Spring/Summer 2016 Volume 3, Issue 1
SERVICE TO COMMUNITY, SERVICE TO NATION Page 4
P in n in g c e remon y ho n o r s f ir st n u r ses
Te nni s t eams repeat n ati onal NAIA cham pi onshi ps
Schol arshi p al l ow s Hol l i f i el d t o c ont i nue servi ng othe r s
Grizzlies make a global difference
This spring, a group of Georgia Gwinnett College students journeyed to the Dominican Republic for a life-changing, international civic engagement experience. Here, a local resident and GGC student Dreyvis Perez apply wire mesh to the upper wall of a new “bottle house,” which the students helped build during their trip. Bottle houses provide an inexpensive and well-insulated shelter option in areas plagued by poverty. They are also earthquake-resistant, a feature important in this region. To learn more about the students’ experiences, see pages 14-15.
SPRING/ SUMMER 2 016 Volume 3, Issue 1
CONTENTS P R E S I D E N T ’ S M E S S A G E .............................................................. 2 COLLEGE NEWS Notables ....................................................................................................... 3 Pinning ceremony honors first nurses ........................................................... 8 How is GGC game changing ..................................................................... 12 My calling .................................................................................................. 16 Tennis teams again win NAIA National Championships ............................ 20 Grizzlies finish another strong season ......................................................... 21 College’s community impact recognized ..................................................... 22 GGC center serves military veteran students .............................................. 25 School of Business announces Corporate Affiliates Program ....................... 27
OUR FOUR PILLARS IN ACTION LEADERSHIP “I will make an impact on this world” ................................................ 4 Tennis champion nets success on and off the court .................... 18
SCHOLARSHIP Rudnicki blazes trail for GGC nursing students .............................. 7 Science fiction becomes fact? .......................................................... 28
SERVICE Seeking challenge propels Adekunle to success .......................... 10 Civic engagement in the tropics........................................................ 14
C R E AT I V I T Y Art brings inspiration to empty spaces............................................ 23
A D VA N C I N G G G C Scholarship allows Hollifield to continue serving others .............................24 Grizzlies rally for first Day of Giving ..........................................................26
T H E G A L L E R Y ...................................................................................... 29 On the cover: Jordan Rudnicki and Alicia Griffiths made history this spring when Rudnicki became one of GGC’s first graduates in nursing and Griffiths became one of the first two female ROTC cadets to become a commissioned officer in the U.S. Army. e n g a g e. g g c. e d u
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President’s Message
WE ARE
Changing the Game in higher education
GGC has launched its second decade with a period of evaluation, Dr. Stas Preczewski
accomplishments that would make any institution proud. Higher education faces a lot of challenges, and GGC’s
self-reflection and planning for the
innovative model addresses those challenges. No other college in
future. We are in the final stages
the nation is doing what we are, and now, national change-agents
of preparing our third five-year strategic plan and recently
know us by name. They see us advancing where others are
completed a review of the experience we provide our students
falling behind. They see us turning obstacles into on-ramps and
and other audiences. The results were affirming.
distractions into opportunities. So far, we have led by example,
Not only do we deliver on the promises of our bold mission
but now, we are being asked to take a more active leadership role
and vision, the GGC described by our audiences is the college
in changing higher education. Of course, this means that we
we set out to build … a game-changing college that:
cannot rest on our laurels, and we won’t.
• Challenges the status quo through innovation and best practices
Our next five, exciting years will bring more growth
• Provides a high-quality experience at an exceptionally low cost
and development for the college’s programs, and further
• Puts students first through engagement and mentorship
enhancement of the student experience. We will broaden our
• Helps all students succeed, no matter their backgrounds
impact, transforming even more lives, families and communities.
• Proves that higher education can be done in a better way –
And while the voices of tradition call for remaining steadfast
the GGC way
against the winds of change, GGC will be the change we want
We have worked steadily to change the game in higher
to see in the world.
education for all students, from those with high academic achievements to those facing barriers found in more traditional institutions. Our efforts are working. We have a list of
Stas Preczewski Participants in this spring’s “Color Fun Run/Walk,” presented by the GGC Honors Program, celebrate the event’s second annual fundraising effort for the American Cancer Society.
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Notables Staff in GGC’s Mentoring and Advising Center won the University System of Georgia Chancellor’s Service Excellence Team of the Year Award: Gold Level. Shown celebrating the Mentoring and Advising Center award are (front row) Camelia Rubalcada, Darrah Henry, Hank Huckaby – chancellor of the University System of Georgia, Dr. Karen Jackson, Dr. DeAnna Jackson, Diana Rowe, Dr. Justin Jernigan – dean of the School of Transitional Studies, (back row) Cara Kelly, Wendy Anderson, Nancy Ciudad-Simmons and Dr. Rebecca Eaker.
Charmaine Troy, student success advisor in the Mentoring and Advising Center, was
elected to a three-year term on the directorate
The Georgia Gwinnett College Magazine
for the American College Personnel Association (ACPA) Coalition for Women Identities.
This role earned her an invitation to the recent
United State of Women Summit, hosted by the White House. John Maison, ’15, was named veterans
success coordinator for the GGC Military and Veterans Success Center.
Mary Cortellino Eich and Katherine
“Katie” Nunn, both 2012 graduates in special
education, are the first Grizzles to be nominated for Gwinnett County Public Schools’ Teacher of the Year Award program.
Dr. Tyler T. Yu, professor of economics and accounting, has been named dean of the
Georgia Gwinnett College School of Business. Dr. Marni Brown, assistant professor of
sociology, has been elected to the Southern
Sociological Society Executive Committee.
Dr. T.J. Arant recently came to GGC as senior vice president for
We Value Your Input
Send your ideas and comments on Engage to engage@ggc.edu or call 678.407.5549.
Production
Editor in chief: Sally Ramey Photography: Rod Reilly, Amy Lancaster, Jason Braverman, Jennifer Stalcup Art direction: Mark Baran Graphic design: Libby LeBlanc Writing: Sally Ramey, Carol McEntee, Killian Edwards, Jason Hendrix Engage Online team: Rycca Blanton, Educational Technology Server Team Other support: Dan Cassavaugh, Dawn Gadar, Laurie Hudson, Hoang Huynh, Amy Lancaster, Sydney Smith
Strategic Communication and Positioning Renée Byrd-Lewis, vice president Sloan Jones, associate vice president
Mailing List To be added to, or removed from, the Engage mailing list, contact engage@ggc.edu or call 678.407.5549.
Academic and Student Affairs and provost.
Lori Buckheister has been named vice president for Advancement. Dr. Mark A. Stillman, assistant professor of psychology, received an Early Career Achievement Award from the American Psychological
Georgia Gwinnett College 1000 University Center Lane Lawrenceville, GA 30043 678.407.5000 www.ggc.edu
Association.
Georgia Gwinnett College is an accredited, four-year, degree-granting unit of the University System of Georgia.
