FALL/WINTER 2020
engage THE GEORGIA GWINNETT COLLEGE MAGAZINE
Volume 7, Issue 2
Perseverance Pays Off for Bowbliss PAGE 6
GGC Women Excel in Information Technology PAGE 14
Walsh Endows First Alumnus-funded Scholarship PAGE 16
GGC RESPONDS TO PANDEMIC PAGE 4
Harriet Amofah, ’21, a major in human development and aging services and president of the Student Government Association, helped distribute “Grizzly Strong” masks to students when GGC again offered ed in-person instruction on campus. To minimize the spread of the COVID-19 virus, GGC requires that all students, faculty and staff wear masks on campus, including outdoors if one cannot maintain social distance. To read more about how the college responded to the pandemic, see the story on page 4.
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In this issue
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President’s Message ..................................................................... 2 On the cover: General shows off his custom-sized Grizzly Strong pandemic mask.
College News Notables ...................................................................................................... 3 Grizzly Strong: GGC Responds to Pandemic..............................................4 College Welcomes New Leaders ............................................................... 10 Academic Opportunities Expanded ........................................................... 11 Our Four Pillars in Action Service Perseverance Pays Off for Bowbliss ...................................................... 6 Creativity Mallory Created His Own GGC Experience ...................................... 8 Scholarship GGC Women Excel in Information Technology .............................. 14 Leadership Foster Finds the Key in Building Relationships ................................. 20 Advancing GGC Community Rallies to Support Student Emergency Fund........................ 12 Joseph Family Establishes Endowment, Names Presentation Room ........ 13 Walsh Endows First Alumnus-funded Scholarship................................... 16 Technology Keeps Grizzlies Connected .................................................... 18 The Gallery ............................................................................................ 21 Fall/Winter 2020
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President's Message
Challenges
Make Us
Grizzly Strong Facing and overcoming challenges is nothing new to the GGC community. Dr. Jann L. Joseph President
Many of our students must balance college with work and family obligations. Others need a little extra help with their coursework. Many more struggle with finances and some contend with food insecurities or even homelessness.
Georgia Gwinnett was designed to help students complete their degrees despite the short- or long-term barriers they may encounter. Because of the exceptional teamwork between students, faculty and staff, we all come together to achieve our common goal of student success. It should be no surprise that when the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted our community, we confronted it with the same teamwork and resilience that are constant characteristics of the Grizzly spirit. Faculty, staff and students all had to find a way to maximize our altered educational environment while maintaining optimum safety. With combined forces, we persevered. In fact, our students became pioneers of this new normal by creatively using technology to develop ways to continue their work, interact with groups of all sizes, hold events, present research and even organize large conferences. Already, they are leaders and innovators – and as our mission states – prepared to anticipate and respond effectively to an uncertain and changing world. Our mission was not written during a time of pandemic, social change and economic restructuring, but these words are particularly meaningful in light of today’s extraordinary times. We cannot know what new challenges the future will bring, but we do know that together, we are prepared, persistent, relentless and Grizzly Strong. Go Grizzlies! Dr. Jann L. Joseph
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engage.ggc.edu Georgia Gwinnett College
Notables GGC Receives Impressive Rankings U.S. News & World Report magazine awarded impressive rankings to Georgia Gwinnett College for 2021. For the seventh straight year, GGC is ranked the most ethnically diverse Southern regional college. GGC ranked as the fourth most innovative school among regional colleges in the South. This ranking recognizes innovative approaches to curriculum, faculty, students, campus life, technology or facilities. GGC also earned recognition for its economic diversity, as a top performer on social mobility and its low student debt load at graduation.
THE GEORGIA GWINNETT COLLEGE MAGAZINE
We Value Your Input Send your ideas and comments about Engage to engage@ggc.edu or call 678.407.5549. Production Editor-in-chief: Sally Ramey Photography: Rod Reilly Graphic design: Todd Buxton Writing: Sally Ramey, Jackie Todd Online team: Rycca Blanton, Educational Technology Server Team Other support: Dan Cassavaugh, LaKeidra Veal Hill, Laurie Hudson, Hoang Huynh, Barbara Martell, Allana Walker Leadership Jennifer Hendrickson, associate vice president for Advancement Sloan Jones, associate vice president for Communications Jackie Todd, director of Public Relations Mailing List To be added to or removed from the Engage mailing list email engage@ggc.edu or call 678.407.5549.
Dr. Roslyn Brown, director of Career Services, served as the 2019-2020 president of the Georgia Association of Colleges and Employers.
Madison Preston, ’21, chemistry, received the American Chemical Society’s 2020 Undergraduate Student Award in Environmental Chemistry.
