AnchorsFall Newsletter, 2011

The Gainesville State College (GSC) Alumni Association is pleased to announce Doug Magnus (’72) as the 25th Annual Alumni & Friends Golf Open Honorary Chair. We are also excited to have, as our Title Sponsor, Conditioned Air Systems.

Doug Magnus, a Gainesville native and a 1965 graduate of South Hall High School, is the founder and president of Conditioned Air Systems. In 1967, Magnus was one of the first students to take classes at Gainesville Junior College. At that time, classes were held at the First Baptist Church in Gainesville. After graduating from Gainesville Junior College, Magnus attended the University of Georgia for a year, served in the Air-Guard Reserves for six years, and opened Conditioned Air Systems (CAS) in 1982.

Magnus said that while growing up, his family didn’t have a lot, but that gave him the determination and drive to make a better life for himself. Hard work, along with the fact he is a detailed planner and very focused, is his recipe for success.

His company, CAS, has had a positive impact on the Hall County community. Currently CAS employs about 75 to 100 people on average, including his three grown children, Matt, Baya, and Brooke. His vision for the company is simple, as he said he treats every customer as he would like to be treated and lives by the motto “Give a little; spend a little, save a little.” Along with his tenacity to be successful, he surely has made an impact on his family, his employees and the community.

Magnus recalled the early years of Gainesville Junior College, now Gainesville State College. “There were no scholarships back then,” Magnus said. “You worked one quarter and went to school the next.”

He also said the school gave so many people the opportunity to go to college—those that otherwise would not have been able to obtain a degree. It was a different time in the 60s, but GSC still remains committed to its mission and proving to be student-focused and learning centered.

“We a re luck y to have Gainesville State College in our community,” he said.

When asked to serve as honorary chair for the GSC Annual Golf Tournament, Magnus said he was surprised and honored

to be chosen, and he is looking forward to the event. “It is a privilege to be asked,” he said.

Magnus said his father was an excellent golfer and called him his inspiration to play the sport. And although Magnus didn’t pick up a golf club until he was 40 years old, he said he loves the game and is now an avid golfer.

We look forward to the Golf O p e n o n O c t o b e r 14 a n d thank Mr. Doug Magnus and Conditioned Air Systems for

their generous support.

GaiNesville state ColleGe alumNi assoCiatioN

AwayDoug Magnus: A reflection on GSC, community, and success!

Doug Magnus

The Gainesville State College Alumni & Friends Golf Open will once again be held at the Chattahoochee Golf Club! Last year, we raised more than $28,000 for student programming and scholarships, and we anticipate another highly successful event! We hope you’ll join us at the Chattahoochee Golf Club, located on the northern banks of Lake Sidney Lanier. Shotgun start is at 9 AM, with a closing reception at 2 PM. All players will receive breakfast, snacks, a goodie bag, and a golf shirt.

Team of 4—$500: (Benefit $340; Tax-Deductible Portion $160) Includes 1 team/round of golf for 4 players, 1 golf shirt for each player, and 2 drink tickets for each player.

Individual Player—$125: (Benefit $85; Tax-Deductible Portion $40) Includes round of golf for 1 player, golf shirt for one player, and 2 drink tickets

Title Sponsor:

GSC’s Alumni & Friends

Golf Open 2011

Sponsorship opportunities are still available! For more information or for sponsorship/player registration, contact:

Jennifer Hendrickson, Director of Alumni Affairs—678-717-3648jhendrickson@gsc.edu

For complete details or to register online, visit: www.gsc.edu/alumni

—by Jennifer Hendrickson, Director of Alumni Affairs

Friday,October 14

Articles and information for the next issue of Anchors Away should be submitted to the Alumni Office by Nov. 1, 2011. Photos may be submitted in high resolution jpg or pdf format.

Gainesville State CollegeAlumni OfficeP.O. Box 1358

Gainesville, Georgia 30503Phone: (678) 717-3648

Fax: (678) 717-3618

www.gsc.edu/alumniEmail: alumni@gsc.edu

College PresidentDr. Martha T. Nesbitt

Writer/EditorJennifer HendricksonDirector of Alumni Affairs

Editor/ContributorSloan JonesDirector of Public Relations & Marketing

Layout & DesignDebbie KrewsonAssistant to the Director ofPublic Relations & Marketing

ContributorTana SuggsAlumni CouncilMary TransueVice President of Institutional Advancement; CEO of the Gainesville State College Foundation

2GaiNesville state ColleGe alumNi assoCiatioN

—by Mary Transue, Vice President of Institutional Advancement & CEO of the

Gainesville State College Foundation

Mary Transue

Chris Stenander

Opportunities to get involvedDirector of Alumni Affairs:

Jennifer Hendrickson

It’s that time again to welcome our students back for the fall, and we are really excited! It has been a busy summer with May Graduation, Starlight, Faculty/Staff Luncheon, and Weeks Of Welcome (WOW). We

are also gearing up for the Golf Open in October.