See more Notables at www.ggc.edu/notables
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pon her first step onto the GGC lawn
Griffiths, 23, began her college career at an exclusive southern college promoted as providing a personalized
during its annual “March
educational experience. However, this
Through the Arch” new
freshman year.
student welcome event,
I worked so hard in classes and in the
was not what she found during her “I left my previous school because
Alicia Griffiths said she felt
work program, but was never pre-
a sense of belonging and
my knowledge or involvement. The
strong potential. Today,
traditional and lacked diver-
sented with opportunities to expand atmosphere was extremely
she counts herself lucky
sity among students. It also
because Georgia Gwinnett
students and faculty, as
was not her first college experience.
lacked networking between well as the community,” Griffiths said. “In contrast, at GGC, I no longer felt like the poor student within
“I will make an imp the population, and I have been presented with numerous opportunities that set me up for success and faculty/peer mentors who encouraged service to the community and the nation.” Griffiths chose GGC due to its convenient location and because it offered a military science class that tapped into her dream of eventually serving in the military. Inspired by her grandfather, a fighter pilot in the U.S. Air Force, and her father, who attended military school, Griffiths was attracted to the idea of flying planes and defending the nation. “Enrolling in GGC and taking that class turned out to be two of the best
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As a member of the GGC Honors Program, Griffiths represented the college at several events. Here, she is shown with Georgia Governor Nathan Deal.
decisions of my life,” Griffiths said. “I built a group of friends who became my second family, and it led to my becoming an Army officer.” Griffiths’ dedication and commitment caught the attention of Sergeant Andrew Keene, who told her that she had what it takes to be an officer. This gave her the confidence and inspiration she needed to believe that she could succeed as an officer in a male-dominated organization. She was then offered a scholarship and sworn into the U.S. Army. “I have since worked my way up in rank and gone through two military training cycles. I have been challenged and had to face my weaknesses more times than I can count,” she said. “Coming to GGC and joining ROTC has made me who I am today, and when
A prolific artist, Griffiths enjoys painting, particularly landscapes.
people ask me why I joined the military,
pact on this world.” I tell them that it is my calling. It is what
France, Spain, Ireland, the Bahamas and
helped develop a policy on disaster
I was always supposed to do.”
Mexico to gain cross-cultural experiences.
preparedness. She was also chosen as a
Griffiths’ résumé is studded with
During her travels, she immersed
representative for the 2015 GOP Chair-
impressive accomplishments, including
herself in the arts and histories of these
man’s dinner and was recognized for her
an internship with the World Affairs
countries by visiting their most notable
military service.
Council of Atlanta, where her tasks
landmarks, such as the Palace of
include assisting the program manager in
Versailles, the Colosseum, the Sistine
volunteering on behalf of ROTC at the
planning and executing events, such as
Chapel and Mayan ruins.
Children’s Shelter, where she spends
hosting multiple ambassadors to the U.S.
Griffiths’ 4.0 GPA earned her induction
During her spare time, Griffiths enjoys
time with children by playing basketball,
She also edits and prepares executive
into the GGC Honors program, Golden
helping with homework and providing
letters for South African businesses, drafts
Key International Honour Society, Pi
fun and comfort. She also attends legis-
letters for member recruitment, markets
Sigma Alpha National Political Science
lative luncheons, meet-and-greets and
the organization on social media sites, and
Honor Society and Sigma Iota Rho Honor
serves as a GGC ambassador at politi-
drafts emails and press releases.
Society for International Studies. She was
cal events such as GOP dinners hosted
While at GGC, the political science
awarded the 2014-2015 GGC Outstand-
by Governor Nathan Deal and Georgia
major has studied international terror-
ing Student – Leadership Award and has
GOP Chairman John Padgett. An artist,
ism, homeland security, global issues,
made the President’s List every semester.
she relaxes by painting in acrylics.
conflict resolution, international law
She was one of two GGC students
Griffiths credits her mentors Dr. Mazin
and international organizations with an
chosen to participate in the Student
Tadros, Captain Edward VanBuren and
in-depth analysis of the United Nations.
Conference of United States Affairs at
alumnus Luis Rivera with furthering her
She also studied business and marketing
West Point Military College, where she
personal and professional develop-
while abroad at the IE Business School of Madrid and traveled to Germany, Italy,
ment. Tadros, assistant professor of continued on next page e n g a g e. g g c. e d u
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Georgia Gwinnett College more than doubled its number of U.S. Army commissioned officers this spring. Shown are Alicia Griffiths, 2nd Lieutenant – Signal Corps; Adam Robes, 2nd Lieutenant – National Guard Military Police; Ashleigh Simmons, 2nd Lieutenant – Transportation Corps, and Andrew Lee, 2nd Lieutenant – Infantry, all 2016 graduates.
continued from page 5
history, lends advice when needed and helps her stretch to new challenges. VanBuren introduced her to the philosophical side of leading. Rivera, a fellow political science major and sergeant in the U.S. Army, had the honor of being her first salute at graduation. “Alicia came to GGC disillusioned by her previous college experience,” said Tadros. “It has been rewarding to help her plot a course to form relationships with peers, staff and faculty and see her thrive thanks in part to GGC’s many support resources. I believe she has the capacity for a profound future in service. She has an inquisitive and analytical mind and is poised with enough energy to conquer the world.” Griffiths said she is most grateful to her parents, James and Shelley Griffiths of Loganville, for providing great encourage-
“Coming to GGC and joining ROTC has made me who I am today, and when people ask me why I joined the military, I tell them that it is my calling. – Alicia Griffiths, ’16 It is what I was always supposed to do.” During a field exercise in which she is acting as a commander, Alicia Griffiths (center) discusses an operations order with Scott Blackstock, a ROTC cadet from the University of Georgia acting as platoon leader.
ment along her path and considering her a hero for serving her country. During her commissioning ceremony this May, they had the proud honor of pinning military bars on her uniform to signify her joining the Signal Corps, a branch responsible for information systems and communications. She took the oath of office as second lieutenant during the 2016 spring commencement ceremony, along with fellow cadet Ashleigh Simmons. They were GGC’s first two female ROTC cadets to be commissioned. After graduation, Griffiths left for the Basic Officer Leaders Course. She would like to be stationed in Germany or Hawaii upon completion, and to experience deployment, possibly in South Korea. Beyond that, she hopes to start a family and focus on her career in the Army. She also has political aspirations. “I am confident in my abilities and the leadership skills I have gained through ROTC. I will make my impact on the world.”
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Rudnicki blazes trail for GGC nursing students
J
Speaking on behalf of the class of 2016, Jordan Rudnicki addresses the crowd of nearly 5,000 gathered for the spring commencement ceremony.
Jordan Rudnicki, ’16, soon begins her career in the intensive care
dedicated their time to helping me succeed,” she said. “I could
unit at Gwinnett Medical Center – one of the first to earn a bachelor’s
actually get to know all my classmates because there were only
degree in nursing from Georgia Gwinnett.
30 of us in the room, and I took part in state-of-the-art learning
Moved to care for those who are forgotten and to advocate
change for those who cannot help themselves, Rudnicki decided to pursue nursing after studying at a Bible college in Argentina. “That experience opened my eyes to the tremendous need that
through flipped classrooms and technology integration.” In a flipped classroom environment, homework is done first. Students view online materials before class, and then participate in hands-on, laboratory and simulation activities in class that
exists in the world,” she said. “I wasn’t just struck by the severe pov-
reinforce conceptual learning. Such innovative instruction and its
erty I saw, or by the number of children without a home or clothing.
emphasis on caring are hallmarks of the GGC program.
I was struck by the overwhelming need for love and compassion.”
