Atlanta Business Chronicle
Collaboration, not competition: How USG leverages resources to prepare students for careers
By Rebecca Grapevine – Staff Reporter, Atlanta Business Chronicle
The University System of Georgia established the Academic Innovation Unit to help the system’s 26 public colleges and universities respond to market demands through system-wide collaboration. The unit is tasked with conducting market research about what kind of education will be needed in Georgia in the future and then leveraging system resources to ensure that students at its institutions — ranging from the 40,000-student flagship University of Georgia to the 3,000-student Georgia Southwestern State University in Americus — all have access to educations that will prepare them for these careers. “Our goal is to streamline processes, provide guidance on market demand, build collaborations across our 26 institutions and work with institutions to kickstart areas that have a strong demand,” said Ashwani Monga, USG’s executive vice chancellor for academic affairs, who oversees the unit.
Douglas Now
SGSC RECEIVES AWARD FOR SUMMER ENROLLMENT GROWTH
During the University System of Georgia Board of Regents meeting in August, Chancellor Sonny Perdue presented four trophies to the institutions that had the highest summer enrollment growth. South Georgia State College Interim President Dr. Greg Tanner accepted the award for leading the state colleges with 14.7% growth in enrollment in the summer semester. University of West Georgia, Albany State and Augusta University were all recognized as leaders in their respective size categories. Calling the trophy, the “Chancellor’s Cup”, Perdue challenged the recipients to keep the trophy through fall semester. He plans to present the award at the conclusion of each semester to the college in each sector with the highest enrollment growth.
ClutchPoints
Fort Valley State, Albany State and Savannah State combine to have a $584 million economic impact on Georgia per a 2022 study.
By Randall Barnes
Fort Valley State, Albany State, and Savannah State have a combined $584 million impact on the state of Georgia in the 2022 Fiscal Year, per a study by the University System of Georgia that was released in June. The number was calculated by combining the individual economic impacts of the three state HBCUs based on university-related expenditures such as: University spending
Salaries and Fringe Benefits: …Operating Supplies and Expenses: …Other Budgeted Expenditures: …Student spending: …University Spending on Capital Projects (Construction) … Below are the individual numbers for each institution’s economic impact.
Dalton Daily Citizen
Dalton State College’s positive economic impact on region exceeds $132 million
Dalton State College continues to have a positive effect on the local region through its economic and labor impacts as well as producing graduates who will earn more than $1 million more in their lifetime with their college degree. Dalton State contributed more than $132 million to the Northwest Georgia economy between July 1, 2021, and June 30, 2022, a $1.8 million or 1.44% increase over the previous year, a new study shows. “Dalton State College is recognized as an academic center of excellence, consistently offering high-quality educational opportunities to our community. The college is pivotal in fostering a skilled workforce, enhancing regional competitiveness and attracting new businesses to Northwest Georgia,” said Greater Dalton Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Jason Mock. “As a valuable asset and a vital driver of the local economy, Dalton State contributes to the stability and resilience of the region. The chamber is proud to have Dalton State as a part of our community, and we are optimistic about its continued growth and positive impact in the future.”
The Star News Today
Augusta University adds nearly $3 billion, 21,000 jobs to Georgia economy
By: Admin
Augusta University and AU Health provided a $2.94 billion boost to the state economy in fiscal year 2022, including employing 21,250 people, according to a new report from the University System of Georgia. The impact includes $40.2 million and 286 jobs added by the AU/UGA Medical Partnership’s Athens Campus, while the Albany (Southwest Campus), Savannah and Brunswick (Southeast Campus) and Rome and Dalton (Northwest Campus) clinical campuses added approximately $8.6 million in economic boost, along with 69 jobs.
The Creative Coast
Almost 30% of adults in the U.S. lack basic numeracy skills, meaning they don’t understand simple processes like counting, arithmetic and calculating percentages. Two professors from Georgia Southern University’s College of Education (COE) are part of a collaborative effort, funded by a $3 million National Science Foundation (NSF) grant, aimed at improving that number for upcoming generations. Sam Rhodes, Ph.D., assistant professor of elementary mathematics education, and Antonio Gutierrez de Blume, Ph.D., professor in curriculum, foundations and reading, were awarded almost $400,000 of the overall sum. In collaboration with researchers from the University of Minnesota and the University of Pennsylvania and CueThink, an online application focused on improving math problem-solving and collaboration skills, they will help middle school students better understand numerical and mathematical concepts.