Dr. James D. Lowry Jr., associate professor of human geography, is a distinguished visiting professor of geosciences at the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado, for the 2020-21 academic year.
Dr. Ajay Mallia, associate professor of chemistry, was named a Fellow of the American Chemical Society. 1000 University Center Lane Lawrenceville, GA 30043 678.407.5000 • www.ggc.edu
Dr. Jann L. Joseph, president, recently received the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce’s 2020 Moxie Award.
See more Notables at www.ggc.edu/notables Fall/Winter 2020
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College News
G G C
R E S P O N DS
TO
GGC manages pandemic responsibilities while continuing to shape its future.
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ast spring, visitors to the Georgia Gwinnett College campus would have found it silent, with only campus police and a small crew on site. But while the buildings were vacant and sidewalks empty in the physical world, GGC bustled with activity in the virtual world. Thanks to the internet and associated technologies, spring semester classes proceeded despite the effects of the COVID-19 global pandemic. College leadership collaborated with the University System of Georgia and public health authorities on how to safely bring students back to campus for summer and fall semesters under the theme, “Grizzly Strong.” GGC’s strategies included many workplace basics, such as: • Designated one-way foot traffic patterns in buildings. • Signage and floor stickers to aid social distancing and one-way foot traffic in buildings. • Addition of dozens of sanitizing stations across campus. • Intensified cleaning. However, college is a highly interactive environment, so GGC used tactics specific to student needs, like: • Students take turns attending classes in person. • Staggered work schedules reduce the number of personnel in offices at once. • Clear plastic shields in dining areas, labs and other locations. • Use of large, non-classroom space for classes, allowing more students to attend while maintaining social distance.
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PA N D E M I C
Operating largely in the virtual world has not slowed the college’s forward momentum. It recently added new academic options for students (see related story, page 11), re-imagined its learning communities program and opened its Grizzly Welcome Center. Catherine Moore, assistant professor of art, teaches a class outdoors.
GGC recently unveiled the Grizzly Welcome Center in Building D.
The situation also created opportunities for creativity. For example, GGC genetics instructors created a new, multiweek lab module allowing students to participate in real-world research about SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. “This research teaches multiple techniques used in bioinformatics, a field combining biology and computer science,” said Dr. Elisabeth Javazon, associate professor of biology and biochemistry. With data from a special website, students analyze complete genomes of SARS-CoV-2 from patients around the world, and create their own questions and hypotheses related to virus transmission and evolution.
Students wear masks and maintain social distance on campus.
“Our students might discover new information about the virus,” said Javazon. “Professional researchers announcing mutant versions use the same tools available to our students.” In the School of Business, students redesigned an annual conference for the online environment. Normally a one-day event, the GEAR (Grizzles Engaged Active Ready) Conference features guest speakers who bring invaluable, professional perspectives into the classroom.
Students revived the microfarm after their spring semester absence.
Dr. Ajay Mallia, associate professor of chemistry, teaches students online and in the lab.
“Moving GEAR online was a major undertaking,” said Brittanie Grable, ’20, a student in the course responsible for GEAR planning. “We learned, taught and provided tech support for a platform none of us had any proficiency using.” The online format spread events over a week and recorded the sessions for later viewing, enabling more students to participate. The result was a 50% increase in conference
participation, not counting later views of recorded sessions. “This is a success story for all of us, made more significant by the adversity and obstacles we overcame together,” said Benjamin Rodriguez, ’21, a member of the student planning committee. The college even included “drivethrough” activities, such as a pre-graduation celebration for nursing students and a campus preview day for prospective students. While not a replacement for campus tours, the drive-through preview day enabled future Grizzlies to see the core of GGC, which is not visible from the major streets that border the campus. GGC also presented its commencement ceremonies online. Each graduate’s name was announced while a slide displayed their name, photo, degree and honors information, and an optinal personal message. Graduates received commemorative boxes containing their diploma portfolio, mortar board and other items.
“ This is a success story for all of us, made more significant by the adversity and obstacles we overcame together.” – Benjamin Rodriguez, ’21
In keeping with the spirit of perseverance that enabled GGC and its students, faculty and staff to succeed despite the pandemic, the year’s commencement theme was, “The Unstoppable Class of 2020.” As the pandemic extends into 2021, lessons learned will strengthen GGC’s strategies for ensuring that students continue to succeed. Fall/Winter 2020
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Service
Michael Bowbliss overcame debilitating injury and achieved his life-long dream of becoming a teacher, coach and mentor.