“It is important to train nurses to work in the environments
Rudnicki’s motivations were a perfect fit for GGC’s program,
they will encounter in actual clinical settings,” said Dr. Sharon
which began enrolling students in 2014. “We talk a lot about creating a ‘culture of caring.’ This concept
refers to being present with those around us, engaging with them and allowing them to be vulnerable. It involves caring for people
Grason, director of nursing. “We prepare our students to function effectively in health care’s dynamic, multi-disciplinary and highly interactive work environments.” Only up to 32 students are accepted into the program each fall
holistically, recognizing the individual physical, emotional and
and spring semester. Applicants must have completed their first
spiritual needs of each person. It means being a leader and
two years of college and have an excellent academic record. Once
empowering others to learn to provide for themselves,” she said.
accepted, students attend a three-day “boot camp.” Uncommon
“A ‘culture of caring’ means putting myself aside so I can care for
among nursing programs, this comprehensive orientation pre-
and serve another.”
pares students for success in the program.
Rudnicki said she believes this concept represents not only the
nursing program, but the college as a whole. “I am thankful to have been at a school and part of a nursing
program where every one of my teachers knew my name and
“Ours is Georgia’s first nursing program designed to be concept-based from its beginning, and only one of two in the state,” said Dr. Lois C. Richardson, then-interim senior vice president of continued on next page e n g a g e. g g c. e d u
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Pinning ceremony honors first nurses
G
eorgia Gwinnett bestowed its
“These students, and the hundreds who
first bachelor’s degrees in nurs-
will follow, will help meet the area’s critical
ing on 23 students at its 2016
need for nurses at the baccalaureate level,”
spring commencement ceremony, fulfilling a
said Dr. Diane White, dean of the School of
commitment the college made to the Gwin-
Health Sciences.
nett community soon after it was founded in 2005. The charter nursing class of 2016 also includes students who will graduate this fall.
GGC’s students were also the first to establish traditions that will be recognized by their fellow Grizzlies for decades to come. Steeped in decades of traditions, nursing education includes several ceremonial milestones and each program creates its own traditions. In May, GGC’s nursing graduates marked completion of their education with an informal celebration that included signing
each other’s uniforms, followed by a formal pinning ceremony, an uplifting observance of their entry into the profession. “While there are variations, the ceremony includes the presentations of pins and recitation of a variation of the Nightingale Pledge,” said White. “It is deeply meaningful, as the responsibility for caring for others in times of need is not just a career choice; it is a life’s calling.”
continued from page 7
Academic and Student Affairs and provost. “Combined with the program’s selectivity, this approach instills a high level of prestige and credibility in a GGC nursing degree.” Housed in the Allied Health and Sciences building, GGC’s nursing program is supported by an Interactive Clinical Learning Center (ICLC), including a Simulation Suite with four simulation labs equipped with wireless technology for managing patient bed simulations. The simulation mannequins are so life-like they mimic virtually any medical situation, even childbirth. The ICLC also contains a 14-bed Nursing Skills Laboratory, resembling a large intensive care unit, complete with a nurses’ station. All students learn electronic health records through software used in actual clinical settings. Another unique feature in GGC’s nursing program is the mandatory use of laptops and e-texts for learning.
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Dr. Diane White, dean – School of Health Sciences, Jordan Rudnicki and Dr. Stuart Downs, chief nursing officer – Eastside Medical Center with Rudnicki’s Pillar Award.
The local medical community was involved
Eastside Medical Center, also a charter
in the ceremony, as well. A congratulatory
nursing partner, presented the following
message was presented by Philip R. Wolfe,
special awards: Clinical Excellence Award –
president and CEO of
Ivori Miller, Nursing as Caring Award –
Gwinnett Medical
Susan Yoon; Professional Leadership Award
Center, a charter nurs-
– Amelia Jones and the Pillar Award – Jor-
ing partner of GGC’s
dan Rudnicki. The Pillar Award recognizes
program. Wolfe also
excellence in GGC’s four pillars of scholar-
is a GGC Trustee.
ship, leadership, creativity and service.
Each nursing program has its own unique lapel pin. Many nurses wear their pins daily as a symbol of where they received their training. GGC’s pin includes the school’s colors of green and gray and a nurse’s lamp, a symbol with ties to Florence Nightingale. The lamp is held aloft by a pair of caring hands, another traditional symbol of nursing and focal point of Georgia Gwinnett College’s nursing program.
Charter nursing students Jessica Arana, Arjumand Asif, Nigel David, Anca Epure and Keelan Harris wait for the candle lighting portion of GGC’s historic, first pinning ceremony.
GGC’s faculty also have a distinctive approach to their roles and interactions with students. “Our policies and even our language support the expectation that our students will succeed,” said Dr. Diane White, dean of the
student from each University System of Georgia institution. At the college’s first nursing pinning ceremony (see story above), she received the first-ever Pillar Award. Rudnicki also was selected to represent the class of 2016 as
School of Health Sciences. “We don’t just role model the concept
senior speaker for the spring commencement ceremony and
of ‘care for.’ We also ‘care about.’ This provides a learning envi-
encouraged her fellow graduates to retain GGC’s caring spirit.
ronment very different from that of some other programs.” Beyond the classroom, Rudnicki was an active student leader
“As a member of GGC’s charter nursing class, I hope to take the culture I’ve experienced here into my practice of caring for
who helped form the Gwinnett Grizzly Bear Association of Nurs-
others,” she said in her remarks. “I hope to improve the way peo-
ing Students and served as its secretary. She also served on the
ple are treated to make outcomes better for future generations. I
board of the Georgia Association of Nursing Students.
challenge each of you to do the same in your future professions.”
In addition, she worked as a full-time nanny, married her
While excited to face the challenges and rewards of a nurs-
husband, Joe, and became mother to her son, Walter, now almost
ing career, Rudnicki was fully aware of the serious nature of her
one year old – all while maintaining exceptional grades. In fact,
work caring for critically ill patients in intensive care – expressing
Rudnicki was GGC’s choice for the Georgia State Legislature’s
an unusual farewell to friends and faculty after the ceremony:
annual Academic Recognition Day Award, bestowed on one
“I hope I never see you.” e n g a g e. g g c. e d u
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Seeking challenge propels Adekunle to success Kareem Adekunle grew up in Kaduna
family, Peter and Mary Hage of
State, Nigeria, far from his current home
Lawrenceville. He enrolled in Provi-
disappointed by not receiving a collegiate
in Gwinnett County.
dence Christian Academy in Lilburn
basketball scholarship and was faced
Like most children in his community,
After high school graduation, he was
on a basketball scholarship in 2010, and
with moving back to Nigeria. It was then
he played soccer. Then he watched his
Peter Hage was appointed his guardian
that the Hages suggested he tour Georgia
first NBA all-star basketball game, in
by Gwinnett County later that year.
Gwinnett College.
which a spectacular dunk by Vince Carter
“The Hages have treated me like a
“We took Kareem into our house with
gave birth to Adekunle’s next challenge –
son and helped me transition from a
the understanding that he would get an
mastering the art of dunking.
young teenager to the man I am now,”
athletic scholarship to play basketball
“I do not like to do what everyone else
he said. “My host dad is one of the most
in college,” Peter Hage said. “When this
does, and I am always looking for a chal-
hardworking people I know and that
didn’t happen, we had to decide what to
lenge,” Adekunle said. “Dunking became
has rubbed off on me.”
do. Were we just his ‘host family?’ The
a way for me to vent my frustrations over
opportunity for him to attend Georgia
the violence and lack of opportunity that
Gwinnett College opened a door, and we
surrounded me.”
accepted it. We are grateful to GGC for
At 16, he came to the U.S. after being selected among the top 50 at a basketball camp held in Lagos State, Nigeria by Masai Ujiri, the general manager of the Toronto Raptors. He had to leave his mother and brother behind, but was welcomed into an American host
opening the door.” Adekunle met with Cheryl Park, GGC’s associate director of Interational Student Services, to learn more about enrolling at the college. “Fortunately, GGC was starting their international program
Kareem Adekunle, center, and his American “parents,” Mary and Peter Hage.
