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    Journey Gurley

    Journey Gurley won the NCAA Division II pole vault national title in May 2021, earning the University of North Georgia (UNG) its second national championship in school history. The Danielsville, Georgia, resident said she was stressed for two weeks leading up to the national meet.

    "Once I won, it was all worth it. Graduate assistant coach Justice Ricketts usually didn't let me know what height I was going for so that I wouldn't change my vault. When he said I had cleared 14 feet, 2 inches, I didn't believe him because it was such a shock," Gurley said. "It could have been anyone who won. That day, I was the best. This shows UNG can be competitive at the national level and sets the standard for others to come."

    She began to take an interest in pole vaulting while taking part in gymnastics. She competed in both sports throughout high school before sticking with track and field in college.

    "I like it because it keeps me in the same shape I was in for gymnastics," Gurley said. "It's a lot of the same skills. I'm a thrill-seeker and I like falling, so that's my favorite part."

    Gurley earned a degree in elementary and special education in May 2022, taking only three years to earn her degree.

    Gurley's quiet nature didn't keep her from being a leader.

    "A silent leader is someone who is leading behind the scenes even when you don't see them out there," Gurley said. "I like to push myself and lead by my actions more than my words. Our track and field team is very small. We all had to step up and be leaders."

    Karen Frost

    Karen Frost

    Dr. Karen Frost earned an elementary education degree from UNG and eventually became a principal as part of a 29-year career in the Cobb County School District.
    Jennifer Young

    Jennifer Young

    While waiting to apply to a degree program, non-traditional student Jennifer Young took a "light bulb moment" and turned it into a nonprofit that is impacting the world.
    Addyson Albershardt

    Addyson Albershardt

    UNG alumna Addyson Albershardt, '18, knows from experience if you fall off of your bike, you have to get right back on.
    Tyler Dominy

    Tyler Dominy

    While Tyler Dominy chose to play basketball at UNG instead of football at another school, his decision turned out to be the best for him. "It seems like it was destined that I was to come here."
    Patrice Parris

    Patrice Parris

    UNG men's soccer head coach Patrice Parris enjoys setting his players up for success not only on the field but also for their futures.
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