2023-2024 Highlander Magazine

HIGHLANDER

FOR OUR STUDENTS. FOR OUR COMMUNITY.

In This Issue

Highlands Gala raises funds for student scholarships

Aspen Institute names GHC a top 150 community college for second time

Atrium Health Floyd invests in the future of nursing

GHC approved to offer in-state tuition to Alabama residents

SPECIAL FEATURE:

Dr. Mike Hobbs installed as the fifth president of GHC by University System of Georgia Chancellor Sonny Perdue

Georgia Highlands College is a multi-campus, state college member of the University System of Georgia. Founded in 1970 as Floyd Junior College, the college now serves thousands of students from over 30 counties in Northwest Georgia and beyond. GHC has five sites in Rome, Cartersville, Marietta, and Dallas, as well as a robust online program. GHC offers over 40 areas of study with associate degree and bachelor’s degree options both in the classroom and online. KEEP

OUR PURPOSE

To provide access to a teaching and learning environment that prepares our students to thrive in a global society.

OUR MISSION

The mission of Georgia Highlands College, a state college of the University System of Georgia, is to provide access to excellent educational opportunities for the intellectual, cultural, and physical development of a diverse population through pre-baccalaureate associate degree transfer programs, career associate degree programs, and targeted baccalaureate degree programs that meet the economic development needs of the region.

The Inauguration of Mike Hobbs, Ph.D.

On September 28, 2023, Chancellor of the University System of Georgia (USG) Sonny Perdue officially installed the fifth president of Georgia Highlands College, Dr. Mike Hobbs, during an investiture ceremony held in the Floyd Campus gym.

The event was attended by hundreds of members of the college and local community and was presided over by Regent Cade Joiner of the Board of Regents (BOR) of the USG. In addition, the ceremony featured greetings and speeches by GHC Foundation Board of Trustees Chair Randy Quick, Regent Lowery May, and a special presentation by Anat Sultan-Dadon, Consul General of Israel to the Southeastern United States, and Rabbi Larry Sernovitz, CEO for Hillels of Georgia.

– continued on page 4

USG Chancellor Sonny Perdue presents the GHC Presidential Medallion to President Hobbs.

The Investiture Ceremony FOR OUR STUDENTS. FOR

Associate Professor of Communication Steve Stuglin served as mace bearer and led the processional of delegates from other institutions of higher education, GHC faculty, and esteemed stage party members.

Members of the Cartersville Fire Department Honor Guard performed the posting of colors and the National Anthem.

Regent Cade Joiner of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia presided over the ceremony.

Regent Lowery May of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia

– continued from page 3

Since starting his role as president of GHC in the summer of 2022, Hobbs has advanced the college’s mission by helping to establish in-state tuition for residents of Alabama, establishing the “Ready to Start” scholarship, expanding articulation agreements with other institutions, growing partnerships with local industry, establishing new competitive League Sports, and much more.

“Today truly is one of the greatest days of my life,” Hobbs said to the group of community members, family, and friends. “I am here today because I stood on the shoulders of leaders who came before me and am honored to serve this community.”

Leading up to the ceremony was a series of events titled GHC’s “Weeks of Service,” during which faculty and staff at GHC took on various initiatives ranging from a community health fair, school supply fundraisers, food assistance events, a STEM event for local elementary school students, and more. (see highlights on pages 6 and 7)

President Hobbs was also recognized by Georgia Governor Brian Kemp and local city and county governments with official proclamations acknowledging the significance of Hobbs’ inauguration as the fifth president of Georgia Highlands College.

FOR OUR COMMUNITY. The Investiture Ceremony

Rabbi Larry Sernovitz, CEO for Hillels of Georgia, blows a ceremonial shofar which was presented to President Hobbs by the Consul General of Israel.

Anat Sultan-Dadon, Consul General of Israel to the Southeastern United States

GHC Foundation Board of Trustees Chair Randy Quick

President Hobbs gives the inauguration address. Staff Council Chair-Elect Vicky Drnek

Faculty Senate President Kim Subacz

Music was performed by the Northwest Georgia Winds Ensemble, led by Dr. Sam Baltzer. Student Government Association President Jalen Hudson

FOR OUR STUDENTS. FOR Weeks of Service

(shown left and right)

The Atrium Health Floyd School of Health Sciences at GHC and Atrium Health Floyd held a community health fair, providing flu vaccines, blood pressure checks, heart and diabetes education, and much more.

ABOUT DR. MIKE HOBBS

Originally from Ensley, Alabama, Hobbs is a firstgeneration high school graduate and a first-generation college graduate. He earned an associate degree in applied science from Jefferson State and completed his bachelor’s in criminal justice from the University of Alabama – Birmingham (UAB). He earned his master’s degree in education supervision and leadership from UAB and completed his Ph.D. in community college leadership from Mississippi State University. He also completed post-graduate coursework in economics from the University of Detroit Mercy.

Before GHC, he served as vice president for student affairs and athletic director at Jefferson State Community College in Birmingham, Alabama, where he played a key role in leading the college’s efforts to increase overall cohort graduation by 200%, student retention by 22% and transferout rate to four-year schools by 20%. He also supported capital campaigns that generated more than $50 million for Jefferson State and the St. Clair County School Board. He also assisted with the completion of two successful SACSCOC accreditation reaffirmations.

Prior to joining Jefferson State, Hobbs served as coordinator of Admission Services at UAB.

Hobbs served in previous roles at Jefferson State, including dean of enrollment services, director of enrollment services, coordinator of transfer advising and

dual enrollment, and professor of economics. In addition to teaching at Jefferson State, he has been an adjunct instructor in economics at Samford University in Birmingham and in higher education for the executive Ed.D. program at the University of Alabama at Tuscaloosa.

While at Jefferson State, Hobbs spearheaded the enrollment efforts to bring three separate instructional sites to full campus status, established a mental health response team called “Jeff Care,” created a new scholarship program focused on student retention, and drove student success efforts with new initiatives in counseling, career assessment, academic advising, veteran affairs, and Americans with Disabilities Act services.

The Lady Chargers softball team played a 4-inning scrimmage and held a ball swap with the 12 and under North Ga. Wolfpack softball team.

Hobbs pictured with his children Hudson, Olivia, and Hannah.

FOR OUR COMMUNITY.

The

Sciences and Education

To help engage young minds seeking to learn more about Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), GHC participated in South Paulding Middle School’s STEM Night.

Weeks of Service

College leadership and staff donated their time to help serve at the Rome-Floyd County Community Kitchen.

President Mike Hobbs read to kindergarteners at East Central Elementary in Rome.

The School of Business and Professional Studies visited the Floyd County Schools College and Career Academy, providing teachers with goodies and information on college resources.

The School of Humanities participated in a food assistance event, giving out food for the YMCA of Rome’s Mobile Market at the Gilbreath Center in Lindale.

School of Social

held a school supply drive and donated the products to Anna K. Davie Elementary School in Rome.

FOR OUR STUDENTS. FOR Highlands Scholarship Gala

Guardians of the Jukebox rocked the event with a high-energy show full of nostalgic 80s hits accompanied by a video backdrop featuring music video clips and iconic television moments.

GHC Foundation Board of Trustees Chair Randy Quick and Executive Director of Advancement Sarah Bradfield welcome guests to the Gala.

FOR OUR COMMUNITY.

As part of the fall 2023 series of Inauguration events, the GHC Foundation held its First Highlands Scholarship Gala on September 29 at the Clarence Brown Conference Center in Cartersville, bringing together members of the college and local community for a night of music, food, fun, and fundraising.

The black-tie-optional event featured the wildly popular five-star nostalgia rock band Guardians of the Jukebox, taking guests back to the time of “Space Invaders,” shopping malls, and the Rubik’s Cube, all while raising money for scholarships.

“The First Highlands Scholarship Gala was the perfect way to celebrate the mission of the GHC Foundation. With the help of our partners, dedicated trustees, and generous donors, we have been able to give families access to educational opportunities that will make a lasting impact in our communities,” Executive Director of Advancement Sarah Bradfield said. “Your participation in this event signifies your commitment to supporting student scholarship funds that foster success and opportunity.”

Georgia Highlands College has been committed to supporting students of Northwest Georgia and the college since 1973. The GHC Foundation is driven to enhance education, create opportunities for students, faculty, and staff to succeed, and expand the horizons of GHC to benefit the Northwest Georgia region.

“Thank you for joining us at our annual scholarship gala,” Bradfield said. “We appreciate your attendance, donations, and support.” Learn more and become a donor to the GHC Foundation at givetoday. highlands.edu.

Jerome Bell gave the invocation prior to dinner. Scholarship recipient Tiffany Russell shares her story. . (pictured left)

Country Duo “Laughlin” entertained guests during the opening reception.

(pictured below)

Guests enjoyed the 360° photo booth complete with fun 80s props.

(pictured right) Guardians of the Jukebox surprised President Hobbs with an autographed poster.