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that fall, and I was one of the first international students to enroll,” Adekunle said. Park offered Adekunle an academic scholarship, allowing him in-state tuition as long as he maintained a minimum 3.0 GPA. The Hages then offered to pay the rest of his way through college, leading to his attendance at GGC. “Attending GGC is the best thing that’s ever happened to me,” Kareem said. “It has provided a platform where I can achieve all I have set out to achieve because the program is built to help students
“Growing up in Nigeria has made me want to build parks and playgrounds there for under-served kids, so they can have something constructive to do, hopefully preventing them from falling into a life of violence,”
succeed. I love it here, and it’s safe to say
Now 22 and a summer 2016 gradu-
God’s college plan for me is better than
ate, Adekunle hopes to use his bachelor’s
anything I had envisioned for myself.”
degree in business to pursue a career in the
Kareem cites the GGC faculty for help-
– Kareem Adekunle, ’16
desk and career ambassador at the Career Development and Advising Center. “While at the information desk, I tell
entertainment or automotive industry. He
prospective parents that I don’t just like
ing him meet his goals. From meeting with
hopes to gain experience so he can one day
being a student at GGC, I love it,” Adekunle
him outside of class to assisting him with
own his own business. He also has estab-
said. “I tell them that if their teenager
classwork and homework, his professors
lished another challenge for himself.
comes to GGC, success will only be limited
have willingly extended themselves to
“Growing up in Nigeria has made me
by the student’s own decisions.”
ensure his success. Dr. Benjamin Akins and
want to build parks and playgrounds there
Ginny Rae Turner even helped him prepare
for under-served kids so they can have
a privilege and a necessity … and that he
for job and internship interviews.
something constructive to do, hopefully
is now grateful that a basketball scholar-
preventing them from falling into a life of
ship didn’t materialize after high school
violence,” he said.
graduation.
Among his personal heroes are his American family, the Hages, and a high school English teacher Mrs. Kelly Elliot
Adekunle has made the most of his
Adekunle said he believes education is
“I’m so happy that GGC became my
who still checks on him and hosts him at
college years, welcoming challenges to
home,” he said. “It’s great to attend a
Thanksgiving each year. He also keeps in
expand his skills and experiences. He is a
school where I am not just a number, but I
touch with friends from Providence Chris-
member of the Golden Key International
actually count.”
tian who have supported his growth.
Honor Society and the Sigma Beta Delta
“Kobe Bryant has actually been a great
honor society. He serves as president of
influence on me as well,” Adekunle said
African Voice, a student organization de-
of the basketball great. “To me, he demon-
voted to Africa-related issues and heritage.
strates hard work, which is a characteris-
And, of course, he also has played on the
tic my family instilled in me. Coming to
GGC club basketball team.
the NBA as a skinny high school kid, he worked to earn the respect of his oppo-
His campus jobs have included the bookstore and Student Center information
nents and peers. He lived the advice my mother gave me – you have to earn everything you have; no one is going to hand you anything.”
David Araya, Dr. Mei Zhang, Esteban Gonzalez and Kareen Adekunle pause for a celebratory photo after completing the 2016 capstone class for graduating business majors.
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game changing? HOW IS GGC
ATTENTION GGC combines proven student/faculty engagement practices
AFFORDABILITY smart phone. They provide their numbers on every syllabus
with small class sizes, individual attention, remarkable facilities,
instead of offering ill-timed traditional office hours. Students
a diverse and inclusive culture and student mentoring to enhance
may contact faculty with questions by phone, e-mail or text,
student success. We call that transformative – for higher educa-
and faculty are expected to respond promptly. Our faculty are
tion in general, and for individual students in particular. That’s
routinely seen engaging with students in dining and study areas.
game changing.
Faculty are encouraged to develop new and more effective
Student engagement defines our culture With everything new that we do, we ask ourselves, “Will this idea support student engagement and success?” Faculty teach, mentor and innovate. Faculty are recruited, evaluated and rewarded based on their ability to effectively engage students.
instructional methods and to creatively engage their students, especially with opportunities outside the traditional classroom. Already, several faculty members and teams have won significant recognition for creating new technologies and approaches. Often, innovations involve student team members. We meet students where they are. If they need more support, faculty spend extra instructional time with them or refer them to
To enhance communication, each faculty member is issued a
a variety of tutoring or other support services. If they need more challenge, we have that covered, too, in our Honors Program. We see education as a team effort. Students must do their part, but we must do our part, as well. Our faculty not only encourage students to challenge themselves, they reach out to those who are struggling. In addition to personal attention, words of encouragement or experienced advice can make all the difference between a student graduating or dropping out of school. Every student matters – individually.
We help students find paths to success We provide a variety of student support resources. The Academic Enhancement Center uses innovative methods and
RESULTS
GGC’s students have consistently given
the college high scores in the National Survey on Student Engagement (NSSE). Georgia Gwinnett’s seniors score the college above the national NSSE averages in all performance indicators and above the University
System of Georgia’s averages when it participated in 2014. GGC frequently scores in the nation’s top 10 percent in several key indicators.
technology to provide effective and engaging tutorial experiences, along with academic and study skills development. More than 40 percent of students use our tutoring services. The Mentoring and Advising Center provides intrusive advising for several hundred students on academic suspension or at the highest risk for dropping out, and has a remarkable success rate. The Center for Teaching Excellence helps GGC faculty enhance their skills through programs promoting design and implementation of creative learning environments, effective teaching practices, instructional experimentation and student engagement.
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GGC’s innovative practices, caring culture and extremely affordable tuition are changing the game in higher education, and changing the future for students at all levels, of all ages and from all walks of life.
ACCESS We reduce financial barriers
GGC: the complete college experience
Every aspect of the college was developed to keep costs
Georgia Gwinnett’s integrated approach to attention , afford-
low. This includes a flattened organizational structure without
ability and access make a complete college experience possible
departments, outsourcing auxiliary services and designing
for all students. Our vibrant campus community provides a full
facilities for maximum efficiency. From LED lighting to
range of social, service and professional activities for holistic
drought-resistant landscaping, sustainability strategies also
personal development. GGC students may enhance their educa-
support cost control. We continually look for creative ways
tion through internships, scholarly activities/competitions, study
to achieve efficiencies.
abroad programs and an Honors Program. We even offer under-
GGC has the lowest in-state tuition/fees of ranked Georgia
graduate research opportunities to students at all levels, not just
public institutions (U.S. News & World Report, 2016) at less than
juniors and seniors.
$5,500 annually. This prices a bachelor’s degree at less
GGC is one of a kind
than $22,000 for commuter students – important since about
Georgia Gwinnett College has no peer institutions and is
92 percent of our students qualify for federal financial aid. Still, some students face having to drop out of college because they
unique in its ability to provide a high-quality and attentive
fall short of affording their GGC expenses, even by as little as
education at a low cost for all students.
$20. A donor-supported emergency fund fills such gaps so these students can stay in school and achieve their dreams.