The Augusta Chronicle
City of Augusta approves $275 million bond issuance to benefit AU Health partner Wellstar
Joe Hotchkiss
The city of Augusta this week approved an agreement that will loan up to $275 million to the Atlanta-based partner of Augusta’s Wellstar MCG Health. The Augusta Commission voted unanimously to allow the Augusta Economic Development Authority to finance and issue qualified 501(c)3 bonds to benefit the nonprofit Wellstar Health System. Under the agreement, the bonds’ proceeds can be used to finance the purchase, construction and equipping of healthcare facilities. A July legal advertisement specified that all the projects expected to be financed will occur on the AU Medical Center campus. The bonds will be limited obligations of the development authority, payable only from repaying the loan of the bonds’ proceeds to AUMC or Wellstar Health. Neither the authority nor the city assumes responsibility to repay. The bond deal’s approval is the latest procedural step in the wake of the March 31 announcement of the new partnership forged between Augusta University Health System and Wellstar Health. Under the partnership, Wellstar assumed administrative control over the 478-bed Augusta University Medical Center and the 154-bed Children’s Hospital of Georgia.
Marietta Daily Journal
Cake for 40,000: KSU kicks off a sweet new semester
By Hunter Riggall
A blazing August sun did little to deter thousands of students from celebrating the start of a new semester this week. On the campus green, Kennesaw State University students, faculty and staff enjoyed slices of cake as they began their fall classes. This year’s cake paid tribute to KSU’s 60th anniversary in large white numerals on a yellow background. Also honored, with green decoration, was the 75th anniversary of Southern Polytechnic State University, which was absorbed into KSU in 2015. …Students formed lines which snaked around the green to grab a piece of cake or pick up a stuffed owl kit, another first-day tradition. …KSU President Kathy Schwaig said the university has twin goals for students — academic success and providing a great experience. Traditions help contribute to the latter. …The first day is always a wonderful time, Schwaig said. This year, she’s looking forward to breaking ground on a new Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) center at KSU’s Marietta campus. In the last legislative session, state lawmakers approved $34.3 million in 20-year bonds for the university to construct the center.
11Alive
Watch: Timelapse, drone video of UGA freshman class forming ‘G’ at Sanford Stadium
According to UGA, the 6,200-strong incoming Class of 2027 is also the “most academically qualified” in the history, selected out of a record 43,500 applicants.
Author: 11Alive Staff
The University of Georgia’s first-year students will begin class Wednesday, ushering in the largest freshman class in the school’s history. According to UGA, the 6,200-strong incoming Class of 2027 is also the “most academically qualified” in history, selected out of a record 43,500 applicants. Before beginning their studies, those students were out at Sanford Stadium to gather and form a massive human “G” between the hedges for the “Freshman Welcome” event. In the video player above this story and in the YouTube player below, you can watch the UGA freshman class form the “G” in both a timelapse and drone video.
See also:
Barnesville Dispatch
GSC faculty, staff affirm student success key elements at AASCU Academic Affairs Conference
By Staff Writer
Gordon State College was represented at the 2023 American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) Academic Affairs Summer Meeting conference in Baltimore. Several faculty and staff along with representatives from Wright State University in Ohio served on a panel and discussed the topic of innovative mentoring practices and how these practices provide key elements of the student success ecosystem. …In their session, each panelist described their innovative use of mentor practices and initiatives on building cultures that support student success. …GSC’s faculty mentor program pairs first-year students with faculty who offer professional and academic guidance as well as connect students with on-campus resources. The program is a part of a larger psycho-social student success ecosystem that specifically addresses the problem of limited resources at small higher education institutions.
The City Menus
UWG, Southwire Partner to Elevate Sustainability Initiatives
The University of West Georgia and Southwire, one of North America’s leading manufacturers of wire and cable, have joined forces to advance sustainability efforts and promote the holistic development of their shared community. By combining their expertise, resources and shared commitment to responsible practices, the two institutions are set to make a lasting impact on talent pipeline development, student recruitment, business operations and environmental sustainability. Leaders from UWG and Southwire recently met on the university’s campus to formally launch the partnership during the UWG and Southwire Sustainability Summit.
Savannah Tribune
Cuyler Community Improvement Assoc., Inc. Presents the 2023 Ursuline B. Law Medical Scholarship
On July 10, 2023, the Cuyler Community Improvement Assoc., Inc. (C.C.I.A.) presented its annual medical academic scholarships. This scholarship was created within the realm in of the 44-yearold organization to honor the existence and original purpose of the Historical Charity Hospital Building, located at 609 West 36th St. in Savannah, GA. Founded in 1896 by Drs. Cornelis and Alice McKane, to provide medical service to the African American community by African American doctors and a school for African American nursing students. The scholarship, named in the honor of C.C.I.A.’s, first president, Mrs. Ursuline B. Law. This year’s recipients are 2023 graduates of the Woodville Tompkins Institute. …Ms. Alayah Grant will attend Georgia Southern University. Her grade point average is 4.0. She will pursue an educational career to become a registered nurse.
