Rowland named director of government relations

Jordan Rowland has been appointed as the new executive director of government relations for the University of North Georgia (UNG).

"We are excited to welcome Jordan to our team and look forward to the expertise and leadership she will bring to this important role," UNG President Michael Shannon said. "We are confident that her skills and experience will greatly benefit our organization as we continue to strengthen our relationships with government partners."

Rowland graduated from what was then North Georgia College and State University (NGCSU) in 2011 with a Bachelor of Science in art marketing and a minor in leadership. Originally from Augusta, Georgia, she has lived in Gainesville since 1999. During her time at NGCSU, Rowland was actively involved in various organizations, including the Kappa Upsilon chapter of Phi Mu and the Student Activities Board.

For the past 12 years, she has served as the senior director of fundraising and events at The Sassafras Group LLC. In this capacity, she has worked closely with state legislators to raise funds for their campaigns, organized numerous fundraising events and managed donor relations. Her efforts have contributed to record-breaking fundraising initiatives for multiple statewide races, including $16 million raised for Gov. Nathan Deal’s re-election campaign in 2014.

Rowland remains actively engaged with UNG, having served on the Young Alumni Board from 2017 to 2023, including two terms as president. She has participated in various university events and initiatives aimed at fostering alumni connections.

She was recognized as a 2022 honoree in UNG’s inaugural 20 Under 40 Program.