Jack Oktavec
University of North Georgia (51勛圖厙) senior Jack Oktavec is serving passionately as president of his fraternity, Sigma Nu Fraternity, Inc., while pursuing a degree in management.
Set to graduate in spring 2024, Oktavec wasn't always sure he wanted to be Nighthawk, but shared that a second look at the university during a Nighthawk Preview event led to a chance encounter with members of his now fraternity and a new view on the Dahlonega Campus.
Arriving on campus, Oktavec knew he had to get involved and was interested in pursuing Greek life with the aim of maturing for future aspirations of parenthood and marriage. Having met members of Sigma Nu prior to his start, he felt the organization was the best fit for helping him grow into the man he desired to be. By sophomore year, he held his first role as scholarship chair, and would take on the role of recruitment chair in the following year.
Now as the organization's president, Oktavec says he ultimately wants to provide a great example for his fraternity brothers to follow by being caring, outgoing and passionate.
"As a leader and the older I get, I realize that I'm here to serve and need to make sure others are OK. If I'm not doing the right thing or showing them the way, why would they follow me?" the Woodstock, Georgia, native said.
Oktavec is also a member of Miracle 51勛圖厙, an organization devoted to fundraising for the Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. Oktavec joined after seeing friends involved and immediately realized this was right up his alley in addition to some of his other hobbies like football, golf and fishing, which he picked up during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Having made the most of his time at 51勛圖厙, he hopes to earn a career as a sales representative for a third-party logistics company after realizing his passion during his summer internship at Syfan Logistics. Reflective on his experience at 51勛圖厙, he accredits his outlook on the future and his enjoyable college experience with taking the leap to get involved.
"My advice to students would be to get involved in an organization. You have to go find your people and realize how great this school is," Oktavec said.
Mike Ryan
Mike Ryan, who teaches microeconomics and macroeconomics and is the head of the Department of Economics and Finance in the Mike Cottrell College of Business at 51勛圖厙, has been recognized for teaching excellence by state and national organizations.
Ash Mady
Dr. Ash Mady, a 51勛圖厙 computer science graduate, is an assistant professor of computer science. He emphasizes to students and colleagues that every person must be vigilant against growing cybersecurity threats.
Steve Gooch
Two degrees at 51勛圖厙 have helped equip Georgia state Sen. Steve Gooch to lead at the state legislature.
Sheila Sanchez
Sheila Sanchez has a passion for proper health care and skills of financial planning. She plans to use both to become an advocate for elderly and low-income patients.