Persistance pays off for 6
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M
ichael Bowbliss began his college career in 1993 on a wrestling scholarship with plans of being a teacher and a coach. However, he dropped out after about a year. He later married, started a family. He became an operations manager at an internet-based pest control supply company and coached a high school wrestling team. In 2009, Bowbliss suffered an injury that caused disabling nerve damage and constant, chronic pain in his right arm. After several surgeries and lawsuits, his personal and professional life stalled.
Bowbliss said Dr. Yvonne Hefner, associate professor of special education, and Dr. Mary Kelly, associate professor of education, were especially supportive and shared valuable advice during his journey, particularly about aspects of special education, his chosen focus for his degree. “I’ve never had the desire to be rich, but each time I connect with an athlete, a student, or a person in the community, I gain something,” he said. “Those experiences make me feel rich and give me the inspiration to succeed.”
Bowbliss He took time off in 2013 because he could no longer manage his pain. During this time, he directed and coached a youth wrestling program. It was a struggle, but he persisted.
In addition to his professors, Bowbliss met teens while coaching who deeply touched his life. One became a surrogate family member.
“My doctors helped me gain control of my pain and my mind, but it was a long, hard fight,” Bowbliss said. “I swore to live a full life that included getting my degree in education. I knew I could get off disability and lead a life enriched by service and community.”
“Here was this awesome, young athlete with an amazing smile and attitude, yet he had struggles,” said Bowbliss. “It made me look in the mirror and say ‘if he can do it, you can do it, too.’ ” That student now plays football at West Point and visits Bowbliss and his children when he comes home to Atlanta.
In 2017, he enrolled at GGC. He said the college opened a world of opportunity while allowing him the flexibility to be a father, student and coach.
Bowbliss graduated in 2020 and was delighted to secure a position to teach special education and coach wrestling and football at Mountain View High School, where he had gone to school.
“I have tremendous respect for my professors – they cared and understood that being 45 with three teenage kids was demanding,” he said. “With coaching high school and middle school sports teams, and managing a pain condition requiring time for treatments, it could be overwhelming.”
“I have always wanted to teach and coach, and the only way to achieve that was to earn a degree,” Bowbliss said. “This degree puts an exclamation point on one life that is behind me and opens the door to my new one. It also demonstrates to my kids that I never gave up.”
“ I swore to live a full life that included getting my degree
in education. I knew I could get off disability and lead a life enriched by service and community.”
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Creativity
Mallorycreated his own
Experience
GGC
During his senior year at GGC, Natan Mallory, ’20, cinema and media arts production (at right), welcomed his sister, Nia, to campus. She is now a sophomore in exercise science/pre-nursing.
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in a presentation for the University System of Georgia Board of Regents in 2019. Mallory described his observations of how the system’s Momentum Year initiative benefits GGC students. The program encourages students to take more than the minimum courses required for a full load so they can stay on track for a timely graduation. Though he’s given his time and talent tirelessly, Mallory believes he gained more than he has given.
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atan Mallory came to Georgia Gwinnett College ready for adventure and involvement with the goal of making new friends and impacting his fellow students. “During the first meeting with my GGC advisor, he recommended that I join as many campus organizations as I could, then drop the ones that weren’t a good fit, if needed,” Mallory said. “That advice helped me carve out the best experience at GGC, and I’m so grateful for what I gained because of my involvement here.” Mallory brought his optimism, humor and caring nature to many campus roles, including resident assistant, Greenlight Activities board member, Black Student Union member, student orientation coordinator, Elite Scholars peer mentor and student engagement specialist with the Office of Student Involvement and the Student Center. “Natan was one of my most exceptional student employees,” said Allen Clarke, assistant director of Student Involvement and the Student Center. “I had the honor of witnessing his impact on the GGC community, as he excelled in his roles as peer mentor, student assistant, orientation leader and student leader.” During his time at GGC, Mallory improved the Student Game Room experience, created systems to support student organization events and transformed the Office of Student Involvement’s promotional efforts with creative videos. “Natan truly has the Grizzly spirit that inspires the Grizzly Nation,” said Tomas Jimenez, senior associate vice president for Student Affairs and dean of students. “Natan’s educational path at GGC was highlighted by his leadership and commitment to excellence. Natan left his Grizzly legacy at GGC.” Mallory’s service as a student leader and experience with orientation led to his selection to represent GGC
