South Georgia State College recently released a new strategic plan covering 2019-2024. Entitled Moving Forward, the plan is built on the college’s legacy and articulates key goals for the next five years. Commitment to strengthen the economic health of the region remains one of its core goals. The commitment comes in many forms — from providing strong academic programs delivered by talented faculty and staff to establishing and maintaining relationships through collaborations with our community and region.
According to a recent study released by the Selig Center for Economic Growth at the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business, SGSC’s economic impact of on the region is significant. Students, faculty, staff, alumni and visitors contributed more than $68 million in total economic impact to the college’s service area for fiscal year 2017 (July 2016 through June 2017). This area includes Coffee, Atkinson, Bacon, Jeff Davis, Ware, Pierce, Brantley and Clinch counties. During fiscal year 2017, SGSC’s total employment impact was recorded at 806 on-and off-campus jobs.
“We are fortunate to be in a region where postsecondary education is valued,” says Dr. Ingrid Thompson-Sellers, SGSC president. “This study confirms our investment in the community – one which benefits all stakeholders, and in turn, improves the economic strength of our region. As the college and the region grow stronger, everyone benefits.”
The college currently offers 19 pathways leading to Associate of Arts and Associate of Science degrees. Bachelor of Science degrees in Biological Sciences (BSBS), Management (BSM) and Nursing (BSN) will soon be joined by the addition of a Bachelor of Science in Elementary/Special Education and Long-term Healthcare Management, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Professional Business and Technical Writing. Offering these advanced degrees provides more choices for students who may choose to remain in the area after they graduate.
SGSC’s faculty, staff and students remain dedicated to the community. Their support extends beyond campus boundaries, as they perform service projects with local businesses, host school groups for fun events and engage educational partners in additional co-curricular events.
“As we expand our footprint within our community, both the college community and the local community benefit in ways that enhance each other,” adds Dr. Thompson-Sellers. “Fostering a culture of engagement between our SGSC community and the community at large, contributes to strong economic sustainability for each.”