WGAU Radio
Faculty, staff honored at UNG convocation
The University of North Georgia honored more than 150 faculty and staff with awards and recognition of promotions and tenure at the Aug. 11 faculty-staff convocation at UNG’s Dahlonega Campus. See a full gallery of photos from the event. Employees recognized included the following: Presidential Excellence Award: …Staff Member of the Year: … Eleanor Crawford Award: …Annual North Star Award: …Monthly Outstanding Staff Member awards: …Diversity Champion Awards: …
Columbus CEO
Four Join Columbus State College of Letters & Sciences Faculty
Columbus State University’s College of Letters & Sciences welcomes four new faculty to its teaching ranks as the university begins the 2023-24 academic year. They are among the 17 new faculty joining the university faculty. “The College of Letters & Sciences is pleased to announce our newest faculty and welcome them to Columbus State University,” said the college’s dean Dr. Annice Yarber-Allen. “They have outstanding academic and research credentials that will expand our programs and further enhance student learning and community engagement.”
Columbus CEO
Eight Columbus State Faculty Appointed to New Leadership Roles
As the new academic year begins at Columbus State University, several long-serving faculty members are stepping into new leadership roles within some of the university’s colleges and departments. “Our faculty represent not only subject-matter experts in their respective fields, but many like our new associate deans, chairs and directors are respected leaders within our university,” said Dr. Pat McHenry, Columbus State’s interim provost and executive vice president. “We’re thankful to them for serving in these new capacities as they continue to share their knowledge with our students.”
NASA
Surf, Turf, Above Earth: Students Participate in NASA Field Research
Flying over and tromping through watery landscapes along the East Coast, working alongside NASA scientists, and recording measurements about the air that they’re travelling through – these are not the usual experiences for an undergraduate student. For the 2023 participants in NASA’s SARP East program – short for Student Airborne Research Program – it was part of a summer they won’t forget. In June and July, 22 undergraduate students from universities across the United States convened in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia for an eight-week immersive research experience. Now in its 15th year – but for the first time on the East Coast – SARP gives participants the opportunity to conduct hands-on NASA research in different areas of Earth science and prepare research pitches and presentations. Undergraduates networked with and learned from both graduate student mentors and working scientists in the fields they are researching. …Nathan Tesfayi, who studies environmental science and Spanish at the University of Georgia, did his SARP field work aboard a small research boat in the Chesapeake Bay. Nathan and his “Surf” teammates (self-named the “Students Undertaking Research in Freshwater”) took measurements of wind speed and direction and air temperature while faculty members were calibrating instruments. The Surf team also completed measurements with a Secchi Disk – an instrument that has been used for hundreds of years to measure water quality – and made water color measurements from an app on their phones.
ReachMD
Scientists Investigate Link Between ‘Deprogrammed’ Regulatory T Cells & Cardiovascular Disease
The researchers used fluorescent tags to capture this image of a Treg (green) and an exTregs (pink) in a mouse artery wall. Credit: La Jolla Institute for Immunology
Scientists can finally hunt down a harmful kind of human T cell, thanks to new research led by scientists at La Jolla Institute for Immunology (LJI) and the Medical College of Georgia (MCG) at Augusta University. Immune cells called ex-T regulatory cells (exTregs) tend to be rare in the body, and so far, impossible to detect in human samples. The new study gives scientists a reliable way to find human exTregs and provides a window into how exTregs contribute to inflammation and cardiovascular disease.
Morning AgClips
Georgia Quality Cotton Award winners announced
The awards recognize producers and ginners of high-quality cotton fiber
The 2022 Georgia Quality Cotton Awards were presented at the 2023 Georgia Cotton Commission Mid-Year Meeting on July 26 in Statesboro. The awards are co-sponsored by the Georgia Cotton Commission and Bayer Crop Science/Deltapine and administered by the University of Georgia (UGA) Cotton Team. Yangxuan Liu from the UGA Cotton Team conducted the analysis and presented the awards at the event. The awards recognize producers and ginners of high-quality cotton fiber and identify their general management practices for the benefit of other growers. The producers and their gins received a plaque, and the winning producers received a $500 cash award. The UGA County Extension Agent for each winner was also recognized as they work closely with the farmers during the growing season.
RNA-SEQ
Scientists can finally hunt down a harmful kind of human T cell, thanks to new research led by scientists at La Jolla Institute for Immunology (LJI) and the Medical College of Georgia (MCG) at Augusta University.
