The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Georgia House leaders back budget with raises for teachers, employees, judges
By James Salzer
Georgia House leaders on Tuesday backed 4% raises for many state workers and more money for law enforcement, education and mental health programs. The raises are included in the spending plan for fiscal 2025 — which begins July 1 — and comes less than a week after Gov. Brian Kemp signed a midyear budget that includes $5.5 billion in extra money for things such as massive renovations on Capitol Hill, a new medical school at the University of Georgia, a new prison, and miles and miles of roads.
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Charlton County Herald
Breaking down $5.5 billion in new spending
Kyle Wingfield
A running debate in recent years concerns the billions of surplus dollars in state coffers. All of the official reserve accounts are full, with $11 billion on top of that just sitting in the bank. There’s a compelling argument to return as much as possible to taxpayers. …But other uses are true investments: new infrastructure or other capital projects that are often difficult to fund. In total, Gov. Brian Kemp signed an amended budget for the current year that spends almost $5.5 billion more than the original plan. I sifted through the document to see how much of the spending might qualify as real investments. The obvious first place to look was under the Capital Projects Fund – a category that covers money taken directly from the $11 billion in “undesignated surplus.” It takes up more than $1.5 billion on its own, including: …• $178 million for a new dental school at Georgia Southern University; • $80 million for rehabilitation and repairs of university facilities; and • $50 million for a new medical school at the University of Georgia.
BNN Breaking
Georgia Southern Aims for R1 Status, Celebrates Business Leadership at Annual Gala
The Parker College of Business at Georgia Southern University hosted its third annual gala, setting ambitious goals and celebrating achievements.
Salman Akhtar
On a memorable evening at The DeSoto Savannah, Georgia Southern University’s Parker College of Business hosted its third annual gala, drawing over 250 business leaders, faculty, staff, and students from across the region. The event not only celebrated the college’s achievements but also set an ambitious goal for the university’s future. Path to Prominence Georgia Southern University President Kyle Marrero shared an inspiring vision with those in attendance, stating the university’s aim to become an R1 research institution by 2028. This declaration underscores the university’s commitment to growth and impact, particularly through the Parker College of Business, which currently educates 4,500 students across multiple campuses and online programs. Dean Allen Amason, Ph.D., highlighted the college’s role in shaping future leaders, with 1,000 graduates annually venturing out to make a mark on the world.
James Magazine
Georgia Congressman introduces ‘Laken Riley Act’
by Cindy Morley
U.S. Rep. Mike Collins, R-GA, is among the Georgia leaders demanding answers and actions following the tragic murder of a 22-year-old nursing student while she was jogging on the University of Georgia campus last month. Collins introduced The Laken Riley Act – which is named after the nursing student who was killed – which would require ICE to detain illegal immigrants who are charged with local theft or burglary.
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Middle Georgia CEO
Dr. Heather Ness-Maddox Assumes The Role Of Honors Program Director At MGA
Staff Report From Georgia CEO
As of the spring 2024 semester, Dr. Heather Ness-Maddox, assistant professor of psychology, has assumed the role of director of the Honors Program at Middle Georgia State University (MGA). Despite being new to the role, Ness-Maddox is no stranger to MGA. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in psychology from what was then Middle Georgia State College, now MGA. She then went on to earn her master’s degree in clinical psychology from Clayton State University, later returning to MGA as an adjunct instructor. Driven by her newfound love of instructing and an eagerness to enhance her skillset and her students’ classroom experiences, Ness-Maddox continued her education, pursuing a doctoral degree in educational psychology at Georgia State University.
Albany CEO
Dr. Erica DeCuir of Albany State University on the Aspiring Teachers Academy
Professor of Teacher Education at Albany State University Dr. Erica DeCuir talks about the Aspiring Teachers Academy – an initiative designed to strengthen teacher education in Albany.
Axios Atlanta
How to prevent and treat pests on houseplants
Kristal Dixon
Kristal here. I noticed a mealybug coming out of the soil of my monstera adansonii last week — and expeditiously tossed the plant in the trash.
Treating mealybugs isn’t for the weak, as they are extremely hard to get rid of. The intrigue: The plant had been in my home for a few months and hadn’t been exposed to any new plants, so it got me thinking: Where exactly do these pests come from? I reached out to Julie Campbell, an assistant professor in the Department of Horticulture at the University of Georgia, who gave me the lowdown on common pests that plague houseplants.
Emanuel County Live
A lasting impression: Meet inspiring teacher, Kristy Wimberly
Mrs. Kristy Wimberly was chosen by Swainsboro Middle School as their 2024 Teacher of the Year. In a letter of support of Mrs. Wimberly, a colleague discussed how Ms. Wimberly has been dedicated to the ideals of portraying herself to her students and her colleagues as a lifelong learner. The colleague discussed how Mrs. Wimberly was always willing to do whatever was necessary to ensure she was well equipped for each new role. This was evident when she transitioned first from special education to regular education and, most recently, to their school’s Career Connections teacher. …“I am Kristy Dixon Wimberly. I graduated from Swainsboro High School and continued my education at East Georgia College and Georgia Southern University. I graduated from GSU with a BS degree in Psychology.