Campus News

GHC and Atrium Health Floyd partnership invests in the future of nursing

A new partnership between Atrium Health Floyd and Georgia Highlands College will increase the number of nursing student positions at the college and grow the number of nurses entering the workforce in Northwest Georgia.

The multi-year agreement builds on a 50-year history of collaboration between the organizations, said Kurt Stuenkel, president of Atrium Health Floyd. Atrium Health Floyd has provided clinical training programming, scholarships and career pathways for Georgia Highlands graduates for generations.

“This partnership expands the nursing program at Georgia Highlands College, so more residents in our region will have the opportunity to pursue careers in nursing,” Stuenkel said. “And, looking ahead, it will create a pipeline of highly trained nurses who can have long careers at Atrium Health Floyd.”

GHC President Mike Hobbs stated partnerships like this one continue to reinforce the access mission at GHC.

“We are the talent producer for our footprint,” Hobbs said. “The heart of our mission is to provide access to a high-quality college degree from the University System of Georgia that prepares you for a career. Our partnership with Atrium Health Floyd bolsters our ability to expand what we offer to more families in our region. The pathways we provide directly help our students prepare for and secure careers in our footprint.”

According to Steppingblocks, an institutional re-

search company that collects and reports outcomes data, over 85% of GHC graduates go on to start a career in the Northwest Georgia region.

“This agreement to provide a clear pathway from GHC’s nursing program to nursing careers in our community is an investment in our region that will benefit Northwest Georgia for years to come,” said University System of Georgia Board of Regents member Lowery May. “GHC provides top-notch nursing graduates, and since the nursing program was founded, GHC has added over 3,500 nurses to the workforce.”

The nursing program at GHC was established in 1971, and the program celebrated the 50th graduating class in 2022.

“This is a way to do something that’s good for the college, good for our health system and good for our community,” Stuenkel said. “These nurses will work side by side with our experienced clinicians and can advance in their careers to become nurse educators, leaders, nurse practitioners and healthcare providers in their own right. That is an incredible advantage for Northwest Georgia and Northeast Alabama.”

As part of the agreement, the health sciences and nursing programs at Georgia Highlands College will be named the Atrium Health Floyd School of Health Sciences and the Atrium Health Floyd Department of Nursing. These programs will be housed at GHC where nursing students complete their program, which is currently the Lakeview Building, on GHC’s main

campus on U.S. 27 South in Rome, and at the James D. Maddox Heritage Hall, 415 E. Third Ave. in Rome’s Between the Rivers historic district.

“The COVID-19 pandemic changed the landscape of nursing, especially hospital-based nursing. Many experienced nurses have retired, changed careers, or been recruited to travel positions. This has resulted in a costly dependency on travel and agency clinicians,” said Sheila Bennett, senior vice president and chief of patient services at Atrium Health Floyd. “This is an investment to help Atrium Health Floyd grow a workforce that is ready to take care of our patients and their families and will directly impact the number of new nurses Atrium Health Floyd hires annually.”

Campus News

Funds from the partnership will add scholarships, tuition assistance and financial assistance for learning materials. In addition, Atrium Health Floyd will fund a faculty position, and nurses from Atrium Health Floyd will serve as adjunct professors in the college’s nursing department. Atrium Health Floyd also will help purchase simulation equipment for training.

“Our agreement with Atrium Health Floyd will open doors and create opportunities for students in

our region who are interested in careers in the health sciences,” said Dr. Lisa Jellum, dean of the Atrium Health Floyd School of Health Sciences. “Our students will benefit from more training opportunities as they build relationships right here in our community, and our graduates will have the opportunity to enter the

SEATED left to right: Atrium Health Floyd School of Health Sciences Dean Lisa Jellum, GHC President Mike Hobbs, Atrium Health Floyd President Kurt Stuenkel, Atrium Health Floyd Senior Vice President and Chief of Patient Services Sheila Bennett. STANDING left to right: GHC Vice President of Finance and Administration Jamie Petty, GHC Director of Nursing Paula Stover, GHC Foundation Board of Trustees Chair Randy Quick, USG Regent Lowery May, GHC Provost and Chief Academic Officer Sarah Coakley, Atrium Health Floyd Senior Vice President and Chief Legal Officer Tommy Manning, Atrium Health Floyd Clinical Placement Coordinator Stacey Janes, Atrium Health Floyd Director of Clinical Education Shelbi Ellison, and Atrium Health Floyd Director of Nursing Excellence Kendra Pickens. ATRIUM– continued on page 15

Campus News

The Aspen Institute names Georgia Highlands as a top 150 U.S. community college eligible for the 2025 Aspen Prize

$1 million prize recognizes excellence in equitable outcomes for students in and after college

The Aspen Institute named GHC as one of the 150 institutions eligible to compete for the $1 million 2025 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, the nation’s signature recognition of high achievement and performance among two-year colleges. The institutions selected for this honor stand out among more than 1,000 community colleges nationwide as having high and improving levels of student success as well as equitable outcomes for Black and Hispanic students and those from lower-income backgrounds.

GHC was previously named a Top 25 Semifinalist for the 2023 Aspen Prize and is the only University System of Georgia (USG) institution to be selected as an Aspen Prize top 150 community college.

“It is an honor for GHC to again be named a Top 150 U.S. Community College and invited to apply for the prestigious Aspen Prize,” Provost and Chief Academic Officer Sarah Coakley said. “This national recognition directly reflects the sustained commitment of our faculty and staff to academic excellence, access and equity, workforce development and student success.”

The Aspen Prize spotlights exemplary community colleges in order to drive attention to colleges achieving post-graduate success for all students and is a central way Aspen researches highly effective student success strategies that are shared with the field. The 150 eligible colleges have been invited to submit student success data and narratives about strategies to achieve better and more equitable student outcomes as the next step in an intensive review process that culminates in the naming of the Aspen Prize winner in spring 2025. The eligible colleges represent the diversity and

depth of the community college sector. Located in urban, rural, and suburban areas across 30 states, these colleges serve as few as 169 students and as many as 49,619.

“The Aspen Prize is rooted first and foremost in an assessment of whether colleges are walking the walk,” said Josh Wyner, executive director of the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program. “As community colleges face enrollment variations, enroll students with pandemic-related learning loss and graduate students into a rapidly changing labor market, it is easy to lose track of what matters most. The best community colleges are continuing to focus on advancing the core mission: making sure as many students as possible graduate with credentials that lead to fulfilling careers and reflect the development of diverse talent that communities, states and our nation need.”

While community colleges are an essential contributor to our nation’s success, student outcomes vary substantially among institutions. Aspen measures those variances using multiple data sources and honors colleges with outstanding achievement in six critical areas: teaching and learning, certificate and degree completion, transfer and bachelor’s attainment, workforce success, equitable access to the college and equitable outcomes for students of color and students from low-income backgrounds.

In this first round, eligibility for the Aspen Prize is based on publicly available data. Colleges must show strong, improving, and equitable student outcomes in first-to-second year retention, credentials awarded and completion and transfer rates. Nationwide, about 15 percent of community colleges have been invited to apply (150 of just under 1,000 public two-year colleges assessed for Prize eligibility). For a full list of the top 150 eligible institutions and to read more on the selection process, visit https://highered.aspeninstitute.org/aspen-prize/. For more information on the Aspen Institute, visit www.aspeninstitute.org.

Board of Regents approves Alabama border state tuition waivers at GHC

The Board of Regents for the University System of Georgia (USG) approved border state tuition waivers at Georgia Highlands College for students who live in Alabama.

Current students and incoming students from Alabama will now pay the in-state tuition rate of $95 per credit hour at GHC.

“We are thankful to the Board of Regents for providing this option to students who currently live within driving distance of our campus,” GHC President Mike Hobbs said. “As a commuter college, we have students from over 30 counties in Northwest Georgia who all have varying travel times and distances similar to those students traveling from Alabama.”

GHC has a campus in Floyd County, which borders Alabama.

“I can confidently say our course offerings and degree options are unique at GHC with a focus on rising careers that students select us for when choosing a college,” President Hobbs said. “The full waiver

for the entire state of Alabama will be beneficial to our online students and our students traveling to our college to take advantage of these opportunities.”

Popular bachelor’s degree programs at GHC include one of the “Best Online RN to BSN” nursing options in Georgia and an online Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene. In addition, the college offers online degrees for a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, a Bachelor of Business Administration in Healthcare Management, a Bachelor of Business in Logistics and Supply Chain Management, and a Bachelor of Science in Health Science.

GHC also offers a Bachelor of Science in Building Information Modeling Management and a Bachelor of Science in Environmental and Natural Resources.

Georgia Highlands College also aids students transferring from colleges in Alabama. Visit the GHC Transfer Equivalency System to see how your institution’s credits will transfer to GHC.