“Thanks to my campus involvement, I’ve learned self-acceptance, self-advocacy, time and stress management, work/life balance, negotiation, office etiquette, teamwork and how to be more extroverted to get more out of life,” Mallory said. “I’ve been able to stretch myself by traveling to out-of-state conferences, creating and hosting events, and meeting people from different countries and cultures. It’s been incredibly rewarding.” Mallory chose to attend GGC because he’d heard from high school friends that it was a great college. It was close to his Lawrenceville home, the tuition was affordable and the small classes were ideal since he preferred more one-on-one interactions with professors. “My professors have been supportive along my entire college journey,” he said. “They have motivated me to continue in times when I thought I had nothing left to give. They've taught me that no problem is as big as it seems, and if you take the time to step back and assess the situation, any obstacle can be overcome.” Mallory cites his parents as major sources of inspiration and said his father’s drive and mother’s compassion inspire him to be his best self. “Thanks to my parents, it’s important for me to inspire others,” he said. “I believe everyone would like to see more good in the world, and it takes inspiration to create positive change.” Now armed with a bachelor’s degree in cinema and media arts production, Mallory is pursuing a career in film and media creation. He is the head video editor for Nassan’s Place, a New Jersey nonprofit serving families and children affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder. In addition, he edits videos for clients from places like New York, California and Australia. “Creativity is important to me because it is one of the biggest factors in my individuality, and it is a great outlet for me to express who I am,” Mallory said. “Also, my ability to be creative allows me to connect with other people who have similar creative interests and who inspire me.” Fall/Winter 2020
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College News
GGC Welcomes New Leaders Georgia Gwinnett has welcomed several broadly experienced academic leaders who will guide the college through its continued growth and maturation.
Dr. Michelle Rosemond
“Like the visionary leaders who shepherded GGC through its first 15 years, these professionals share our passion for student success,” said Dr. Jann L. Joseph. “I am excited for what their perspectives will bring to the fulfillment of our mission and vision.”
Dr. Michelle Rosemond was the executive director for Student Retention and also led campuswide advising initiatives for Indiana University South Bend.
Dr. George Low Senior vice president for Academic and Student Affairs and provost Dr. George Low served California State University-East Bay as dean of the College of Business and Economics and professor of marketing. At GGC, he works to enhance its strong foundation of academic excellence, and collaborates with leadership to support student success with a focus on degree completion. Low served as a dean and associate dean at Radford University and Texas Christian University, respectively. He also held positions at the University of Texas, the University of Lethbridge and Brigham Young University. Dr. Christine Miller Divine Vice president of Information Technology and chief information officer Dr. Christine Miller Divine was vice president for information technology (IT) and chief information officer at California State UniversitySacramento. She also spent 14 years at the University of Georgia. Her role at GGC includes leadership, vision and strategic planning for all information and educational technology.
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Vice president for Student Engagement and Success
Rosemond also served in various positions at the University of Louisville, the University of Michigan and Kent State University. Dr. Bernard Oliver Dean, School of Education Dr. Bernard Oliver has held deanships at Valdosta State University, the United Arab Emirates and the University of Missouri-Kauffman. He also worked at the University of Florida, Washington State University, St. Cloud State University, Syracuse University and the University of Missouri-Kansas City. His K-12 experience includes teaching and coaching positions and he was an assistant superintendent for high schools. Dr. Teresa Winterhalter Dean, School of Liberal Arts Dr. Teresa Winterhalter previously served as an associate dean in the College of Arts and Humanities at Georgia Southern University, where she oversaw eight departments and several interdisciplinary programs. Winterhalter also spent nearly 25 years at Armstrong State University. She was the founding director of its Gender and Women's Studies program and served as dean of its College of Liberal Arts.
College News
Opportunities Expanded
Academic
G
eorgia Gwinnett recently entered into agreements offering students new options for degrees, transfers and advanced study, ultimately increasing their career possibilities. Bachelor of Science in Health Science GGC will soon offer a bachelor’s degree in health science, a field with broad career opportunities. Existing programs have insufficient numbers of health care professionals to meet Georgia’s workforce needs, which are particularly great in the area served by GGC. GGC is one of only three U.S. institutions offering a bachelor’s degree with a patient navigation concentration. The program also includes a public health concentration. GGC/GTC Business Administration Articulation Agreement GGC and Gwinnett Technical College (GTC) signed an articulation agreement to allow GTC students completing a two-year associate’s degree in business to transfer to GGC, where they can earn a four-year degree in business administration without losing credits. The arrangement will prevent course duplication and speed time to graduation, saving students both money and time. GGC and GTC have a similar agreement for students majoring in criminal justice/criminology. Master of Science in Nursing Georgia Gwinnett and Clayton State University (CSU) formed a partnership creating a pathway to help increase the number of undergraduate nursing students earning an advanced degree.