There are many opportunities for alumni and friends of GSC to get involved. We are looking for people to serve on the special events committee (including planning our first Alumni Reunion), marketing

and communications, development, and student-oriented activities committees.

I urge you to take a leading role in giving back to GSC—you will find that there is something for everyone!

Stenander is new Alumni PresidentThe Alumni Association is pleased to announce our new Alumni President, Chris Stenander ('92). Stenander is the Senior Branch Manager for the Personal Sales Department at Liberty Mutual. He is already making strides in our planning sessions for this year and is bringing an incredible amount of energy to this service position. We are excited to have him on board!

We thank Vicki Davis, who remains on the Alumni Council as our Past President. She held the position of Alumni President from 2008 to 2011. Davis has certainly made a difference in fund-raising for our events, creating our partnership with Liberty Mutual (which has raised over $67,000 since 2003) and by being one of the best cheerleaders for the Association. We can’t thank her enough!

GSC Alumni CouncilChris Stenander

President, Alumni Association

Jennifer HendricksonDirector of Alumni

Affairs

Brenda AdamsJeff BarkleyTonya Black

Marie BraswellHaley Carter

Lesley CongdonErika CooperVicki Davis

Kimberly GodfreyMelissa GoochScott Grogan

Crystal Elrod Halligan

Heather HowingtonKellie JacksonKristen Lathem

Jamila Leavell HunterKim Leverette

Michelle LindseyAlan LouisStacy Louis

Semuel MaysonetChris McCormick

Kerry MooseBarry MooseSherri ParkerMichele Piucci

Tana SuggsScott WebbTracie WebbJames WrightSeptember brings its flurry of final plans

and activities as we prepare for the new academic year. It brings a renewed sense of mission as the College c o m m u n i t y p u l l s together to welcome our new and returning students and guide them along the path to success.

We h a v e w o r k e d diligently as well to define and focus the College’s message regarding who we have become as an institution and how we are uniquely positioned to serve the student population in the Northeast Georgia region. I would like to share that message with you:

GSC is a state college focusing on access to excellence and student success. As a state college, we have the flexibility to meet the needs of individual students by offering learning support, certificate, transfer, associate, and baccalaureate programs. The College is committed to providing the academic and student support services to promote student success.

As we continue this commitment and usher in over 8,600 students this fall, we are reminded that in this economic climate education still thrives. We appreciate the support of our Alumni and Friends, and welcome you back to campus at any time.

Focusing on our message of success

GSC Foundation:

If you know anyone who is a GSC alum and we do not have his current address, please ask him to update his record by emailing

alumni@gsc.edu.

3 Fall Newsletter, 2011

Wright, Cooper, Maysonet join Alumni Council

James M. Wright

Erika Cooper

Semuel Maysonet

James M. Wright (’03) became a member of the GSC Alumni Council in June 2011 and is already very involved with the Golf

Open committee. He joined Whelchel, Dunlap, Jarrard & Walker, LLP as an associate in 2009 after having clerked for the firm in 2008.

Wright received his law degree from Mercer University’s

Walter F. George School of Law, graduating in the top ten percent of his class and earning cum laude honors. While at Mercer, he received numerous distinctions, including induction into the Brainerd Currie Honor Society and the William A. Bootle American Inn of Court, as well as receiving the Guerry R. Moore Insurance Award. He was also the recipient of the Frances Wood Wilson Scholarship and the Thomas E. Ryals Scholarship. In addition to academics, Wright gave back to Mercer through his work as an academic mentor.

Wright received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Political Science with a Pre-Law Distinction from North Georgia College & State University, earning magna cum laude honors. While at North Georgia, he was active on campus through his work as treasurer and president of his fraternity, Kappa Sigma, as well as through his work as Vice President of the Interfraternity Council. Wright was also a member of four academic honor societies: Omicron Delta Kappa, (Leadership), Phi Kappa Phi, (Interdisciplinary), Pi Gamma Mu (Social Sciences), and Pi Sigma Alpha, (Political Science).

Wright is a member of the Gainesville-Northeastern Bar Association and the State Bar of Georgia. He is also a member of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce Ambassador Council and the Gainesville Jaycees.