CAMPUS VISIT – Chancellor of the University System of Georgia Sonny Perdue (front row, center) toured the GHC Cartersville site in August, met with students, faculty, staff, and administrators, and visited the college’s new ballfields.

Campus News

GHC@Night program designed for busy adults

GHC expanded its class schedule in fall 2023 to offer an Associate of Science in Business Administration (ASBA) degree that can be completed in two years, requiring only one night a week on campus, along with one or two online classes per 8-week term.

Held at the Cartersville site and called GHC@Night, the program is geared toward busy and working adults who have obligations during the typical workday but would like to advance in their careers or start a new career. The in-person class meets on Tuesday nights from 6PM to 8:45PM and has the same low-cost tuition rate as all other GHC programs.

The ASBA pathway was selected because it is one of our most popular among GHC’s adult learners and the institution offers a Bachelor of Business Administration in Healthcare Management and in Logistics and Supply Chain Management, providing a viable path for ASBA graduates to further their education with an additional two-year investment.

This two-year program has been targeted to help meet the workforce needs of the region, with highly qualified and engaged faculty providing an educational experience that focuses on unique skills to help graduates grow professionally.

Business is a high-opportunity field, with the median annual salary for business majors being $10,000 more than the median annual salary in the U.S., according to the National Center for Education Statistics. In addition, the growth rate in the field of business is projected at 8%, according to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics.

Dean of Business and Professional Studies Melanie Largin says this versatile degree will help graduates advance in their current job or gain a new job by teaching the fundamentals of how businesses operate.

“Accounting, law, management, communication, decision making, critical thinking, and data analysis are key elements of our ASBA program and apply to any venture that employs people,” Largin said.

The program leadership worked closely with the region’s chambers of commerce and workforce development organizations when developing this new ASBA night program.

“Just take a drive along I-75, and you see companies sprouting up everywhere,” Largin said. “Those companies all need logistics and supply chain, management and operational expertise. We maintain contacts with those firms and adjust our classes as needed to meet their needs.”

Division Chair for the School of Business and Professional Studies Joy Hambrick added, “Local industries have expressed support for this program, and we are all excited to watch it grow and progress. As the program grows, we hope to add more degree options to the new GHC@Night format.”

And while the class will meet in the evening, nearly all student support services are available to students after hours in-person or through the GHC Student Services Virtual Hub. For example, students can get tutoring in the evening by appointment, and the Writing Center can provide assistance via email or by appointment.

This new program option was made possible through submitting and obtaining an Adult Learner Small Grant, Propelling Data-Informed Marketing, Communication, and Credit for Prior Learning. The grant assisted the college in surveying current and former adult learners, creating a new adult learner website, and bolstering the credit for prior learning program.

To learn more about GHC@Night, visit night.highlands.edu.

GHC signs partnership agreement with UWG

By Miranda Pepe, University of West Georgia Leaders

from

the University

of

West Georgia

and Georgia Highlands College recently signed a partnership agreement to provide a seamless pathway for nursing students between the two institutions.

“As we endeavor to curate a first-choice university, we are proud to cultivate a community of professionals in the healthcare industry,” said Dr. Brendan B. Kelly, UWG’s president. “Through strategic partnerships like this, we are able to advance our students’ portfolios with the opportunities they need to excel. By leveraging this mutually beneficial collaboration with Georgia Highlands College, we will enable aspiring nurses to thrive in their in-demand careers and make meaningful contributions to the healthcare system.”

Through the partnership, students who complete the requirements of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Georgia Highlands College will benefit from a seamless transition into the Master of Science in Nursing offered at UWG’s prestigious Tanner Health System School of Nursing, reducing the amount of time required for students to obtain their master’s degrees.

SEATED left to right: GHC President Mike Hobbs; UWG President Brendan Kelly.

STANDING left to right: GHC Director of Nursing Paula Stover; GHC School of Health Sciences Dean Lisa Jellum; GHC Provost and Chief Academic Officer

Sarah Coakley; UWG Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs Jon Preston; UWG Tanner Health System School of Nursing Dean Jenny Schuessler; and UWG Interim Associate Dean of Nursing Graduate Programs Sally Richter.

partnership with UWG is yet another way our college jointly provides students access to high-demand careers in our region while elevating their role in the healthcare sector as they work.”

Campus News

“The heart of our mission at GHC is to provide access to a high-quality college education from the University System of Georgia that prepares students for a career and to pursue higher college degree programs after GHC,” said Dr. Mike Hobbs, president of Georgia Highlands College. “This

ATRIUM– continued from page 11 workforce in professional positions with attractive salaries and benefits.”

“Atrium Health Floyd and Georgia Highlands College are in a unique position to help local residents make a positive and lasting impact on our community and to change lives,” Stuenkel said. “Together, we will be better positioned to educate a healthcare workforce for jobs in our community. Our patients will benefit from excellent care from well-trained hands, and our community will realize an economic impact from the students who choose to work, live and raise their families right here in Northwest Georgia.”

To learn more about Atrium Health Floyd visit floyd.org

To learn more about Advocate Health visit advocatehealth.org

As stated in the signed agreement, both institutions are dedicated to offering enhanced educational opportunities to students that complement programs at UWG and GHC. Students will have a streamlined path to enter UWG’s MSN program upon graduating from GHC. Additionally, accelerated students will have the opportunity to enroll in UWG MSN courses during their final baccalaureate semester at GHC to further encourage their educational journey.

CELEBRATING HEALTH SCIENCES STUDENTS

To kick off fall semester 2023 and celebrate the new partnership, the Atrium Health Floyd School of Health Sciences at GHC, along with community members, alumni, and more, celebrated health sciences students during a white coat ceremony and reception at Heritage Hall.

Each year, nursing and dental hygiene students participate in a white coat ceremony, signifying their transition from a pre-clinical science program to a clinical science program. However, this year’s ceremony coincides with the first semester of students attending the new the Atrium Health Floyd School of Health Sciences at GHC. (see photo on page 11)

submitted photo

submitted photo

Campus News

Two GHC online bachelor’s degrees ranked among the most affordable in the country

CRIMINAL JUSTICE

The website Best Universities recently ranked GHC as having the third most affordable online bachelor’s degree in criminal justice in the country.

Professor of Criminal Justice Greg Sumner says the field of criminal justice is growing in Northwest Georgia, leading to rapid job placement – particularly for those with a bachelor’s degree.

“Every recruiter who works in the field of criminal justice I’ve talked to recently is hiring,” Sumner said. “In addition, most tell me they prefer someone with a degree.”

Sumner says what makes GHC’s criminal justice program unique is it is led by professors who have experience working in the field of criminal justice. Often, students who currently work in law enforcement will pursue a degree in criminal justice to advance their careers.

“In addition, our program is affordable, it’s online, all our courses are taught in 8-week sessions, and there is a tremendous amount of support,” Sumner said. “We also have free student success coaches and tutoring.”

Through the Georgia Police Academy, hosted at the GHC Floyd Campus, members of law enforcement who are POST certified are eligible for up to 41 hours of college credit for POST-approved courses, and POST-certified corrections officers are eligible for 30 hours of college credit for specific POST-approved courses.

The college recently established in-state tuition

for the entire state of Alabama, making an online bachelor’s degree even more affordable. Visit the GHC Transfer Equivalency System to see how your institution’s credits will transfer to GHC.

HEALTH SCIENCE

The website Intelligent.com recently ranked GHC as having one of the most affordable online Bachelor of Science in Health Science programs in the country – and the degree is growing in demand across the region.

The program, established in 2020, provides graduates with access to numerous careers in the field of healthcare in Northwest Georgia, as well as an access point to medical school.

“Northwest Georgia and Metro Atlanta have numerous healthcare systems that are all growing,” Luke Mashburn, Division Chair for the Atrium Health Floyd School of Health Sciences, said. “We have recently introduced concentrations that focus on some of the most exciting areas of health science, including public health, exercise science, and social and behavioral health.”

And with the college’s robust pre-professional, or pre-medical program option, Mashburn says students can pursue almost any role in health science, from community health specialists to medical doctors.

“Our new concentrations really let students drill deeper into the area they want their career to focus on,” Mashburn said. “This allows our students

RANKED– continued on page 17

Sumner

Mashburn

University HQ ranks special education degree at GHC one of the best in the country

The website University HQ recently ranked the Associate of Science in Special Education at GHC as one of the top 10 best online special education programs in the country.

Dean of the School of Social Sciences and Education Alan Nichols says earning an Associate of Science in Special Education from GHC produces many benefits, such as the ability to immediately work as a paraprofessional in a special education classroom upon graduation. With a bachelor’s degree, the opportunities grow.

“Another benefit is that the Associate of Science in Special Education prepares students for a bachelor’s degree in the field, which is required for teacher certification,” Nichols said. “Northwest Georgia has a pressing need for special education professionals, and we at GHC are proud to help meet this need.”