Under this agreement, a GGC student completing a Bachelor of Science in nursing will be eligible to enroll in CSU’s Master of Science in nursing – family nurse practitioner degree program. Nexus degree for cinema and media production Pending approval by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, GGC will soon offer a Nexus degree for majors in cinema and media arts production. This program will position graduates for careers in Georgia’s expanding film and television industry. Courses will be taught at the Georgia Film Academy, at GGC and through distance education. It will include specialized classes in on-set production and sound design and an on-set internship.
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Advancing GGC
Community Rallies to
Support Student
Emergency Fund Some lost much or all of their income due to reduced hours, furloughs or layoffs. Some cannot obtain help from their families, who face similar challenges as entire households have lost their jobs. Others are couch-surfing or have become homeless. In response, the GGC Foundation launched a fundraising campaign in 2020 to build up the Student Emergency Fund. The GGC community responded with donations from hundreds of local citizens, faculty, staff, alumni, students and members of the GGC Foundation board of trustees and School of Business board of visitors. Angela Muscheru, ’24, business, with her sons, Justin, 14, Mihail, 4, Cristian Jr., 10, and Adrian, 8.
The pandemic made the fund more important than ever.
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ven in a normal year, many GGC students face shortterm financial hurdles that threaten their education.
For several years, the Student Emergency Fund has provided small grants to help students in need handle immediate expenses for basic necessities that would otherwise cause them to drop out of school. “Sometimes, a student may be a little short of paying for tuition or books,” said Chrissy Rosen, executive director of Individual Engagement. “They also may struggle with transportation, shelter, food, medications and utilities.” Due to the economic instability caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, students’ needs increased dramatically. Some lack gas money to get to work or class.
To support the GGC Student Emergency Fund, visit www.ggc.edu/give
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The Beacon Foundation Charitable Trust, the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia and the Greater Atlanta COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund made significant contributions to the campaign, which surpassed its $100,000 goal. This support made a real difference for students, including Angela Muscheru, ’24, business. Once the pandemic hit, she lost her job, making her husband’s job the sole income for their family of six. Muscheru thought she would have to put her degree on hold, but the fund helped with rent, daycare and other expenses. “This past year has impacted students like no other,” said Jennifer Hendrickson, associate vice president for Advancement. “The GGC community’s generosity has allowed students like Angela to focus on their education during the most trying of times.” As the pandemic continues, so do students’ requests for help. “We welcome gifts of any size to the Student Emergency Fund,” said Rosen. “We don’t want to see any student derail their education and their future over a financial shortfall.” “I want to thank the donors. They helped build a dream for somebody like me,” said Muscheru. “I want them to know that they are changing lives.”
Advancing GGC
Joseph Family Establishes
Endowment,
Names
Presentation Room
Dr. K. Carlton Buchanan Jr., trustee, GGC Foundation; Dr. T.J. Arant, then-senior vice president for Academic and Student Affairs and provost; Dr. Jann L. Joseph, president; Jennifer Hendrickson, associate vice president for Advancement, and Bartow Morgan Jr., chair, GGC Foundation, stand near a portrait of Dr. Edwin Joseph during a dedication ceremony of the Joseph Family Presentation Room last fall.
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resident Jann L. Joseph and her family have pledged $50,000 to endow a GGC scholarship fund and name a special room on campus.
The Joseph Family Scholarship will support social sciences majors. The Joseph Family Presentation Room, located near the GGC Welcome Center in Building D, will be used for orientation, admissions sessions and a starting point for campus tours. Both the scholarship and presentation room honor the memory of Dr. Edwin Joseph, Joseph’s late husband, who succumbed to cancer in 2018. His portrait is displayed in the presentation room. At the presentation room’s dedication ceremony last fall, Joseph recalled a time when she and her late husband adopted a motto of “leave it better than you met it.” As they advanced in their careers, they kept their promise. “My family and I have been so blessed – blessed families
share so they can help those around them,” she said. “This endowment will support students and will enable them to understand that they don’t have to wait until they have a lot to give back.” Dr. K. Carlton Buchanan Jr., a GGC Foundation trustee, announced that the foundation board of trustees would also contribute to the fund. “As we all know, scholarships are so important, and especially at this time of the pandemic, support for our students could not be more critical in helping them with their path to graduation,” he said. A Trinidad native, the late Dr. Joseph was a sustainability studies professor at Indiana University South Bend. He had a passion for helping the less fortunate and an enthusiasm for sustainable techniques and technologies that improve farmers’ well-being, productivity and earning potential. The Josephs were married for 36 years. Fall/Winter 2020
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Scholarship
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omen in information technology (IT) careers in the U.S. remain a minority. GGC's IT faculty ensure that female IT majors have the support they need to succeed. They are encouraged to enhance their skills by participating in IT competitions, service learning, student and professional organizations, research and more.
