In 1978, Dan Emmett graduated with a bachelor's degree in criminal justice from UNG after serving as a member of the Corps of Cadets.
"I chose UNG for the same reasons as hundreds, if not thousands, of people who have passed through the school since its inception," he said. "UNG is a place where you learn the values of leadership, discipline, honor, and commitment."
Those values served Emmett well. Since graduation, he has served his country in multiple roles. Emmett commissioned into the Marine Corps and remained from 1977 to 1981, where he rose to the rank of captain. Then he was accepted into the Secret Service training program in 1983.
"I spent 21 years as a Secret Service agent, including six years on the Presidential Protection Detail," Emmett said. "I protected presidents George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton and George W. Bush."
During his time, his daily duties and challenges included conducting presidential advances, dealing with the media, driving the president in a bullet-proof limousine, jogging alongside him through the streets of Washington, and flying with him on Airforce One.
Then after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, Emmett found himself in a new role.
"The Central Intelligence Agency offered me a job in the counterterrorism center, where I remained for six years," he said. "I retired from the Secret Service in 2004, then worked as an instructor in the U.S. Secret Service Academy."
Emmett, who has a master's degree in education, is an adjunct professor of criminal justice at Auburn University.
He credits UNG with preparing him for his career of service.
"As a child, I wanted to be a Secret Service agent and I wanted to be a military officer. North Georgia just seemed to be the most logical starting point," Emmett said. "It was an environment that encouraged people to be their best and really re-emphasized what I'd been taught by my parents: honor, discipline, service to one's country, and trying to do your best at everything you attempt."