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that employment of special education teachers will grow 6% from 2020 to 2030, about as fast as the average for all occupations. This growth is expected to be driven by increasing demand for special education services and earlier identification and diagnosis of disabilities.

In addition to serving as a paraprofessional with

RANKED– continued from page 16

to choose the right track for them and allows the students to take the courses that graduate schools, including med school, physical therapy school or occupational therapy school, and pharmacy school, require for admission.”

To further prepare students for a career upon

an associate degree, careers for holders of a bachelor’s degree in the field can work as special education teachers, early intervention therapists, art therapists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, educational diagnosticians, special education administrators, behavior analyst, social workers, and more.

For example, GHC alumnus Justin Shooks, who initially planned to become a middle school teacher as he earned an associate degree in middle education from GHC, went on to earn his bachelor’s and now serves as a counselor at Lindley Middle School.

“The Associate of Science in Special Education is designed to prepare students for transfer to a fouryear university to complete their bachelor’s degree in special education,” Nichols said. “It offers a strong foundation in the principles and practices of special education. Students will learn about different types of disabilities, how to differentiate instruction, and how to meet the needs of all learners.”

To help facilitate the transfer process, GHC has articulation agreements with several Georgia universities so students can seamlessly transfer their credits from GHC to these universities to continue their education.

Campus News

graduation, the Atrium Health Floyd School of Health Sciences offers internship opportunities and the ability to earn certifications as a student. Classes are taught by instructors with industry experience, including members of senior leadership at Atrium Health Floyd.

In addition, the college has articulation agreements and partnerships with multiple institutions, including the Trinity School of Medicine, which provides prioritized admission for qualified GHC graduates. Other colleges include the University of West Georgia and Morehouse College.

“Our pre-professional track is not just a pre-med program – it’s really a ‘pre-anything’ program,” Mashburn said. “The key aspect of that track is the flexibility of the guided electives. Students can work with their advisor ensure they’re taking the courses required by the medical schools they want to apply to.”

The Intelligent.com ranking assessed 64 universities and colleges in its rankings and compared 107 education programs.

Campus News

Second Annual Academic Showcase celebrates work by students and faculty

The Second Annual Academic Showcase event held in May 2023 featured research and representation from nearly all 40 programs of study at GHC. The event allows the GHC community to come together and celebrate the culmination of work from the past academic year that GHC has produced. This is a day where students and faculty provide oral research presentations and display exhibits and posters.

Student Camille McClean gave an oral presentation on Political Discourse and the Social Media Dilemma, in which she talked about social media’s impact on news and information. Through her research, she found examples of disproven information being spread and reinforced through algorithms.

Student Spencer Hood, who takes classes online and is pursuing a degree in education with the goal to teach in grades six through 12, participated in the oral presentation component of the showcase.

Presenting on Learning Approaches: Information Processing Theory, Hood said the event gave him a social outlet and the chance to share his research about a personal interest and get feedback from faculty and other students.

“Going to a campus facility and speaking to a group of people is further developing my social skills and helping me in a way that I can apply what I have been learning online through GHC to an actual group of participants,” Hood said.

He said the Information Processing Theory, which relates to how one reads, processes, and learns through the act of receiving information primarily through visual aid, is a cornerstone tying of his aspirations as an educator.

“As I was growing up, I noticed some of my teachers troubles conveying new ideas to students, and I want to see what I can do to help out with the future generation,” Hood said.

STUDENT EXHIBITS:

Kayley Agan Shepherd – Human Impacts on Hammerhead Sharks

Lindsey Reaid – Butterfly in the Field

STUDENT ORAL PRESENTATIONS: Ansleigh Peshel – Macroinvertebrate Diversity Assessment in Drum Creek Cheyenne Bailey – Gay Frogs and their Link to Cancer in Humans

“I wanted to see if there were any links to how social media impacts people’s opinions as [social media networks] have grown in past years, and the research

I did for my paper led me to see that yes, social media does impact [opinions] at a pretty fast rate and it helped me to understand what I can do to avoid that in the future with friends and family,” McClean said.

The event’s poster presentations ranged from literature and art history to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) as well as workplace proposals where students sought ways to improve obstacles they have encountered at their own jobs.

For example, Allison Vessell, who is pursuing Environmental and Natural Resources, researched the connection between human health and wildlife decline.

“We figured out that about 11% of the world’s medicine is dependent on natural resources, which doesn’t sound like a lot, but for perspective, that’s like 50,000 to 80,000 plants being used for medicine and 15,000 of those are now extinct,” Vessell said.

Additionally, the Academic Showcase featured a performance by The Highlanders music ensemble.

2023 ACADEMIC SHOWCASE AWARD WINNERS

STUDENT POSTER PRESENTATIONS:

Kylie Ingram & Hugo Coronado –The Effects of Acetyl Jade Najarro, Madison Morrow, Josh Hall, Jesse Muto, & Brittany Lewis Pilgrim – Southern Women Authors

FACULTY POSTER PRESENTATION:

Ryan O’Connor, Justin Polizzi, Darius Newton, & Maria Holt – Improving the Student Experience in Online Chemistry: Regular Communication Tools

FACULTY ORAL PRESENTATION:

Jeffrey Linek – Problem of the Week Assessment: Salicylic Acid on Lettuce and Pea Seed Development and Germination

Nwokike receives Distinguished Alumni Award Campus

Dr. Chukwuemeka “Dr. Ike” Nwokike gave the keynote presentation at the Second Annual Academic Showcase and was presented with the Distinguished Alumni Award.

An alumnus of GHC who moved to the U.S. from Nigeria in 1999, Nwokike went on to earn a Doctor of Medicine degree from Morehouse School of Medicine.

After completing his postgraduate education at Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta, he became a nocturnist in North Georgia.

Nwokike is a dedicated husband and father of three wonderful children.

Campus News

Photo by Mark Andrews

The Wishing Wall

Artists travel the world and install mural at GHC

Israeli artists Maya Gelfman and Roie Avidan have left their mark at the GHC Cartersville site by installing their latest Mind the Heart! mural titled “The Wishing Wall.”

Located on the first floor of the STEAM Building and stepping outside traditional approaches to murals, “The Wishing Wall” ties to the culture of GHC – literally utilizing yarn to craft images of birds delivering individual messages of hope from students and faculty.

Maya and Roie provided the following explanation of “The Wishing Wall”:

“The flock of birds rises as one, encompassing a duality: a tension between the pulling force of the ground and the endless promise of the open sky. Our history, our roots, our triumphs, and our losses, can all be sources of great strength or chains that hold us back. But the birds and their ‘chains’ are made of the same, soft material. That which can unravel them, also grants them wings. If they choose to fly high enough for long enough, they will unravel the tangle and get all the thread they need.

If they so choose, they’ll be free.”

The mural also deals with hopes and fears and how these can be shared to find connection and transcendence. In this, the power of intention and of the written word shines brightest - both personally and communally.

The project incorporated GHC students and faculty by asking them to answer this question: Of all of your skills, gifts, and superpowers, what's the one you'd want to shine through this coming year so that others may benefit from it?

Their anonymous wishes were written on small scrolls and placed for the birds to carry them upwards to fulfillment.

Mind the Heart! is a worldwide public art project by artists Maya Gelfman and Roie Avidan that promotes mindfulness through site-specific murals, installations, and public actions. Their works have reached over 100 cities across five continents. The artists share their art not only in galleries and museums but move beyond, into the streets, creating tangible works that connect to tangible moments.

Looking for ways to facilitate a direct connection to a place, time, and experience led them to take the project on the road and create the Serendipity Experiment, a “365-day a year, 24-hour, seven-day-a-

week performance all across the U.S.

Their premise was to accept the unknown as an artistic tool by committing to being only in the present moment. That meant giving up the anchors of the past and relinquishing control over the future.

For this purpose, they donated their belongings, moved to live in a van, and asked strangers to dictate their journey. At each point they were sent to, they created a public work.

The experiment was planned to last one year but ended up lasting four, spanning more than 60,000 miles in 48 states.

Campus News

“Our works are site-specific; they reflect an experience in a certain time and the people whom we met at that location. Throughout the journey of Serendipity, we shared many meaningful encounters and conversations. It created a web of places and people that also led us to Georgia Highlands College,” says Roie.

And Maya continues, “Everyone we have met has been open and receptive, willing to inspire and be inspired by others. Meeting people from all walks of life has broadened our perspectives. We are grateful for so many acts of kindness and generosity."

While “The Wishing Wall” mural is physically complete, students and visitors will still have the opportunity to engage with the piece by scanning a QR code at the mural’s location and providing a new wish digitally. All wishes will be featured anonymously on a screen next to the mural.

See more of Maya and Roie’s work on their website mindtheheart.org or Instagram at @mindtheheartproject.

Photo by Mark Andrews

Campus News

GHC helps drive community art mural at Cartersville Public Library

In the fall of 2023, Georgia Highlands College Adjunct Professor of Art Dorothy Reavis, with the assistance of GHC students, completed a wall-sized mural at the Cartersville Public Library titled “Imagination Grows Wild.”