THREE GGC STUDENTS RECEIVE WOMEN IN TECHNOLOGY SCHOLARSHIPS
Marium Zafar
Sandy Ali
Le Quang Greatzel Unabia
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Three female information technology (IT) majors earned scholarships from Women in Technology (WIT), an Atlanta-based nonprofit created to empower girls and women to excel in science, technology, engineering, the arts and math (STEAM) from the classroom to the boardroom. Sponsored by major Atlanta tech companies, the scholarships recognize academic performance, service and leadership.
Now WIT@GGC vice president, Unabia said the connections she’s made with other women in IT are essential to her college journey. The support she found in WIT@GGC gave her the motivation to capitalize on opportunities, both on and off the GGC campus, which led to earning her a WIT scholarship. Ali, a 2020 graduate, said WIT has made a significant impact on her life.
Of 40 applicants from across Georgia, three of the six winners were GGC IT majors. Marium Zafar, Sandy Ali and Le Quang Greatzel Unabia received scholarships of $5,000, $5,000 and $12,500, respectively.
“We all are going through a lot of challenging times, and I can’t be thankful enough to have this amazing organization awarding scholarships to students like me and all the winners,” Ali said.
Unabia, a senior studying psychology and IT, said she was introduced to WIT@GGC, a registered student organization, when she had decided to quit the IT program.
Zafar said she never would have applied had it not been for her fellow WIT@GGC officers and mentors.
“WIT@GGC invited me to their coding boot camp, where I met women who were already working in the tech industry, and meeting them made me realize that I didn’t have to quit,” said Unabia. “It was also in that boot camp where concepts I didn’t understand the semester before started to make sense. I seriously realized that I had an opportunity, and even if I was bad at coding, I could change and become better through effort.”
“I am thankful to WIT@GGC for creating this scholarship opportunity to support women in STEAM,” said Zafar. “I intend to utilize this opportunity to complete my bachelor’s by May 2021 and give back to my GGC community. I hope my experience will inspire other women to apply for the scholarship next year.” Over the years, the WIT Foundation has also provided grants to support GGC’s WIT Bootcamp program.
DEKHANE NAMED WOMAN OF THE YEAR F O R S T E A M E D U CAT I O N Having seen the preponderance of men in the STEAM fields, Dekhane vowed to break the stereotype. “Technology is for everyone,” she said. “If we are to create technology that works for all of us, then its development teams need representation from all of us, including women. At GGC, we’ve created a strong community of support for women to aid their success in the IT program.” The WIT@GGC Java Boot Camp is geared toward women IT majors as a way to introduce them to programming before taking a required programming course, building their confidence and sense of community. The service-learning Technology Ambassadors Program helps students enhance their technical communications, hone their leadership skills and conduct outreach to educate their peers about technology careers.
Dr. Sonal Dekhane was named Woman of the Year in STEAM Education by the Women in Technology (WIT) organization. This award celebrates women in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) careers for their leadership, vision and accomplishments in business, education and the community. A native of India, Dekhane studied electronics engineering at the University of Mumbai. As a sophomore, she enrolled in a programming course – and something clicked. “It was just so logical and intuitive to me,” Dekhane said. “I completely enjoyed learning programming and realized that’s what I wanted to do.” Dekhane later moved to the U.S. to earn her master’s and doctorate degrees in computer science. She joined GGC in August 2007.
“ If we are to create technology that works for all of us, then its development teams need representation from all of us, including women. ” “We do what we do because we feel strongly about the cause and understand the value of it,” Dekhane said. “Earning the award validates our efforts and brings awareness. That’s why awards like these are valuable. It acknowledges that there is a need to support women in technology, that this kind of work is important and that it needs to be done.” Fall/Winter 2020
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Advancing GGC
WALSH
ENDOWS
FIRST
Tyler Walsh enjoys a quiet moment with his daughter, Laurel, during GGC’s 2017 homecoming festivities.
Tyler Walsh shares his experiences as a GGC student and donor at the 2017 unveiling of the college’s Wall of Recognition, which honors individuals and organizations who provide significant support for GGC and its students.
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“ My parents and grandparents believe it’s what you do for others that is important and will make you better and stronger as a person. ” In 2015, Walsh lost both his beloved grandfather, Jerry Walsh, and his workplace mentor, Teresa Harley. They had both been an important part of his life, and he sought a positive, impactful way to honor their memories.
Tyler Walsh, ’11, business, and Brigette Fontenot, ’13, biology, at a past GGC Foundation Scholarship Reception before the pandemic.
