Sandy Ott

The Blue Ridge Campus has experienced exponential growth since opening in August 2015. When it opened, a team of faculty and staff served 18 dual-enrollment students. Because of the increased community engagement and support, legislative involvement and a team of determined faculty and staff, a new stand-alone campus welcomed more than 230 students in fall 2020.

Being part of this success is why Ott accepted the job in 2015.

"The opportunity to be a part of a new campus that was just opening and growing it basically from the ground up was what attracted me most to this position," she said.

Ott has worked in higher education for more than 20 years. Her experience ranges from student affairs to the University System of Georgia and the Technical College System of Georgia.

When Ott heard about the opening of the UNG campus in Blue Ridge, she was eager to get involved.

"I knew the rich history of UNG and the tradition and reputation that it has in this area, in the state, the country and across the globe," she said.

Those aren’t the only qualities Ott admires about the Blue Ridge Campus. She describes the campus as an environment that promotes and facilitates genuine relationships among faculty, staff, students, and the Blue Ridge community.

"That's something very special about the Blue Ridge Campus," Ott said. "Everyone here started at the same time, so it's an outstanding team of professionals who are so invested in the success of this campus. There is a sense of camaraderie and a true team that works for the students here."

Ott and her team's hard work was tangibly recognized in May 2018 when Gov. Nathan Deal announced the allocation of money for the construction of the permanent Blue Ridge Campus. The new facility opened several doors for students, including additional course offerings.

"We are very grateful for our state legislators who saw the need and provided this opportunity," Ott said. "Having a stand-alone UNG campus in Blue Ridge will truly be a game-changer for this region, and I am truly humbled and blessed to be a part of this."

Ott reminds incoming and current students of the historical value of their attendance at the campus.

"I've said it before, but it truly is a special place," she said.

As a leader, Ott has learned to adapt and embrace change and growth. More importantly, she's learned the value of successful internal and external relationships. In 2016, she was awarded the Chancellor's Outstanding Service Excellence Award, an honor created by the University System of Georgia (USG) to celebrate employees who shine in their positions. She was given the award because of her commitment to fostering meaningful, successful relationships within the UNG community and beyond.

"The support that I have received as well as this campus has received has been tremendous, and this campus would not be where it is today without the support of UNG, local school systems and our community partners," she said.

Ott is looking forward to the growth of the Blue Ridge Campus and the successful futures of the students. One of her favorite aspects of her job is to watch the ripple effect of students' success among their families and the community.

"I truly have the best job in the whole world," she said.