a certificate from Everest Institute.

He went on to work at a pain management clinic, where things were really good for him. In fact, the best they had ever been.

“I worked there for a year,” he said. “They encouraged me to go back to school, but I was scared. I loved my job. It was the most money I had ever made, and I was working in an office.”

In 2009, Dr. Ike started taking classes at Georgia Highlands College. He decided he would advance his medical career and become a nurse.

And he’ll be the first to tell you he didn’t come thinking anybody would help him achieve his dream.

“I came to GHC with the mindset that I had to do this all on my own, but instead everyone was encouraging me. Many of the professors worked with me even after I left, keeping up with me and helping me. That’s why I did so well at GHC. I met a lot of great people

32 | Fall/Winter 2018

here.”

That encouragement and fostering was enough for Dr. Ike to earn his nursing degree from GHC and start the road toward becoming a medical doctor. He went on to graduate from Morehouse School of Medicine in 2018. He is currently working through his residency in internal medicine at Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta.

He shares his story with the kids at Foundation Camp, and he works to show them the same kind of support he was shown over the years. He wants to be the living proof of what they can achieve.

“We get to take kids in and spend two weeks with them, and you see so much change in them in those two weeks. You can really make a difference in their lives,” he said. “It’s like me when I came to GHC, I thought I was alone, and then I met people who supported me and wanted to support me.”

The camp, which is a partnership between the 100 Black Men of Rome-Northwest Georgia and Georgia Highlands College, is funded primarily by the GHC Foundation and other donors, giving students the opportunity to attend the camp free of charge, including transportation and a breakfast and lunch.

The camp focuses on academics, athletics and enrichment courses intended to build self-respect and confidence, and to allow the young men to experience college.

“It’s our responsibility to help them. There’s a lot of fun activities and a lot of learning activities, but we’re here to help them grow. It’s necessary,” he said. “That’s why I make time to come to this camp. I’ll always make time to come help. That’s how much I believe in this camp.”

Alumni Spotlight

Alumni and friends update

What’s happened in your life since you attended/graduated from GHC? We want to hear about it! Share news of your career, family life, and personal accomplishments with your fellow alumni by sending an update to Cindy Gomez at cgomez@highlands.edu with information listed below, or mail completed form to GHC Office of Advancement, 3175 Cedartown Hwy, Rome GA 30161, and “like” us on Facebook. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

Full name_______________________________________Maiden name _____________________ Spouse’s name___________________________________________________________________ Mailing address ____________________________City__________State______Zip code _______ Primary phone (

q

) _______________ Primary email address ____________________________

Yes, I want to receive E-News and updates.

(Please check one)

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Alumni

GHC/Floyd College graduation year or year(s) attended____________________________________ Major____________________________ Other degrees__________________________________ Current occupation_____________________________Employer __________________________ News/updates (promotions/awards/weddings/arrivals/deaths): _____________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________

q

Friend of GHC

Occupation_______________________________Employer________________________________ Signature____________________________________________Date________________________ By signing this form, you have authorized the college to make changes to your biographical data and understand it may appear in both print and online.

In Memoriam RETIREES LANELLE DANIEL SEPTEMBER 9, 2018 SUZANNE BLACK OCTOBER 10, 2018

Hello Baby!

Demauris M. Morgan and Bria Camp, welcomed a daughter, Yanni Brielle, June 5, 2018

Ben and Amanda West welcomed a daughter, Savannah Leann, September 17, 2018

highlands.edu | 33

Alumni & Friends Updates

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!

Foundation Spotlight

Introducing GHC’s new Corporate and Foundation Partnership Program Student success is at the heart of all we do at Georgia Highlands College. Unfortunately, for many students a lack of funds can pose a significant barrier to earning a degree – or to starting college to acquire the degree in demand in today’s economic environment. By earning a degree, these students have tremendous potential to change not only their lives, but their communities as well. Educational attainment is an economic benefit that provides a boost to the student, to our surrounding communities, and subsequent generations. It is also appealing to business and industry seeking to open an operation or expand into an area.

By supporting GHC, you are supporting the future and growth of the local communities we serve. A student’s success is as much about their status after graduation as it is while they are attending school. In order to curtail and (as much as possible) eliminate student debt, a comprehensive effort is underway to ensure that a college education is affordable for all students and that students are provided with financial and

academic resources to stay in school and graduate in a timely manner.

To celebrate the opening of GHC’s newest academic building, we are launching our new Corporate and Foundation Partnerships. We are seeking your support to help showcase this new building and the impact it will have on our local communities. Your support will go a long way to provide financial support that is critical to students’ ability to enroll, progress, and graduate. It should be noted, in a time when one hears about the escalating costs of college, students attending GHC can still complete their full two years and earn an associate degree for approximately $8,000 (tuition and fees). This is a tremendous benefit for students and their families, and your scholarship donations go a long way for a number of students!

