Monthly Column May 2019
Support Education, Support our Community
When visitors from other areas come to campus, I get a chance to see Northwest Georgia through fresh eyes again. These visitors – many of whom were here to see a loved one graduate recently – often express a genuine admiration and respect for the work we’re doing here at Dalton State. And many note the beauty of the Dalton area, as well as the abundance of opportunities for outdoor recreation and a thriving downtown.
Their visits remind me: we must not take for granted all the wonderful things that are right in our community. Dalton State is one of those.
Having a four-year college improves our economic climate and positions our community for greater success. The most recent study by the Selig Center for Economic Growth indicates that Dalton State had an economic impact on this region of $133 million in fiscal year 2017. Furthermore, Dalton State serves more than 5,000 students. Some of those students would be in another part of the country attending college if Dalton State weren’t able to serve their needs. But for even more of our students, a Dalton without a Dalton State would mean no opportunity to earn a bachelor’s degree.
Eighty-seven percent of our students originate from this region, and most of our students choose to attend Dalton State because they want to remain in our community. More than 500 students graduated from Dalton State this spring, a record for a May graduation, and this will add to December graduation numbers for a total of more than 800 graduates for the academic year. We know that most of these graduates will remain in this region, raise their families here and fill employment needs here. Additionally, Dalton State employs more than 600 employees (including student workers and other part-time employees).
Quality education at all levels is one of the key factors in increasing the health of a community. It also helps attract new businesses and employers, housing developers and young people who live and work in our community. Therefore, supporting our local colleges and K-12 schools enhances the vitality of our own community. With these points in mind, here is my list of the top five things each of us can do throughout the year to show our Dalton State pride and to show support for our students, our employees and our community.
5. Display your Dalton State bling. Wear a DSC shirt with pride and see how many comments and questions you get, especially if you are out of town. Use a DSC coffee mug or tumbler at work. Display your Dalton State (or DJC or DC) diploma on your wall at home or at work. Put a DSC decal on your car. Just remember, though, that Roadrunners run boldly but we drive courteously!
4. Visit the campus – and bring a friend. If you have not recently visited campus to find out about our high quality and relevant degree programs we offer students, you need to come for a visit. Visit our endangered turtle colony or our health professions simulation lab. Tour Peeples Hall with its state-of-the-art science equipment or the newly renovated and expanded Gignilliat Memorial Hall, which houses our Wright School of Business. Encourage potential college students to visit Dalton State. A visit of a specific area can be scheduled through most any employee but for prospective college students (or a full campus tour) please submit a request for a tour at https://www.daltonstate.edu/about/campus-tour.cms or call us at 706-272-4436.
3. Volunteer your time and talents. Our students can gain valuable information from listening to a seasoned professional, particularly someone in their future career field. Contact Mallory Safely at 706-272-2997 if you want to connect your talents with the right students at Dalton State.
2. Give to Dalton State. Even a small donation can make a difference in the life of a student who is motivated to earn a degree but lacks the funds to pay for books, tuition, housing, food and shelter. Visit our website at www.daltonstate.edu and click on the “GIVE” link in the upper left corner.
1. Enroll at Dalton State. Even if you already have a degree, you are never too old or too wise for additional education. Although our average student age is 22 years, we have students of all ages from 16 and above. And you might be surprised what you can learn from an 18-year old. They might also be surprised what they can learn from you. In fact, students 62-years and older may take a class (on a space available basis) at no cost! Please contact the office of admissions at 706-272-4436 or admissions@daltonstate.edu if you are interested in further details.