The Georgia Department of Economic Development brought members of the Georgia Consular Corps to the University of North Georgia (UNG) on March 18 as part of its annual International VIP Tour, offering a closer look at the university’s worldwide initiatives and various workforce development programs.
During the visit, the international delegates—representing consular and trade offices from across the globe—were introduced to UNG’s signature programs, with a particular focus on military leadership, cybersecurity, and international education.
UNG President Michael Shannon welcomed the group, joined by 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” initiative and part-time professor of practice.
“We were so grateful to host these representatives of countries from across the world. There is great potential for us to work together at this complex time in history to prepare our students for global contexts while also helping these countries,” Shannon said. “We look forward to the conversations that will continue to emerge out of this meeting.”
As of fall 2024, UNG is home to international students from over 40 countries, according to school officials, while about 300 UNG students are studying abroad in more than 30 countries during the 2024 calendar year.
The Georgia Consular Corps, based in Atlanta, includes representatives from 70 nations. These consulates promote international relations in areas such as trade, culture, science, and provide services to foreign nationals in Georgia.
Since 1986, the Department of Economic Development’s International Relations division has organized the International VIP Tour to connect consular officials with communities across Georgia. The tour highlights the state’s collaborative and business-friendly environment, academic institutions, and cultural offerings.
This year’s tour featured visits to Dahlonega, Dawsonville, Cleveland, Gainesville, and Toccoa, showcasing the unique contributions of Northeast Georgia to the state’s economic and educational landscape.
