*Note: The following guest blog was written by Colton Newport, a sophomore business management major and student worker in the Office of Marketing and Communications.
2021 can be a hard year to look back on, but times of great distress often bloom some of the most amazing moments we could ever dream of, and Dalton State is no exception. We’ve truly had the privilege of seeing so many young adults reach their goals this past year. We know perseverance serves to employ innovative ideas for the future generation.
Opening Doors at the Wright School of Business
Wright School of Business majors now have a better way to transition to master’s programs at Clayton State University and the University of North Alabama. These programs facilitate career advancement and scholarships are available. Also, Business students will now have another opportunity to increase their global knowledge due to an agreement between the Wright School of Business and the Instituto de Estudios Superiores de Administracion (IESA). The agreement gives students access to various webinars and additional study abroad in Latin American countries.
Nursing Students Gain Experience Offering COVID-19 Vaccines
Professors are great at educating their students in the classroom. Hands-on experience, especially helping save lives, enriches in-class learning. Dalton State Nursing students rushed to a call for help by administering vaccines to the communities of Whitfield and Murray counties. In one of the biggest threats our generation has ever faced, we are proud Dalton State students are more than capable to rise up and assist when our community is in need.
Collaborating to Advance STEM Education
Dr. John Lugthart leads amazing efforts in the conservation and preservation of our beautiful forest life and is an inspiration to hundreds of students. We were glad to see him named the Shaw Industries Chair in STEM at Dalton State. Shaw Industries is a longstanding partner of the college and Dr. Lugthart is a fitting recipient of this prestigious honor.
Remembering the Great Tony Ingle
Tony Ingle’s passing was remembered with the naming of Tony Ingle Parkway and the creation of a scholarship dedicated to helping students in need. Tony Ingle held a truly special place in the hearts of Dalton State students. Franklin Almonte, a Dalton High School graduate who has faced similar struggles as Ingle, was the first recipient of the Tony Ingle Memorial Scholarship.
Men’s Golf Team Wins 2021 National Championship
2021 was a big year for the Dalton State Men’s Golf team. Ben Rebne sinking the 20-foot put to secure the 2021 national championship is an iconic moment for Dalton State sports. Steve Kibare, Trevor Bassett, Matthew Cleary and Joshua Stern all played their hearts out that day and we could not be prouder. They, of course, could not have done it without the amazing Coach Ben Rickett who guided them all the way to the top.
Stats Prove Dalton State Graduates Earn More in Their Careers.
A study done by Selig Center for Economic Growth at the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business last year showed Dalton State graduates earn, on average, more than a million dollars more in their lifetime than those with a high school diploma alone. It’s clear hard work, dedication and the opportunities at Dalton State create lifelong financial opportunity.
Giving Day at Dalton State
Last year’s Giving Day was a tremendous success with donors investing a total of $252,684! Most of this money benefits Dalton State students presently while other gifts for endowments will ensure support in the years to come. All donations demonstrate confidence in Dalton State and we thank each and every donor.
New Grant helps STEM Students Rise
A federal grant of $4.2 million dollars creates fabulous opportunities for Dalton State STEM students. This grant was achieved due to Dalton State’s remarkable diversity and potential. The grant is designed to help many students by offering new experiences within the course itself and shine a new light on all the stellar programs offered here at Dalton State.
Dalton State Ranked Nationally for Contribution to Public Good
Last year, Washington Monthly ranked Dalton State No. 77 out of 244 bachelor’s colleges in the nation. Dalton State was also ranked in the top third colleges and universities in the Southeast and listed on the “Best Colleges for Student Voting Honor Roll.” With the combination of great students and phenomenal staff, it’s no surprise we’re being recognized on a national level.