Erika Cooper (’11) was born in Morristown, NJ, and grew up in Alpharetta, GA. She graduated from Milton High School in 2002 and originally attended The University of West Georgia. After a few semesters and a year in New York studying Fashion Merchandising,

she was offered a great job in sales with Verizon Wireless. After a few years with the company, she left in 2009 to return to school as a full-time student to complete her degree. Cooper enrolled at Gainesville State College, graduating on May 7, 2011 with an Associate of Arts. She joined the GSC Alumni Council in late May, and her first volunteer event was Starlight! Erika currently works for UGA’s School of Law as the Administrative Associate for Alumni Programs and Special Events.

Cooper is very p a s s i o n a t e about helping others and is excited to be part of the GSC Alumni Council so she can get to know other G S C A l u m n i and work with the Alumni Council with fundraising events, college promotions, and, most importantly, student outreach programs. Cooper is married to her wonderful husband Robert, and they have two cats, MooMoo & Kita. Cooper enjoys volunteering at The Zeus House (the no-kill cat shelter in Watkinsville, GA), shopping, photography, hiking, and spending time with her family and friends.

Semuel Maysonet (’04) joined the GSC Alumni Council in August of this year! He has already shown great interest in the

Council and is an active member with GSC Alumni Workshops and Student Leadership activities.

Maysonet was born in Germany and traveled to many states, since his father served in t he Un i t e d S t a t e s

Army. His parents are Puerto Rican, and he is the middle child of five siblings. When his father retired from the Army in 1997, the family moved to Georgia. Soon after, Maysonet graduated from Habersham Central High and started at Gainesville College in 2000. He finished in 2004 with an Associate’s degree and pursued his Bachelor’s degree in Business Management at North Georgia College

and State University. After graduating in 2007, he later pursued his Master's degree. Maysonet graduated with a graduate degree in Business Administration from Shorter University in 2010.

Throughout his later high school years and college studies, he worked in the banking indust ry. Maysonet loves working in banking, and decided early on that he wanted to make a career of it. He is currently a banking officer at BB&T, managing the BB&T@work program for the North Georgia region. Maysonet has been married to his lovely wife Rosa for five years, and they have a beautiful eight month-old daughter, Sophia Elise.

Get in the Game!—by Dr. Cara Ray, Director of Student Life

The Office of Student Life coordinated the annual “Weeks of Welcome” (also known as WOW) from August 15-26. This event welcomes students back to campus and promotes a spirit of community among GSC students, faculty, and staff. This year we had an athletic theme, urging students to “Get in the Game!” to make their GSC educations a “Home Run.”

Weeks of Welcome includes our hallmark event, the Welcome Tents, at which faculty and staff greet students as they arrive on campus, hand out student handbooks and planners and other fun giveaways, and help students find their classes. This year the tents were especially important since students were finding their way to and around our new academic building!

Other great WOW events included Donuts with the Deans, the Picnic/Club Fair, and a trip to the Gwinnett Braves game.

GSC IT employees (and alumni)

Michael Roth and Lance Hundt pose with Atlanta Falcons mascot "Freddie Falcon"

at a tent during Weeks of Welcome.

4GaiNesville state ColleGe alumNi assoCiatioN

I would like to personally welcome everyone back to another exciting fall semester at GSC. As your new Alumni President, I am very excited about everything happening on campus as well as many upcoming Alumni events. I want to again thank our outgoing President, Vicki Davis. Vicki is a close friend and colleague of mine, and we all appreciate her support of the association over the many years she served as President.

I find myself thinking about how and why I got involved with the college again almost 20 years after graduation, and it really boils down to one word: “inspiration." I was inspired by the staff, faculty, alumni, students, and everyone that I came in contact with at GSC.

So much has changed in 20 years with the tremendous growth and opportunity to earn different and more advanced degrees. So much has also remained the same. You still have an opportunity to attend a great local community college that caters not only to those looking to begin a traditional college degree, but those “non-traditional” students like me who have an opportunity to work and go to class during hours that fit into their busy lifestyles. GSC also provides that “family atmosphere” which is evident by its small class sizes, with most classes still under 30 students.

As we begin a new school year and look toward a new year with our Alumni Association, I encourage everyone to get involved—students, faculty, and staff, and last, but certainly not least, alumni. Speaking specifically to the alumni group, we need your support, not just financially to help support our growing college, but also your time and experience in the community to help be a part of the future of the College and everyone who is touched by GSC. When I mention your valuable time, I ask you to consider volunteering for one of our many events. Your experience lends itself to being a mentor and role model for the future of everyone at GSC, and if you are able to positively influence the life of only one person, I consider this a success.