Reavis, who previously taught art at Woodland High School (WHS), was contacted by Art in Bartow to be a creative director and artist for the library mural. The mural, which measures 25 feet by 15 to 16 feet in total, required several strategic steps while navigating learning curves as well as plenty of labor and patience.

Reavis said working on the mural providedstudent artists with opportunities and professional experience in public art, helping to create a lasting exhibition in a popular public space.

“Whether a student is interested in public arts, graphic design, or fine arts as a career, this experience gave them insight and education on how to work as an artist and work as a team to achieve such a large creative project,” she said. “Volunteering on the mural was an opportunity for students to have public artwork under their belt before graduation, which boosts their work history and current exhibitions.”

Student and GHC Art Club President Ava Riekert has been working on the mural since the end of her senior year in high school when she was a senior in Reavis’ class at WHS. As she pursues the Associate of Arts in Art Pathway from GHC, she has been able to apply Riekert’s lessons to a real-world scenario while also learning from the experience.

“I had never worked on a piece that big before and was a little worried about how it would affect my performance, but using the artistic skills I had been studying throughout my senior year, I quickly felt comfortable and up for the huge project,” Riekert said. “Throughout the process, I learned how to work effectively with other artists that may not have a

similar style to mine and picked up some good skills on how to make colors opaque on such a large scale.”

Riekert encourages others to check out organizations like the GHC Art Club and to take advantage of extracurricular opportunities on and off campus made possible through the college’s community partnerships.

“I would absolutely recommend getting involved in community-based projects because it gives you a sense of belonging and excitement,” Riekert said.

“You may start off feeling overwhelmed or uncomfortable, but as you work on the project, you will understand why it is such a special experience for you and the community around you.”

Reavis considers the project to be a success.

“I’m grateful to have such dedicated art students and was proud to collaborate with them on such a large-scale and meaningful project,” Reavis said. “GHC has a lot of creative talent, and it’s a pleasure to teach and guide them while teaching at GHC. I hope I have provided them with real-life, hands-on opportunities and hope to work with many students on future projects.”

Reavis, with the assistance of a GHC art club member and a future GHC student, recently completed another mural at Euharlee Elementary School.

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Success is a Journey

The 2023 Charge into Leadership Conference

GHC recently held its 2023 Charge Into Leadership conference, which helps local college and high school students access leadership skills they can apply immediately and in the future.

The event, held at the Cartersville site, kicked off with keynote speaker Steve Dennis, an internationally acclaimed entrepreneur, speaker, trainer, and life coach. As the founder of Motivation Unlimited, Dennis shared stories of his personal life and overcoming challenges, as well as provided insight on the importance of continuous personal growth as one faces adversity.

“You have to ask yourself, do I know my purpose, or do I know my pain, because there is a difference,” Dennis said. “Purpose is the day you realize the reason you were born. When you discover your ‘why,’ you discover your wings, and then you can find your way.”

but after experiencing the day of leadership training, character building, and the perspectives of a widerange of speakers, she plans to attend next year as well.

“My overall impression was that it was very motivating, fun, and inspiring,” she said.

Solis-Reyes shared a story of meeting another student during the conference and seeing how a day’s worth of leadership training and character building can have immediate effects on one’s perspective.

“When you discover your ‘why,’ you discover your wings.”

- Steve Dennis -

Dennis also spoke to students on the importance of continuing to learn from others as they grow in their leadership roles.

“Wherever you are, you are leading at a powerful level, and that level only grows as you learn more,” Dennis said.

Following Dennis’ presentation, attendees visited breakout sessions featuring GHC faculty and entrepreneurs as well as a Women in Leadership roundtable featuring GHC administration.

“At the Charge into Leadership Conference, our diverse speaker panel was like a tapestry of inspiration. Witnessing these students inspired by the speakers was truly gratifying,” Associate Professor of Business Administration and event co-organizer Shanika Turner said. “I also loved seeing students from different majors connect, bond, and discover the common thread of leadership. I look forward to witnessing further expansion of the conference next year.”

Student Catherine Solis-Reyes was encouraged by one of her instructors to attend the conference,

“During the first breakout session that we had, she said that so far, the conference helped her to gain courage and want to pursue becoming a math teacher, which I was very happy to hear,” SolisReyes said.

After graduation, Solis-Reyes plans to pursue a career in social media marketing.

“This was our third year organizing this event, and it was our most successful and largest by far,” Student Engagement Coordinator and event coorganizer Clifton Puckett said. “It was also our first time opening up to students from other colleges as well as the community, and it was great to see students from Dalton State in attendance, as well as some of our community partners.”

Campus News

Steve Dennis

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT... Campus News

YOUTH FISHING RODEO AND CARS ON CAMPUS SHOW HELD

GHC hosted its Inaugural Youth Fishing Rodeo and Cars on Campus Show at the Floyd Campus in April 2023, bringing together the community for a day of fun, fishing, cars, and even a little science.

The Inaugural Youth Fishing Rodeo featured prizes for the biggest fish within age categories, kids activities, a raffle with prizes including a 50/50 cash drawing, a new mattress from Heritage Sleep Concepts, and consolidated gift card packs for a family night out featuring tickets to Tellus Science Museum, restaurant gift cards, and more, while the Cars on Campus Car Show raised money for student scholarships through the GHC Foundation.

MARCOM AWARDS

The Office of Marketing and Communications received gold, silver, and bronze Educational Advertising Awards and Collegiate Advertising Awards for the 2022 edition of the Highlander Magazine, and the department’s online publications, digital media productions, and TV advertising.

Educational Advertising Awards

Gold – Publication/External Category

– 2022 Highlander Magazine

Gold – Online Publications Category

– GHC Wyoming Summer Field Courses Orientation Guidebook

Merit Award – Television AdvertisingSingle Category – Right Time. Right Place. Right Price.

Collegiate Advertising Awards

Gold – GHC Women’s Basketball Championship Season Hype Video

Bronze – 2022 Highlander Magazine

13TH ANNUAL PUBLIC SPEAKING COMPETITION

Congratulations to all students who decided to test their public speaking skills and participate in the 13th Annual Public Speaking Competition at GHC in spring 2023.

The following students received awards during the 13th Annual Public Speaking Competition:

1st place – Michelle Torres

2nd place – Emma Grace Mendes

3rd place – Savanna Lusk

4th place – Ellie Cooper

DISASTER SIMULATION EXERCISE

A downed airplane resulting in fire, hazardous smoke, and numerous injuries and deaths is a scenario no one wants to encounter. But at GHC, this scenario was the basis for a High Impact Practice and experiential learning opportunity for Nursing and Dental Hygiene students, who participated in the Atrium Health Floyd School of Health Science’s annual disaster simulation training exercise in April 2023.

NURSING SCIENCE SYMPOSIUM

GHC hosted the 2023 Nursing Science Symposium at the Floyd Campus in April, bringing together nurse leaders, clinicians, educators

from around the region, and nursing students who will present evidencebased project posters.

ANNUAL HONORS NIGHT

GHC held its annual Honors Assembly in April at the Cartersville site. The event, which was also streamed live, celebrated the academic achievements and special recognition of more than 70 GHC students receiving more than 100 awards.

The Georgia Highlands College Leadership Award was presented to Jalen Hudson. As the flagship award for the evening, the Leadership Award is for the student who best demonstrates the qualities of a positive leader and shows exemplary leadership on campus and in community activities while maintaining high academic standards. Students are nominated for the award by faculty and staff. Other nominees for the Leadership Award were April Cole and Crystal Ann Lee.

The Georgia Highlands College Spirit Award was presented to Damani Johnson Taylor. This award is for the student who best demonstrates dedication to campus life, activity in school and community projects, and promotes school spirit to fellow students, faculty, and staff.

The Georgia Highlands College

Steve Burns Service Awards was presented to April Cole. This award is for the student who has demonstrated a commitment and passion for serving others and contributing to the wellbeing of the community.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT...

HEALTHCARE DISCOVERY CAMP

GHC partnered with Blue Ridge Area Health Education Center and Atrium Health Floyd in the summer of 2023 to offer a Healthcare Discovery Camp for rising middle school students. The camp, held at the Floyd Campus, featured three days of fun, hands-on exploration of the world of healthcare. Campers were able to discover what it’s like to be a physician, nurse, pharmacist, EMT, dental hygienist, nutritionist, and more. Activities were led by a diverse group of healthcare professionals from a variety of healthcare settings.

FOUNDATION CAMP

Foundation Camp is a summer tradition at GHC. Foundation camp is a two-week camp for young men ages 10-14 held annually at the Floyd Campus. It is offered through a partnership between GHC and the 100 Black Men of Rome-NWGA. The camp includes academics, athletics, and enrichment activities. Campers learn teamwork and leadership skills while having a positive experience on a college campus. Transportation is provided in the Rome, Georgia, city limits. Breakfast and lunch are provided. The camp is funded through generous donations. There is no charge for the campers.

