UNG Magazine - Back to Campus (Working and Learning in the New Normal)

STAY SAFE AND HEALTHY SOCIAL G DISTANCSTIN ANCE OF 6 FEET A MINIMUM DI

FACE COVERINGS S REQUIRED INDOOR

WASH HANDS OFTEN STAY HOME IF YOU ARE SICK

BACK TO CAMPUS WORKING AND LEARNING IN THE NEW NORMAL

OPPORTUNITIES ABOUND IN BLUE RIDGE

FULBRIGHTS DREAM OF DISTANT LANDS

LUCKY STARS

Head in the stars.

Photo by Peggy Cozart

North Georgia Astronomical Observatory, UNG’s new stateof-the-art, twin-domed facility, will serve students, faculty and the community for generations to come. Student telescope operator Joseph Froetschel, a senior majoring in physics, is gaining valuable research experience collecting and analyzing data.

Photo by Peggy Cozart

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Features 16 Fulbrights dream of distant lands

Five UNG alumni awarded prestigious Fulbright scholarship

24 Welcome back,

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Nighthawks

Students, faculty and staff return to a new normal on campus.

34 Opportunities

abound in Blue Ridge

Stand-alone campus, opened in fall 2020, allows for additional classes, more places to study.

Departments

University of North Georgia Magazine is published semi-annually by the University of North Georgia.

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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

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AROUND UNG

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CORPS OF CADETS

E D I T O R I A L S TA F F Sylvia Carson, APR, editor Edie Rogers, writer J.K. Devine, writer Clark Leonard, writer Jill Johnson, contributor David Jones, designer Peggy Cozart, photographer

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SPORTS ROUNDUP

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CLASS NOTES

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IN MEMORIAM

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C O N TAC T Division of University Relations 82 College Circle Dahlonega, GA 30597 706-864-1950 universityrelations@ung.edu

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UNGALUMNI You are a part of something larger than yourself.

EVENTS

VOLUNTEER

MEMBERSHIP

NETWORK

IN-PERSON & VIRTUAL

CONTACT US

ungalumni.org alumni@ung.org 706.864.1547

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Nighthawks Together

“While health protocols to protect the UNG community ... have temporarily changed the college experience, our students, faculty, staff, and alumni have risen to the challenges of this extraordinary time.”

As I reflect on the past several months, especially the weeks since the fall semester began, I am overwhelmed with gratitude and pride. While health protocols to protect the UNG community—including wearing masks, social distancing and limitations on gatherings—have temporarily changed the college experience, our students, faculty, staff, and alumni have risen to the challenges of this extraordinary time.

Preparation for fall semester began last spring, with the goal of returning to on-campus instruction with social distancing measures in place, and we have been successful in mitigating the spread of the virus on our campuses.

This edition of UNG Magazine highlights how our students and faculty have navigated new instructional formats and an altered campus environment and how the members of the UNG community have stepped up in big ways to help our students and the region we serve.

I would especially like to thank our alumni and donors. Even though they have not been able to gather for milestone reunions and area events this fall, they have rallied to support students affected by COVID-19. The UNG Foundation, which provides philanthropic support for student scholarships, funded more than $330,000 in grants to 1,000 students who were not eligible for federal aid and still had unmet financial need this fall.

Support like that sustains UNG as a leading regional university that places its students at the forefront. Did you know that alumni giving is a key element in the U.S. News & World Report annual Best Colleges ranking and that so many of you have helped improve our rankings? UNG is ranked 15th in this year’s list of Best Colleges among public regional universities in the South and is the top-ranked regional public university in Georgia on the list of “Best Value Schools” in the South. Our continued ascent and consistent presence in national rankings like this are tributes to the success of our outstanding students, the dedication of our faculty and staff, and valuable supporters like you.

As we plan for spring semester, we remain focused on providing as many opportunities as possible for our students to engage in the classroom and in campus activities, while adhering to health and safety protocols. I am deeply grateful to you for your support of UNG and our students. This has been a year like no other, and I am confident that as Nighthawks Together, we will continue caring, helping, and engaging even in difficult times.

Sincerely,

Bonita C. Jacobs, Ph.D. President

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UNG rises to 15th among South’s best public universities

AMONG SOUTH’S

BEST PUBLIC REGIONAL UNIVERSITIES

U.S. NEWS & WORLD REPORT 2021

UNG rose to 15th place among public regional universities in the South on the U.S. News & World Report 2021 Best Colleges list, up one spot from the previous year’s ranking.

In the magazine’s annual ranking of universities and colleges, UNG is also the top-ranked public university in Georgia on the Best Value Schools list of Regional Universities in the South.

U.S. News & World Report earlier in the year ranked UNG’s Cottrell MBA as one of the best part-time public MBA programs in Georgia.

Built for working professionals, the Cottrell MBA offers evening classes at UNG’s Cumming and Gainesville campuses. The part-time program is a convenient option for students seeking to further their careers on a reasonable

budget and maintain full-time employment.

UNG was also ranked third among public universities in Georgia, preceded

by Georgia Tech and the University of Georgia, in Money magazine’s list of Best Colleges released in August. That list focused on a combination of strength of education, affordability and outcomes such as earnings and employment.

Boren Scholarship winners study language, culture Three UNG students have earned the David L. Boren Scholarship, which pays up to $20,000 for students to spend an academic year studying less commonly taught languages in world regions that are critical to U.S. interests.

Rachel Wilson, a senior from Stone Mountain, Georgia, pursuing a finance degree and a minor in Chinese, is the first UNG student to use a Boren Scholarship to study at the new Chinese Flagship Domestic Immersion Capstone at the Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center in Monterey, California. Her capstone

has begun online, but once COVID-19 health and safety restrictions allow, she will continue the program on-site.

Elias Keif, a senior pursuing a degree in East Asian studies with a concentration in Chinese and a minor in Chinese Flagship, will use the

Phillip Ly

Boren to help fund his capstone year in Taiwan starting in January.

Phillip Ly, a sophomore cadet pursuing a strategic and security studies degree with a language concentration in Japanese, declined the scholarship.

Elias Keif

Rachel Wilson

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New Bachelor of Music degree strikes a chord with students

Criminal justice, UNG’s first Ph.D. program

Cutline

Dr. Douglas Orr

UNG’s first Ph.D. program will help meet a growing national demand for criminal justice instructors.

The University System of Georgia Board of Regents approved a doctoral degree in criminal justice with a concentration in intelligence that is scheduled to launch in fall 2021 at UNG. It will become only the second criminal justice Ph.D. in Georgia, alongside Georgia State University “This degree is hugely significant for UNG because, while we have three existing doctoral degrees, this is our first Ph.D. and represents a significant benchmark in the growth of research and graduate programs at the university,” said Dr. Chaudron Gille, UNG provost and senior vice president for Academic Affairs.

The program will train intelligence analysts, who can go back to their law enforcement agencies and implement research-based policies that can lead to better results. Those who earn the degree also can teach criminal justice at the university level. According to the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of postsecondary teachers in criminal justice is projected to grow 15% from 2016 to 2026.

A recent survey of UNG’s Master of Science in criminal justice students showed 87.5% were interested in a Ph.D. program in the field, and 75% of those were “very interested” in the possibility of studying at UNG. Nearly all respondents pointed to cost and online availability as deciding factors.

“The online nature of this Ph.D. program will attract working professionals already established in their careers and communities, catering to the lifestyles of upcoming generations and adding a mixture of flexibility for working professionals,” Dr. Douglas Orr, head of UNG’s Criminal Justice department, said.

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UNG students pursuing music degrees now have the option for a Bachelor of Music degree that will allow for a more intensive study in music. The program explores new topics such as music entrepreneurship, digital audio production and design, film and video game music, and marching band techniques.

“The Bachelor of Music is considered more of a professional degree in the music industry,” said Dr. Benjamin Schoening, department head and associate professor of music Learn more here at UNG.

Center for Healthy Aging becomes Institute UNG ’s Center for Healthy Aging has grown into an institute.

Under the new designation, the institute oversees the gerontology academic programs, develops major programs of study and confers certificates and, eventually, degrees.

“We see a high need for academic programs focused on gerontology,” Dr. Pamela Elfenbein, director of the Institute for Healthy Aging , said. “Gerontology touches on all academic programs from engineering to nursing to art.”

UNG currently offers a trio of studies in gerontology, including an interdisciplinary gerontology minor, an undergraduate gerontology certificate and a graduate gerontology certificate. All courses are fully online.

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$1 million gift endows scholarships for Lumpkin County students

The late Thurman B. “Tut” Sanders and Rachael Sanders

GEN 1 program pairs students with mentors This fall marked the launch of the UNG GEN 1 program, which is designed to connect first-generation students with successful first-generation faculty and staff members through formal mentoring opportunities.

The program began its inaugural cohort with 40 trained mentors and 40 mentees in August.

“Mentors can eliminate the myths and stigmas around asking questions and align students with people who can answer them,” said Dr. Alyson Paul, who helped form the program and is associate vice president of Student Affairs and Dean of Students on the Gainesville Campus.

“Our mentors will make these students feel welcome and feel like they belong.”

UNG has received a $1 million gift from the estate of Rachael D. Sanders to support the J. Fred Sanders Scholarship endowment.

The funds are expected to increase the number of scholarships for recent graduates of Lumpkin County High School starting in 2022. Four students received the scholarship for the 2020-21 school year.

The endowment was created in October 1999 with an original gift of $51,992 by brothers J. Howard and Thurman B. “Tut” Sanders in honor

of their late father, Fred Sanders. The late “Tut” Sanders, who died in 2011, graduated from UNG in 1942 with an associate degree and was the husband of Rachael Sanders.

“It is a great example of the long-term nature of philanthropic relationships and how everyone at UNG plays a role,” Jeff Tarnowski, vice president for University Advancement , said. “Mr. Thurman Sanders entered as a freshman in 1940 and graduated from UNG in 1942. This gift was 80 years in the making.”

Physics majors win Goldwater Scholarship Two UNG students won the Barry Goldwater Scholarship in spring 2020.

The country’s most prestigious undergraduate award in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), the Goldwater Scholarship scholarship is given to the most promising young scientists and future researchers.

Senior Amanda Ash of Woodstock, Georgia, and junior Tyler Wilson, of Cumming, Georgia, both pursuing physics degrees, were selected from a field of more than 1,300 nominees pursuing degrees in STEM fields.