I ask that each of you stay connected to GSC by any of the means of social media, including Facebook, Linked In, our website, and e-mail. Please be open to “getting involved” and supporting the

College through the Alumni Association.

Thanks for the opportunity to serve the GSC community, and I look forward to meeting everyone over the next year!

Be a part of the future of Gainesville StateAlumni Association President:

—by Chris Stenander

David Hulbert

GSC guides Hulbert to new career path

David Hulbert ('09) was living the dream in Florida with a successful career in the mortgage industry, but when the economy took a downturn, Hulbert found himself looking for a new job. Before long, he moved to Georgia, where he continued his job search. Despite his efforts, he still came up empty-handed. That’s when he decided it was time to go back to school, and he found himself on the campus of Gainesville State College.

Hulbert’s first inclination was to pursue an education in law or medicine, but just for fun, he enrolled in a couple of film classes. Hulbert said he had a blast in the classes.

From there, he got involved in the GSC Film Club and shot a couple of short films. That’s when a couple of professors, Jeff Marker and David Smith, noticed him and his work and encouraged him to look at filmmaking as a possible career.

Hulbert said that as he was trying to decide which career path to take, the professors were personal enough and noticed he was struggling in the process. “They noticed that I had interests in something other than what I was going for, and they offered their opinion and advice on it,” he said. “I was really happy to get that.”

In the end, Hulbert listened, took their advice, and decided to pursue an education in Media Studies. He also took a job as a video DJ and got experience in editing.

Now, after earning an Associate degree in Media Studies from Gainesville State College in 2009, the GSC alum has his own production company, Followme Productions, and has several big-screen and small-screen projects in the works,

including an upcoming film starring Johnny Depp and Morgan Freeman.

Hulbert said because of the size of the school and the overall learning environment, the professors are able to foster, encourage, and guide students like

him to follow their passion.

“Gainesville State College is student oriented, and the professors are very accessible,” he said. As a result, he had more opportunities than he believes he would have had at some other schools.

“They never told me no,” he said. “Whenever I had an idea and wanted to try something,

they basically encouraged me to try new things.”

Hulbert is continuing his education at Georgia State University, where, after completing two more classes, he will earn a Bachelor of Arts in Film and Video.

—by Tana Suggs, Alumni Council Member

Proud father reports alumni successesBrad Strickland, GSC professor of English, shares that his children, both GSC alums, are having some great successes.

Son Jonathan is a Senior Technical Writer for Howstuffworks.com and will also appear on an upcoming episode of the Discovery Channel's new series, "Curiosity."

Daughter Amy recently starred in the Atlanta Puppetry Arts Center's "The Ugly Duckling." It was an utterly charming show that kids under the age of about 10 loved, and it was fun for adults, too! Since 1978, the Center has introduced millions of visitors to the wonder and art of puppetry.

Alumni Association remembers first staff member and presents Eleanor Crawford Staff Awards in her honor

5 Fall Newsletter, 2011

At the GSC Faculty/Staff luncheon on August 8, Chris Stenander and Jennifer Hendrickson presented the 2011 Eleanor Crawford Outstanding Staff Award. The Eleanor Crawford Outstanding Staff Award was established to recognize a member of the Gainesville State College staff for extraordinary loyalty, dedication, and service to the College, fellow employees, and students.

Eleanor was the first staff member employed by Gainesville Junior College in 1965, serving as the assistant to Dr. Hugh Mills, Jr., the College’s first President. She passed away in April of this year. Eleanor loved the College dearly and was actually here to see the land before it was developed. After she retired in 1981, she remained a staunch supporter of GSC. In 1988, she was the recipient of the Distinguished Service Award given

by the Alumni Association. This year is extra special as we remember Eleanor and recognize two outstanding staff members in her honor.

The first Eleanor Crawford Award was given in 1990, and, due to the growth of both campuses, in 2009 it was decided to award one for the Gainesville Campus and one for the Oconee Campus.

The selection committees include four staff or faculty members and two Alumni Council members. As you can imagine, it was very challenging to make our decision this year. All of our nominees were well-deserving and qualified for the award, and in almost all cases had been nominated multiple times for multiple years.

The 2011 Nominees from the Gainesville Campus included: Margaret Bailey, Thomas Burson, Betsy Cantrell, Janice Hartsoe, and Kathy Martin. From the Oconee Campus: Erin Williams Benson, Bennie Coleman, Adan Diaz, Melinda Hawley, Eric Mullins, Kimberly Payne, Veronica Walker, Brian Wesnofske and Sara Zerkel.

