TMU President Emir Caner (left) with members of the class of 1949: Dr. Louise Holcomb, Ethelene Dyer Jones, Betty Hawkins Carpenter, John Carpenter, Betty Highsmith, and Virgil ” Jr.” Hunt.
(Cleveland)- A celebration of 70 years for Truett McConnell College, now Truett McConnell University, was held Saturday at Freedom Park in Cleveland.
In 1946 the Georgia Baptist Convention made a decision to create a new two year college in the mountains of Northeast Georgia. In 1946, on July 23rd, it was announced at a rally in Cleveland that the city had been chosen as the sight of Truett McConnell College.
The history of Truett McConnell University began long before that day in 1946, when George W. Truett and his cousin F.C. McConnell opened a Christian private school in Hiawassee, their vision evolved into was is today’s Truett McConnell University.
During a ceremony to recognize the special day, TMU President Dr. Emir Caner recognized those who contributed to the success of the university. Recognition of former faculty and staff, those who attended classes at Truett in the past, board of trustees and board of visitors for the college.
Special recognition was made to the Cleveland Kiwanis Club who raised $90,000 for the start of the school and to four families, Jamie Campbell, Joseph House, Dr. L.G. Neal and Hershel Palmer families, who donated 417 acres for the creation of the school campus. The Cleveland United Methodist Church for providing classroom and chapel facilities at the beginning. Also recognized was the City of Cleveland, White County Government and to retiring White County News Publisher Billy Chism for their support of the college in the past.
Truett McConnell College first employee, Dr. Louise Holcomb and class of 1949 member Mrs. Ethelene Dyer Jones, shared memories of their time at Truett. In his remarks Dr. Caner said the University has grown from the 54 students in that first class in 1947 to 2,100 students today.
Dr. Caner also said the Lord has smiled on the endeavors of people from 1946 until now as they relate to Truett McConnell. Following the ceremony the birthday celebration began with the cutting of a cake and food for those attending.
For the most up to date White County news tune in to 1350AM and visit wrwh.com