Each Goldwater Scholar annually receives up to $7,500 to fund tuition, mandatory fees, books, and room and board.

The American Institution of Physics in September recognized UNG as a national top producer of undergraduate physics graduates.

SGA adopts unified leadership model The Student Government Associations on UNG’s campuses morphed from four individual governing bodies to a single unified entity this fall.

The merger began with the election of Jelma Flores-Mota serving as the first president of the merged SGA, with vice presidents elected to represent each of the five campuses.

“Even though each campus has its own nuances and culture, we are one UNG,” said Dr. James Conneely, vice president of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. “And a collective voice is a stronger one for the student body.”

Tyler Wilson

Amanda Ash

Jelma FloresMota, a junior pursuing a degree in political science with a pre-law concentration and a minor in public relations, is the first unified SGA president.

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Popular cyber camp expands to train teachers next summer UNG’s cybersecurity education summer programing continues to grow.

The National Security Agency’s GenCyber Program has awarded UNG more than $169,000 to host its fifth GenCyber Warrior Academy, offered free for high school students, in summer 2021. The grant also will fund an academy to give middle and high school teachers the tools to teach their students cyber skills.

Originally awarded for summer 2020 before the COVID-19 pandemic, the grant will provide cyber learning opportunities for 40 high school students and 24 teachers. The academies are set for June 10-19, 2021, on UNG’s Dahlonega Campus.

Apply here

UNG’s summer cyber camp will include teachers in 2021.

Three students win Department of Defense cyber scholarships

13 students earn sciencerelated summer internships and research opportunities

For the second year in a row, three UNG students received the Department of Defense (DOD) Cyber Scholarship. Two received the honor for the second time, while one is a new recipient.

Because of the National Security Agency’s security requirements, the recipients’ names are not released. However, the recipients include:

Thirteen UNG students earned internships or Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) this summer through the National Science Foundation or science-based centers.

The students were Aida Alarcon, Bailey Bullard, Lani Chastain, Skyler Hollers, Mark Leggiero, Ikechukwu Obi-Okoye, Grace Roa, Emily Shrewsbury, Suzy Steel, Brooke Tate, Tyler Wilson, and Grant Zacher.

Through their specific programs or REUs, the students worked on a research project with faculty and other researchers at a host school.

The students were granted stipends and, in many cases, assistance with housing and travel.

• A senior pursuing a degree in cybersecurity with a minor in business administration.

• A senior pursuing a degree in computer science with a concentration in information assurance and security.

• A senior pursuing degrees in cybersecurity and computer science with a concentration in information assurance and security.

UNG students have received eight DOD Cyber Scholarships in a three-year span. A total of 186 students nationwide were awarded the scholarships for 2020-21. Recipients receive funding for one year that covers tuition, fees and books. They also receive a $25,000 stipend for a laptop and living expenses.

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Bunton leads physics and astronomy

Dr. Patrick Bunton is the new department head of physics and astronomy, succeeding Dr. Richard Prior, who retired in the spring.

Before joining UNG, Bunton was chair and professor of the physics department at William Jewell College in Missouri and associate professor at Austin Peay State University in Tennessee.

Bunton earned his bachelor’s degree in physics and mathematics from East Tennessee State University and his master’s and doctoral degrees in physics from Vanderbilt University.

16 students earn Gilman scholarships to study abroad Sixteen UNG students earned the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship in 2020. The grant program, which is administered by the U.S. Department of State, enables students of limited financial means to study or intern abroad and gain skills critical to U.S. national security and economic competitiveness.

Dr. Anastasia Lin, assistant vice president for research and engagement and associate professor of English at UNG, said these 16 recipients with the 11 earlier winners equaled a new record for UNG. She said many students who applied for the early award in fall 2019 and didn’t receive one reapplied in spring 2020.

“We had triple the number of students who normally apply in the fall,” she said.

UNG was a national top producer of Gilman Scholars for the 2016-17 and 2017-18 academic years. Since the inception of the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program in 2001, more than 31,000 scholarships have been awarded to students participating in study abroad programs and internships around the world.

Jayme McGhan directs theatre department and Gainesville Theatre Alliance Jayme McGhan is the new head of the Department of Theatre at UNG and also takes the reins as the artistic director of the Gainesville Theatre Alliance (GTA).

Gainesville Theatre Alliance is a one-of-a-kind, nationally recognized collaboration between the University of North Georgia and Brenau University.

McGhan, who was previously dean of the School of Fine Arts at Houston Baptist University, is a

nationally recognized playwright and resident playwright emeritus with Chicago Dramatists. He is the author of 22 full-length plays that have been widely produced and developed across the country.

“My heart belongs to theater, and I wanted to get back to it after being a dean,” he said. “The artistic director position, as well as the department chair position, scratch both the artistic and administrative itches for me.”

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UNG commissions 72 officers in spring, more than 100 for year

Commissioning ceremonies held in May adhered to health and safety practices to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Second Lieutenant John Perry saw many events during his senior year altered due to the COVID-19 pandemic. From the Military Ball to Alumni Weekend to commencement, a litany of events were changed by social distancing and shelter-in-place orders aimed at reducing the spread of the virus. Even Perry’s wedding this summer was adjusted to be a much smaller event.

In light of these many adjustments,

Perry was all the more grateful he was still able to commission at the Pennington Military Leadership Center in May. He was one of 72 UNG cadets to commission as second lieutenants into the Army or Georgia National Guard. Eight of those individual ceremonies were held virtually while the in-person ceremonies were spaced out and the number of visitors was limited to adhere to social distancing practices.

“It was important to hold these individual commissioning ceremonies to recognize the hard work of our new second lieutenants,” Col. Joshua D. Wright, professor of military science, said. “This year our primary goal was to maintain the health and safety of our cadets, cadre, family, and supporters.”

UNG commissioned 106 Army cadets this year, and anticipates meeting its commissioning mission in each of the next four years.

Cadet wins scholarship from armed forces group for second-straight year This spring Cadet Desmond Henderson became the first backto-back winner of the Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association (AFCEA) Atlanta chapter’s annual $1,500 scholarship.

Henderson, a junior from Tampa, Florida, pursuing a cybersecurity degree, said he didn’t feel worthy after winning the award in 2019, so he set out to prove AFCEA right for selecting him.

“I wanted to prove they could rely on their investment in me,” Henderson said.

Henderson, along with fellow cadet Ryan Fisher, launched a cybersecurity specialty unit within UNG’s Corps of

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Cadets during the 2019-20 school year.

They have especially sought to help freshman and sophomore cadets with their cyber skills through the work of the unit.

“It was my way of giving back to the Corps of Cadets and benefiting future leaders,” Henderson said.

AFCEA is a nonprofit membership association that was founded in 1946, and includes UNG as a member.

“Desmond is an outstanding example of the kind of cyber leaders UNG is producing,” said Dr. Bryson Payne, professor of computer science and director of UNG’s Center for Cyber Operations Education.

Alumnus Maj. Gen. Paul Calvert takes command of Operation Inherent Resolve

FROG Week looked different, but the mission of training leaders remained the same

New cadets underwent initial health screenings before FROG Week began, and wore masks and practiced social distancing throughout the fall semester.

Maj. Gen. Paul Calvert, ’88, is the third UNG graduate to serve as commander of the Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve. Calvert, who just received his third star, began the new role in September.

Operation Inherent Resolve is the multinational coalition of military forces with the mission to defeat the Islamic State in parts of Iraq and Syria.

“I’m very honored and humbled by the trust and confidence placed in me by the secretary of the Army and the chief of staff of the Army to lead and command Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve,” Calvert said.

“The command has a clear mission, a willing coalition and an able partner. I’m excited about the opportunity ahead.”

Retired Lt. Gen. James Terry, ’78, served as the first commander for Operation Inherent Resolve in 2014. Gen. Stephen Townsend, ’82, is the other UNG Corps of Cadets alumnus among the operation’s seven commanders.

Structure has always been part of Freshman Recruit Orientation Group (FROG) Week at UNG. That structure increased this year with social distancing, masks and other health and safety protocols implemented as the Corps of Cadets welcomed about 180 freshmen to campus for the August training event.

“FROG Week looked a little different this year because we’re following the COVID-19 guidelines to keep every cadet healthy and safe,” retired Col. Joseph Matthews, commandant of cadets, said. “What has not changed is that we’re still training the next generation of Army leaders.”

FROG Week, led by cadets with supervision from the commandant staff, helps transition the incoming cadets to the military lifestyle of the corps.

All FROGs received two black cloth masks and a medical screening before they could unload their belongings in a residence hall for move-in.

“Based on our structure, the Corps of Cadets is a well-equipped organization to usher in these new safety guidelines and protocols because we train our leaders to be very flexible and adaptable,” said Cadet Lt. Col. Alex Fernandez, brigade executive officer.

Masks are considered part of the cadets’ uniform this year.

Eve Harris, a freshman from Rochester, Minnesota, is pursuing a degree in modern languages with a Chinese language and literature concentration. She appreciated the chance to start her time at UNG with such a strenuous training.

“We’re all going through it together,” said Harris, who is part of UNG’s Chinese Language Flagship. “It’s not just me. It’s everybody.”

Watch Frog Week video

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Athletics director Lindsay Reeves to retire After two decades at UNG, including more than a decade as director of athletics, Lindsay Reeves announced her retirement effective Dec. 31.

The two-time NACDA/Under Armour Athletic Director of the Year will leave a legacy of sincere and unwavering devotion to the student-athlete population as well as faithful service to the greater campus community.

“During her distinguished career as an administrator, Lindsay Reeves has had a positive and lasting impact on countless student-athletes, coaches and staff here at UNG,” UNG President Bonita Jacobs said. “She has imparted a legacy of excellence and success on our athletic department and all of NCAA Division II. The entire university community owes Lindsay a tremendous debt of gratitude for her leadership and service.”

In 2009, Reeves was named the director of athletics for the UNG intercollegiate program after investing five years as associate director of athletics and senior women’s administrator. She is only the third

athletic director in the history of UNG. She oversees 13 NCAA Division II sports, 50-plus athletic department employees, 10 athletic facilities and more than 225 student-athletes.