Eleanor Crawford

Thomas Burson (2nd from left) is congratulated by members of his family on receipt of the 2011

Eleanor Crawford Award (Gainesville Campus)

Sara Zerkel (left), recipient of the 2011 Eleanor Crawford Award on the Oconee Campus, poses

with members of her family

This year’s recipients were Thomas Burson, Grounds Supervisor for the Gainesville Campus and Sara Zerkel, Administrative Assistant for the Oconee Campus.

Burson is easy to work with and has a “can-do” attitude. He is always available and willing to help his fellow colleagues and all GSC students. His commitment and leadership lay the groundwork for the image of our campus. Not only is Burson a model staff member, but he strives to support the mission of the College and is dedicated to Gainesville State.

Zerkel supports students, faculty, staff and all college-wide events. She is professional, friendly and highly competent. Zerkel makes outstanding contributions to the Oconee Campus and demonstrates loyalty to the college. She is a valuable person to GSC and makes it a better institution.

Congratulations to Burson and Zerkel—we value your work at GSC and are proud to honor you with this prestigious award.

Enjoy BRIGHT LIGHTS and BIG entertainment ALL year long!

gainesvilleTHEATREalliance.orgSelect your seats online or call the Box Office 678.717.3624

Sept 30 & Oct. 1, 2, 7 & 8

at Brenau’s Pearce Auditorium

Nov 8-19at Brenau’s Hosch Theatre

6GaiNesville state ColleGe alumNi assoCiatioN

Starlight Event is huge success, draws 3,000 people to campusThe GSC 2011 Starlight Concert & Fireworks Alumni Event drew over 3,000 people to our campus on Friday, June 10. Attendees enjoyed a fun-filled evening at the G.W. Bailey Amphitheater, and we raised over $43,000. Power Play Band kicked off the evening with great energy and music. The Luau Laker-themed

reserved tables, Alumni Tent and Glow Tent were festive, and the GSC Education Club’s Face Painting Tent was a hit! The students painted over 150 little faces—it was a great addition to the evening. Zambelli Fireworks rounded out

the evening and ended our event on a high note! Our thanks go out to all of our volunteers and sponsors to make this event a success. We value your commitment to GSC.

Thank you to our generous sponsors!

Presenting Sponsors

Bottle Rocket SponsorsAmerica’s Home PlaceNortheast Georgia Medical Center

Cherry Bomb SponsorsDairy QueenFairway Outdoor Advertising

Alumni FirecrackersConnie & Bobby BanksVicki & Jim DavisCurtis HendricksonChris Stenander

Matthew McGiboneyRichard Mize

Table SponsorsConnie & Bobby BanksCagle FamilyVictoria CalvinWalter N. CooperVicki & Jim Davis—Liberty MutualPat & Chuck GuthrieHighland Mountain Beverage Service, Inc.McDonald’sMartha & Pete NesbittChris Stenander—Liberty MutualStandard PressWillis Investment Counsel

GSC has partnered with "What's The Big Deal?". WTBD is locally owned and operated, but they have deals within the Atlanta, Gainesville and Gwinnett areas. Sign up via their website to receive deeply discounted deals each day— www.wtbigdeal.com. If you purchase a discounted item, you will have the chance to donate to WTBD’s specific list of charities. The GSC Alumni Association is now one of them, so you can feel good not only about your deal, but a portion will go back to the Alumni Association for student programming and scholarships.

Three alums lead by exampleOn Friday, August 5, three GSC Alums held a panel discussion at the Diversity Initiatives & I n t e r c u l t u r a l Programs Alumni W o r k s h o p , “My Life After Graduation.” The workshop was part of a day-long new student orientation. The three participants included Semuel Maysonet (’04), Lucas Linhares (’08), and Jamila Leavell-Hunter (’02).

They told their personal stories, why GSC was the best choice for them, and how it influenced their career paths. They talked about the ups and downs of college life, encouraged participation in student

activities, and offered their hindsight view of their campus experiences. Discussion

came back to what incredible faculty we have, along with small class sizes. They described d i f f e r e n c e s between student life vs. working life, job searches a f t e r col lege , and how giving back to GSC (by v o l u n t e e r i n g , attending events,

and/or donating) is important.

Thanks to Linhares, Leavell-Hunter, and Maysonet for sharing their stories, motivating new students, and participating in an event where conveying the importance of college can make or break a successful path!