To learn more about GHC’s Corporate and Foundation Partnership Program, contact Vice President of Advancement and Executive Director of the Foundation Mary Transue at mtransue@highlands.edu or 706-802-5457.

We would like to thank our new corporate and foundation partners for their support of Georgia Highlands College and the impact their contribution will have on our local communities.

34 | Fall/Winter 2018

Luke Lester, Chairman Bond, James Bond Inc. Dee Bishop, Chair-Elect Dellinger Management Services, LLC Jeff Watkins, Past Chairman Jeffrey A. Watkins, P.C. Gregory F. Patton, Treasurer Patton Financial Associates Mary Transue, Executive Director GHC Vice President - Advancement

taking charge - changing lives Fund an education. Fund a dream. Fund a future.

The GHC Foundation has been committed to supporting the college and the students of Northwest Georgia since 1973. Your gift to the Foundation combines with others to have a powerful impact on the lives and future of our students.

Sarah H. Burkhalter David Caswell Melanie C. Collier James Jarrett Mary Louise Lever Steve Moore Randy Quick John Quinlivan

ANNUAL GIFTS OF ALL SIZES HELP SUPPORT:

• Scholarships • Programs like the Academic Success Center or Foundation Camp • The college’s community and civic engagement • Athletics

Matt Sirmans Sue Spivey Tommy Strickland Mark Weaver

Did you realize a scholarship of $200 can frequently make the difference in whether or not a student is able to complete their degree?

With the low cost of tuition and fees at GHC, not only can a student obtain an associate degree for less than $8,000, your contribution to scholarships goes a long way to meeting the needs of our students.

Give today to the Georgia Highlands College Foundation and your tax deductible gift, no matter the size, will change lives.

Simply go to highlands.edu/givetoday, complete the form or mail your gift directly to: GHC Foundation Office • 3175 Cedartown Highway Rome, GA 30161 Should you wish to speak to someone about funding scholarships or supporting specific programs, please call Mary Transue at 706-802-5457.

If you wish to honor someone you care about by making a donation in their honor or memory, contact Cindy Gomez at cgomez@highlands.edu.

An acknowledgement note of your donation will be sent to the individual you wish to honor, advising them of your gift (without a dollar amount) and explaining that their gift will help change a student’s life at GHC.

Dr. Donald Green, Ex-Officio GHC President Jeff Davis, Ex-Officio GHC Vice President Finance & Administration Donny Densson, Ex-Officio Alumni Association Representative GHC ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD MEMBERS Donnie Denson Chairman Harold Boyd Retiree Representative Susan Claxton Michele Crowe Caleb Freeman Dan Knowles Dr. Lynn Plunkett Steve White

highlands.edu | 35

Foundation Spotlight

GIVE TODAY

GHC FOUNDATION BOARD OF TRUSTEES

ChargerNews News Charger

Charger Baseball GHC’s baseball team saw big gains on and off the field this past year. The Chargers had their second winningest season in program history (29-23), and the team was named the NJCAA Academic Team of the Year with a team GPA of 3.16.

Drew Wilson and Alex Holdbrooks were both NJCASS All Academic Team mentions, while Wilson was additionally named the Male Scholar Athlete of the Year for the second straight year.

The team also had two All GCAA Players in Parker Orr and Nick Piccapietra.

On top of beating national powerhouses Walters State and Sinclair Community College, the Chargers saw Noah Bryant drafted in the 17th round by Kansas City and Lavoisier Fisher drafted in 37th round by Pittsburg.

A few school records were broken for the team as a whole: batting average (.310), doubles (106), slugging percentage (.448), and extra base hits (148).

Individual players Orr and Bryson Horne set school records for slugging percentage (.607) and extra base hits (24) and a record for walks (38) respectively.

All 8 of the team’s sophomores signed scholarships to play at four-year schools: Zachery Miller - Mercer University, NCAA DI Drew Wilson - Young Harris College, NCAA DII Tyler Sellers - Georgia State University, NCAA DI Matthew Norton - Presbyterian College, NCAA DI Alex Holdbrooks University of West Georgia, NCAA DII Nick Piccapietra Georgia State University, NCAA DI Miguel Urbina - Georgia Southwestern State University, NCAA DII Cameron Hearn Alabama State University, NCAA DI

36 36 || Fall/Winter Fall/Winter 2017 2018

2018 Season Recap

Charger Softball The softball team charged into the 2018 NJCAA Region XVII Championship series and made it further than any previous GHC team in the Region XVII Tournament.

