South Georgia State College (SGSC) Interim President Dr. Greg Tanner and groups of faculty and staff members from SGSC spent the past two years engaging with the regional area through a community visit initiative. At these intentional visits, the SGSC team listened and learned from people in the communities they call home.
“Through these community visits, we have engaged with local leaders, educators and potential students,” says Dr. Tanner. “These visits are part of our ongoing commitment to strengthen relationships, listen to community needs, and share important updates about SGSC’s academic programs, student success initiatives, and campus developments.”
By connecting directly with the people the college serves, Dr. Tanner aims to build partnerships that support regional growth and ensure SGSC continues to meet the educational and workforce needs of South Georgia.
Since it began, the community visit initiative has built on existing partnerships and established new ones for the betterment of the students and the community. This includes:
• Regular attendance at Okefenokee RESA Board of Control meetings to interact with local school superintendents, technical college leadership and regional library partners.
• Partnership with the Etowah Foundation to establish a Future Center in the local high schools which will guide students through the next steps of their educational journey, from high school and beyond.
• Creation of a new Emergency Services Management concentration in the Bachelor of Science in Management program, following a recommendation from local Chamber of Commerce leadership.
• Launch of a new Rodeo Club which is attracting students from the region and across the country to participate and become part of the SGSC community—an initiative shaped by community interest and collaboration.
• Visits with local high school students and counselors by the recruitment team to encourage dual enrollment participation and assist with application processes.
• Internships with local partners, such as Okefenokee State Park and PCC Airfoils manufacturing plant to strengthen academic programs.
• Presentations to local civic organizations and participation in their meetings.
• Participation in local Chamber of Commerce events, ribbon cuttings, Leadership Coffee and Leadership Waycross programs and other events sponsored by area organizations.
• Community outreach through service projects by faculty, staff, and students.
• Increased number of scholarships given to high school students and SGSC students as part of the college’s foundations.
“These visits are just the beginning,” says Dr. Tanner. “We’re not only listening, but we’re turning our conversations into actions.” Through collaboration, service, and strong connections, SGSC will continue working side by side with communities to shape a brighter future for South Georgia.