The innovative model is supported by a stable mission, vision and culture and is self-sustaining. GGC’s focus on student engagement positions GGC to do well with national trends tying
Supp Inspir ortive, ing C lima te
fiscal allocations to institutional retention, progression and graduation rates. This creates a cycle of
E
I
sive IntruMethods , e tiv nt ova eme nn ngag
Exceptionally Engaged Students
Committed Community Rei
GGC Student Success A Partnership Model
nves tmen ts
Increased Resources
success through which GGC is
Improved RPG Metrics se d -B a m e n t e c man on Perfor ng Envir i d Fun
rewarded with increased resources for doing its job well. Those resources are then reinvested to further enhance student success. GGC’s model contributes significantly to Governor Nathan Deal’s Complete College Georgia initiative, which aims to rapidly increase
STABLE VISION, MISSION & CULTURE This graphic first appeared online in conjunction with a column by GGC President Stas Preczewski in the feature, “Best Practices: Enrollment Success Stories,” in the Winter 2015 issue of The Presidency, the flagship magazine of the American Council on Education.
the proportion of Georgia citizens with a certificate or college degree. It also supports Complete College America’s suggested strategies. e n g a g e. gg c. e d u
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13
Mishel Cabrera, ’1 for a photo with a loca Cele Blair, assistant director for Education Abroad, places bottles between layers of screen in the bottle house’s walls.
India Dillard, ’17, and Dreyvis Perez, ’16, take a break during bottle house construction.
Civic engagement
in the tropics
This spring, eight students spent their spring break in the Dominican Republic through GGC’s Global Civic Engagement Program. A partnership of the offices of Student
Involvement and Internationalization, the program seeks to enhance the student educational experience through global awareness, social impact and creation of cultural competence by instilling a broader world perspective through global participation and civic engagement.
Accompanied by three GGC employees, the students helped to build a bottle house for a local homeless family, and visited a bottle school. They also visited a free trade chocolate factory
operated by the Peace Corps, where they helped with packaging. With the aid of a translator,
they interviewed local residents to learn what initiatives would be most helpful for the community. Upon their return, the students made a campus presentation about their experiences.
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17, pauses al resident.
Above: Chase Goodwin, ’16, and Derek Lughas, ’17, sort through discarded plastic bottles to find those of the right size and condition for use in the bottle house’s walls. Below: GGC students help package free-market chocolates at a Peace Corps-operated business that provides jobs for local residents.
Major Bell, ’17, applies concrete to the walls by hand. Bottle construction is well-insulated and able to withstand the region’s earthquakes better than some traditional building methods.
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Zhang follows her dream from a remote Chinese village to Georgia’s highest college teaching honor.
My calling
I
t’s 10 p.m. and a GGC police of-
Zhang found her passion for teaching
“Being a college professor was my
ficer is clearing campus buildings
during a summer volunteer experience in
childhood dream. I was educated from a
for the night and finds Dr. Mei
a remote mountain village in northeastern
young age that teaching is one of the best
“Miranda” Zhang working with
China. Getting to Qiankan required a two-
and most rewarding professions a person
students in her office. Like many
hour car ride from her native city of Dalian,
could choose to undertake.”
other nights, whether he finds
and a six-hour hike. Qiankan’s location and
them here, in the library, a classroom or
lack of phone service worried her parents,
study area, he must ask them to leave.
but did not deter Zhang, then 18.
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Zhang taught math, language, science and history to about 100 students aged 10-15. “Once I saw the faces of the children
and started teaching, I was hooked,” she
economics, is the fifth GGC faculty mem-
of a much larger set of human beings scat-
said. “As each of the children started to be
ber to win the prestigious honor.
tered throughout this nation and abroad.”
more confident every day and raised their
“Dr. Zhang recognizes the importance
Zhang requires research papers and
hands to answer my questions, I knew I
of students at an access, diverse institution
frequent homework, but provides the
had found my calling.”
being exposed and challenged to rise to
extra help students need to meet her high
the same standards of excellence expected
expectations, including tutoring sessions
her to stay. The poverty-stricken region
of them in the world of business,” said
for each class. Mentoring 40-70 students
had difficulty retaining teachers, so Zhang
Dr. Stas Preczewski, GGC president. “She
per semester, she enjoys interacting with
extended her program to a year-long job.
firmly believes that students at our institu-
Her mother journeyed to Qiankan to ask
tion deserve the same academic opportuni-
her to come home, but the young teacher
ties and challenges as students elsewhere.”
“When my students thank
Zhang helped incorporate the Business
me, I know that following
At summer’s end, the children begged
would not leave her students. Zhang later earned bachelor’s and
Simulation Game (BSG) into the senior
master’s degrees from Dongbei University
capstone class. The BSG involves about
of Finance and Economics in Dalian, and
50,000 students in around 3,000 classes at
a Ph.D in economics at Mississippi State
400 institutions in more than 50 nations in a
my dream was the right thing to do.” – Dr. Mei “Miranda” Zhang
global competition that simulates real-word international business. Zhang’s students
students. She provides recommendation
compete against teams from some of the
letters for students pursuing internships,
world’s top business programs, including
jobs and graduate school and maintains
many graduate student teams, in running
connections to alumni.
and growing simulated companies. Despite
“When Dr. Zhang was my professor, I
the odds, her students often earn “Top 100”
looked forward to going to class each day;
BSG honors, something unexpected of an
I am honored to not only call her my pro-
undergraduate access institution.
fessor, but my friend,” said Tyler Walsh,
Zhang has produced a book, numerous
’11, in his letter of nomination for Zhang’s
University, where she “fell in love” with international business. She taught at Mercer University before coming to GGC in 2007. At a college known for caring faculty, Zhang is particularly dedicated to student success. A tough instructor, she teaches some of the School of Business’ most demanding courses, like Strategic Management 4700, the capstone class required of graduating business majors. “Students dread this course,” said Dr.
state and national presentations and more
teaching award.
than 30 research papers – experiences she
In addition to the USG award, Zhang
Lois C. Richardson, then-interim senior
feels important to share with first-genera-
received GGC’s 2015 Outstanding Teaching
vice president of Academic and Student
tion students, who represent about half of
Award. While honored by both awards, she
Affairs and provost. “However, by the
GGC’s graduates.
maintains her student-focused perspective.
end of the semester, they praise Dr. Zhang
“First-generation students often have
“Awards can sometimes be fleeting, but
through our ‘Thank a Teacher’ program
not had anyone open up the world to
impacting a person is more permanent as
and invite her to watch them graduate.
them,” she said. “They often have not trav-
they continue to impact others themselves,”
That is a sign of an excellent teacher.”
eled far or read widely, and so by sharing
she said.
In fact, Zhang’s students nominated her
my research with them and challenging
Zhang finds her greatest reward in her
for the 2015 University System of Georgia
them to do their own, they learn they are
students’ many thank-you notes, which re-
Felton Jenkins Jr. Hall of Fame Faculty
not just part of Georgia Gwinnett College
mind her of the same sentiments expressed
Award. Zhang, professor of finance and
in Lawrenceville, Georgia – they are part
by her first students in Qiankan. e n g a g e. gg c. e d u
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is n n n e o i T p s s m a cce h c su ff o ts nd t e n na r u o o c the
When Hodges was tapped by
Georgia Gwinnett to build its
tennis program, Hatem followed his coach to become the first Grizzly tennis player.
national tennis championships as he aced
academics and embraced American culture. “Work hard now; cherish victory later,” is
the motto Matias Hatem, 24, has lived by since moving to the U.S. from Tucuman,
Argentina, in 2012 to play college tennis. An avid player and fan since the age of four, Hatem discovered his passion for
tennis through his parents’ encouragement and by watching television coverage of
superstar athletes like Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.