WYOMING SUMMER FIELD COURSE TRIP

President Mike Hobbs joined GHC students along with Professor of Geology Billy Morris and School of STEM Division Chair Brandy Rogers to access adventure during the annual Wyoming Summer Field Courses for geology and ecology. Students were able to earn science credit while seeing the history of the earth up close.

GHC NIGHT AT THE ROME BRAVES

The college held its annual GHC Night at the Rome Braves in August 2023, bringing together students, faculty, and staff along with their families for an evening of fun, fellowship, and baseball.

CHARGER KICKOFF

GHC faculty and staff emerged

on the Floyd Campus in August 2023 for the 2023 Charger Kickoff. The day featured the State of the College address by President Mike Hobbs, breakout sessions, employee awards, and more.

ROME INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL STUDENT WORKSHOP

During fall semester 2023, more than 200 high schoolers took a first-hand look at the emerging film industry in Northwest Georgia during the Rome International Film Festival (RIFF), held at the Floyd Campus.

During the all-day event, each student chose their own path through the day, engaging in handson classes taught by academic leaders and industry pros.

Topics covered may include

scriptwriting, set-building, working with film equipment, how to prepare to become a part of the e-sports industry, how horror movies are much more than violence, and how corporate advertising provides a rewarding career.

In addition, attendees were able to enjoy the RIFF High School Student Film Competition and voted on their favorite student films.

BUSINESS MIXER

A business mixer for GHC students was held in November 2023 at the Cartersville site. The event featured practice interviews, resume reviews, and opportunities to explore current job and internships with more than 40 companies. The event was hosted by the School of Business and Professional Studies and GHC Foundation Trustee Dr. Lance Barry.

Campus News

RIFF student workshop

Faculty Spotlight Campus News

Renovations complete at the Floyd Campus McCorkle building student hub

GHC unveiled its new student hub at the college’s Floyd Campus. Located in the McCorkle building and serving as the main entrance for the campus, the hub features a newly designed and covered brick exterior entranceway. It provides a centralized location for students to access student services such as Admissions, the Business Office, Financial Aid, and more. The space houses staff offices as well as seating areas for students to relax, study, or meet with other students on campus.

PTK officers launch Student Ambassador Program

Officers of the Alpha Psi Omicron chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) honor society are taking their leadership and organizational skills to the next level by helping launch the Student Ambassador Program (SAP).

PTK chapter President and student April Cole, who helped spearhead the initiative alongside 2023 GHC graduate and PTK Officer Katie Weatherford, says the primary goal of the SAP is to provide student leaders with a platform to share information on the endless opportunities GHC has for self-development, helping them to shape and impact the lives of future and current students at GHC.

Ambassadors will take on roles such as orientation leaders and guides for campus tours and will work with the recruitment team to visit area high schools and local events to give potential students an idea of what GHC has to offer from the perspective of current students. They will also assist with on-campus special events. To make the program happen, Cole, Weatherford, and their fellow PTK officers had to start from scratch.

“Our chapter made an outline of the entire SAP program, pitched it to the president, provost, and vice president of finance and administration through a PowerPoint presentation, and made changes according to their feedback,” Cole said. “We were ecstatic to discover the enthusiasm Dr. Hobbs had for this project.”

Cole said a special aspect of the ambassador program has been the ability to learn the “ins and outs” of program development for academia. PTK officers were given the

ability to meet with nearly every department head at the college and obtain feedback for the program.

“We learned how budgeting works for new programs, how to work with marketing, recruitment for ambassadors, and development of training programs,” Cole said. “Our chapter actually wrote the training manual for the ambassadors, which involved an in-depth knowledge of GHC.”

She continued, “This program challenged and prepared us for any future projects in organizational leadership and program development. I have confidence that our officers could create programs with ease and success after the completion of this project.”

In addition, Cole said, the SAP will work to be a source of connection between the student body and GHC President Mike Hobbs and to bring a voice and face to the academic stories of students.

To learn more about becoming a student ambassador, contact the Office of Student Engagement.

Student news outlet receives first-place awards from Georgia College Press Association

The Six Mile Post student news outlet at GHC was recognized by the Georgia College Press Association (GCPA) for outstanding achievements in journalism. Student staffers were honored at the GCPA Press Institute in April 2023. Learn more about the Six Mile Post student news outlets at sixmilepost.com

The student news outlet won the following awards:

ORGANIZATIONAL AWARDS

First Place:

• General Excellence – Division B (enrollment less than 5,000)

• Improvement Award

• Layout and Design Excellence

• Best Campus Community Service (Sports)

Second Place:

• Best Campus Community Service (Editorial)

• Best Website

Third Place:

• Best Campus Community Service (News)

INDIVIDUAL STUDENT AWARDS

First Place:

• Best Investigative Reporting News Article – Julia Haynes

• Best Review – Ashley Hall

• Best Objective Reporting News Article – Ashley Hall

Second Place:

• Best Column – Brandon Dyer

• Best Sports Photograph – Brandon Dyer

• Best News Photograph – Ashley Hall

Third Place:

• Impact Award – Christopher Daniel

• Best Entertainment Story – Victoria Bissette

• Best News Photograph – Ashley Hall

Student Organization Spotlight

Faculty Spotlight

Assistant Professor of Biology Ejiroghene Ogaga named “Teacher of the Year”

Ejiroghene

Ogaga, an Assistant Professor of Biology at GHC, was recently recognized as a “Teacher of the Year” during the annual Cobb Chamber of Commerce Give our Schools a Hand (GOSH) program celebration breakfast.

As a graduate of Georgia State University, Ogaga earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a major in biology and a minor in chemistry, as well as a Master of Science in Biology with a research focus in Neuroendocrinology. She began working at GHC in 2014 as a part-time biology instructor at the Marietta site and served as the sole biology faculty at the Douglasville site from 2018 to its closure in 2022.

lives of my students and seeing them graduate and transition into their desired career paths gives me immense joy.”

She says early intervention has been key to helping students reach their goals in classes where they may find the subject matter difficult to comprehend or have not learned proper study skills. Beyond her office hours, Ogaga offers supplemental instructional sessions to assist students with challenging topics in the course and bi-weekly check-ins to discuss and evaluate their progress.

Early in the semester, she works to establish a positive rapport with students and to set a welcoming environment in her classroom.

She’s now back to teaching at Marietta.

“My passion for learning about the intricacies of the human body and ways to treat illnesses led me to the field of biology. This is why Human Anatomy and Physiology is my favorite subject to teach in the field of biology,” Ogaga said. “My students are the reason I am still working at GHC. Knowing that I am making a positive long-lasting impact in the

“Yes, I am the teacher, but I also let them know that I am learning from them, too,” Ogaga said. “During my lectures, I use questions to assess how well students understand the topics, then I spend time addressing them. I require every student to meet with me to review their exams and discuss ways to improve.”

She said serving the population at the former

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Rodriguez receives national DAISY nursing award

Marjorie Liciaga Rodriguez, a nursing student in the Atrium Health Floyd School of Health Sciences at GHC, recently received the DAISY Award, a national award from the DAISY Foundation.

Any licensed, registered nurse, nursing faculty member, or nursing student is eligible to be nominated for a DAISY Award. According to its website, DAISY partners with healthcare facilities across the continuum of care, such as large health systems, clinics, long-term care facilities, surgery centers, critical access, and rural hospitals, schools of nursing, and more. The organization’s recognition programs express gratitude to nurses wherever they practice, in whatever role they serve, and throughout their careers – from nursing student through lifetime achievement.

Being recognized for this accomplishment brought Rodriguez to tears.

“I felt deeply humbled to know that someone took the time to vote for me,” Rodriguez said. “I work with an amazing group of nurses, so naturally, I believed the ladies that came to present were there to present one of them with the award.”

She added, “This award means that my hard work, my dedication, and my sacrifices are seen and that it is all leading me to a path that serves a higher calling that I am seeking to fill.”

Her goals as a nurse include creating a positive impact on others while embracing her compassionate spirit and setting an example for her children.

“I often feel like care and compassion are missing, so why not spread that around some? My caring and compassionate spirit yearns to be let out,” she said.

Reflecting on her education thus far, Rodriguez said every classroom experience, project, lecture, simulation lab, and clinical rotation holds a story.

“First-semester experiences tested my character. I found this helpful because it tested me as a person and challenged me to grow and mature,” Rodriguez said.

OGAGA– continued from page 28

Douglasville site and helping students transition to the next steps in higher education has been one of the most rewarding aspects of her career. In addition, she is proud to have represented GHC as a University System of Georgia (USG) Chancellor’s Learning Scholar from 2020 to 2022 and has led a GHC Faculty Learning Community (FLC) focused on service learning.

