UNG honored more than 1,300 graduates in three commencement ceremonies May 6-7 in the Convocation Center on the Dahlonega Campus.
Article By: Denise Ray
The University of North Georgia (UNG) honored more than 1,300 graduates in three commencement ceremonies May 6-7 in the Convocation Center on UNG's Dahlonega Campus.
Three alumni served as keynote speakers: Jane Hemmer, Joshua Teteak, '94, and Dr. John Hemmer, '67. Jane Hemmer and Teteak are UNG Foundation trustees.
"You are ready to take on the next chapter of your life — whether that means starting your career, advancing your education or taking time to serve society in some way," Teteak told the graduates. "You have a world-class education, you have developed leadership skills, you know how to work effectively as part of a team, and you understand how to leverage technology."
Among the graduates was Domini'que Allen, assistant director of the UNG Gainesville Campus food pantry. Allen earned a master’s degree in human services delivery and administration after previously earning a bachelor's degree in human services delivery and administration.
You have a world-class education, you have developed leadership skills, you know how to work effectively as part of a team, and you understand how to leverage technology.
Joshua Teteak, '94
UNG Foundation trustee
"I have accomplished many things here at UNG, and I credit those achievements to the unwavering support I have always been given," Allen said. "I am the first of my siblings to receive a master's degree, and at age 30, I will also be the youngest to receive in my entire family to earn a graduate degree."
For Ben Bradley, receiving a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity was the culmination of a winding journey. The Snellville, Georgia, resident utilized remedial classes as he transitioned from
a GED program to college-level courses and overcame personal struggles to attain a degree. The 37-year-old credits Return to UNG coordinator Kathy Tosh with helping him reach his goal. He is also a first-generation college graduate and added that his experience has inspired his sister to further her education. Bradley said his long-term goal is law school and there is a possibility of a master's degree in cybersecurity in the meantime.
"I have unequivocal proof that I'm capable of achieving whatever I devote myself to," Bradley said, adding that he had to practice used patience, perseverance, and persistence.
Dozens of graduates plan to start their military careers. Seventy-seven graduates took their oath of office and were commissioned as second lieutenants in the Army, Georgia Army National Guard or Army Reserve in individual ceremonies May 4-6. They are among the approximately 120 officers UNG expects to commission during the 2021-22 academic year. UNG is one of only six senior military colleges in the United States and is designated as the Military College of Georgia.
Another one of the graduates was Jessica Nix, of Flowery Branch, Georgia, who earned a degree in biology. Nix dedicated her studies to investigating a possible connection between smoking and bladder cancer. She said her main goal was to provide research that can improve modern cancer treatment. Nix's research has been funded by multiple grants, and she also led fellow students in research. Nix said she will spend the next year working in a histology lab and then begin work on a doctoral degree in anatomical education with hopes of returning to UNG as a professor.
"My journey was a labor of love. It involved tears, hard work and determination," Nix said. "I relied heavily on my academic mentor and peers. I have a few accolades, none of which would be possible without my support team. As a first-generation woman in STEM, I look forward to taking the passion and dedication I've gained over the years into my future endeavors."
