"The goals of consolidation were to increase educational opportunities and access while streamlining administrative services and avoiding duplication," UNG President Bonita Jacobs said. "We have achieved that and so much more. Today, as a strong regional university, UNG continues to excel in enrollment growth, degree attainment, and student success while focusing on economic development, research, international relationships, and leadership. As a result, UNG has received numerous recognitions and continues to expand opportunities for our students to be regionally and globally competitive."
Individually, each institution had been leaders in their sectors. Combined, the scope of their degree programs – from certificates and associate degrees to doctoral-level programs, along with other elements of their mission, like the Corps of Cadets and multiple campuses, created a new and rare educational experience.
Kelly McFaden, associate professor and coordinator of Social Foundations of Education, serves as the chair of the UNG Faculty Senate and describes the university’s impact post-consolidation as profoundly significant.
"UNG has evolved into a larger comprehensive university with more resources and opportunities in the USG system than either of its legacy institutions," McFaden said. "Faculty view this evolution, particularly the more diverse faculty and student body, as tremendously valuable."
Some university highlights from the past five years include:
In fall 2017, UNG enrolled more than 18,000 students, setting new university records. The university has campuses in Blue Ridge, Cumming, Dahlonega, Gainesville, and Oconee County. UNG is one of only six senior military colleges in the United States and its residential ROTC program on the Dahlonega Campus consistently ranks among the best in the country. UNG competes in the NCAA Division II Peach Belt Conference. Additionally, the university offers the community a variety of continuing education programs and cultural opportunities, including the award-winning Gainesville Theatre Alliance.
Watch a short video about UNG’s achievements.