Under her leadership, the athletic programs have enjoyed prosperity on and off the fields and courts, highlighted by the softball team being crowned 2015 NCAA Division II national champions. She has led the development and implementation of a diversity action plan to ensure and promote diversity among the university’s student-athletes, staff and community.

Some fall sports delay competition until October; soccer season pushed to spring UNG’s cross-country, men’s and women’s tennis, and men’s and women’s golf teams began fall 2020 competition along with their fellow Peach Belt Conference schools in October, while the men’s and women’s soccer seasons were postponed to the spring.

The decision on these sports came after the NCAA canceled the Division II fall championships due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

All PBC teams who chose to compete

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this fall were required to follow the directives set forth by the NCAA Board of Governors, which address the risk of transmission of COVID-19, mitigating risks with face coverings and social distancing, an emphasis on outdoor training and strategies for transition periods and return to activity. Periodic testing of student-athletes is required, the frequency of which is determined by the risk factors of the sports they play.

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Sutton nominated for NCAA Woman of the Year honors Women’s basketball standout Julianne Sutton was named one of 126 Division II nominees for NCAA Woman of the Year.

Sutton was the 2019-20 Peach Belt Conference Player of the Year after leading the Nighthawks to a thirdstraight NCAA Southeast Regional appearance before the tournament was canceled.

Sutton, from Flowery Branch, Georgia, graduated in May with a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology with a health and fitness concentration in May, completing the degree in three years. She has one season remaining with UNG, during which she will begin work on a master’s degree in kinesiology.

The award honors graduating female student-athletes who have distinguished themselves throughout their collegiate careers in the areas of academic achievement, athletic excellence, service and leadership.

England takes lead as cross-country, track and field coach

Chris England was named head coach of the cross-country and track and field programs at UNG in May. He takes over the programs after 10 seasons in the same role at Georgia State University.

England was a two-time AllAmerican runner at Ohio State University and won a USA Track & Field national title in 2006.

He served three years on active duty in the U.S. Army. During his military service, England competed on the All-Army crosscountry and track and field teams and was a member of the Army World Class Athlete Program, representing the U.S. armed forces in competitions around the world.

“Chris has a track record of success in each program he has touched as a student-athlete, assistant coach and now successful Division I head coach, and his mentoring blueprint fits the UNG core values,” said Lindsay Reeves, director of athletics.

Men’s basketball player named to national Student-Athlete Advisory Committee Men’s basketball player Zach Brown was appointed to the NCAA Division II StudentAthlete Advisory Committee (SAAC).

This nationwide, highly selective committee includes members from every Division II conference. Brown will represent the Peach Belt Conference for a three-year term.

Representatives are responsible for gathering feedback and reporting on behalf of their conference, as well as relaying important events, hot topics and educational information to both the campus and conference levels.

Additionally, the committee speaks on behalf of the entire Division II student-athlete body throughout the NCAA governance structure.

Brown, a redshirt junior from Princeton, New Jersey, is starting his second year in a Nighthawks uniform. After serving as a member of SAAC at his previous school (Hartford), Brown now serves as treasurer on UNG’s SAAC Executive Board.

Brown is UNG’s third national SAAC representative, joining former softball student-athlete Hilary Cox who was a committee chair in 2012, and former rifle student-athlete Hannah Peevy, whose term ended in 2019.

Virtual fundraiser helps UNG lead Peach Belt in Make-A-Wish fundraising For the 11th straight year, UNG’s Department of Athletics has received the Peach Belt Conference’s (PBC) LeeAnn Noble Make-A-Wish Award for most funds raised.

The 2019-20 total of $13,800 means the Nighthawks hit the five-digit mark in giving for 10 years in a row and UNG remains the only PBC school to do so.

Nigel’s Run with Superheroes, converted to a virtual event due to the COVID-19 pandemic, raised almost $5,200 to help UNG clear its goal of $10,000 for the year.

“The execution of this event is a bright spot for us not only because it allowed us to pass the donation threshold to host another on-campus wish, but it showed the true resolve of the Nighthawk Nation,” said Lindsay Reeves, UNG director of athletics.

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Where I Lead: Leading through innovation

BIO

DR. MARK CAUSEY earned a biology degree from UNG in 2006 and then earned a dental degree and completed an orthodontic residency at the Medical College of Georgia. An orthodontist at Causey Orthodontics in Cumming, Georgia, he began 3D-printing medical masks when the COVID-19 pandemic temporarily closed his office.

Also a former Duke and UNG basketball player, Causey serves on the Nighthawks Athletics Board and was the 2015 Young Alumnus Award winner.

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What inspired you to work on 3D-printing of medical masks during the COVID-19 pandemic?

Our office had to shut down due to the pandemic, and we wanted to do our part to help. I heard about people sewing masks, and I found a way to come up with some items that could be readily available through 3D-printing. Then a filter would go in the front.

Did you have any idea it would catch on like it did?

I posted a video I thought would spread locally so people could start printing masks to help our health care workers. My Facebook inbox filled up to the point where I couldn’t keep up with the messages. I couldn’t get masks out quickly enough to people. Other people caught on to the idea, and companies were making them, too.

What during your experience at UNG prepared you to be a part of something like this?

Faculty and coaches challenged us to find solutions for problems. In particular, basketball coaches Randy Dunn and Chris Faulkner drilled teamwork and taught how to help other people with your skillset. The biology department was constantly pushing me to challenge myself. I took an experimental research class on thinking outside the box with Dr. Frank Corotto and Dr. Mark Davis.

What’s next for you?

I oversee the mouth guards for the Atlanta Falcons. I’m working on a hands-free mouth guard for them to be more sanitary during the pandemic. A couple of people and I worked on an idea, and we now have a provisional patent on that.

What are the most important parts of leadership?

Leadership is the ability to get everybody to buy in to one idea. I live my life with altruism and compassion, but also keeping everyone focused on the same goal and trying to be humble while doing that.

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Belarus

Germany

By J.K. Devine Photos Peggy Cozart

T

he Fulbright is a highly competitive and prestigious national fellowship that enables graduates to pursue research, become English Teaching Assistants (ETAs), or enroll in graduate school. It is designed to increase mutual understanding between U.S. citizens and residents of more than 160 countries.

For the past three years, UNG has been a national top producer of Fulbright students, and for the 2019-20 academic year, UNG was the only university in Georgia to achieve that distinction for the student program. With five finalists this year, UNG is on schedule to retain that honor. “My goal is for UNG to always be on the topproducing list,� said Dr. Anastasia Lin, assistant vice president of research and engagement at UNG and head of the Nationally Competitive Scholarships Office.

UNG students and alumni are rising to that challenge. In addition to Beacham, four other alumni were selected in 2020 to be ETAs in European and Asian countries.

Laos

Taiwan

Turkey

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Madelyn Beacham,’20, is UNG’s first winner of a graduate school scholarship from the Fulbright U.S. Student Program. The native of McDonough, Georgia, is currently in graduate school in Turkey.

As UNG’s first winner of a graduate school scholarship from the Fulbright U.S. Student Program, Madelyn Beacham is pursuing a master’s degree in international relations in Turkey.

“Turkey is a great place to study refugees and irregular migration, and Fulbright is funding this opportunity,” Beacham said. “I will also get to meet other Fulbright scholars from around the world and establish a network that will help me in my future.”

“Our students excel in Fulbright thanks to UNG’s focus on a high-quality, global curriculum across all disciplines,” Lin said, explaining all majors may apply for Fulbright. “Madelyn Beacham is our trendsetter by becoming UNG’s first student to win a graduate school Fulbright scholarship.”

After winning their scholarships in April, UNG’s Fulbright finalists learned their foreign opportunities had been postponed because of COVID-19. Most of the overseas programs will begin in January 2021 instead of fall 2020.

As a Fulbright graduate school winner, Beacham’s plans remained intact. Fulbright winners attending graduate school were allowed to start in the fall, despite the original uncertainty caused by the pandemic.

“I was excited and proud of myself for winning the Fulbright, but at the same time I didn’t know what to look forward to,” said the December 2019 graduate who flew to Ankara, Turkey, on Sept. 14.

Lin remained positive for the other four finalists. She said

the countries that accepted UNG’s graduates altered their plans for the shortened year instead of canceling them.

As teaching assistants, alumni Karley Mathews, Emile Phommavongsy, Bernhard “Benny” Purk, and Candace Seabolt are ready and waiting to head overseas.

Seabolt, who received confirmation of her departure date to Taiwan, has kept busy during this time of limbo. The May 2020 graduate from Blue Ridge, Georgia, has focused on acquiring her Teaching English as a Second Language certificate online and learning Mandarin.

Seabolt said she is looking forward to teaching the Taiwanese children the English language by incorporating balls with letters, colors and numbers on them.

“Once you get children moving, they retain more information,” said the 21-year-old kinesiology major. “They learn during the movement instead of sitting at a desk.”

Cutline Purk still awaits word on when his program may begin and hopes it will resume in January 2021.

“I am looking forward to everything about the Fulbright experience,” said Purk, a December 2018 graduate from Cleveland, Georgia. “Fulbright is named after a former diplomat, and I want to do that one day. This experience will help me.”

Because of delays caused by the pandemic, the Fulbright program has offered this year’s winners the option of reapplying for the 2021-22 academic year.

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CANDACE

SEABOLT

GRADUATED: MAY 2020 HOME: BLUE RIDGE, GEORGIA DEGREE: KINESIOLOGY COUNTRY OF STUDY: TAIWAN

Learn more about the Fulbright Scholars

KARLEY

MATHEWS

GRADUATED: DECEMBER 2019 HOME: BLAIRSVILLE, GEORGIA DEGREE: MODERN LANGUAGES COUNTRY OF STUDY: BELARUS

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“Usually winners can’t reapply until three years have passed; they can’t win them back-to-back,” Lin said. “Fulbright has allotted a special dispensation this year since their start date has been pushed back.”

Karley Mathews said she may decide to reapply next year if her program does not begin in January. The December 2019 graduate from Blairsville, Georgia, still hopes this year’s winners can go to their respective countries in January. For Mathews, that choice is Belarus.

“As an aspiring interpreter, I need to be able to understand everything that has to do with the language and the culture,” Mathews said. “The Fulbright grant can help me with this by allowing me to spend time in a country and invest in the people and learn all these things that will help me become an interpreter.”