The next year, Walsh’s fiancé and fellow GGC graduate, Brigette Fontenot, ’13, biology, mentioned that 94 percent of her students qualified for free/reduced lunch and several were homeless.
ALUMNUS-FUNDED SCHOLARSHIP
Tyler Walsh, ’11, business, has always given back to his fellow Grizzlies.
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s a student, Walsh served as a tutor. As an alumnus, he speaks for classes and events. He served on the GGC Alumni Association Board from 2016-2019, and as chair of its Development Committee and FY18 Goals Committee. He also served as the alumni representative on the GGC Foundation Development Committee. Walsh also contributes to his community by volunteering with Empty Stocking-Atlanta, Mountain Wisdom Camp and a senior dog shelter. “My parents and grandparents believe it’s what you do for others that is important and will make you better and stronger as a person,” Walsh said.
“She said some had the will, but would need help, to go to college,” he said. “It was Brigette’s students at Radloff Middle School who inspired me to endow a scholarship to honor my grandfather and Teresa Harley.” An endowed scholarship is a permanent fund that pays out scholarships from the interest earned by the fund. Many donors, like Walsh, choose to fund their scholarships over a few years. Walsh began funding the scholarship in 2016 and completed it in 2020, one year early. In doing so, he became the first GGC alumnus to endow a scholarship at the college. Prioritized for business majors, the Harley/Walsh Endowed Scholarship will award its first scholarship in fall 2021. “My experiences at GGC and with my family shaped me to be who I am today, and allowed me opportunities for success I wouldn’t have had at a larger school,” Walsh said. “I’m very proud to give back to GGC.”
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Advancing GGC
TECHNOLOGY GRIZZLIES hen the COVID-19 pandemic led to cancellation of in-person events, the Alumni Association Board and Alumni Engagement staff put their heads together to re-imagine these activities for the online environment.
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“GGC is still a young college and the traditions we build now will form a foundation for the alumni experience decades into the future,” said Holly Lisle, director of Alumni Engagement. “We could not lose the momentum our alumni volunteers have worked hard to achieve, so we worked together to find creative solutions.” All fall alumni events were moved to a virtual format. Alumni also supported fundraising activities that were converted to virtual formats, such as GGC Days and Giving Tuesday. Those participating in the Alumni Mentoring Program engaged virtually, as well. Grizzlyfest, GGC’s unique approach to homecoming, offered 15 virtual activities, some new and some adapted from past years. All events were open to alumni, students, faculty, staff and their families. Participants in the Grizzlyfest Trek 5K completed their runs in locations of their choice and posted photos in social media. In a Grizzlyfest first, alumni were invited to school-specific mixers on Zoom, where they enjoyed conversation and fellowship. An additional mixer was held for the GGC Parents and Family Leadership Society. Decorate Your Den allowed participants to share photos of their GGC-themed door decorations, and the GrizzlyCon Cosplay featured photos of Grizzlies in costume. Athletics presented a behind-the-scenes video tour of the GGC Athletic Complex and administrative building, and one of its weekly variety shows featured an interview with Jack Gurr, ’18, business, about his first season with the Atlanta United soccer team. The School of Business also held a Trivia Night. The popular centerpiece event, the Grizzlyfest Chili Cookoff, provided online voting for the deans and their chili recipes – the first time the recipes had been shared publicly. 18
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CONNECTED New to the competition this year was Dr. Darin Wilson, associate vice president of Athletics, with his spicy chicken recipe. New deans Dr. Teresa Winterhalter of the School of Liberal Arts, and Dr. Bernard Oliver of the School of Education, presented two different white chicken chilis. And new interim dean of the School of Science and Technology, Dr. Sonal Dekhane, offered an Indian-style chili masala. Dr. Tyler Yu, dean of the School of Business, again reigned victorious with his fourth consecutive win. Oliver took second place and Winterhalter placed third. “As with our in-person cook-offs, each vote represented a $1 donation, which was directed this year to the Student Emergency Fund,” said Lisle. “We raised $6,444, a tremendous increase over last year’s $1,154.” A new aspect of Grizzlyfest was the addition of Chef Charles’ Mystery Chili, made with ingredients chosen by alumni, students, faculty and staff. Suggestions including poblano peppers, butternut squash and corn were combined into a unique chili served for lunch in the dining hall. In other activity, the Alumni Association and the Career Development and Advising Center (CDAC) presented the first Classroom to Boardroom Virtual Workshop Series for alumni in a job search, considering career changes or interested in professional development. Created and delivered by CDAC’s professional staff, the workshop topics ranged from making one’s dream job a reality, branding oneself, networking and career elevation. The successful series is offered again this semester. “We appreciate all of the support from the entire Grizzly community and especially the Alumni Association Board,” said Lisle. “This year stretched our imaginations in creative ways, and we were even able to involve alumni who might otherwise not have been able to participate.” In recognition of their efforts, both Lisle and Sarah Thomason, alumni relations coordinator, received 2021 Graduway Impact Awards for exemplary digital content.