“The FLC opportunity enabled me to implement service-learning experiences in my Anatomy

“Second-semester experiences proved that learning is never-ending. This last semester is teaching me that motivation and determination go hand in hand.”

She continued, “The most helpful and interesting parts of the program are the clinical rotations. This is where you can apply what you learn during lectures and sim labs in a real-life setting.”

Motivation and determination are necessary for anyone considering enrolling in the nursing program, Rodriguez said.

“If an individual is both motivated and determined, I would say, “Do it” – what are you waiting for?” Rodriguez said.

Rodriguez plans to graduate in the spring 2024 and will continue her education with GHC. Her next steps are to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) while completing a nursing residency program with her employer, Wellstar Health System, who nominated her for the award.

“I would really like to thank every nursing instructor at GHC. Every instructor that I have come in contact with has always had my best interest in mind,” Rodriguez said. “They are all different, and they all have taught me unique lifelong lessons.”

and Physiology (A&P) courses at the Douglasville site,” Ogaga said. “In the A&P courses, my students used what they learned in class to serve a need in the Douglasville community. They developed lesson plans and activities and taught the lab component of a Human Anatomy course at an underserved High School in Douglasville.”

In addition to being an educator, Ogaga is a singer who has sung in church choirs and multiple music ministries.

Student Spotlight

Chargers Taking Charge

Von Nordeck serves as Health Educator and has honors project implemented at Emory

Recent GHC graduate Kristina Von Nordeck is growing her career in healthcare, having spent the last five years in pediatrics and the last 10 years as a Medical Assistant.

As a 2023 graduate of the Bachelor of Sciences in Health Sciences program, Von Nordeck now serves as a Health Educator at Emory Healthcare, taking charge of responsibilities such as researching and developing health education materials and courses, conducting support groups, community outreach, and more.

Now, her college honor’s project from GHC researching childhood obesity has been implemented at her employer. She explained in her research, citing the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), that childhood obesity is an epidemic in the United States, and children with elevated body mass indexes at an early age are at risk for poor health in adulthood.

For children and adolescents aged 2-19 years, Von Nordeck said, obesity was 19.7% and affected about 14.7 million children and adolescents between the years 2019 and 2021.

“For eight weeks, I followed and evaluated the physical, environmental, and nutritional habits of 10 children aged 5-10 of various genders, ages, and ethnic backgrounds with elevated BMIs at 90% or above,” Von Nordeck said. “… By promoting and educating children and parents on healthy lifestyle changes at an early age, healthcare providers and parents can reduce the risk of children developing chronic health issues in the future.”

Von Nordeck said she is “beyond humbled” that her research was chosen as a focus within the practice.

“Not only did my employer believe in me and recognize the hard work along my journey, but it also

showed me that they care about their patients and want them to reach their full potential in life,” she said.

Von Nordeck is also certified in Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta’s Strong4Life program.

“My current plan includes graduate school at Samford in their Physician Assistant Program,” Von Nordeck said. “I plan to continue to use Health Education and Nutrition and open a low-income clinic in rural Tennessee for children/adolescents with a sub-focus in neurobehavioral.”

She said her professors at GHC helped to provide support as she worked toward her degree. In addition, Von Nordeck was able to eliminate some of the cost of her degree at GHC by applying for and receiving institutional scholarships from the GHC Foundation, including the Cook Study Abroad Scholarship, which helped her to study abroad in Scotland.

“Not only were my professors knowledgeable on subject matter, but each of them also really cared about us being successful and took the time to show they cared about my education,” Von Nordeck said.

KNOW A CHARGER TAKING CHARGE?

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FROM ASSOCIATE DEGREE TO BACHELOR’S DEGREE: Business programs quickly help grow career of alumnus and student Felix Monterrosa

Felix Monterrosa is applying the skills he has learned at GHC to his career, recently taking on the role of Director of Environmental Services at Advent Health Redmond Hospital in Rome.

In his role, Monterrosa oversees more than 60 employees who are tasked with sanitizing and disinfecting all patient and procedure rooms at the hospital.

After graduating with an Associate Degree in Business Administration, Monterrosa decided to continue his education at GHC and is now pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration in Healthcare Management.

Like many students at GHC, Monterrosa is a returning student after he initially stopped taking classes back in 2011.

“At the time, education was not a priority for me, and I needed to do some maturing,” Monterrosa said. “In 2020, with the support of my wife, I made the decision to jump back into school and complete a lifelong goal of mine in obtaining a college degree.”

Monterrosa had also made a career change and began working in healthcare around the same time.

“It was a huge decision to go into something that I had no experience in, but I felt like it was something that I wanted to do,” Monterrosa said. “I started my journey with an Assistant Director role through HHS LLC, which is an outside vendor for environmental services at Redmond. Jumping into a management role in the healthcare field made it very easy in deciding what degree I needed to pursue. Thankfully, GHC offers a degree in just that.”

Monterrosa soon realized that his decision to return to college would have immediate benefits.

“A lot of the terminology and concepts that I have learned in class I have been able to apply to real-life situations, and with my role in the company, I have been presented with several tasks touched on in class – everything from recruiting, training, conflict resolution to budgeting, logistics, and sales,” Monterrosa said. “Also, being a part of the leadership team at the hospital has granted me the ability to be a part of the solution regarding situations that arise in the running of a 230-bed facility like Advent Health Redmond.”

In his role as Director of Environmental Services, Monterrosa meets with his employees, leadership, vendors, and others each day to determine goals and opportunities, then will verify his employees’ cleaning

tasks meet the institution’s standard of cleaning and conduct patient awareness rounds to gather feedback on patient experience.

His hard work and attention to detail have paid off. Recently, his department was recognized by Advent Health Redmond administration as having the most improved patient satisfaction experience scores of every department at the hospital.

At GHC, the student organization Brother 2 Brother (B2B) has given Monterrosa opportunities for personal growth that he can apply throughout his life.

“Being in Brother 2 Brother has had a massive impact on me regarding accountability. We have all faced adversity in the past in many shapes and forms outside of our control,” Monterrosa said. “What we can control, however, is how we react. Do we let things get to us, or do we use it as fuel and motivation to rise above?”

He said it is important for anyone starting college for the first time or returning to college later in life to take advantage of the support systems in place at GHC.

“It is never too late. When I returned to school, I was met with open arms and positivity,” Monterrosa said. “GHC has been great to me, and it has been great to many more.”

Chargers Taking Charge

Community Impact Award

CL Tidwell receives inaugural Presidential Award for Community Impact

More than 250 community members and leaders came together for a special reception honoring CL Tidwell at GHC’s Cartersville site. During the event, President Mike Hobbs presented Tidwell with the first-ever Presidential Award for Community Impact.

The award honors someone in the GHC region with a dedication for helping to create a better, stronger community. This honor highlights a significant community member who exemplifies leadership and service, and has a legacy of community engagement.

During the reception, speakers included Tricia Pridemore, Paul Battles, and the Honorable Joe Campbell.

“As you heard today from our speakers, CL is a treasure in our community,” President Hobbs said. “In my short time at GHC, our leaders and partners almost unanimously point to CL Tidwell and his family for helping to create a better community.”

Tidwell was born in 1940 to Herschel and Ethel Tidwell. His childhood home was 508 Erwin Street in Cartersville. His dad worked for the EZ Mill and his mother was a stay-at-home mom.

In 1949, CL’s parents purchased 80 acres for $25 an acre and the family moved out in the country and began farming. Located on a dirt road, the house had no electricity or indoor plumbing.

CL and his siblings walked nearly two miles to catch a bus to attend Cassville school each day. At just 16 years old, CL left school to enter the workforce, and by age 19, CL purchased a plumbing license and officially began his career.

To this day, CL holds the oldest plumbing

license in Cartersville, Georgia. Over the next few years, CL excelled in his career, got married to Doris at age 21 in 1961, and had two children, Carla and Michael.

“CL’s story is so similar to the story of our students at GHC,” President Hobbs said. “This is their home. They live here. They learn here. They work here. And they make our community a better place.”

The reception was sponsored by Mark Sullins and Dr. Lance Barry.

CL Tidwell was also honored once more during the 7PM commencement ceremony at the Floyd Campus on May 11, 2023.

Community Impact Award

Foundation Spotlight

Kitty Carte of Cartersville continues legacy with scholarship

Nursing students in the Atrium Health Floyd School of Health Sciences at GHC will have an easier pathway through nursing school, thanks to the recently established Kitty Carte Legacy Nursing Scholarship.

This endowed scholarship established by Kitty’s daughter, Jana Lindsey, is a generous fund of $450,000 that will provide selected nursing students from the Associate of Science in Nursing and RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs with $1,500 each semester. In addition, this scholarship awards a stipend of $500 to recipients as well as annually funding $2,000 to the Friends of Future Nurses Fund.

“These much-needed financial resources will follow the student through the duration of their nursing studies at GHC,” Director of Foundation Services Liz Jones said. “Kitty’s generosity will have an extensive impact on reducing student financial stress so they can focus solely on their nursing studies.”