Emile Phommavongsy has her sites set on traveling to Laos in January to teach English.

“Once in Laos, I really hope to help people improve their communication skills and their relationship building skills which is crucial especially in an evergrowing, ever-expanding world and economy,” she said.

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BERNHARD

PURK

GRADUATED: DECEMBER 2018 HOME: CLEVELAND, GEORGIA DEGREE: INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS COUNTRY OF STUDY: GERMANY

From left, Emile Phommavongsy, Bernhard Purk, Candace Seabolt, and Karley Mathews were selected as Fulbright finalists for the 2020-21 academic year.

The May 2017 graduate from Mount Airy, Georgia, is exploring the Lao language and networking with previous Fulbright winners in preparation.

“I am learning to ride a bike again, since it will be my main form of transportation in Laos,” she said. “It has been fun since it reminds me of my childhood.”

All of the Fulbright finalists are eagerly anticipating their moves to their chosen countries in the new year.

“I am incredibly grateful and honored to have received the Fulbright award,” Mathews said. “I am remaining optimistic that I will eventually be able to go.”

Lin is pleased with her students’ flexibility.

“I genuinely have been blown away at how resilient our students are,” she said.

She explained that despite the COVID-19 pandemic more students are interested in applying for scholarships like the Fulbright.

“We are on track to have our largest applicant pool without our repeat applicants,” Lin said.

EMILE

PHOMMAVONGSY GRADUATED: MAY 2017 HOME: MOUNT AIRY, GEORGIA DEGREE: MANAGEMENT COUNTRY OF STUDY: LAOS

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RESEARCH BY THE S

#

UNG’s research activity has grown exponentially in recent years, totaling nearly $12 million in funds from external sources in the past three years alone. These external grants provide vital funding that allows faculty to delve into their disciplines and enrich their teaching and scholarship. Also, UNG research projects often tie directly to student success initiatives and supporting community needs.

UNG’s success in garnering external grants frequently start with university-sponsored programs, including undergraduate research projects and UNG’s Presidential Incentive Awards.

CURCA MINI-GRANTS

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Center for Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities since 2012-13

GRANTS

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Undergraduate research is a high-impact practice that gives UNG students invaluable experiences and mentoring relationships. The CURCA mini-grants offer up to $3,000 to fund supplies, travel to conduct research, or specialized student assistance to faculty beginning or continuing undergraduate research projects in all academic areas. All mini-grants are reviewed and selected internally by a crossdisciplinary and cross-campus group of faculty members.

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PROJECTS AWARDED

92

STUDENTS PARTICIPATED

20

FACULTY

198K+

$

SINCE 2012

FUSE GRANTS $

Faculty-Undergraduate Summer Engagement Program since 2013

461K+

SINCE 2013

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FUSE funds student-faculty teams to conduct meaningful research and scholarly and creative activities for an eight-week period in the summer. The program provides a $4,000 faculty stipend, employs a student for 40 hours each week, and includes $500 for supplies.

FACULTY MEMBERS FUNDED

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PRESIDENTIAL INCENTIVE AWARDS

289 FACULTY AND STAFF

2.175M

$

INVESTMENT SINCE 2013

FY20

Faculty and staff apply for external grants from sources such as the federal government, state and nonprofit agencies. Some examples include the U.S. Department of Education, Department of Defense, National Geographic, and the National Science Foundation. In addition, UNG recently received a grant from the Society for Education and Music Psychology Research in the UK.

404

$3,540,034 49

FY19

EXTERNAL GRANTS

GRANTS

$4,468,872 64

FY18

UNG President Bonita Jacobs established the Presidential Incentive Awards in 2013 to support faculty and staff whose research and scholarly work have a direct impact on enhanced educational experiences for students and innovations that improve professional practices. The awards are divided into three categories. Semester awards provide up to $12,000 with a full release from teaching and service for one semester. Summer awards provide up to $10,000 to support faculty in focused and meaningful research and scholarly and creative activities in summer.

Innovation awards of up to $5,000 each provide opportunities for collaboration among colleagues or individual pursuits focused on innovations and partnerships that promote best-practice models.

$3,869,855 48

GRANTS

GRANTS

GRANTS

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Where I Lead: Earning scholarships to study abroad

BIO

KOMLAN SOGAH, a junior pursuing a degree in cybersecurity, has garnered a few scholarships before and after he arrived at UNG. The 21-year-old from Lawrenceville, Georgia, received a University of North Georgia Military Scholarship for his education and joined the Corps of Cadets. In spring 2020, Sogah won the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship and the Ty Cobb Scholarship to fund a study abroad trip.

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Why did you want to study abroad?

With my major, you need to know how to communicate with people from other countries. If I know French, then I can communicate with the French government. So I chose French as my minor, and it will help me stand out.

A study abroad trip or course would allow me to immerse myself in another culture and finish my French minor.

How better to learn French than to spend a summer or semester in Paris?

How did UNG help you achieve your goal to study abroad?

The environment here at UNG challenges me to better myself. The people and the constant focus on leadership allows me to develop myself and continue pursuing excellence.

What do you think made you stand out among the other scholarship applicants?

I think it was my background. When I was 10 years old, I came to the U.S. from the West African country of Togo.

I’m the first of my family to go to college. I’m the oldest and want to set an example for my siblings. In my essay I showed them my character and who I want to be. I also think it was my major of cybersecurity, for which it is beneficial to know a second language. I can already speak two languages — English and the native language of Togo.

With my French minor, I will speak three.

How has the experience of applying for scholarships and winning them affected you?

My confidence level has definitely gone up since being at UNG. What advice would you give your fellow students who were considering applying for a scholarship?

UNG and its Center for Global Engagement have so many resources and staff that can help you with scholarship essays and match you with opportunities you did not even know you qualify for.

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WELCOME BACK,

NIGHTHAWKS EDUCATION IN THE MIDST OF A PANDEMIC REQUIRES FLEXIBILITY, RESILIENCE AND INNOVATION.

By Edie Rogers Photos by Peggy Cozart

Watch the Nighthawks Together Video

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“I appreciate the professors not trying to make it like this is normal.”

Ryann Carter, a senior pursuing a degree in history

RETURN TO CAMPUS Health experts’ recommendations to slow the spread of COVID-19 became a mantra at UNG as thousands of faculty, staff and students returned to campus for the fall 2020 semester after nearly five months of teaching, working and learning remotely due to the pandemic.

“We are providing a campus-based experience with as much flexibility as possible for as many people as possible.

The situation remains quite fluid, and our operations have had to adapt over time to changing conditions,” UNG President Bonita Jacobs said. “UNG is committed to the health and safety of our entire university community and has taken many steps as an institution to protect our campuses.”

When the University System of Georgia (USG) directed the state’s public colleges and universities to move operations online in midMarch, UNG had about 14 days to pivot to remote operations to finish out the spring semester. The university already had a COVID-19 response team, based on a section of the university’s comprehensive Emergency Action Plan about a response to a potential influenza pandemic.

“UNG developed a COVID19 Incident Response Team in January to respond to this crisis,” Officer Greg Williams, director of emergency management, said.

“Since that time, the pandemic has drastically changed the way our university operates and the way we all work and learn.”

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Chris Dockery, professor of visual arts, holds class on the lawn in front of Price Memorial on the Dahlonega Campus.

CREATING THE PLAN AND MAKING IT WORK This summer, some 140 faculty, staff and administrators from across all five campuses developed contingency plans for fall 2020 that detailed a myriad of processes for every division, unit and department at UNG. UNG, like all USG institutions, followed guidance from Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp’s COVID-19 Task Force, the Georgia Department of Public Health, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to inform plans for how to resume campus-based instruction and activities.

UNG’s COVID-19 operational plans and FAQs can be viewed on the Nighthawks Together website at ung. edu/together.

Jacobs has championed the university community’s ingenuity throughout this unusual year. From broader use of video conferencing solutions and flexible

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work schedules to hybrid courses and virtual events, challenges were met with solutions instead of limitations.

“The pandemic has been disruptive to our work, but it has highlighted our agility, resiliency and innovation,” Jacobs said.

Faculty prepared for face-to-face and hybrid instruction yet were ready to pivot fully online if required. The university shortened the academic calendar to end instruction before Thanksgiving and hold finals remotely the following week.

“Our faculty and students demonstrated tremendous flexibility and resiliency,” said Dr. Chaudron Gille, provost and senior vice president for academic affairs. “This fall, UNG continued to provide a high-quality educational experience for all students with a mix of instruction delivered in person, online or a hybrid of both. Though

“My students have adapted well and we all enjoy being able to be together to work out the complicated things face to face...safely. We can all take comfort in that our class scenario is maintaining the safest of protocols, mask wearing, social distancing and the benefit of fresh air!”

Chris Dockery, professor of visual arts

the look of our classrooms has changed, our faculty members’ commitment to student success remains steadfast.”

UNG spent some $800,000 getting ready for fall semester, including cleaning supplies and equipment, plastic glass screens, HVAC system updates, COVID-19 testing supplies, and PPE for faculty, staff and students. The university provided one blue, UNG-branded mask and a bottle of sanitizer to every student and employee. In addition, the Georgia Emergency Management Agency gave UNG additional masks, cleaning supplies, enhanced PPE, and tests.

“Keeping everyone safe and healthy on campus is a top priority for UNG, and we took a number of steps to ensure this,” Ken Crowe, assistant vice president for facilities, said. “Enhanced cleaning and sanitation protocols began over the summer and remain in place at all

campuses. Furniture layouts in classrooms and other spaces were changed to promote Students may have been social distancing but they still social distancing. found plenty of ways to connect outside of the classroom.

Signs were installed to explain room Traditions such as the Corps of occupancy levels, one-way stairwells and Cadets’ Freshman Recruit Orientation elevator limits.”

Group (FROG) Week, which helps incoming cadets transition to the EVEN IN A MASK military lifestyle and academic expectations, continued with changes AND SIX FEET APART, such as social distancing. Cloth face WE’RE STILL UNG coverings became a part of the cadets’ uniform this fall.

Physical changes to enforce social “FROG Week looked a little different distancing in facilities as well as this year because we followed the restrictions on gatherings meant changes COVID-19 guidelines to keep every cadet to events and activities as well, but UNG’s healthy and safe,” said retired Col. Joseph core mission to develop students into Matthews, commandant of cadets at leaders for a diverse and global society UNG. “What has not changed is that has remained unchanged.