He was originally recruited by Chase Hodges, who was head coach at Georgia State University at the time. Although he spoke
little English, Hatem moved to Georgia and went on to set a Georgia State record for
consecutive singles wins. He earned several honors, including Player of the Week and the 2012 CAA Rookie of the Year.
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mentor. He knows how to get the best
out of his players and always has good advice.”
Hatem credits the lessons he’s learned on
a five-time National Coach
and time management – with his success
petitor,” said Coach Hodges, of the Year winner. “He
brings a fire and energy to
the team that is unmatched
and his leadership qualities
lend to his success as team
captain. He is the type of player
that you love having on your team
because he will do whatever it takes
lead the Grizzlies to three consecutive
beyond. Coach Hodges has been a great
“Matias is the ultimate com-
to achieve victory.”
Argentina native Matias Hatem, ’16 helped
happy while learning in college and
the court – such as discipline, organization off the court. He said he appreciated how his teammates kept him motivated with
their support and dedication to tennis while maintaining top grades. The team posted an impressive average GPA of 3.65 for
this past academic year. Hatem’s grades earned a place on both the President’s and Dean’s Lists, and graduation with
honors at the 2016 spring commencement.
In addition to leading the Grizzlies to an
Hatem said that living abroad has helped
NAIA championship in men’s tennis,
in making decisions.
astounding third consecutive national
Hatem has established his own success-
him mature and become more assertive
ful record. This includes being named to
“Before, my parents did a lot of daily tasks
and reaching as high as a No. 3 national
living on my own has made me much
his Grizzly career with his second perfect
ing about a new culture,” he said.
and a three-year record of 49-5 in singles
journey and I’m so grateful to
the First Team All-American three times
for me, and although I miss them terribly,
ranking in doubles. Hatem wrapped up
more independent and open to learn-
singles season, a No. 7 national ranking
“Living abroad has been a great
play. He has also amassed several dis-
Coach Hodges and my parents
tinctions in the sport in his home country.
for making it happen.”
Hatem joked that his typical day might not
Hatem said that American
the court and in the classroom so much,
it to be and has enjoyed being
spent training and studying.
as diverse, respectful and
sound very fun, but he enjoyed being on
culture is much as he expected
that he made the best out of long hours
part of a society that he sees
“Being at GGC, a school that I consider
to be one of the best in the United States, motivated me to strive to new heights,”
Hatem said. “The faculty and staff care
about the students and want them to be good international citizens, and be
leadership-oriented.
“Americans have been good to me
Now holding a bachelor’s degree in
and I’m so glad I came to GGC,” he said.
business, Hatem plans to work and attend
and appreciate the highly qualified faculty
tennis into his post-college schedule.
“I’ve enjoyed every moment at this school and beautiful campus.” He also said that
graduate school. He also intends to weave
he has enjoyed traveling throughout
“I picture myself playing tennis for the rest
impressed with Florida’s weather and
believe that it’s a daily lesson in life and
always favor Georgia thanks to the
the most of it.”
the Southeast. Although particularly
of my life,” he said. “I love the sport and
unique culture, Hatem said he will
because of that, I want to make
warm hospitality he’s enjoyed.
Left: Hatem reacts to a score at the 2016 NAIA national tennis championship match. Center: Hatem graduated this spring. Right: Hatem hoists the 2016 NAIA national tennis championship trophy.
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Tennis teams again win
NAIA National Championships
The GGC tennis teams celebrated their national championships in Mobile, Ala. Shown are (kneeling) Lachlan McPhee, Jorge Gonzalez, Connor Clements, Matias Hatem, Judith Van Fraiijenhoven, Victoria Svennson, Chiara Di Salvo, Helga Pinones and (standing) Assistant Coach Bruno Tiberti, Assistant Coach Alex Ruiz, Kevin Konfederak, Jordan Cox, Stefano Licata, Luke Morland, Gilad Berman, Head Coach Chase Hodges, Assistant Coach Courtney Rutherford, Alyona Vasilyeva, Valeria Podda, Klara Dohnalova, Michelle Garcia, Sophie Feller, Assistant Coach Archie Nikitin, Luma Schwab and Assistant Coach Amy Paske.
GGC’s tennis teams are rapidly filling the college trophy case. The men’s team finished a perfect 26-0 season to cap-
ITA’s NAIA doubles rankings. Four Grizzlies placed in the final top singles rankings and six Grizzles made the NAIA
and seal its place in the history books. No other team
All-American list.
three years of eligibility. While the season started in January, Head Coach Chase Hodges said the preparation began in April 2015 when the Grizzlies lost 5-3 to 2015 NCAA Division II Runner-Up Hawaii Pacific. “Our loss to Hawaii Pacific was a game changer,”
Meanwhile, the women’s team sought redemption. Like the men’s team, they won the national NAIA championship in 2014, their first year of post-season eligibility. But in 2015, they lost in the championship match. The 2016 season brought many challenges, including youth, injury and illness. One player, Klara Dohnalova, even defeated cancer.
said Hodges. “We witnessed what it was like to play an
“The entire season, we battled,” said Hodges. “Two losses
elite program. We suffered a tough loss and have been
could have changed the culture of our team and the outcome
near-perfect since.” Of the team’s 26 victories in 2016, 18 came against ranked opponents, including nine Top 5 teams and
I
Two Grizzly doubles duos ended the season in the Top 10 of the
ture its third consecutive NAIA National Championship has achieved an NAIA national title three-peat in its first
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even Hawaii Pacific, this year’s NCAA DII champ.
Georgia Gwinnet t C ollege
of our season. However, the women banded together, powered through and took care of business.” In 2016, the Grizzlies faced 15 ranked opponents, nine of which
carried a Top 10 ranking and three which were in the Top 5. They also defeated the NCAA Division III national champion and national runner-up en route to capturing the NAIA national title for Georgia Gwinnett. In the final NAIA Coaches’ Poll of the year, GGC captured the top spot, receiving all 12 first place votes. The team sits second all-time for the most No. 1 NAIA rankings with 15. The squad had one pair that topped the ITA’s NAIA doubles ranking, four players placing in the ITA’s final Top 50 NAIA singles rankings and NAIA-best six selections on this year’s All-American list. Off the court, the men earned GGC’s best team GPA during this academic year, finishing with a 3.77. The women’s team was in second at 3.49. Two players from each team received NAIA Scholar-Athlete recognition. Hodges was named the NAIA Women’s Coach of the Year for the second time in three seasons, and the Men’s Coach of the Year for the third straight season. GGC has built a tennis dynasty. In just four seasons, the women have collected a 52-16 record and are 33-3 against NAIA opponents. The men have amassed a 74-3 record and are 38-0 against NAIA opponents. The men have been ranked No. 1 in the NAIA Coaches’ Poll since May 21, 2014. “Both teams look forward to defending our national titles in 2017,” Hodges said. There is still some room in the trophy case.
Grizzlies finish another strong season In only three seasons of post-season eligibility, Georgia Gwinnett
College has proven itself to be a dominating force in intercollegiate athletics. Five of Georgia Gwinnett’s six teams competed for national titles this year.
Men’s Soccer The Grizzlies hit No. 13, nationally. Women’s Soccer The women’s squad earned its first-ever
berth into the NAIA national tournament.
