In this year’s graduating class, the University of North Georgia (UNG) gave out roughly 985 degrees and certificates to students this fall, as the university honored more than 650 of those graduates in a pair of Dec. 7 commencement ceremonies in the Convocation Center at UNG’s Dahlonega Campus.
Tracy Amaya, a Gillsville resident who earned a degree in political science with a concentration in pre-law, was one of two student speakers. An immigrant and first-generation college student, Amaya expressed gratitude for all the support she has received and encouraged her classmates to embrace all that the future holds in store.
“As someone who believes in lifelong learning, I would like my message to you all to be that this is only the beginning,” Amaya said. “As you leave here today ready to turn to the next chapter in your life, remember that hard work does pay off. My hope to you all would be that you never lose your will to learn and keep growing.”
Charlotte Sims, a Cleveland resident who earned a bachelor of business administration in management, was also a student speaker. She spoke to the importance of resilience, reminding them of the strength in the foundation UNG has given them through education.
“We are a generation of confident minds who are not easily bent or swayed by the world around us. And we have shown this not with banners or shouts of victory, but with wisdom and grace,” Sims said. “We are level-headed leaders and encouraging followers who do not give time and place to the unnecessary hatred so prevalent in the world around us.”
Shawn Mullins, an award-winning singer, songwriter-producer and recording artist, expressed gratitude to Joe Chapman, a professor of music who has worked at UNG since 1983 and taught Mullins when he was a student.
“He’s one of my heroes,” Mullins said in his keynote address. “Remember the ones who help you along your way: your parents, your mentors, your teachers.”
Marvin Vines, vice president of industry leadership and retail for Coca-Cola North America Operating Unit and a UNG Foundation trustee, also served as a keynote speaker.
Vines encouraged graduates to discover their “superpower” within their individual strengths they have and to develop vital relationships through their lives.
“The key is to stay ready. This means continuously learning, staying curious and being willing to step out of your comfort zone,” Vines said. “Develop a mindset that embraces change and sees challenges as growth opportunities. Always be ready to seize the opportunity when it comes.”