Pictured are (l to r): Lucas Linhares, JamilaLeavell-Hunter, and Semuel Maysonet

Vicki Davis770-534-2705, ext. 57241

Vicki.Davis@LibertyMutual.com

Liberty Mutual provides GSC Alumni with a significant discount on auto insurance. Savings will be applied if you insure your home as well.

There are many new programs to take advantage of—contact Vicki Davis for your quote today!

We heard that.

...

7 Fall Newsletter, 2011

Larry Sparks (’71) retired from the City of Oakwood in May, 2011. Sparks was the Planning Director and played a key role in the city’s growth. During his tenure in Oakwood, Sparks was involved in the City’s

comprehensive planning effort, Oakwood 2030. This is a significant downtown streetscape project that Sparks helped bring about through a state transportation grant. He is also credited for building a well-respected planning and development department, including the development of a full-time code enforcement division.

Sparks stated, “My six years here in Oakwood have been the most satisfying of my career. I will cherish my memories of Oakwood.” Sparks, 59, i s l o o k i n g forward to spending more time with his family, friends, and church.

Steve Watson (’78) has been hired as the new Chief Appraiser for the Hall County Board Tax Assessors. This Gainesville native has been in the business of assessment administration for more than 25 years. He most recently was the Deputy Chief Appraiser for Gwinnett County since 2003, and also served as the Stephens County Chief Appraiser from 1992-2003. “I live in Gainesville and love this community, Watson said. “I am excited to come back to my roots and serve as Chief Appraiser for Hall County.”

On August 10, 2011, GSC Alum and Vice Chancellor for Fiscal Affairs for the

University System of Georgia (USG), John Brown ('83), was appointed as the treasurer for USG’s gover n ing body, the Board of Regents. Brown will continue his current

responsibilities overseeing the System’s financial affairs, as well as the duties of the board treasurer.

Brown joined the staff of the Board of Regents on July 1, after serving since 2005 as director of the House Budget Office for the Georgia House of Representatives. He has served the State of Georgia for more than 26 years with a focus on budget and finance. Brown holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in business administration from the University of Georgia, but got his start right here at GSC!

Past Director of Alumni Affairs at GSC, Michelle B. Brown ('90), has begun a new career! She has recently obtained her realtor license and is now an agent with Heritage Realtors in Gainesville. This new venture, along with family life, is keeping Brown very busy and happy!

K e v i n Shields (‘95) is a

former SGA Vice President, currently residing with his wife and three children in Calera, Alabama. He was recently named a 2011 All Star by Audience Development Magazine.

GSC Alumni Council and Staff Member, Haley Carter ('01), gave birth to a little girl on Friday, August 18. Adelyn Mahala arrived at 9:15 a.m., weighed 7 lbs., 4 oz., and measured 19.5" long. Carter, baby Adelyn, father Dustin Carter and brother Cohen are settling in just fine!

Kellie Casper Jackson (’02) and Matt Jackson welcomed their first baby girl, Annabelle, on April 29, 2011. She weighed 8 lbs., 11 oz. when she was born, and in this picture she is 3 months old. Jackson stated, “She’s nearly doubled her weight now—it is amazing how fast babies grow and change.” The whole family is doing well!

Past Alumni Council member Sandi Simpson ('03) has recently moved to Blue

Ridge, Georgia! She is now closer in location to her family and is an Insurance Agent with Kevin Panter Insurance. Simpson tells us that the firm “takes pride in their consultative approach,” and she would be willing to assist you with your insurance needs. If you are in the Blue Ridge area, do not hesitate to look her up. Congrats to Simpson—thank you for your work on the Alumni Council!

On June 29, 2011 Alumni Council Member James Wright ('03) and his wife, Miranda Caroline Wright, welcomed baby boy Jay! He is the couple’s first child, weighing 6 lbs., 8 oz. and measuring 20 inches long. All three are doing well and adjusting to their new schedules!

W h i t n e y Teal (’09)

g r a d u a t e d from GSC with an

Associate of Arts degree in Communication. In May 2011, she graduated Magna Cum Laude from Brenau University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communication with a concentration in Broadcasting. She is currently employed with Salem Communications in Atlanta as an AM producer. Salem Communications is a nationwide corporation that owns over 100 radio stations, including four in Atlanta: Talk 920, WNIV 970 and 1400, Biz 1190 and 104.7 The Fish.