The Chargers advanced with determination and won their first two games in the final four double-elimination tournament, but the team was ultimately upset by the eventual South Georgia champions, ending in a runner-up finish.

The Chargers had an overall record of 35-24 and a conference finish of 17-11.

The 35 wins, coupled with the 43 wins in 2017, made the graduating returners the most winningest class in program history (Shayla Smith, Micayla McCoy, Mackenzy McFarland). The team broke eight single-season and career records including: Career Runs (Smith, 104), Season Stolen Bases (Smith, 37), Season Doubles (Alia Booth, 23), Season Sac Fly’s (Kindell Reeves, 5), Career Sac Hits (Hannah Wills, 36), Career Games Started (McCoy, 57), Season Wins (McCoy, 25), and Career Wins (McCoy, 44).

Eight Chargers were placed on the NJCAA All-Region Team (Booth, McFarland, McCoy, Smith, Reeves, Sally Fairbank, Sierrah Gani, and Mya Adams), and McCoy, Adams and Emma McDonald made NJCAA Region XVII All-Tournament Team for stellar performances during the final four.

Nationally, Alia Booth made the NFCA AllSoutheastern 2nd Team, and was named to the NJCAA Flo Softball Top 100, ranked the #73 best JUCO player in the Nation. Shayla Smith joined alumni Rebecca Meade as an Arthur Ashe, Jr Scholar-Athlete for outstanding performances on the field and in the classroom.

Academically, 14 of the 18 roster players finished above 3.0 GPAs and earned the Georgia Highlands Athletics Academic Team, earning over 20 academic awards between the GCAA, NFCA, and NJCAA. Most notably, seven athletes finished above 3.6 GPAs earning a spot on the NJCAA Academic All-American roster (Smith, McFarland, Gani, Reeves, Lexi Palazzo, Natasha Lajara, and Mackenzie Vanderhorst).

Four graduating sophomores would continue their playing careers at four-year programs, including infielders Alia Booth and Shayla Smith playing at NCAA DI Georgia Southern University, outfielder Mackenzy McFarland playing for NCAA DII Georgia Southwestern, and pitcher Micayla McCoy playing for NCAA DIII Brevard College.

Six athletes earned associate degrees from GHC: Smith (biology), Booth (general studies), Bender (general studies), McFarland (business), McCoy (general studies), and Henderson (general studies).

highlands.edu highlands.edu||37 37

ChargerNews News Charger

2018 Season Recap

Charger ChargerNews News

Women’s Basketball

Georgia Highlands College women’s basketball is led by Head Coach Brandan Harrell, Assistant Coach Jason Carpenter, Assistant Coach Consuelo Saxton, and Assistant Coach Erick Burkhaulter. The team competes in Region XVII of the Georgia Collegiate Athletic Association of the National Junior College Athletic Association Division 1. The team is based out of the Floyd Campus and plays all home games at the Floyd Campus Gymnasium in Rome. For a full game schedule, team roster, and season updates, visit ghcchargers.com. Watch for a basketball season recap in the next issue of the Highlander.

Men’s Basketball

Georgia Highlands College men’s basketball is led by Head Coach and GHC Athletic Director Phil Gaffney and Assistant Coaches J.J. Merritt, Greg Schiefen, and John Williams. The team competes in Region XVII of the Georgia Collegiate Athletic Association of the National Junior College Athletic Association Division 1. The team is based out of the Floyd Campus and plays all home games at the Floyd Campus Gymnasium in Rome. For a full game schedule, team roster, and season updates, visit ghcchargers.com.

Watch for a basketball season recap in the next issue of the Highlander.

38||Fall/Winter Fall/Winter2017 2018 38

Charger News

GHC Dental Hygiene School

DENTAL CLINIC Appointments for adults and children age 3 and older include:

Blood Pressure Screening

Oral Cancer Screening

Periodontal Evaluation

Cleaning & Polishing of Teeth X-Rays (if needed)

Cleaning of Dentures & Partials

Brushing & Flossing Instruction

Sealants ($15 extra per tooth)

FEES: Adults Regular Cleaning & X-rays - $55 Deep Cleaning & X-rays - $95

Children 12 and under: Cleaning & X-rays - $35

Morning & Afternoon Appointments Available 706-295-6760 James D. Maddox Heritage Hall 415 East 3rd Avenue • Rome, GA highlands.edu | 39 highlands.edu

TAKE A CHARGER TOUR. Charger Tours are a great way to learn how GHC has become the best fit for over 6,000 students across Northwest Georgia. From historic buildings to a 20-acre tract with a lake to a 55,000-square-foot student center, each GHC location offers a unique atmosphere and experience. Take Charge of your future and schedule your visit today!

Sign up today at visit.highlands.edu

706-802-5000

University System of Georgia

highlands.edu