Immune cells called ex-T regulatory cells (exTregs) tend to be rare in the body and, so far, impossible to detect in human samples. The new study gives scientists a reliable way to find human exTregs and provides a window into how exTregs contribute to inflammation and cardiovascular disease. The researchers used fluorescent tags to track down exTregs in mice prone to atherosclerosis. They then identified specific markers that made these exTregs special. They transposed these findings to humans to detect exTregs in human blood.
Perishable News
Georgia Beef Producers Approve the Continuation of Georgia’s Beef Commission Assessment
Today, Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper announced that Georgia’s beef producers approved a continuation of a one-dollar market order assessment, which helps support the Georgia Beef Commission. Voting on the assessment continuation occurred in June of 2023 and passed with eighty-two percent support of beef producers. The Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) administers the fourteen farmer-funded and self-help commodity commission programs. Funds collected by the commissions under grower-approved market orders support each commodity’s research, education, and promotion. …Over the past nine years, the Georgia Beef Commission has participated in several significant research projects with the University of Georgia.
WGAU Radio
Kathy Waller headlines UGA’s Terry Third Thursday session
By Tim Bryant
The University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business hosts the first Third Thursday luncheon of the new fall semester, hearing from Coca-Cola executive Kathy Waller at the Terry Executive Center in Atlanta.
From the UGA website…
As a longtime executive at The Coca-Cola Co., Kathy Waller knows the challenges that Atlantans face and what the city needs to thrive. Waller has seen remarkable growth during in her time in Atlanta, but when she took the helm of the Atlanta Committee for Progress in early 2022, she was determined to use her years of financial management and leadership to help the city and its residents reach the next level.
Albany Herald
ABAC to host ‘ThunderCon’ convention Sept. 9
From staff reports
Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College is gearing up to host ThunderCon, the first-ever pop culture convention on campus, on Sept. 9. ThunderCon is sponsored by ABAC’s Office of Student Activities and Campus Activities Board in collaboration with Gray Ghost Comics.
Higher Education News:
Inside Higher Ed
Missouri System Hit by MOVEIt Cyber Attack
By Lauren Coffey
The University of Missouri System is the latest institution battered in the MOVEit cybersecurity breach sweeping the nation. The system—which spans four campuses, research parks and a statewide health system—announced Wednesday that it was involved in a potential data breach with software product MOVEit. In May, a ransomware group named Cl0P took credit for a massive cyberattack against hundreds of organizations, including higher ed institutions. The group claims it stole data by breaching MOVEit, a software product used for file transfers. The MOVEit breach is particularly pervasive due to third-party vendors—many with higher education ties—using the software.
Inside Higher Ed
Arkansas Cancels AP African American Studies
By Johanna Alonso
Just days before the start of the semester, Arkansas announced that high schools will not be allowed to offer the College Board’s new AP African American studies course, ABC reported. According to the Arkansas Education Association, the decision was made last Friday, with classes in some districts beginning Monday. This is that second academic year that the College Board is offering the pilot course; it was rolled out at 60 schools across the country in 2022-2023, and was slated to be offered at hundreds in 2023-2024, including six in Arkansas. It is the second state to ban the course; the first was Florida, which announced in January that schools would not be allowed to offer it. …The College Board expressed disappointment that the course, which it said underwent a thorough development process involving consultation with over 300 African American studies professors, would not be available to Arkansas’s students.
Inside Higher Ed
Professors, Union Sue Over Florida Law’s Arbitration Ban
By Ryan Quinn
The United Faculty of Florida union and three members who say the University of South Florida laid them off this month filed a lawsuit Tuesday seeking to restore their employment arbitration rights.
Ron DeSantis, Florida’s governor and a Republican presidential contender, signed Senate Bill 266 into law in May. That wide-ranging legislation has attracted attention for banning Florida public colleges and universities from spending state or federal money on diversity, equity and inclusion activities. But the law also said faculty tenure, firings and other personnel decisions at public institutions can’t be arbitrated. The new federal lawsuit seeks to overturn that prohibition.
Cybersecurity Dive
SEC cyber rules ignite tension between reputation and security risk
The rules, which take effect Sept. 5, encountered mixed reactions. Some champion board-level cyber accountability. Others say the rules are too big of a lift.
David Jones, Reporter
Weeks after the Securities and Exchange Commission adopted new cybersecurity disclosure rules, publicly traded companies across the U.S. and abroad are reassessing internal security practices and governance to prepare for heightened levels of accountability. Following a combative open hearing, the SEC voted 3-2 for new rules that require companies to disclose material cyber incidents to the agency. Companies will have four business days to report the incident to the SEC once they determine it is material to the business. The rules, which will go into effect Sept. 5, are designed to ensure investors and other members of the public are informed about these events in a much more timely and consistent manner.