Former GSC Foundation Trustee, Jimbo Floyd, has been promoted to Vice President and named a partner at Turner, Wood & Smith Insurance. Floyd, a native of Bainbridge, Georgia, joined Turner, Wood & Smith in 2005, serving primarily commercial clients. Jimbo is the fourth partner in the company. He is a graduate of the Terry College of Business at The University of Georgia, has earned certification as a Commercial Lines Coverage Specialist (CLCS), and will soon complete the work for his Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) certificate. He currently serves on the Executive Committee of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce as Vice President of Membership, as a Board Member of the Boys and Girls Club of Hall County, and a second year as Chairman of the Chattahoochee Country Club’s Golf Board.

Larry Sparks (l), Oakwood Mayor Lamar Scruggs (r)

John Brown

Annabelle Jackson

8GaiNesville state ColleGe alumNi assoCiatioN

Nesbitt announces plans for retirement in '12Gainesville State College President Martha T. Nesbitt made the formal announcement to the entire College community at the Annual Welcome Back Fall Luncheon that she plans to retire effective June 30, 2012.

GSC Vice President for Institutional Advancement and CEO of the GSC Foundation Mary Transue followed up Nesbitt’s announcement by saying, “Anyone can stand at the helm on calm seas . . . but I can assure you, the growth and speed of change and transformation have been many things . . . but certainly not calm.”

Having served as the College’s third president, Nesbitt is also first in many categories. She is the College’s first female president; she is the first president to serve under the College’s “state college” status; through her leadership the College became one of the first tobacco-free colleges in the nation; under her leadership in 2000, the College became the first two-year University System of Georgia institution to establish the Eminent Scholar Chair; in the fall of 2005, under her direction, the President’s Leadership Scholarship Program was created to instill leadership skills and a commitment to service in outstanding students, and the list goes on and on.

One of only nine female presidents in the 35 institutions of the University System

of Georgia (USG), Nesbitt took over leadership of then “Gainesville College” in 1997, and over the past 14 years, she has continued to shape the institution to better

serve as an educational and cultural resource in northeast Georgia.

“I have been fortunate to work with a wonderful faculty and staff as GSC has grown and added more opportunities for our students and Northeast Georgia,” said Nesbitt. “These include new academic programs, another campus, support services and campus life activities. At the same

time, even with our exponential enrollment growth, the college has remained true to its value of focusing on student learning and development, and that is a great tribute to our college community.”

Under Nesbitt’s leadership, the College experienced a 174% enrollment increase during the ten year period from Fall Semester 2000 to Fall Semester 2010, from 3,256 students to 8,900 students. Nesbitt realized the need for a two-year college in the area east of Gainesville, and through her strong and effective vision, the Oconee Campus became a reality in the summer of 2003.

“A hallmark of Dr. Nesbitt’s career has been her dedicated focus on ensuring a strong college access mission for students,” said University System of Georgia

Dr. Martha T. Nesbitt at the Annual Welcome Back Fall Luncheon, at

which she announced her upcoming retirement

Gainesville State Brass Ensemble plays at G-Braves gameThe GSC Alumni Association held an event at the Gwinnett Braves game on

Pictured are (back row, l to r): Sloan Jones, Eddie Jones, Semuel Maysonet, Jamila Leavell-Hunter, Chris Stenander, Al Panu; (front row): Eric Skipper, Tana Suggs, Jennifer Hendrickson, Angela Bearden. Photo courtesy Curtis Hendrickson

GSC Brass Ensemble; Gwinnett Braves shortstop and third baseman Brandon Hicks. Photo courtesy Gwinnett Braves

August 25 in conjunction with College Fair night. Our Brass Ensemble played the National Anthem, and many of our students, faculty and staff were in attendance. GSC President Martha T. Nesbitt threw the first pitch, and the G-Braves won 4-1 over the Norfolk Tides.

This event was a great time to thank our Alumni Council members for their support and volunteer efforts. It was a nice kick-off to the new academic year and an important way to show our school spirit and support for GSC students! Thanks to all who attended—this is a "keeper" for our annual event schedule.

Chancellor Hank Huckaby. “She has been singularly effective in this work within the University System, both at DeKalb College (now Georgia Perimeter College) and as president since 1997 of Gainesville State College. During her tenure as president, she created the College’s new Oconee Campus, which is just one example of her highly effective leadership.”

In addition to her many achievements throughout her career, this year Nesbitt was named the Girl Scouts Woman of Distinction by the Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia. Also this year, she was awarded the Ralph Cleveland Distinguished Citizen Award by the Northeast Georgia Council of the Boy Scouts of America.

