DHALONEGA, Ga. — Members of the Georgia Consular Corps visited the University of North Georgia (UNG) on March 18 to tour the university’s global initiatives and military and cyber programs. The visit, hosted by the Georgia Department of Economic Development, showcased UNG’s commitment to international education and workforce development.
The group met with UNG President Michael Shannon, retired Col. Bryan Kirk, associate vice president and chief of staff of the Cadet Leadership Academy, and retired Lt. Gen. Jamie Jarrard, co-champion of UNG’s national security big bet and part-time professor of practice.
“We were thrilled to host representatives from countries around the world,” Shannon said. “This is a pivotal time in history, and we see great opportunities for collaboration to prepare our students for global challenges while supporting these countries. We look forward to the conversations that will continue to develop from this meeting.”
The Georgia Consular Corps, headquartered in Atlanta, consists of consular offices and trade representatives from 70 nations. The organization fosters economic, commercial, cultural, and scientific relations between Georgia and those countries.
UNG has students from more than 40 countries studying at the university and approximately 300 students studying abroad in over 30 countries.
Since 1986, the Georgia Department of Economic Development has organized the annual International VIP Tour, introducing members of the Georgia Consular Corps to different regions of the state. The tour, hosted by the International Relations division, highlights Georgia’s collaborative, business-friendly environment, top universities, cultural attractions, and engaged citizens.
The 2025 tour included stops in Dahlonega, Dawsonville, Cleveland, Gainesville, and Toccoa. The group also visited Tallulah Falls School in Habersham.
