Georgia Gwinnett College (GGC) continues to lead the way in preparing the next generation of skilled, compassionate nurses. GGC’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program has once again proven itself among the best in the state – and the nation – with an impressive 95 percent four-year average pass rate on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) for first-time test takers.
That performance far exceeds both the national average of 87 percent and the Georgia state average of 87 percent, according to the latest data from the Georgia Board of Nursing. In 2024 alone, GGC achieved a 100 percent first-time pass rate – solidifying its place as a top-tier nursing education provider.
Dr. Paula Gordon, interim dean of the School of Health Sciences and associate professor of nursing, says: “This outstanding achievement reflects the dedication, perseverance and excellence of our students. Our graduates rise to the challenge, mastering the complex knowledge and hands-on skills that define exceptional nursing care.”
Gordon also credits GGC’s faculty for the program’s continued success.
“Our faculty are not just educators – they are experienced practitioners who bring real-world knowledge into every lecture and lab. Their passion for the profession and student-centered teaching is what truly sets our program apart,” she said.
At GGC, nursing students don’t just study theory – they live it. From mastering foundational clinical skills to training in advanced simulation labs, students engage in immersive, hands-on experiences that prepare them for every facet of modern nursing in real-world settings.
And the results speak for themselves: 100 percent job placement for GGC nursing graduates.
Gordon adds: “We’ve built a tradition of excellence in our nursing program.We’ve recently expanded our enrollment by 40% to help meet the demand for more BSN-level nurses in the workforce.
Peachtree Corners launches its own merchandise store
The City of Peachtree Corners has launched its official online merchandise store through a new pilot partnership with local marketing production company Vox-Pop-Uli. This initiative offers residents and visitors a curated collection of city-branded merchandise while supporting public spaces and community programs.
A portion of all merchandise sales directly benefits the City of Peachtree Corners. These funds will be used to support the continued expansion, upkeep, and enhancement of Town Green amenities, as well as the city’s event programming. This includes improvements to public gathering spaces, expanded offerings at community events, and long-term investments in civic experiences that bring residents together.
The merchandise collection debuted on May 10 with a pop-up shop at the Town Green, coinciding with the city’s concert series kickoff. The event featured a variety of items, including concert-themed apparel, limited-edition collectibles, and Mother’s Day gift selections. Shop the collection at https://peachtreecornersmerch.com/.
Former GGC outfielder signs with Minnesota Twins
Former Georgia Gwinnett College baseball standout and NAIA Player of the Year Blaze O’Saben is off to a successful start in his professional career, being picked up to play within Major League Baseball’s Minnesota Twins organization. The outfielder has been assigned to play with the Twins’ Class-A affiliate Fort Myers Mighty Mussels in Florida.
O’Saben started his professional career playing with the Florence Y’alls of the independent Frontier League. In the first nine games of this spring season, he had a .438 batting average and successfully stole 10 bases.The strong statistics caught the attention of scouts within the Twins organization.
O’Saben was named the NAIA’s 2024 Baseball Player of the Year after becoming the first player in collegiate baseball history to hit at least 10 home runs, 10 triples, 10 doubles, and steal 50 bases.
He also posted a .415 career batting average, behind 241 hits, and scored 216 runs while driving in an additional 165 runs during his three seasons in Lawrenceville.
Georgia Gwinnett College baseball has had nine former players drafted by MLB organizations and O’Saben becomes the sixth Grizzly to sign a free agent contract.
GGC baseball’s Grizzlies advanced to the semifinal round of the 2025 Avista NAIA World Series and finished the season with a 56-7 record and No. 2 ranking in the final NAIA Top 25 poll of the regular season.
Rowen Foundation adds Baisiwala to board
The Rowen Foundation has named a new director, Ambrish Baisiwala, chairman and CEO of Portman Holdings, to its board. Baisiwala brings more than 30 years of global experience in real estate and international business to the foundation.
Rowen President and CEO Mason Ailstock says:. “His insights, relationships and expertise will accelerate Rowen’s growth as we engage with prospective companies and begin vertical development.”
Baisiwala has held leadership roles in international real estate development and portfolio management across the U.S., China, India, the Middle East, Southeast Asia and Australia.He has led Portman Holdings, an Atlanta-based real estate investment, development, and management firm, for more than 15 years.
Weekend shooting in Snellville means more security
Two incidents involving gunfire took place at T.W. Briscoe Park in
Snellville over the weekend of May 29-June 1. The events are unrelated and the City of Snellville is working to immediately increase security measures at the park.
Saturday evening five teenagers ranging in age from 14 to 17 were injured by gunfire resulting from a large gathering of teens. All of the injured are in stable condition and Snellville police have several persons of interest in the case.
A second incident occurred Sunday afternoon as a result of a domestic dispute. One person was shot and is in stable condition. Investigators are following up on leads regarding the case.
Mayor Barbara Bender issued a statement saying: “These isolated incidents are extremely concerning and will not be tolerated. Be assured, T.W. Briscoe Park is and will remain a safe place for visitors to enjoy.”
