Dalton State: Transforming lives and partnering for success 

As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, I find myself reflecting on my first year as President of Dalton State College and everything we have accomplished together. From noteworthy regional and national rankings to a record-breaking Giving Day and a new strategic plan, it has been a truly remarkable year. 

My first impressions were that our campus is staffed by a seasoned group of scholars committed to student success and that we enjoy strong ties with the local community. I was impressed by the level of community support and how valued the college is by Dalton and Northwest Georgia. It was clear from the start that Dalton State is a special place, and, together, we are building on our strengths while achieving new levels of success. 

Being named No. 1 in the South and No. 2 in the nation as the college most highly recommended by students and recent alumni in The Wall Street Journal/College Pulse 2025 Best Colleges ranking for the second consecutive year was not just a testament to our hard work, but a moment of immense pride for our entire community. The publication also ranked us among the top 10% best colleges in the nation for Student Experience. Regionally, Dalton State ranked No. 1 in Georgia and Tennessee (tie) in the U.S. News and World Report 2025 Top Public Colleges in the South. 

Perhaps most impressive is that we are able to provide a high-quality education and robust student experience at a very affordable price, ensuring access to a college education and the opportunities that follow. With tuition and fees for a full-time student at Dalton State less than $2,000 per semester and scholarships and financial support provided through the Dalton State Foundation, our net price makes us No. 1 in Georgia and No. 52 for affordability among public four-year colleges.

Initiatives like Giving Day, which raised a record-breaking $307,000 and had more participation than ever this year, are vital to our success. In addition to scholarships, these funds provide support for experiential learning opportunities, the Roadrunner Student Emergency Fund, a laptop loan program for students, and more.

I am proud of all we have accomplished this year but also excited about our future. Over the past few months, we have created a new strategic plan for Dalton State – Vision 2050. We began by bringing together many of the region’s exceptional leaders from manufacturing, healthcare, education, business, economic development, and non-profit organizations for two days of intense discussions about how Dalton State can serve as a catalyst for opportunity and success for our students and the region. 

From there, we have defined three strategic priorities that center on developing the education for the next generation, delivering an unparalleled student experience, and strategic partnerships that will enhance student success and our community impact. Vision 2050 will launch in November, and it is already fueling tremendous promise for our future. 

As an example, to further bolster our students’ education, we are developing a distinctive “Roadrunner Experience” – a collection of academic and developmental experiences to equip Dalton State graduates to successfully compete in the job market, excel in their careers, and contribute to their communities. 

After a year of being immersed on this campus and in our community, my first impressions of the Dalton State community have been proven beyond measure, and I look forward to the amazing things we will accomplish together in the the future. I also will share that my spouse, Sherie, and our children have immensely enjoyed becoming a part of this community and look forward to many years to come.

We are the Roadrunner Nation!