Decorate Your Den: "Let's Make a Deal" with Dean Tyler Yu, School of Business.
Held virtually, Grizzlyfest 2020 had broad participation and set a fundraising record.
Grizzlyfest Trek 5K: Elisha Patterson, ’16, information Grizzlycon Cosplay: Larry Simpson, director technology, and his father, Franz Patterson. of Development, as Grizzly Man. s aruptam, ta up ol m ad upta. llaut ute cus eniendel mol Porupidu ci e. Inctati nv ta si es ns co
The Grizzlycon Cosplay was one of the new events for the 2020 Grizzlyfest.
Grizzlycon Cosplay: Sasha Ruiz, ’11, business, as Jurassic Park's Dr. Alan Grant.
Grizzlyfest Trek 5K: Kayla Ryan, ’17, criminal justice and her husband, JJ.
Even General got in on the Grizzlyfest Trek 5K action.
Chef Charles and Luis Montenez, Four Pillar Society, promote the Mystery Chili tasting.
Fall/Winter 2020
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Leadership
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Building Relationships to serve as chair. Chad Miller, ’08, business, served as charter board chair for five years. “The Alumni Board flourished thanks to Chad and Tim’s leadership and the hard work, determination and service of its members,” said Holly Lisle, director of Alumni Engagement. “Together, they built a board reflective of the diversity of our rapidly expanding Grizzly family, and who work hard to build engagement opportunities for their fellow alumni now and for generations to come.” While Foster was chair, the board and GGC’s Advancement staff introduced more Alumni After Hours networking events and school-specific Alumni Mixers, expanded the Grizzlyfest homecoming concept and partnered on fundraising activities like GGC Days. Tim and Mary Ann Foster, and sons Nathan and Sam, stop for a photo with General at Tim’s first Grizzlyfest as Alumni Board chair.
“I’m very proud of the teamwork between the Alumni Board and Advancement staff,” Foster said.
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“The board thrived under Tim’s leadership and we’re grateful for his dedication and invaluable contributions toward helping the Alumni Association – and many projects across GGC – reach their full potential,” said Sasha Ruiz, ’11, business, now the board’s first female chair. She served with Foster on the board for five years as a member and as chair-elect from 2017-2020.
im Foster originally thought he would become an engineer like several family members. However, after studying engineering in college and working for several years in financial compliance, he found accounting and finance more to his liking. In 2007, he decided his career would benefit from “checking the box” of getting a degree in business administration. Because of its affordability and convenient location, he enrolled at GGC, where he found more than he expected. “At GGC, I learned many things from a scholastic standpoint, as well as how to build lasting relationships,” he said. “The friendships I made at GGC emboldened me and helped me build similar enduring relationships in the business world.” He appreciated the mentorship of his faculty, particularly Dr. James Weisel, professor of accountancy, who offered guidance even after Foster’s 2011 graduation. In 2014, Foster joined the GGC Alumni Board, citing gratitude for those who had “poured into my life and career” and a desire to pay it forward. In 2017, he became the second 20
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“Tim’s expertise and commitment to servant leadership make him a sought-after resource, which is why we’re thrilled that he will continue to serve the college on a committee of the GGC Foundation Board of Trustees. We appreciate how Tim’s knowledge and demonstration of excellence inspire other Grizzlies to grow in their service,” she said. “Checking the box for a degree got me to take action for myself and my family,” said Tim, now chief compliance officer for the investment firm, Masters Capital Management, LLC, of Atlanta. “I found a community at GGC – you’re part of something bigger.” “If all you do is create small goals you only create small things. If you create a big goal and don’t succeed, you’ll still create big things,” Foster said, citing the Big Hairy Audacious Goal (BHAG) concept. “But you won’t achieve a BHAG without a community.”
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Georgia Gwinnett College (GGC) provides access to targeted baccalaureate- and associate-level degrees meeting the economic development needs of the growing and diverse population of Gwinnett County and the northeast metropolitan Atlanta region. GGC is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate and baccalaureate degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404.679.4500 for questions about the accreditation of Georgia Gwinnett College. Visit www.ggc.edu. Connect with us @GeorgiaGwinnett
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