Softball The Grizzlies reached a record high No. 9 national
ranking and were only one hit away from playing in the World Series.
Baseball The No. 1-ranked baseball squad captured its
second Association of Independent Institutions conference tournament title, finishing with a record-high 57 wins.
Women’s Tennis Earned a No. 1 national ranking and its second NAIA national championship in three seasons.
Men’s Tennis Ranking No. 1 in the nation the entire season, the men’s tennis team brought home a third-straight NAIA national
title with a perfect 26-0 record in 2016. No other team has achieved an NAIA national title three-peat in its first three years of eligibility, permanently placing the GGC Grizzlies in the record books.
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College’s community impact recognized
G
eorgia Gwinnett College’s impact on the Gwinnett
“While all of GGC’s community partners have provided
community was recently recognized through two
critical support for the college, Gwinnett County and the City of
different, but inter-related ways.
Lawrenceville have been particularly supportive,” Preczewski
In May, the college was awarded the Gwinnett Chamber of
Commerce’s 2016 IMPACT Regional Business Award in the education category. The awards recognize premier organizations
said afterward. “No public college can succeed without community support, especially governmental support.” Only a few days before the award ceremony, the college was
in critical industries driving economic development and job
noted for having poured $416 million into the Gwinnett economy
creation, while enhancing Gwinnett’s quality of life.
during the 2015 fiscal year, according to the University System
“We are delighted that our efforts have been recognized by the
of Georgia’s (USG) annual economic impact study, conducted
Gwinnett Chamber through the IMPACT Award program,” said
by the Selig Center for Economic Growth in the University of
Dr. Stas Preczewski, GGC president. “All GGC students, faculty,
Georgia’s Terry College of Business.
staff, alumni and community partners can be proud of this
GGC is responsible for well over $1 billion in cumulative economic impact since it opened in 2006.
achievement because they have all contributed to the college’s success. As the college moves into its second, game-changing decade, we look to a future full of promise and continued impact for Gwinnett County, Georgia and beyond.” In accepting the award at a ceremony hosted by the Gwinnett Chamber, Preczewski invited Gwinnett County Commission Chair Charlotte Nash and Lawrenceville Mayor Judy Jordan Johnson to join him at the podium to share the moment. Above: Shown at the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce’s IMPACT Award ceremony are Dr. Daniel J. Kaufman, president of the Chamber, Charlotte Nash, chair of the Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners, Dr. Stas Preczewski, president of GGC, and Judy Jordan Johnson, mayor of the City of Lawrenceville. Photo by Jennifer Stalcup.
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“The college’s presence creates a multiplying effect as dollars are spent and re-spent in the Gwinnett area economy,” said Preczewski. “In addition, for every job created on campus, there are more than three jobs created in the community.” The college is responsible for 4,208 jobs, 2,894 of which are off-campus jobs that exist because of spending related to the institution. According to a news release issued by the USG, Georgia Gwinnett was second among state colleges and surpassed most state universities in its total impact.
art inspiration brings
to empty spaces
GGC’s newly built campus has a lot
of empty walls and spaces that seem to cry out for art.
“I think art makes the world better,” said
Dr. Carolina Blatt-Gross, assistant professor of art and chair of GGC’s Art Committee. “It has served to bond us since the
beginning – as symbols of group identity or ways to make things special.”
The committee recently commissioned
the mural “Leaving Space for Dreaming,” a 55-foot work by artist Erin McIntosh. “The mural is a fantastic way to
brighten up the hallways and inspire
students to think more outside the box,” said chemistry major Chloe Fernandez, ’17, one of many students who helped paint the mural, located in the Allied
Health and Sciences building main hall. The mural is about the imaginative
space beyond what we know as
GGC student volunteers help paint the new mural in Building H.
researchers and scientists, where truly
inspired thinking occurs, said Fernandez. It complements the building’s purpose and form by representing an organic,
more thoughtful and meaningful,” she said. Students then work in groups to cre-
abstract interpretation of cellular biology.
ate art selected from ideas proposed by
isn’t one specific way to view science, and
ence helps them develop essential skills
“It is a way to show students that there
that it is changing and moving and there
are hundreds of ways to interpret the world
each member. This collaborative experirequired by today’s employers.
“These projects are great opportunities
we see around us,” she said.
for students to create something that will
also create art for the campus. She
said. “We connect classroom content to
Blatt-Gross’ art appreciation classes
sends them to areas needing art to interAt a recent reception, students paused for photos in front of the new mural.
what the art will do in the spaces, to make it
view the people using them.
“I encourage them to think deeply about
live on for everyone to see,” Blatt-Gross something the students are interested
in, and they get to experience the world aesthetically and more creatively.”
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A
Veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, David Hollifield has already served his country in the Army National Guard. He wants to continue his legacy
loans, and he qualified for the HOPE Scholarship last semester, which helped to a point. Then Hollifield became the first recipient of the Lee and Marshall Boutwell Veterans Scholarship, which supports
of service, and a new scholarship is helping him achieve his goals.
full-time students who maintain a GPA above 2.0. Preference
Originally, Hollifield thought he would go into construction
is given for demonstrated financial need and affiliation with
management, since many in his family work in that field.
the U.S. military, prioritized first for service-wounded/
But when he saw a family member and several friends get
disabled veterans, veterans with combat service, any
involved with drugs, he wanted to find a way to help.
veteran or dependent children of veterans.
“I’ve seen a lot of people mess their lives up, even go to jail,
Hollifield said the scholarship provided him the
and I want to try to keep others from going down that road,” he
opportunity to work toward his goals.
said. “Plus, after joining the Army, I realized I like that kind of
“The scholarship means not having to worry about how I am going to pay for school or how I’m going to pay back loans later. It’s very helpful to be able to focus on just school.”
active life, and I can use that to help the community, too.” Hollifield enrolled at Georgia Gwinnett to major in criminal justice. After earning his bachelor’s degree this summer, he plans to pursue a career in law enforcement, first at the local level with city or county police. His long-term aspirations include eventually working in federal law enforcement with the U.S. Marshals Service and possibly an advanced degree. On top of a college student’s typical challenges, Hollifield has post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and tinnitus from his field artillery service in Afghanistan. While he doesn’t let it stop him, he said it does add a layer of stress. “I have memory problems sometimes, especially with short-term things. Sometimes I’ve missed a class because I forgot that I had it, or I’ve had trouble turning assignments
He said the scholarship was especially helpful last semester, allowing him to take a criminal justice class that included travel to London for a week. “The GI Bill only covers tuition for that class, but because of the scholarship I was able to cover all my tuition, plus the plane ticket and other expenses for the study abroad trip, without having to take out a loan,” he said. In a letter to the Boutwells after receiving the scholarship
in on time,” he said. He uses multiple alarms on his phone to
they generously endowed through the GGC Foundation,
keep track of classes and other tasks. Hollifield’s brother, who
Hollifield wrote, “It means a great deal to me to finish my
served in Iraq, also suffers from PTSD, and Hollifield spends
first degree and continue my education even further…
a lot of time helping him.
This scholarship is no small token in my mind.”
Like many students, paying for college also has been challenging. “I’m eligible for help through the GI Bill, but it only covers
Marshall Boutwell said of Hollifield, “His heartfelt appreciation reaffirmed that we did the right thing in
about 50 percent, so I’ve had to find ways to cover the other 50
establishing this fund. We would like to extend our sincere
percent somehow,” Hollifield said. He has taken out student
gratitude to David, and his brother, for serving our country.”