These awards reflect her effective her strong service to the Gainesville/Hall County community. In 2005, Nesbitt served as the Fund Drive Chair for the United Way of Hall County, and she served as President of the Northeast Georgia History Center in 2007. Currently she serves as President of the Rotary Club of Gainesville; is a member of the Northeast Georgia Health System Board and serves on its Executive Committee as well as Chair of its Governance Committee; and serves as a Lay Reader and Chalice Bearer at Grace Episcopal Church.

Nesbitt earned her B.A. and M.A.T. degrees from Duke University and her Ph.D. in History from Georgia State University.

Information regarding the search for Nesbitt's replacement will be provided at a later date.

GSC launches Virtual Campus Tour —by W. Mack Palmour, Associate Vice President of Enrollment Management/

Director of Admissions

On Ju ne 21, 2011, the Of f ice of Admissions launched Gainesville State College’s new virtual campus tour. According to Johnny Kahn, Admissions Counselor at GSC, “The purpose of the Virtual Campus Tour is to give prospective students and families an opportunity to see the campus, before they actually set foot on campus.” From the virtual tour, prospective students and families can schedule an actual campus visit, register to receive more information, learn more about the college, or apply for admission.

The Tour, which is available for both the Gainesville and Oconee campuses, is led by two “Avatars.” The Avatars, electronic versions of actual Ambassadors Emily McIlvain and Manee Moreno, lead a viewer to each of the buildings on campus. In addition to visiting campus, viewers have a series of 360˚ views inside each building, as well as exterior views

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9 Fall Newsletter, 2011

as they “walk” around campus. Also available are videos and photos of events associated with each building.

We invite our alumni to take the virtual campus tour at www.gsc.edu and click on the picture labeled “Take a Virtual Campus Tour.” Please share the tour with your friends and family and any prospective students considering GSC. As alumni, you know about the great experience that awaits students at Gainesville State. Help us spread the word!

Upcoming recruitment events on campus include our fall open house programs on the Gainesville Campus Saturday, October 15 and on the Oconee Campus Saturday, October 22. Both events begin at 9:00 a.m. On-line registration will be open soon.

For questions about admissions, please contact us at admissions@gsc.edu. Visit us on Facebook at Gainesville State College, and become a fan!

Help us keep you well informed!In an effort to save on postage expenses, we will be sending one copy of Anchors Away per household. If you and your spouse are both alums, please let us know so that we can consolidate your mailings. If you are an alum and have children who are also alums, please help us by updating their addresses for us. Unless we have been notified, the address that we will have on record for them will usually be your address. Updates can be emailed to alumni@gsc.edu; mailed to the Alumni Office, PO Box 1358, Gainesville, GA 30503, or completed online at http://www.gsc.edu/about/external/alumni/Pages/ContactInformation.aspx.

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PARENTS: Help us keep GSC graduates well informed! Forward Anchors Away to your son or daughter, but first send the corrected mailing address label for your GSC graduate to the Alumni Office, Gainesville State College, P.O. Box 1358, Gainesville, GA 30503.

Gainesville Goes

GatsbySAVE THE DATE!Gainesville State CollegeFoundation Annual Gala

Benefitting the GSC Foundation

Friday, February 10, 2012Chattahoochee Country Club

Live Entertainment Dancing

And Much More!"It’ll be the bee’s knees!"

Formal invitations will be mailed out in the New Year, but sponsorship opportunities are available now. Please contact Amy Lancaster for questions regarding the

gala—events@gsc.edu | 678-717-3409.

Upcoming EvEntsMon., Oct. 10 Fall Wellness Fair. 11 AM - 1 PM, Room 522 & Atrium,

SRC, Oconee Campus. FREE health screenings and wellness information for students, faculty, staff, and the community.

Fri., Oct. 14 Alumni Golf Open. 9 AM - 4 PM, Chattahoochee Golf Club, Gainesville. Benefitting scholarships and educational programs at GSC.

Sat., Oct. 15 Fall Open House for Prospective Students. 9 AM - Noon, Gainesville Campus.

Fri., Oct. 21 Ribbon Cutting for Academic IV Building, Gainesville Campus.

Sat., Oct. 22 Fall Open House for Prospective Students. 9 AM - Noon, Oconee Campus.

Wed., Nov. 2 Retirement Reception. 2:30 - 4:30 PM, Continuing Education Building, Gainesville Campus. Honoring Glenn Canada, Charles Fowler, Paul Glaser, Pat Guthrie.

Mon., Nov. 7 Colloquium Series: Kerry Stewart. Noon - 1:15 PM, Room 3110, Academic IV, Gainesville Campus. Dr. Kerry Stewart, Professor of Political Science and Philosophy at GSC, will talk about his travel to Israel to do an intensive study of terrorism in the region.