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“Being in a classroom with other students was refreshing. We were seated 6 feet apart, and we were constantly reminded of the guidelines and what was expected of us.�

Betzy Romulo, a sophomore pursuing a degree in communications with a multimedia journalism concentration

Classes were held via various methods -in person, fully online or a hybrid of both.

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UNG held a special commencement experience in mid-September for spring and summer graduates that adhered to social distancing and masking recommendations from health officials.

we’re still training the next generation of Army leaders.”

After commencement ceremonies for spring and summer semesters were postponed due to pandemic restrictions on large gatherings, a series of small, in-person, make-up events for those graduates were held Sept. 18 and 19 at UNG’s Convocation Center.

Other university events went partially or completely virtual. Ribboncuttings for the standalone Blue Ridge Campus and the new observatory in Dahlonega featured limited guests to adhere to restrictions on gatherings.

Additionally, the 2020 Regional Education and Economic Development Summit and the Georgia Film Festival moved online.

UNG also strived to maintain campus-based student experiences while keeping campuses safe. Student recreation and fitness facilities opened.

Art exhibits were offered online and in-person. Musical groups shrank to accommodate social distancing and took concerts to a virtual format.

“While some of our programs and services looked different, we have been grateful to welcome students back to campus and excited for our new students

to begin their journey at UNG with an on-campus experience,” Dr. James Conneely, vice president of student affairs and enrollment management.

Weeks of Welcome, which traditionally features fun and informative student-focused events across all five campuses at the beginning of the semester, was almost exclusively virtual. Student organizations continued to meet, though student leaders were encouraged to seek ways to hold virtual events and be mindful of capacity limits for facilities they may have used in the past.

Stacie Rowley, associate dean of students, said preserving events, whether in a face-to-face or online format, was extremely important.

“In some capacity, everything was new this semester. Even our virtual offerings looked different as compared to the spring,” Rowley said. “Throughout the semester, we worked hard to provide safe events for our students.”

Faculty and student research continues to grow at UNG, and was changed but not canceled by COVID-19.

Dr. Andy Novobilski, associate provost for research and engagement and dean of graduate studies, explained UNG worked with faculty and staff to allow research to continue safely either on campus or online.

“It is critical to maintain who we are as university, especially as a way to engage our students and encourage our faculty in their passion of research,” he said. “Faculty conduct research because we have a love for discovery. It drives us to add to the body of knowledge. Not only do we want to continue our work, we want to continue mentoring our students in their scholarship.”

As UNG looks ahead to spring semester, with changes to the academic calendar for a shorter spring break, Jacobs is confident the university’s solid foundation will help it weather the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“As a state university, we remain committed to providing students an affordable, high-quality educational experience,” Jacobs said. “The days ahead may not be easy, but the University of North Georgia is strong, and I am optimistic about our future.”

“What was remarkable about the experience was the very first question they had as I walked into the classroom was to find out how I was doing. They were genuinely concerned. It made me realize the moments of anxiety and stress that many of them must have gone through in the past five months. I felt that they were happy and relieved to be back on campus and be able to talk to us, their instructors.”

Dr. Cristian Harris, associate professor of political science and program coordinator for the Master of Arts in International Affairs

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For eight years, Dr. Ashlee McCaskill tended to the titan arum, commonly called corpse flower, in the greenhouse on UNG’s Dahlonega Campus. Nicknamed Carol, the corpse flower bloomed for the first time in early May 2020.

Scan to see videos of Carol

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THE

CORPSE FLOWER

By J.K. Devine Photos by Peggy Cozart

BLOOMS

More than nine years ago, Dr. Ashlee McCaskill was surprised to find that she could buy a very rare titan arum corm from a nursery in North Carolina, especially since they were not sold commercially. She planted it in the greenhouse on UNG’s Dahlonega Campus during the 2010-11 academic year.

“The titan arum is known for having the biggest inflorescence (flower structure) in the plant world,” said McCaskill, a professor of biology at UNG. “It’s right up there with the giant redwoods in northern California in terms of botanical record-holders.”

Commonly called the corpse flower, the plant has three unusual characteristics. The inflorescence grows between 6 and 8 feet tall, takes eight to 10 years to bloom for the first time and smells like rotting meat once it blooms. After its first bloom, it takes an average of two to four years to bloom again.

McCaskill purchased the plant along with others to use as a teaching tool for her students and build a collection in the greenhouse.

“I wanted to have some really charismatic plants that would pique students’ curiosity and convince them that plants are really cool,” she said. “They aren’t exposed to a lot of plants, especially exotic ones like the titan arum.”

Dr. John Leyba, dean of the College of Science & Mathematics, said UNG is fortunate to have greenhouses on both the Dahlonega and Gainesville campuses that allow faculty to raise a wide variety of plants for teaching and research purposes in an optimum environment.

“UNG’s plant collection enables the biology department to educate its students using a wide variety of real plants, many of which are exotic and rare,” he said. “These types of plants tend to really excite students because they are so ‘out of the ordinary,’ resulting in the reaffirmation of their interest in botany.”

In late April, McCaskill got excited about her exotic plant.

The corpse flower, nicknamed Carol by UNG faculty, showed signs of blooming for the first time in early May, and McCaskill would have a front-row seat to watch it.

“I was shocked it was happening so soon. I thought it would be several more years,” she said. “I was just in such anticipation for the bloom. I had been waiting for this for eight years.”

Her excitement, though, was coupled with disappointment.

UNG students, faculty and staff as well as area plant enthusiasts, could not watch this momentous event unfurl because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I was planning to have a blooming party, but that wasn’t possible,” McCaskill said.

Most corpse plants in the United States are grown in botanical gardens or at colleges and universities, since they only grow in nature on the island of Sumatra in Indonesia.

“Their habitat in Sumatra is being destroyed, so they are now listed as ‘endangered’ by the scientific body that monitors plant species populations,” she said.

Therefore, the UNG faculty member and staffers did not let this important occasion pass without sharing it. The blooming was recorded and shared with local media as well as other educators throughout the region. McCaskill also conducted a Facebook Live question-and-answer session while Carol was in bloom.

McCaskill sweeps off pollen from inside the titan arum.

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LUCKY STARS Construction complete on state-of-the-art observatory

By J.K. Devine Photos by Peggy Cozart

Snapping detailed photographs of the moon, planets and deep space objects is among the many benefits of the new North Georgia Astronomical Observatory at UNG. “The new facility is similar to a professional observatory,” said Dr. Gregory Feiden, observatory director and assistant professor of physics and astronomy at UNG. “Our students will learn how to use our two telescopes, our suite of instruments, and how to collect and analyze data.”

Only eight observatories in Georgia feature professional telescopes for astronomy research; four of them are associated with public universities.

UNG students and faculty began using the new, singlelevel 3,200-square-foot building this fall. However, the facility is closed to the public due to health and safety precautions related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

That small hitch did not dampen excitement about the new observatory. The newly constructed state-of-the-art facility is on the same site as the previous 25-year-old building.

“The old building had outgrown its functionality,” said Ken Crowe, assistant vice president of facilities at UNG. “This new facility has plenty of room for community outreach, instructional space and opportunities for research.”

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Research projects will be enhanced with two new telescopes measuring at 24 and 28 inches across in the primary mirror diameter. Feiden explained the telescopes will allow students to conduct different tasks at the same time.

“The 28-inch telescope is multipurpose,” he said. “Two instruments can be mounted simultaneously, making it easy to switch between the two.”

For example, an eyepiece can attach to one side and a camera can attach to the other. This will allow the viewer to look through the telescope and capture that image with a camera.

The 24-inch telescope does not have that dual option, making it an ideal telescope for teaching and research purposes.

“The 28-inch telescope is easily accessible, including to

people in wheelchairs,” Feiden said. “So we will use it for public viewings.”

While public viewings are postponed until further notice, Feiden said the facility can host educational events. LCD screens mounted in the classroom can display a live feed from the telescope while experts conduct lectures or other activities.

Outside the building, a large flat area can accommodate amateur astronomers and their own telescopes to view the night sky. Outdoor electrical outlets have been installed to power telescopes.

“We have a list of programs we plan to start,” Feiden said, acknowledging they are on hold for now. “So, stay tuned.”

Watch Observatory video

The North Georgia Astronomical Observatory is home to a 24-inch and a 28-inch telescope, housed under two rotating domes.

Construction was completed in September 2020.

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Opportunities abound in Blue Ridge

By Clark Leonard Photos by Peggy Cozart

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Sarah Miller can recall growing up in Blue Ridge, Georgia, with a simple thought. “’I hope there’s a college in town when I’m older,’” she said. “I used to hope for that and think about it.”

Those dreams have come to fruition.

This fall, Miller is a dual-enrollment student on UNG’s Blue Ridge Campus in her second year of courses.

For Miller and many others, UNG’s Blue Ridge Campus has already made an indelible impact in Fannin County and the surrounding region. Growing from 20 students when it opened in 2015 to 234 in fall 2020, the campus continues to expand access to higher education close to home for these students.

The opening of the campus’ new 12,000-square-foot standalone building serves as the latest evidence of how UNG is transforming educational prospects for students.

UNG’s new stand-alone Blue Ridge Campus opened to students in August and is expanding educational access in the north Georgia region.

Scan the code for a video tour.

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Blue Ridge Campus director Sandy Ott is excited about the doors to higher education being opened in and around Fannin and Gilmer counties.

“It’s not just a UNG building. This campus is the community’s, and they are equally excited about the opportunities and what’s happening here,” said Sandy Ott, director of UNG’s Blue Ridge Campus. “Having the Blue Ridge Campus has opened so many doors and opportunities, especially for students who weren’t sure what to do after high school. It gives them the option to start close to home with the support of their family and friends.”

Currently, UNG offers more than 30 class sections on the Blue Ridge Campus, which is located at 56 Nighthawk Drive off Ga. 515 about 3 miles from the initial location.

The new building has approximately 3,500 square feet of classroom space, which includes a computer lab and a full biology lab that can also be used as a chemistry lab. Additionally, the building’s access to high-speed internet is a game-changer for many students.

