RELEASE: Immediate
DATE: August 7, 2012
South Georgia State College Selected as Name for SGC-WC Consolidated
Institution
The University System of Georgia’s Board of Regents selected
South Georgia State College at its Aug. 7 meeting as the name for the new
institution resulting from the consolidation of South Georgia College and
Waycross College.
“While a tremendous amount of work and effort is underway as we create new
institutions through the consolidation process, the name is a powerful
symbol that will give focus and direction to the process,” said Shelley
Nickel, associate vice chancellor for Planning and Implementation in
presenting the proposed names to the Board.
According to college officials, South Georgia State College will have a
Douglas campus and a Waycross campus and will provide enrollment and student
services at both locations beginning in January. Classes will also continue
to be offered at five other instructional sites, including Americus,
Hazlehurst, Hinesville, Jesup, and Valdosta.
Dr. Mary Ellen Wilson, interim president of Waycross College, states, “As a
multi-campus institution initially serving over 3,000 students, South
Georgia State College will be a formidable player in the region. I am
excited about the future opportunities and economic impact our College will
create for the many communities we serve.”
The selection of South Georgia State College comes following the Board of
Regents’ approval of the new institution’s mission statement last May. The
statement reads, “South Georgia State College, a state college of the
University System of Georgia, is a multi-campus, student-centered
institution offering high-quality associate and select baccalaureate degree
programs. The institution provides innovative teaching and learning
experiences, a rich array of student activities and athletic programs,
access to unique ecological sites, and residential options to create a
diverse, globally-focused, and supportive learning environment.”
Dr. Virginia Carson, president of South Georgia College and president of the
consolidated institution, adds, “An institution’s name sets the tone about
who we are and how we share our story. South Georgia State College supports
our mission and helps explain the reach and potential we have through
consolidation. I look forward to the enhanced academic and student offerings
we can provide students, as well as our various stakeholders, under this new
name.”
In addition to receiving Board of Regents approval, the consolidated
institution must also be approved by the Southern Association of Colleges
and Schools Commission on Colleges at its December meeting. The
institution’s new name and mission statement will not be used in promotional
materials until all necessary approvals are received.
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About South Georgia College
South Georgia College (www.sgc.edu)
was founded in 1906 and is located in Douglas, Ga. The college's environment
gives students exceptional opportunities for interdisciplinary study and
close collaboration with faculty. With over 20 majors and transfer
opportunities, South Georgia College provides the finest education possible
to the citizens of its service area.
