Classroom named for former Gov. Nathan Deal

May 26, 2022
University of North Georgia President Bonita Jacobs stands with Mrs. Sandra Deal and former Gov. Nathan Deal at the door of the classroom in Young Hall recently named for Deal, who served a three-year term as Regents Professor at UNG.

Article By: Denise Ray

University of North Georgia (UNG) President Bonita Jacobs commemorated former Gov. Nathan Deal’s three-year term as a Regents Professor and recognized his contributions to the university and the state by naming a classroom in Young Hall in his honor on April 28. Deal and his wife Sandra, former Regent Philip Wilheit, University System of Georgia Executive Vice Chancellor Teresa MacCartney, and former Deal Chief of Staff Chris Riley joined UNG faculty, staff and students in Young Hall for the event. 

He provided a unique view of politics both within Georgia and the nation as a UNG professor.

Dr. Dlynn Williams

Department head and professor of Political Science and International Affairs

In addition to teaching "Politics in the Peach State" to UNG students over the past three years, Deal contributed to the fourth edition of "The Basics of American Government," a textbook written by UNG faculty and used widely throughout the state. He provided a unique view of politics both within Georgia and the nation as a UNG professor, Dr. Dlynn Williams, department head and professor of Political Science and International Affairs (PSIA), said.

"Beyond describing his own time in elected office at the state and national levels, Gov. Deal was able to bring PSIA students face-to-face with many individuals who have dedicated their lives to the service of their community and the state of Georgia," Williams said. "I am sure that his classes will remain a highlight of their college experience."

Brendan LaPrade, a senior pursuing a degree in political science with a pre-law concentration from Marietta, Georgia, spoke of his memorable experience as Deal's student.

"Not only did you set us up for success in our educational pursuits, but you provided motivation, direction, and a purpose to us all," LaPrade said. "You showed us how to lead, how to follow, and you emboldened us to stay true to ourselves no matter what. You have taught your students to be courageous in the face of adversity in both our personal and professional lives and to lay our problems in the hands of God, whenever possible."

Deal served two terms as Georgia’s governor, from 2011 to 2019. Prior to that, he served as a state senator and as a U.S. Congressman. Before Deal entered politics, he was a criminal prosecutor, a judge, and an Army captain. He also was an attorney with a private practice for 23 years in Gainesville.

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