University celebrates almost 300 graduates

The University of North Georgia (UNG) celebrated almost 300 graduates Aug. 5 at its summer commencement ceremony at the Convocation Center on UNG's Dahlonega Campus.

UNG Foundation Trustee Dr. Jeff Payne served as the keynote speaker and encouraged the graduates to embrace change as they pursue their goals.

"Just as this institution has changed, you will see amazing changes in your personal and professional lives," Payne said. "Many of you will see your career paths change from what you initially intended. Investigate those opportunities and don't be afraid to evolve … Be flexible. You don't know where the road will take you, but it may lead to a great adventure."

UNG celebrated graduates who earned associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees, as well as undergraduate and graduate certificates.

Isabelle Calcaño earned her bachelor's degree in cybersecurity at age 18. The Cumming, Georgia, resident already has a job in her field at Softrim. She started as a full-time student at UNG in summer 2021, coming in with 60 credit hours from dual enrollment, Advanced Placement classes, and the College-Level Examination Program. She praised her faculty members as flexible and available.

"I enjoy studying and putting in work," Calcaño said. "That's why I like cybersecurity. It's a challenge for me. I like having to research something and struggle."

Many of you will see your career paths change from what you initially intended. Investigate those opportunities and don't be afraid to evolve … Be flexible. You don't know where the road will take you, but it may lead to a great adventure.

Dr. Jeff Payne

Commencement keynote speaker, UNG Foundation trustee

Britsky's dissertation examines the impact of mentorship on women in college athletics administration.

"The research was really fun," Britsky said. "It's something I could continue to write on for a career if I want to."

UNG Police Capt. Dennis Dorsey earned his Master of Science in criminal justice. The degree opens doors to teaching or other jobs when he retires.

"I wanted to have more options than an undergraduate degree would provide," Dorsey said.

An added element that has made his time pursuing his master's degree special is that his daughter is pursuing her undergraduate degree at UNG. They had a friendly wager on who would graduate first, and Dorsey finished a couple of semesters ahead of her. Dorsey also appreciated his daughter and wife's help in proofreading his papers.

"When you're not a traditional student, you need a different kind of support system," Dorsey said. "It's been a family affair."

Twenty-two 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 Aug. 5. UNG is one of only six senior military colleges in the United States and is designated as the Military College of Georgia.