Georgia House of Representatives Speaker David Ralston, a UNG alumnus and Fannin County resident who helped secure the funds from the General Assembly, said the campus will allow

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students to be competitive globally thanks to their UNG education.

“Great things will happen daily in this building,” Ralston said. “Young minds will be challenged. Students can dream bigger dreams, and unbelievable opportunities will be opened up.”

Ott said the expanded space also means UNG can offer more courses to students and allows them to spend more semesters in Blue Ridge.

Previously, students could only spend two or three semesters there and take required core curriculum classes before they transferred to the Gainesville or Dahlonega Campus. This fall, introductory courses in education are the first ones offered in a major.

Emily Beavers, a sophomore pursuing a degree in elementary and special education, is grateful to take her first two education courses – “Foundations of Numbers and Math” and “Integrated Physical Science” – on the Blue Ridge Campus.

“On this campus, I can connect with students and professors easier and get that one-on-one experience,” Beavers said. “It’s super helpful.”

Dr. Michael Rogers, assistant vice president for academic affairs on the Blue Ridge Campus, said the opportunity to offer biology and anatomy and physiology courses will help students who want to enter UNG’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.

The new location also offers an abundance of shared study spaces, which was an important factor that guided the design. A welcoming entry plaza plus a patio at the rear are available for students to study or relax between classes.

Dr. Alison Hite, senior lecturer of psychological science who has worked at the Blue Ridge Campus since its opening in 2015, said these design elements will benefit students.

“It feels more like a university, and that’s huge, maybe more than people realize,” Hite said. “Your mindset changes when you feel like you’re actually in college.”

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With a record enrollment this fall, the Blue Ridge Campus has room to grow in its new building and has space for another building in the future, as needed.

“We fully expect the growth to continue with the additional courses that will be offered on this campus,” Ott said. “The sky is the limit and opportunities are limitless for this campus and our region.”

Rogers hopes the new campus opens doors for UNG to attract more students from bordering counties in North Carolina and Tennessee. The University System of Georgia Board of Regents approved out-of-state tuition waivers to students from states/counties here because of their proximity to UNG’s service region.

“We want to see the impact of UNG and a college education grow in the surrounding communities,” Rogers said.

Service to the community remains central to the university’s mission, and the Blue Ridge Scholars are the embodiment of that ideal. The Blue Ridge Scholars program is a cohortbased initiative that provides extra academic support to ease the transition from high school to college. UNG welcomed 10 new Blue Ridge Scholars this fall, and the students will work in the community to increase literacy among elementary school children.

“We’re building leadership through academics,” Rogers said. “We want them to take that learning and use it in the community.”

Opening doors to higher education is what the Blue Ridge Campus is all about, according to Lori Bramlett, assistant director of Enrollment Services on the Blue Ridge Campus. She is a lifelong resident of Ellijay, Georgia, and a 1995 alumna of UNG. “We’re excited about our growth and the access it gives our students in the area. So many of them might not have thought about going to a university,” Bramlett said. “It might have felt out of reach. Now they realize all the possibilities.”

Scholarships provide further support for students in Blue Ridge The new campus allows for increased course offerings and more space for students to study between classes.

Sarah Miller is a dualenrollment student on the Blue Ridge Campus.

A trio of new scholarships, including one endowed scholarship, will help students fund their education at UNG’s Blue Ridge Campus.

The Claude William and Virginia Quintrell Merritt Endowed Scholarship Fund was established in August by Sandra Webb in honor of her parents. The fund provides students at UNG, particularly on the Blue Ridge Campus, with one scholarship of at least $1,000 each year. Virginia Quintrell earned an associate degree in 1939 from UNG and returned to receive a bachelor’s degree in 1955. She was an elementary school teacher in Fannin County for 30 years.

The Sandra H. Mercier Education Scholarship established by the Mercier family will offer two $2,000 scholarships for the 2020-21 school year. Sandra Mercier was a classroom teacher, administrator and superintendent in Fannin County.

Captain Joseph Hughart, a lecturer of earth and environmental science at UNG, is also providing a $1,000 scholarship to be awarded each year for a student pursuing geospatial studies.

“These scholarships mean so much to students and their families in this community,” said Sandy Ott, director of UNG’s Blue Ridge Campus. “We greatly appreciate the investment these donors are making in our students.”

Jeff Tarnowski, vice president for university advancement, also expressed appreciation for the donors funding these scholarships.

“We are so grateful for the generosity that we have seen from the region that our campus in Blue Ridge serves,” Tarnowski said. “These philanthropic leaders will make a real difference for UNG students both today and tomorrow.”

Anyone wishing to contribute to an existing scholarship fund or create a new scholarship for students studying at the Blue Ridge Campus should contact Kimberly Miller, coordinator of community engagement, at kimberly.miller@ung.edu.

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STEM lab class expands to fall semester

By J.K. Devine

Photos by Peggy Cozart

Interdisciplinary STEM lab course helps students develop research proposals and potentially receive funding to conduct their research projects.

In a special STEM lab during the spring semester, freshmen and sophomores learned about biology, chemistry and physics from a trio of faculty members teaching as an interdisciplinary team. Now, thanks to a couple of instrumental grants, students will have that same option in the fall, too.

The University System of Georgia STEM IV initiative awarded $150,000 to the project in the spring. Then, the John and Mary Franklin Foundation awarded a $30,000 grant to UNG’s College of Science and Mathematics in June. The STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) lab course goes beyond typical courses to provide students opportunities to collaborate on real-world issues, conduct research and compare their lab work to that done by professional scientists.

“They are learning the same techniques that scientists are doing in the field,” said Dr. Royce Dansby-Sparks,

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associate professor of chemistry at UNG and a faculty member who previously taught the STEM lab. “Students also learn soft skills, such as how to work on a team and oral communication skills that they don’t learn in a traditional chemistry, biology or physics lab.”

Dr. John Leyba, dean of the College of Science and Mathematics, said STEM lab students must find a mentor in biology, chemistry, mathematics, or physics and develop a research proposal.

Students present their ideas to a panel of three faculty members near each semester’s end.

“We will fund probably half of the projects,” Leyba said. “This will allow us to pay the student and the professor stipends, and allow us to pay for the supplies for the research for up to two semesters.”

Dr. Jeremy Olson, assistant professor of chemistry who teaches the STEM lab, said while the written proposal is

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required, performing the research is not.

“But they want to do it, and they would get paid to do research,” he said, adding it helps students who apply to graduate school. “Very few students have experience writing a research proposal, especially as a freshman.”

Dansby-Sparks pointed to the success of alumna Caroline Brown, ’19, who won a National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship, as an example of the impact the STEM lab and undergraduate research can have for students who are trying to find their place in the STEM field. Brown participated in the inaugural STEM lab as a freshman, which is when DansbySparks recognized her aptitude for research.

“Caroline Brown came in as a biology major and she jumped to biochemistry,” he said. “Now she is getting her Ph.D. in cell biology at Yale University.”

Mike Cottrell College of Business faculty offer expertise to community

By Clark Leonard

optimization for its thrift store and expanded awareness of its services and fundraising activities. Norman shared retail best practices and connected the nonprofit to Elaine Fitzpatrick, MCCB internship coordinator, to find a student to help.

Amy Barfield, interim executive director of Forsyth County Family Haven, was interested in assistance with grant writing and fundraising.

Norman and Scott put Barfield in touch with Dr. Sarah Young, assistant professor of political science and assistant director of academic engagement, who has extensive experience with nonprofits and grant writing. Young then paired Barfield with a marketing class taught by Dr. Caroline Munoz, an associate professor.

“They’re all doing a great job.

They’re just asking for a little help,” Norman said. “That’s what we want to give them.”

Dr. Mohan Menon, department head of marketing and management in the

MCCB, helped with a pair of requests.

Shawn LaFave, president of North Georgia Promotions, wanted digital marketing and social media assistance, and Menon connected him with Munoz, Fitzpatrick and Dr. Chris Dant, faculty member and internship coordinator in UNG’s Department of Visual Arts.

Menon also helped the nonprofit BMore Learning Inc. The group teaches middle and high school children career preparation skills, and Menon hopes it will lead to an internship for a UNG student. It also gave Menon a chance to connect Shawn Athanasios, a UNG lecturer of business communication with personal coaching experience, with Jackie Martin, the group’s creator and founder.

“We are citizens of this community,” Menon said. “And we help each other out.”

For more information about the Profs for FoCo program or to request an appointment

Photos by Peggy Cozart

Hugh Scott was eager to find a way to help people impacted by the pandemic-related shutdown. While scrolling LinkedIn this spring, the UNG lecturer of management noticed an article about faculty at another college offering pro bono one-time consultations to businesses facing challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Scott mentioned the idea to Dr. Mary Gowan, dean of UNG’s Mike Cottrell College of Business (MCCB), and she was quickly on-board. Scott started by forming a partnership between UNG and the Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce called Profs for FoCo. It connects UNG faculty with businesses and nonprofits who need their expertise.

“The Mike Cottrell College of Business is uniquely positioned to serve as a resource for businesses in our region and beyond,” Gowan said.

“In the midst of the uncertainty faced by so many for-profit and nonprofit organizations around us, we believe it is our responsibility to share our expertise to help these organizations navigate their way forward. Doing so creates a win-win situation for our region and opens doors for further engagement with the college.”

More than 20 UNG faculty members have volunteered in the effort, which Scott is working to expand into partnerships with other north Georgia chambers of commerce.

Mary Norman, a lecturer of marketing, connected with a pair of Forsyth nonprofits and was “blown away” by their efforts.

Norman assisted with Cumming Home Ministries and Forsyth County Family Haven. The first group, which helps homeless men rebuild their lives, sought support in the areas of retail

Mike Cottrell College of Business faculty members from left, Mary Norman, Dr. Mohan Menon and Hugh Scott have assisted Forsyth County businesses through the new Profs for FoCo partnership.