The Schoals News
From the Public Health Informatics & Technology (PHIT) Workforce Development Program
(NAPSI)—Are you looking to pursue a career in health care but don’t think direct patient is right for you? …Public health informatics is an exciting and rapidly growing field that brings together public health and data science to improve people’s lives. … According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the related field of health information technologists and medical registrars has a job-growth outlook of 16% over the next 10 years, which is much faster than average. …The TRaining in Informatics for Underrepresented Minorities in Public Health (TRIUMPH) Consortium, led by the University of Minnesota’s Center for Public Health Systems, offers a variety of educational pathways in PHIT for undergraduate students, graduate students and members of the public health workforce at the University of Minnesota as well as through its partner institutions, Georgia Southern University in Statesboro and the Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta, Georgia.
Lanier County News
ABAC Presents! Series brings one-act play about 1963 March on Washington
Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College’s ABAC Presents! Performing Arts Series will host “Keep Marching: The Road to the March On Washington” performed by the Mad River Theater Works on March 7. “Keep Marching”, a one-act play, brings a collected oral history to life, exploring the historic 1963 March On Washington. Remembered as the day that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. made his famous ‘I Have A Dream’ speech in August of 1963, the event drew over 250,000 people together in a peaceful gathering, and was a pivotal action in the Civil Rights movement of the 1960s. …The play is built upon two threads of storytelling. One is the historical record of the plans, motivations, fears, and concerns that went into organizing the march. The second stems from collected oral histories, gathered by playwright Daniel Carlton, of people who attended the march. Weaving these threads together are the play’s news reporters who help bring to life many of the iconic figures behind the demonstration including Dr. King, Bayard Rustin, and John Lewis.
The Lane Report
Kentucky author’s debut novel wins Donald L. Jordan Prize
“Beware the Tall Grass,” a debut novel by Ellen Birkett Morris, won The Donald L. Jordan Prize for Literary Excellence, and was selected by Lan Samantha Chang of the Iowa Writer workshop. The prize includes $10,000 and a publication contract with Columbus State University Press. The novel will be released March 15. With war as a backdrop and empathy at its heart, this dual narrative takes on the power of love and courage to meet unforeseen circumstances.
BNN
Bulloch County Maintains Low COVID Risk: Free Testing, Vaccines Available
Bulloch County in Georgia exemplifies effective COVID-19 management through expanded testing, vaccine availability, and robust community support.
Emmanuel Abara Benson
As the world continues to navigate the ongoing challenges posed by COVID-19, communities like Bulloch County in Georgia are taking proactive steps to ensure the health and safety of their residents. With its risk status currently marked as low by both COVIDACTNOW and the CDC, the county is a beacon of hope in the fight against the pandemic. …Understanding the importance of testing in controlling the spread of COVID-19, Bulloch County has introduced free testing kiosks in strategic locations. These kiosks, found at the Statesboro Fire Department and Georgia Southern University Campus, offer PCR testing for both COVID and influenza, accessible 24/7.
Women We Admire
The Top Women Leaders of Georgia for 2024
Women We Admire is pleased to announce The Top Women Leaders of Georgia for 2024. Georgia is the largest state east of the Mississippi, and its thriving economy lives up to the hype. With 159 counties and a population of over 11 million, The Peach State is home to a multitude of thriving industries – including education, technology, agriculture, life sciences, and manufacturing – and the ambitious women who lead them. …Finally, combining the top Georgia education and agriculture industries, we extend our congratulations to Cassie Ann Kiggen, the Chief Communications Officer for the University of Georgia College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences. …Shantay Bolton, EVP for Administration & Finance and Chief Business Officer, Georgia Institute of Technology …Samantha Hutchinson, Assistant VP of Business & Finance, Fort Valley State University
Griffin Daily News
Beyond the page: Retired director continues support of UWG’s First-Year Writing Program
By Miranda Hodges Special To The GDN
A testament to the University of West Georgia’s commitment to fostering literary excellence, the UWG First-Year Writing program’s roots embody a rich legacy that continues to shape the journey of aspiring writers. This scholarship further exemplifies UWG’s dedication to cultivating a dynamic and competitive academic environment, aligning seamlessly with the university’s strategic plan to remain at the forefront of educational innovation.
Albany Herald
Albany State athletics announces partnership with ARMS
From Staff Reports
The Albany State University Department of Athletics is proud to announce a partnership with ARMS, a leading technology provider for athletic departments. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in the department’s commitment to providing the best possible experience for its student-athletes and creating an efficient workplace for coaches and staff. “In a rapidly evolving collegiate landscape, it’s imperative that we stay ahead of the curve,” said Dr. Kristene Kelly, Director of Athletics. “We needed a comprehensive solution to manage the various aspects of our athletics program, from student-athlete communication to recruiting and eligibility workflow processes. ARMS will serve as our one-stop shop, ensuring that all campus units can communicate and operate seamlessly in a singular platform.”