H SCHOLARSHIP ENABLES HOLLIFIELD TO CONTINUE H
SERVING OTHERS 24
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GGC CENTER SERVES MILITARY VETERAN STUDENTS Georgia Gwinnett College’s new Military and Veterans Success Center provides support services and educational benefit programs to U.S. military veterans, national guardsmen, reservists and their eligible dependents and survivors who are enrolled at the college. Participating in the center’s ribboncutting ceremony were (shown below) John Maison, then-president of the GGC student organization Coalition of Veteran Engagement, Readiness and Trust (COVERT); Dr. Stas Preczewski, GGC president; Dr. Lois C. Richardson, then-interim senior vice president of Academic and Student Affairs and provost; Aizaz Shaick, GGC student and volunteer with the Auxiliary Civil Air Patrol and Paul Reato, representative of the family of Deborah Reato, the college’s first director of Veterans Services, who is memorialized with an honor wall in the center.
David Hollifield at the GGC Military and Veterans Success Center.
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Grizzlies rally for first
M
ore than $7,000 was
dollars,” said Greer.
raised in 24 hours for
“But such small amounts
the first annual Day of
make it possible for
Giving, held this spring.
students to stay in school
Students, alumni, parents, faculty, staff and
and complete their dreams
friends of the college worked together to
of a college degree.”
raise money for the GGC Foundation. Specifically, the funds raised supported
With an average gift of more than $40, donors gave
the GGC Fund, an unrestricted fund that
both online and at a campus
is used where it is needed most.
event offering free lunch and
“The GGC Fund is a critical fund, but
live entertainment. Held on
because it is so broad, it can be hard to
the Library Plaza, the event fea-
attract donations,” said Brian Greer, direc-
tured several student performers
tor of Annual Giving and Alumni Rela-
and emcees who discussed the
tions. The fund is used where it is needed
Foundation and the importance
most – including scholarships, student
of supporting its general fund.
success programming, event or speaker expenses and emergency grants.
Attendees could make donations both
never have before,” said Stover. “This
digitally and on site. About 90 percent
is important because as a new college,
of donors gave online, but more than
we are building our support base from
student may encounter minor financial
half are new to giving to the college,
scratch and we must try new things to
issues. The Foundation steps in to make
according to Julia Stover Mumford,
reach a very young audience.”
sure they remain in school.
assistant director of Annual Giving.
Emergency grants are issued when a
“Emergency grants can be a couple
“We’re reaching people in ways we
hundred dollars or as little as 20
Social media also played an important role, as students, alumni and GGC employees posted encouraging messages during the day.
Wunder Program Dr. Jennifer GGC Honors e th f o r o ct Dire
student’s life e n o e g n a h C e? “Why do I giv It’s worth it. . d rl o w e th e g and you chan it. Always.“ They’re worth #GGCDay
Daryouch Aziz, ’08, and his wife, Homa, made a challenge gift which matched every donation dollar-for-dollar up to $1,000. Their challenge was met within one hour. “We are delighted with the response for this first event,” Greer said. “We plan to build the event in the coming years and establish a tradition that will help provide a permanent source of support for future Grizzlies.”
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School of Business announces Corporate Affiliates Program The School of Business (SBA) Corporate Affiliates Program was
corporate affiliates: Boston Scientific, BrandBank, Georgia
between SBA and corporations in Gwinnett, Metro Atlanta and
Automotive Group, Wells Fargo and WIKA.
recently launched to build and strengthen strategic relationships
beyond. The program focuses on creating high-value connections
Fitness, Micromeritics Instrument Corporation, Rick Case
with SBA students and faculty through a variety of on- and off-
As the Corporate Affiliates Program enters a full academic
on-campus communications.
businesses partnering with the School of Business are invited to
The following corporations joined the program as inaugural
corporaterelations@ggc.edu for more information.
campus events, priority access to recruiting activities, and targeted,
year pilot, those interested in joining the esteemed group of
visit www.ggcfoundation.org/SBACorporateAffiliates or contact e n g a g e. gg c. e d u
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Black holes are the subject of much fascination, not just in science but also in popular media. For example, the 2014 movie “Interstellar” portrays a fastrotating, supermassive black hole, into which the protagonist falls in order to probe its center. Such a scenario may be more than the stuff of Hollywood magic, according to a multi-institutional research team led by Dr. Lior Burko, associate professor of physics at Georgia Gwinnett College. At the center of a black hole, density and gravity are infinite and the laws of physics and space-time, as we know them, cease to exist. The mysteries of this phenomenon have driven scientists to push the boundaries of what is known about black holes. Supercomputers are required to run the complex computer simulations used in this kind of research.
Science fiction becomes fact?
GGC physicist leads team in innovative black hole research
“Non-rotating black holes have been studied in computer simulations for decades,” Burko said. “We developed a first-of-its-kind computer simulation of how physical fields evolve on the approach to the center of a rotating black hole.” The complexity of the simulation led the scientists to develop a new model that will help other researchers further understand black holes. The simulation also revealed a result that might come as a surprise for those familiar with the usual portrayal of black holes. “It has often been assumed that objects approaching a black hole are crushed by the increasing gravity,” Burko said. “However, we found that while gravitational forces increase and become infinite, they do so fast enough that their interaction allows physical objects to stay intact as they move toward the center of the black hole. Therefore, the simulation is consistent with aspects of popular science fiction scenarios in which black holes are used as portals for hyperspace travel, which require space ships, and the astronauts within them, to stay intact.” The research appeared in the Feb. 9 edition of Rapid Communication in Physical Review D, a peer-reviewed publication of the American Physical Society. The research was supported by the National Science Foundation. 28
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Dr. Lior Burko, associate professor of physics at Georgia Gwinnett College.
The Gallery Copeland shares inspirational message with spring graduates
The spring 2016 commencement keynote address was presented by Aimee Copeland, who gained national attention four years ago for her brave battle with flesh-eating bacteria following an accident on a zip line in the Little Tallapoosa River. The infection almost killed her, and amputation of her extremities was required to save her life. Despite this, Copeland refused to let her circumstances put limits on her. With an inspirational spirit and enthusiasm, she completed a master’s degree from the University of West Georgia in humanistic psychology and is now pursuing a second master’s degree from Valdosta State University in social work. Copeland plans to start a non-profit that will provide wilderness therapy for people with disabilities. She discussed how she confronted her limitations as challenges to overcome. “You can live your life with courage, dignity and joy,” she said. “Compassion leads to healing. A lot of issues in life are petty … No matter what you want in life, if you want something bad enough, you will find a way.” She also shared encouraging words inspired by one of her nurses, who gave her a hand-made doll she showed the audience. The nurse had written a message on the back of the doll, pointing out that the doll is imperfect. “This body is just a vehicle,” Copeland said. “I am a spiritual being much bigger than this … Nobody is perfect. It’s what we do with what we have that counts.” Copeland’s appearance at GGC garnered considerable news coverage and a video of her speech is approaching 450,000 views (www.ggc.edu/aimeecopeland). She also recently appeared in People magazine. At left: Student Government Association President Chase Goodwin presents a grizzly statuette to Copeland following her speech.
Members of the student chapter of the Association of Information Technology Professionals celebrate another successful year. This spring, GGC students won the college’s third national AITP championship in database design.
Homero Gonzalez, ’11, recently won four Emmy Awards from the Southeast Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, bringing his total to 12.
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