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With gratitude to

UNG’s 1873 Circle REGENT’S CIRCLE

1873 CIRCLE MEMBERS 2019-20 ACADEMIC YEAR

Annual gifts of $10,000 – $24,999

PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE

Annual gifts of $25,000 and greater The Chantal and Tommy Bagwell Foundation, Inc. Carol C. Bartenfeld COL (Ret.) Robert H. and Nancy T. Clark Lynn and Mike Cottrell Jim and Faye Crupi Jimmy and Marie Faulkner Bo and Carolyn Fears Gwinnett Hospital System, Inc. Mr. and Mrs. Charles W. Jones, III The Family of Charles A. McClure Joe and Gail McClure McClure Family Foundation Northeast Georgia Health System, Inc. Northside Hospital - Gwinnett Estate of Ella R. Oakes The George and Carol Olmsted Foundation Mr. John W. M. Roberts Dean, Kay, Stewart and Carol Swanson The Kay S. Swanson Charitable Foundation University System of Georgia Foundation, Inc. Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation, Inc. Hilliard A. Wilbanks Foundation Inc. The complete list of 1873 Circle donors will be included in the print version of the 2019-20 Donor Impact Report.

Recognized donors made cash donations to UNG from July 1, 2019 – June 30, 2020. Accuracy is important to us.

For questions or corrections, please contact the Office of Donor Relations & Stewardship at (706) 864-1548.

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The Benevity Community Impact Fund Craig and Susan Cappy COL (Ret.) and Mrs. Gilbert E. (Gene) Copeland COL (Ret.) and Mrs. Wayne Dill Mr. and Mrs. Julian W. Eidson Fincher-Loughridge Foundation, Inc. Georgia Power Foundation, Inc. Nathaniel and Frances Fincher Hansford COL (Ret.) T. Haines Hill Dean and Mrs. H. Michael Hyams, Jr. Jackson EMC Foundation, Inc. Mr. and Mrs. Leston J. Juneau Juneau Construction Company The Olin B. King Foundation Mall of GA Chrysler Dodge Jeep Mar-Jac Poultry, Inc. Mr. and Mrs. Nicholas W. Massengill John P. and Mary Helen Mashburn McGruder William “Tim” Mercier COL (Ret.) and Mrs. B. Parker Miller, III Mr. and Mrs. James C. Montgomery Jenny R. Muller Mr. and Mrs. Adam P. Oaks Phyllis Fincher Parsons Dr. and Mrs. Jeff Payne Mr. and Mrs. Brooks M. Pennington, III The Family of Brooks M. Pennington, Jr. Mary Jane Fincher Peterson W. H. Reeves & Company, Inc. Elizabeth Lord Rhodes Mr. and Mrs. George Finley Routon Rushton & Company Bob and Wanda Swoszowski Truist UNG Campus Connection Jackie D. Woodard

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Supporters

THE 1873 CIRCLE COMPRISES UNG’S MOST GENEROUS LEADERS. With annual philanthropic contributions of $1,000 and greater, 1873 Circle members put their passion for UNG to work, playing a critical role in the advancement and success of the university and its future graduates.

CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE Annual Gifts of $5,000 – $9,999

Albion Scaccia Enterprises, Inc. Dr. Edith Belden and Bradley Belden Mr. and Mrs. Steve K. Bramlett Causey Orthodontics Ralph and Mary Cleveland Ralph & Mary Cleveland Foundation Ms. Lucy G. Conner Consolidated Electrical Distributors, Inc. Jim and Vicki Davis Mr. and Mrs. Jack H. Elrod, III Enterprise Holdings Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Robert J. Evans GreyStone Power Corporation Mr. and Mrs. H. Carter Haley Linda Hughes Pruitt Hardie Dr. John and Mrs. Jane Hemmer Mike and Robin Higley Dr. Kathleen Gillespie-Jackson MG (Ret.) William H. Johnson and Mrs. Melanie A. Johnson Jacky Jones Ford Mr. and Mrs. David A. Jordan Kings Hawaiian Bakery Southeast, Inc. The Kosciuszko Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Patrick J. Magill Management Data Systems International, Inc. Michael D. and Sally S. Masters

John and Shirley Meredith MidwayUSA Foundation, Inc. National Christian Foundation COL (Ret.) and Mrs. Edward J. Nix Dr. and Mrs. Richard Oates Mr. Wayne M. Orr Mr. and Mrs. John I. Orrison Peach State Federal Credit Union Mr. Bill W. Pope Mr. and Mrs. William S. Prince Margaret Richardson COL (Ret.) Tom Richardson MAJ (Ret.) and Mrs. P. J. Rodgers Dr. and Mrs. Ronald P. Roper Rotary Club of South Hall County COL (Ret.) Johnny D. Rusin and COL (Ret.) Jo B. Rusin Sawnee Electric Membership Foundation, Inc. Rochelle B. Schneickert Mr. Glenn H. Shaw Mr. H. Verne Smith The Family of LTC Robert M. Smith E. Paul & Frankie K. Stringer Mr. and Mrs. James K. Syfan, III Syfan Logistics Mr. and Mrs. Joshua D. Teteak LCDR Matthew and Alecia Wilder

TRUSTEE’S CIRCLE

DEAN’S CIRCLE

Annual gifts of $2,500 – $4,999 72 donors

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Annual gifts of $1,000 – $2,499 262 donors

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“I want to thank you for this scholarship.

It has been very helpful in making college affordable so that I can pursue my dreams. Graduating from the University of North Georgia is an accomplishment I am proud of and will remember for the rest of my life. I have been challenged in all areas and have grown to be a better and stronger version of myself. Again, thank you so much for awarding me this scholarship!”

— Lauren Colston ’20

To read more messages of gratitude, review UNG accomplishments, and learn about the impact of your philanthropic support, we invite you to view the 2019-20 Donor Impact Report. unggive.org/donor-impact-report 42

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CONGRATULATIONS University of North Georgia Alumni Association 2020 Award Recipients

Claire Allinson, ’20 Paul M. Hutcherson Outstanding Student Award

2nd Lt. John Perry IV, ’20 Paul M. Hutcherson Outstanding Student Award, U.S. Army officer

Dr. Richard Prior Distinguished Professor Award, former head of the Department of Physics and Astronomy and professor emeritus at UNG

George Orlin, ’14 Distinguished Young Alumni Award, product manager, entrepreneur, and management consultant

Capt. Hank Brady, ’12 Ralph Colley Spirit of North Georgia Award, U.S. Army officer

Julie Pope Dot Strother Scholarship for legacy students, florist

Dr. Karen Ash Frost, ’74 Distinguished Alumni Award, educational leadership consultant

Pat Vandiver Powell, ’72 Hall of Fame Award, former officer of The Coca-Cola Co.

For years, the UNG Alumni Association has honored our most outstanding alumni, students and faculty who exemplify exceptional leadership, service and excellence in their roles serving or attending the university.

To nominate someone please visit ungalumni.org.

The deadline for award nominations is January 1, 2021.

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CLASSNOTES 1980s

Miller named Superior Court judge Dr. Christopher Sloan, ’84, was recently promoted to executive vice president of consulting services at Psychological Associates in Clayton, Missouri. He earned a degree in psychology from UNG and a master’s degree and a Ph.D. in industrial and organizational psychology from the University of Georgia.

1990s Ben Miller Jr., ’92, has been appointed to serve as a Superior Court judge on the Griffin Judicial Circuit in Georgia. Miller served in the Corps of Cadets and earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from UNG. He later received a law degree from John Marshall Law School in Atlanta. He has served as an attorney, solicitor, juvenile court judge pro tempore, municipal court judge, associate juvenile court judge, and presiding judge of juvenile court.

Harvey retires as Army colonel

Alumna earns prestigious accounting scholarship Col. Patrick Harvey, ’90, retired June 15 after 30 years in the Army. His Army career began in 1990 when he graduated from UNG and commissioned as an infantry officer. His service took him around the world, including assignments to multiple Army posts in the U.S. as well as Saudi Arabia, Panama, South Korea, and Germany. He also had combat deployments to Iraq with the 10th Mountain Division in 2004-05 and 2008-09.

Buffy Alexulian, ’97, has been promoted from assistant director to director of financial services for Gwinnett (Georgia) County. She became a CPA and a member of the Government Finance Officers Association after earning a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a focus in finance.

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Susan Harkins, ’94, currently a Master of Accountancy student at UNG, has received a $5,000 John L. Carey Scholarship from the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.

Up to five Carey scholarships are awarded each year. Harkins earned a Bachelor of Science in middle grades education from UNG in 1994 and a master’s degree in education from UNG in 1996.

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Alumnus takes command of Georgia Army National Guard Brig. Gen. Dwayne Wilson, ’93, recently took command of the Georgia Army National Guard, serving as the new commanding general.

Wilson, who earned a degree in criminal justice from UNG, previously served as director of the Joint Staff for the Georgia National Guard. Those responsibilities included coordinating domestic response efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to that assignment, he was chief of staff for the Georgia Army National Guard.

In his new role, Wilson

Seven alumni graduate from War Colleges

commands a large number of UNG alumni. In 2019, UNG commissioned 40 second lieutenants into the Georgia Army National Guard.

Those officers are part of the more than 100 second lieutenants UNG commissions each year as one of the nation’s six senior military colleges.

“We’re very fortunate to be able to have the relationship and the partnership we have with UNG and to be the beneficiary of the second lieutenants produced by this institution,” Wilson said.

Wilson is one of seven UNG alumni serving as an Army general.

2000s Dustin Hamby, ’00, was named assistant special agent in charge of the GBI’s Appalachian Regional Drug Enforcement Office in Cleveland, Georgia. Using his criminal justice degree, Hamby has been employed with the GBI for more than 18 years.

Carl Jackson, ’04, has been elected to the Milton (Georgia) Historical Society. Jackson is a retired educator and business executive who most recently served as principal of Harlem Middle School in Columbia County, Georgia.

2010s

Col. Michael Zopfi, ’96, and Lt. Col. Erik Johnson, ’99, pictured above graduated from the Army War College along with Col. Jackson “Jake” Kurtzman, ’96; Col. Michael Zopfi, ’96; Lt. Col. Scott Childers, ’99; Lt. Col. Richard D’Angelo, ’99; Lt. Col. Erik Johnson, ’99; and Lt. Col. Don Saxon, ’00, were the UNG alumni who graduated from the Army War College. Col. Jay Maher, ’97, graduated from the Air War College.

Sarah Cranston, ’11, is McDuffie (Georgia) County’s new agriculture extension agent. While a student, and before she earned her biology degree, she traveled to the jungles of Belize and the bush country of South Africa to assist in wildlife research through challenging internship programs.