Continental Athletic Conference
Georgia Gwinnett College Sweeps CAC Softball Weekly Awards
Standout performances at the plate and on the mound have earned Georgia Gwinnett College senior Kloey Goins and junior Annalise Jarvis the Continental Athletic Conference Softball Player of the Week awards. Goins, the Hitter of the Week, led the No. 4-ranked Grizzlies’ offensive attack to a 4-0 record for the week with a .538 batting average (7-for-13). The outfielder registered a hit in all four games, drove in four runs and scored an additional four runs. … Jarvis, the Pitcher of the Week, tossed a perfect game and was part of a historic combined no-hitter among her four appearances inside the pitching circle for the week. She went 1-0 and had three saves, including two against Middle Georgia State.
Gwinnett Daily Post
Georgia Gwinnett College’s Jackson Cobb Earns CAC Baseball Hitter of the Week
From Staff Reports
Georgia Gwinnett College junior infielder Jackson Cobb led the charge for a weekend series victory to earn the Continental Athletic Conference Baseball Hitter of the Week award. The shortstop batted .545 (6-for-11) and drove in four runs in the three-game series against University of St. Francis (Illinois). He went 3-for-3 with two RBI in Sunday’s 11-1 series-clinching victory.
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Continental Athletic Conference
WNCT
Zackery named ECU defensive ends, outside linebackers coach
by: Malcolm Gray, ECU Sports Information
Maurico “Rico” Zackery has been named East Carolina’s defensive end and outside linebackers coach according to an announcement by head coach Mike Houston on Tuesday. Zackery’s appointment to the Pirates’ staff ends a two-year stint as the Head Football Coach at Westlake High School. …Prior to his time at Westlake High School, Zackery spent three years at Kennesaw State serving as the defensive ends and outside linebackers coach (2019-22) as well as the special teams coordinator (2020-21). While on the Owls staff, his teams posted a combined 26-6 record with a pair of FCS Playoff appearances (2019 and 2021) where they advanced to the second round.
The Augusta Press
Local teen steals Augusta University van, uses credit card for gas & fast food
By: Greg Rickabaugh
A local teenager remained in jail Monday on charges that he stole an Augusta University van and used a stolen credit card for gas and fast food, authorities said. Naquan James, 19, of Augusta, was charged with two counts of theft by receiving stolen property, credit card theft and obstruction of an officer. The Econoline van was stolen in broad daylight Feb. 16 while parked beside the Scuplture and Ceramics building on Patrol Drive. A university coordinator said a worker likely left the keys inside the van, which was valued at $22,000. A gas card connected to the van had also been used at least 10 times to charge hundreds of dollars from local convenience stores and purchase food from Wendy’s.
Higher Education News:
Inside Higher Ed
Brown Reinstates Standardized Testing Requirement
By Susan H. Greenberg
Brown University will reinstate standardized testing requirements for first-year applicants, beginning with the next admission cycle to admit the Class of 2029, the university announced Tuesday. A committee convened last fall by President Christina Paxson made the recommendation to end Brown’s pandemic-era test-optional policy after studying the university’s admissions practices for six months.
Inside Higher Ed
Mississippi University Closure Bill Dies, but Similar One Emerges
By Jessica Blake
A Mississippi bill that would close three unidentified state colleges or universities essentially died in a state Senate committee Monday, but a new measure emerged that could have similar effects. The committee’s chair, Senator Nicole Boyd, a Republican, told fellow committee members she does not intend to bring the original legislation—Senate Bill 2726—forward at this time. If passed, the bill would have required the Institutions of Higher Learning, a statewide governing board for Mississippi’s eight public universities, to choose the three institutions based on factors such as enrollment, degree attainment, federal aid, tuition rates and local economic impact.
Inside Higher Ed
Prioritizing Textbook Affordability: Voices of Student Success
By Ashley Mowreader
Voices of Student Success, a six-episode series focused on student retention, engagement and graduation in higher education, takes over this week’s episode of the Key, Inside Higher Ed’s news and analysis podcast. In this episode, host Ashley Mowreader talks with accounting professor Patty Goedl from the University of Cincinnati at Clermont about her OER e-textbook, which she wrote and developed to promote affordability in her managerial accounting course.
Inside Higher Ed
Liberty University Fined $14 Million for Clery Violations
The historic fine was part of a settlement agreement with the Department of Education for numerous violations of campus crime-reporting requirements.
By Josh Moody
The Department of Education hit Liberty University with a $14 million fine after a lengthy investigation found that the evangelical Virginia institution failed to comply with federal campus crime-reporting requirements and administrators discouraged victims from coming forward, ED officials announced Tuesday. It’s the largest fine on record for violations of the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security and Campus Crime Statistics Act, according to Office of Federal Student Aid officials. As part of a settlement agreement with the department, Liberty will also spend $2 million on campus safety improvements and compliance enhancements, according to a news release. Liberty will be on postreview monitoring through April 2026 “to ensure that the school executes on promised improvements,” the Department of Education announced Tuesday.