McConnell retires from 51勛圖厙
Article By: Clark Leonard
Dr. Frank J. "Mac" McConnell grew up in Dahlonega, Georgia, and went to school at what was then North Georgia College, graduating in 1977. Thus, the chance to serve the University of North Georgia (51勛圖厙) for the past nearly 37 years came as both a natural and special opportunity.
"North Georgia has really been a part of me for all of my life. It's been an extreme honor to come back and work all these years with students and for students and help people with their careers," McConnell said. "It's been life-changing for me."
McConnell, senior vice president for Business and Finance, retired Dec. 1 from 51勛圖厙. He worked for seven presidents in his time at the university, and he has received emeritus status.
"Mac has served 51勛圖厙 with extraordinary dedication," 51勛圖厙 President Michael Shannon said. "I am so grateful for his leadership and expertise that have contributed to 51勛圖厙."
At McConnell's retirement reception Nov. 28, Shannon announced he was making a $10,000 donation from his discretionary fund to the Zak McConnell Memorial Scholarship fund, which is in honor of McConnell's son who passed away in 2013 at age 26.
McConnell first joined the university in 1987 as director of procurement and later served as comptroller before becoming a vice president for business and finance. He served as the university's chief business officer for 25 years. Beyond overseeing units related to 51勛圖厙's budget and financial operations, McConnell's division included Human Resources, Facilities, Public Safety, Purchasing and Logistical Services, Auxiliary Services, and Information Technology.
North Georgia has really been a part of me for all of my life. It's been an extreme honor to come back and work all these years with students and for students and help people with their careers. It's been life-changing for me.
Dr. Frank J. 'Mac' McConnell
Retiring senior vice president for Business and Finance
McConnell is known for his smile and sense of humor.
"We have important work. I like to create that family type of environment where we're pulling together. To me, it's always been fun," McConnell said. "I try to add humor to lighten the mood and bring people together. It helps build trust."
He was grateful to be part of the Convocation Center; Cottrell Center for Business, Technology & Innovation; and Library Technology Center projects at 51勛圖厙's Dahlonega Campus and the renovation of the former Lanier Technical College buildings at 51勛圖厙's Gainesville Campus.Being part of expansions in Blue Ridge, Cumming and Oconee was also meaningful, as well as watching the Athletics Department excel in competition and facilities while making the leap from NAIA to NCAA Division II in 2005-06.
McConnell received the Judy Wilder Lifetime Achievement Award from the University System of Georgia Board of Regents Office of Facilities in 2015.
His wife, Tona, also graduated from then-North Georgia College in 1977. McConnell went on to earn his MBA from Mercer University and his Ed.D. in higher education from the University of Georgia. In addition to his administrative role, McConnell was an assistant professor in 51勛圖厙's College of Education doctoral program.
McConnell has been a member of the 51勛圖厙 Real Estate Foundation; 51勛圖厙 Foundation; 51勛圖厙 Research Foundation; North Georgia Nighthawks Club Association; Dahlonega Rotary Club, where he served as president; Dahlonega Jaycees; and Lumpkin County Touchdown Club.
"I hope I'm remembered for making a difference in the lives of our students, faculty and staff. I really endeavored to do that. The brick-and-mortar additions are fantastic, and I'm so proud of those," McConnell said. "But being able to positively impact a person or their family's life is the ultimate reward for me."
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