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Two alumnae re-create mural in midtown Gainesville Karen Hawk, ’76, and Fox Gradin, ’00, banded together with a committee of people to revive a 1970s mural on a building adjacent to Midtown Greenway in Gainesville. Hawk designed the original mural in 1974 and was asked to re-create it by city organizers. The mural features swaths of red, yellow, black and white and represents the melting pot of American cultures.

Josh Hensley, ’13, is the boys basketball head coach at Ringgold High School in Ringgold, Georgia. This is his first head coaching position having spent seven seasons as an assistant at Murray County High School in Chatsworth, Georgia.

Ashley Perry Agans, ’13, is the new principal of Cambridge High School in Milton, Georgia. She earned her education specialist degree in school leadership and was previously an assistant principal at Autrey Mill Middle School and Johns Creek High School.

Donna “Katie” McCullough, ’16, and Cory Duckworth, ’19, earned the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program award presented in the spring. Each will receive up to $134,000 in funding for research purposes. Both earned bachelor’s degrees in biology from UNG.

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Emory Dooley, ’15, was elected to the District 4 seat of the Dawson County (Georgia) Board of Commissioners. Dooley holds a degree in political science and is currently the general manager of 400 Waste and Scrap LLC. Jake Page, ’17, is the new head basketball coach, physical education and health teacher and football coach at Seminole County Middle High School in Donalsonville, Georgia.

Jordan Tetley, ’17, is the new girls basketball coach at Alpharetta High School.

Brittany Truitt, ’18, serves as the new head coach of the varsity cross-country and track and field teams at Landmark Christian School in Fairburn, Georgia. Truitt has a decorated career as both a studentathlete and coach at UNG. She served as a graduate assistant for both the cross-country and track and field programs while earning her master’s degree in kinesiology.

Dalton Lavender, ’19, was promoted at Draffin Tucker’s Atlanta health care practice, where he works with financial statement audits for health care entities, Medicare and Medicaid cost reports, and other accounting services.

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In Memoriam Alumni Bobby Ray Adams ’62 July 21, 2020 Lynda Jo Reeves Allen ’78 June 2, 2020 Dr. William Jackson Atha ’54 September 6, 2020 Larry Ford Banister ’ 73 May 4, 2020 Edgar Brown Bird ’53 August 27, 2020 Dean Freeman Biskey ’62 May 28, 2020 Ruben Black ’57 July 1, 2020 Pattie Lula Newton Borders ’60 July 14, 2020 Hon. James Newby Butterworth ’65 March 28, 2020 Denise Allan Cameron ’83 April 2, 2020 LTC (Ret.) Edward Reeves Canady ’64 July 22, 2020 Patricia Rene Robinson Childers ’95 September 2, 2020 Jeanette Cooley ’59 May 9, 2020 Virginia Allen Cornelison ’80 May 5, 2020 Richard Marion Cousins ’62 April 7, 2020 William Marcus Cutright ’88 May 28, 2020 Emogene Chastain Darnell ’54 April 15, 2020 Laurine W. Wright Davenport ’68 May 21, 2020 Lu Carol Cason DeMore ’68 April 22, 2020 Mattie Sue Worley Eidson ’61 July 30, 2020 Laura Carol Gooch ’65 March 27, 2020 LTC Donald Lee Hackle ’83 June 19, 2020 LTC (Ret.) William David Hammond ’58 July 7, 2020 Opal Bertha Tanner Hoard ’69 July 2, 2020 Thomas William Holley ’74 March 30, 2020 Debbie Jean Lee Jackson ’77 September 4, 2020

Linda Beth Wilson Jones ’69 June 3, 2020 Jerry Harrison Keasler ’06 September 15, 2020 Henry Carlton King ’64 July 1, 2020 John Wendell Lancaster ’02 May 1, 2020 Linda Sue Fowler Massey ’78 April 9, 2020 Dr. June Westmoreland Parks ’60 September 23, 2020 Walter Huny Peacock ’50 May 5, 2020 Hon. Alan Futch Pilcher ’76 August 7, 2020 Dr. Garland Folsom Pinholster ’49 September 20, 2020 Frankie Patricia Power ’54 May 14, 2020 LTC (Ret.) Henry A. Pridgen ’58 March 23, 2020 Betsy Paradise Prince ’55 March 28, 2020 Virginia Susan Smith Reedy ’83 July 31, 2020 Robert H. Rice ’43 March 29, 2020 SGM (Ret.) Bobby Richardson ’91 May 31, 2020 Melinda Carolyn Baker Roberts ’69 August 27, 2020 Stuart Irwin Schwartz ’43 May 20, 2020 Christine Davis Seiler ’49 May 25, 2020 Rhonda Leigh Shelton Shiflet ’88 June 24, 2020 John Thompson Shope ’65 September 1, 2020 Robert Vernon Smith ’60 August 28, 2020 Marjorie Gayle Emrick SuchkeBrownlee ’69 June 10, 2020 Bonnie N. Weil ’97 July 25, 2020 Max Oren Whitaker ’50 July 20, 2020 Jane Wofford Whiten April 25, 2020 MAJ (Ret.) Jack Leroy Wright ’72 June 16, 2020

Former UNG Athletic Hall of Famer dies Dr. Garland Folsom Pinholster died Sept. 20, 2020 at the age of 92.

Pinholster played basketball at UNG from 1948-50, winning the state title in his final year. After graduating, he served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Army.

Pinholster was inducted into the UNG Athletics Hall of Fame, Georgia Sports Hall of Fame, the Atlanta Sports Hall of Fame, and the Oglethorpe Athletic Hall of Fame for a pioneering basketball strategy called “Pinholster’s wheel offense.” The technique, sometimes called the “Pinwheel,” is still widely used and moves players around in a circular pattern to improve scoring opportunities.

His coaching career includes leading the United States to a gold medal in the 1963 Pan American games and a fourth-place finish at the 1963 FIBA World Championship.

In 1966, Pinholster’s Wheel Offense for Basketball became one of the world’s most widely translated books soon after it was published, inspiring him to write four subsequent books. Later in life, Pinholster owned several supermarkets and served six terms as a Georgia State legislator. He was president of the Atlanta Rotary and had also served as a board member for the Boy Scouts, Goodwill Industries and Associated Groceries.

Faculty, Staff and Friends Jane Gloria Thurmond Braswell May 24, 2020 Carey A. Cash May 4, 2020 Thomas Stephens Cheek August 9, 2020 Ervin Charles Crow June 27, 2020 Lacey Elizabeth Culberson March 2, 2020 Joy Arlene Czito July 21, 2020 Jewell J. Dowdy August 27, 2020 Samuel McMillan Freeman May 7, 2020 Jimmy Ray Gable July 7, 2020 Anna Eleanor Byrd Holbrook April 13, 2020 Barbara Bennett Jones June 28, 2020 Rachel Marie Koning September 11, 2020

Dr. Allyn Cleon Johnson ’49 August 20, 2020

Flo Bond Jordan Kromer April 9, 2020

COL (Ret.) Carey Preston Joiner ’56 April 23, 2020

Milton Major Martin September 14, 2020

Horace Lee Matthews May 17, 2020 CDR Thomas Charter Mauney June 11, 2020 Hugh Milton Mills June 12, 2020 Lawrence Alfred Nelms April 25, 2020 Jorene Webb Pilcher March 29, 2020 VADM (Ret.) Robert Henry Scarborough March 20, 2020 Dr. William Horace Sell April 24, 2020 Michael F. Stapleton July 25, 2020 Eleanor M. Jones Terrell March 22, 2020 Carol A. Anderson Wallace August 15, 2020 Maureen Louise McDuffie Ward August 21, 2020 Charles Hugh Willcox August 22, 2020 Leroy Sheppard Young April 26, 2020

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Upcoming Events For event times and other details, as well as more event opportunities, visit calendar.ung.edu. UNG is aware of the impact COVID-19 is having on events and gatherings of large groups of people. Events are subject to postponement or cancellation.

DECEMBER December 2 Chamber Orchestra Concert Virtual

January 9 Corps of Cadets FROG Week and NCOA Graduation Dahlonega Campus

December 4-6 Fall 2020 Commissioning & Commencement Ceremonies Dahlonega Campus

January 16 Women’s Basketball UNG vs. Lander University Dahlonega Campus

December 4 Women’s Basketball - UNG vs.

Johnson C. Smith University Convocation Center Dahlonega Campus

January 20 Women’s Basketball UNG vs. Augusta University Dahlonega Campus

December 7 A Little Night(hawk) Music Series Virtual

February 12-14 Corps of Cadets Distinguished Military Student (DMS) Weekend Dahlonega Campus

April 18 Corps of Cadets Military Awards Review Dahlonega Campus

December 16 Women’s Basketball UNG vs. Francis Marion University Dahlonega Campus

MARCH

MAY

March 6 UNG Rifle Southern Conference Championships

December 17 Sinfonietta Concert Virtual

March 26 Annual Research Conference Virtual

May 7-9 Spring 2021 Commencement & Commissioning Ceremonies Dahlonega Campus

December 19 Women’s Basketball UNG vs. UNC Pembroke Dahlonega Campus JANUARY January 6 Women’s Basketball UNG vs. Georgia Southwestern State University Dahlonega Campus

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FEBRUARY

APRIL April 7-8 ILSS Symposium: Implications of the COVID-19 Pandemic on National Security Convocation Center Dahlonega Campus April 10-11 Class of ’70 50th Reunion Dahlonega Campus

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April 16-18 UNG Alumni Weekend “Reunite on the River” Class of ’55-’57 65th Reunion Class of ’60 -’61 60th Reunion Class of ’75-’76 45th Reunion Class of ’80 40th Reunion Class of ’90 30th Reunion Physics Alumni Reunion Dahlonega Campus April 17 Corps of Cadets Memorial Retreat Dahlonega Campus

UNG is committed to the health and safety of our university community. While we continue monitoring the impact of COVID-19, all events are subject to change and/or cancellation. Visit calendar. ung.edu for times and other details, as well as additional event opportunities. Visit www.ungalumni.org for updates related to alumni events.

In September, UNG conducted several socially distanced commencement mini-ceremonies for its 2020 spring and summer graduates. Safety of the graduates and their families was the key factor in planning and staging the event. During the 40 mini-ceremonies, families were escorted to taped-off areas from which they were able to watch and cheer as graduates received their diplomas.

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