Catherine Isabelle “Kitty” Carte, known as the “First Lady of Cartersville,” passed away in 2021, leaving behind a legacy of service. As a graduate of the Charleston General Hospital Nursing Program and after moving to Cartersville in 1965, she became well known for her volunteer work in the community. She applied her nursing background by volunteering at the Tonsmeire Community Clinic and Meals on Wheels and was an active member

of Sam Jones Methodist Church.

Active with the Red Cross for many years, Kitty served on the organization’s board of directors, participated in disaster relief, and ran a shelter in the fellowship hall of Sam Jones Church during the blizzard of 1993. In addition, she volunteered at Red Cross blood drives every month until the age of 88.

Director of Nursing Paula Stover was also touched by her time spent with Kitty and by the impact the scholarship will have on students.

“I knew Kitty briefly while attending Sam Jones and was impressed by her warmth and kindness,” Stover said. “She was a champion for nurses and was very proud to have GHC in Cartersville.”

The scholarship begins awarding in the fall of 2024. Students enrolled at that time can then visit awardspring.com, sign in with their school account, and learn more about the Kitty Carte Legacy Nursing Scholarship as well as many other institutional scholarship opportunities provided by the GHC Foundation.

GHC Foundation welcomes Holland as new trustee

The GHC Foundation recently appointed Bryan Holland to its board of trustees.

Bryan has worked in the banking business since 2002. He has worked primarily in the Northwest Georgia region and has spent the last seven years based out of Rome. Bryan earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Georgia, majoring in Finance. After beginning his career in banking, Bryan attended the Georgia Banking School at the University of Georgia. He earned a diploma from the Graduate School of Banking at Louisiana State University. In 2019, Bryan earned his Master of Business Administration from Berry College.

Bryan is currently on the board of the Boys & Girls Club of Northwest Georgia and was formerly on the advisory board for the Boys & Girls Club in Cedartown. Bryan is active in the Rome and Cedartown communities and is a member of the Rome Rotary Club where he is currently serving as the club’s treasurer. Bryan is a former member of the Cedartown Kiwanis Club, having served as president and treasurer.

Bryan lives in Polk County and graduated from Cedartown High School, and says GHC has been a wonderful opportunity for high school students from Polk County to be able to attend college locally. He is excited about the opportunity to work with GHC to continue to provide continued education for students to excel.

Your Gifts. Their Future.

FUND AN EDUCATION. FUND A DREAM. FUND A FUTURE.

The Georgia Highlands College Foundation has supported the college since 1973. The impact of our scholarships has helped fuel academic innovation as well as fill gaps in basic-need funding.

HELP US MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

Gifts of every size and type matter. Your gifts, especially when combined with gifts from other donors, change lives. Your support opens the doors of achievement and success for students by ensuring that financial barriers never slow academic inquiry, imagination, or the drive to achieve.

The Foundation relies on the support of donors just like YOU! GHC

Partner with us today to boost your favorite department, help renew and reimagine our facilities, or build robust undesignated funds that allow the college to quickly meet challenges and embrace opportunities.

Together, we are focusing on the future! Thank you for your support.

“I have received the GHC Foundation Sophomores Pursuing Graduation Scholarship, the GHC Foundation Juniors Pursuing Graduation Scholarship, and the Lesley J. Henderson Nursing Scholarship. These three scholarships helped decrease some of the burdens of paying for nursing school and helped me focus more of my attention on school instead of trying to scrounge for finances.”

JONATHAN KAVUMA, Class of ‘23

IMPACT THE FUTURE WITH PLANNED GIVING

Planned giving will allow you to extend the impact of your gift while you accomplish your own personal, financial, estate planning, and philanthropic goals.

To learn more about how to provide for the future of Georgia Highlands College, contact Sarah Bradfield by phone at 706-204-2277 or by email at GHCFoundation@highlands.edu

Dee Bishop

David Caswell

Melanie C. Collier

Andrew Garner

Bryan Holland

Steve Moore

Marty Sonenshine

Tommy Strickland

Michael Tidwell

Charger News

New Athletic Complex Opening Day!

On January 31, 2024, GHC held a soft opening at the new GHC baseball and softball complex located adjacent to the Savoy Automobile Museum at the GHC Cartersville site. The faculty/staff/student day featured food, prizes, and games from the Chargers Baseball team versus Bryan College and the Chargers Softball teams versus Calhoun Community College, with GHC winning both games. The GHC Foundation Board of Trustees were recognized and the ceremonial first pitches were thrown out by GHC President Mike Hobbs, Provost and Chief Academic Officer Sarah Coakley, Executive Director of Advancement Sarah Bradfield, and GHC Foundation Board of Trustees Chair Randy Quick.

Quick Hobbs Coakley

Tucker Hughes named head softball coach

Tucker Hughes, beginning his first year as Head Softball Coach, is no stranger to the GHC athletics program. Spending three seasons in the Chargers baseball program as the Pitching Coach-Recruiting Coordinator, Hughes and the Chargers saw great success on and off the field.

The Chargers produced two GCAA Championships and one Region 17 Championship while completing a 120-47 record. In Hughes’ three seasons at GHC, he has helped produce 19 All-Conference players, four All-Americans, 11 NJCAA All-Academic Team members, seven Region 17 All-Tournament Team members, five Gold Gloves (one National Gold Glove winner), three Male Scholar Athlete of the Year awards, six Pitcher of the Week

honors, 14 Player of the Week honors, one Pitcher of the Year, and two no-hitters.

The Chargers 2022 recruiting class ranked second in the country while the 2023 class finished in the top 20. The Chargers also set many school and individual baseball records.

Hughes has also spent time at Waldorf University and University of the Ozarks producing seven All-Conference players, four All-Region players, five Academic All-Conference players, one Academic All-American, numerous awards for Pitcher and Player of the Week, set individual and school records, and producing one MLB Draft Pick. Hughes played at D2 Ohio Valley University. He and his wife, Hannah Hughes, reside in Rome with their dog Spot.

Brooks chosen to lead Lady Chargers basketball

Briana Brooks, a native of Tyler, Texas, has been chosen to lead the Lady Chargers Basketball program for the upcoming season. Coach Brooks enters her seventh year of coaching, previously serving as the assistant coach at Kilgore College for the 20222023 season. Prior to Kilgore College, Coach Brooks was an assistant coach for the 2022 NJCAA National Champion, Tyler Junior College. From 2016 to 2021, Coach Brooks started her career in the high school ranks as an assistant coach at Robert E. Lee High School and head coaching stops at Wichita Falls and Rusk High School.

member of the 2010-2012 Weatherford College women’s basketball team, Coach Brooks earned NJCAA first Team AllAmerican honors as a freshman and a sophomore, NTJCAC Player of the Year as a freshman and a sophomore, was a twotime conference champion, and made a National Tournament appearance.

During her sophomore year, Coach Brooks was the third-ranked player and number-one-ranked point guard in twoyear colleges. After her highly decorated two-year college career, Coach Brooks went on to play at the University of South Florida from 2014-2015 and Arkansas Tech from 2015-2016 where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Communications.

Coach Brooks had a stellar playing career. As a

SCHOLAR’S NIGHT – Over 45 scholar athletes from all of GHC’s collegiate sports teams were honored in January 2024 at a home basketball game. Athletes with a 3.0 GPA or better were recognized and presented with a scholar athlete t-shirt.

Women’s Basketball

Georgia Highlands College women’s basketball is led by Head Coach Briana Brooks and Assistant Coach Tamaria Manning. The team competes in Region XVII of the Georgia Collegiate Athletic Association of the National Junior College Athletic Association Division 1. The team is based at the Floyd Campus and plays all home games at the Floyd Campus gymnasium in Rome. For more information, visit ghcchargers.com.

Men’s Basketball

Georgia Highlands College men’s basketball is led by Head Coach J.J. Merritt and Assistant Coach John Williams. The team competes in Region XVII of the Georgia Collegiate Athletic Association of the National Junior College Athletic Association Division 1. The team is based at the Floyd Campus and plays all home games at the Floyd Campus gymnasium in Rome. For more information, visit ghcchargers.com.

Softball

Georgia Highlands College softball is led by Head Coach Tucker Hughes and Assistant Coach Skylar Chappell. The team competes in Region XVII of the Georgia Collegiate Athletic Association affiliated with the National Junior College Athletic Association Division 1. The team is based at the Cartersville site. For more information, visit ghcchargers.com.

Baseball

Georgia Highlands College baseball is led by Head Coach Dash O’Neill, Assistant Coach Dahlton Cash, and Pitching Coach/Recruiting Coordinator James Williams. The team competes in Region XVII of the Georgia Collegiate Athletic Association of the National Junior College Athletic Association Division I. The team is based at the Cartersville site. For more information, visit ghcchargers.com.