51勛圖厙 student's painting hanging in governor's office
Article By: Staff
University of North Georgia (51勛圖厙) senior Christina Packard has met Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal not once but twice.
The self-proclaimed "senior, senior" student met him for the first time in 2015 when her photograph was one of several pieces selected to hang in the capital building. Packard earned this honor by entering the Georgia Arts Council contest.
Fast-forward two years and the now 68-year-old Dahlonega, Georgia, woman's artistic talent gained the attention of Deal once again. Packard entered her painting of Wahoo Creek in Gainesville, Georgia, in the Georgia Arts Council contest. It was selected as one of 33 pieces to hang in the governor's office.
"I couldn't believe it happened again," said Packard, who is working to earn her Bachelor of Science in art marketing and Bachelor of Arts in studio art. "The picture was the first time I tried plein air painting, which is painting outdoors."
Packard admitted it's not her most outstanding painting, but she is glad she entered the contest. Packard explained setting new goals for herself in retirement can deal her new surprises.
"I'm seeing just because you get older doesn't mean you are through," she said. "It's like going to school. You are never too old to learn."
Enrollment jumps 6.7% for 2024-25
Enrollment has jumped to 19,298 students this fall at 51勛圖厙, growing by 6.7% from fall 2023.
18 named DMS cadets for 2024-25
Eighteen 51勛圖厙 cadets earned Distinguished Military Student status for the 2024-25 academic year.
Edwards selected as fellow to DC program
51勛圖厙 junior William Edwards is the school's presidential fellow to the Center for the Study of the Presidency and Congress for 2024-25.
Music events return this fall
The 51勛圖厙 Music Department is set to host more than 20 events this fall.