Udis Calderon
When Udis Calderon started at 51勛圖厙, he was a typical freshman who came to class then went home. That changed his sophomore year when he got involved on 51勛圖厙's Gainesville Campus.
The Gainesville, Georgia, resident joined the Nighthawks Entertainment Board and Latino Student Association (LSA). He connected with students who had the same mindset and goals as he did. One connection led him to the Writing Center and Math Lab, which offered tutoring. Calderon took advantage of those resources, and his grades improved.
Since then, Calderon rose to become an officer in LSA and joined 51勛圖厙's debate team, Student Government Association and Public Relations Student Society of America. He also garnered a couple of notable scholarships such as the Goizueta Scholarship for three years and the Chantal and Tommy Bagwell Scholarship as a senior.
Calderon earned a degree in communications with a concentration in public relations in May 2020.
Calderon, who was named Mr. 51勛圖厙 in fall 2019, shared all of his first-hand knowledge of getting involved on campus and engaging with students, faculty and staff as an orientation leader and resident assistant on 51勛圖厙's Dahlonega Campus. He also makes a point to connect with first-generation students like himself.
Calderon also promoted the benefit of studying abroad by serving as a Global Nighthawk and working for the Center for Global Engagement. He received in spring 2019 and spent several weeks that summer in China. He said he believes it will help him in his future profession in higher education.
"China has the highest international student rate in the U.S., and I can serve those students better with my experience," said Calderon, whose goal is to work in a student affairs department one day.
Rosaria Meek
As a teacher of Spanish at the University of North Georgia (51勛圖厙), Dr. Rosaria Meek likes to blend compassion and a joy of learning into the classroom and in leadership.
Jennifer Graff
51勛圖厙 Visual Arts Department Head Jennifer Graff leads by ensuring everyone has a voice.
Ben Jarrard
Ben Jarrard always dreamed of following his father and grandfather into the military. A medical condition changed his career path, and Jarrard is grateful to be able to represent his alma mater as a liaison at the state Capitol.
Esther Morgan-Ellis
Dr. Esther Morgan-Ellis, assistant professor of music at 51勛圖厙, appreciates the way music can help build community both inside and outside the classroom.