Just about any student or alumnus of Georgia Gwinnett College (GGC) will tell you how supported they felt during their academic journey. Now, that commitment to student success is being strengthened even further.
The U.S. Department of Education’s TRIO Student Support Services program has awarded GGC a five-year, $1.36 million grant to expand and enhance its student support initiatives.
Dr. Justin Jernigan, interim associate provost for academic programs and associate professor of linguistics, says, “This grant recognizes GGC’s commitment to the success of our students. We’ve taken the first steps to hire a director and support staff who will be dedicated to recruiting students for the program.”
In addition to funding staff positions, the TRIO grant will support students who are financially disadvantaged, are served by Disability Services or are the first in their family to attend college.
Jernigan adds: “We will have the extra support and systems in place so that these students succeed academically despite challenges they may face. Our goal is for them to be successful throughout their studies and ultimately graduate.”
One initiative designed to help students persist and thrive is Grizzly Peers for Success, a peer mentorship program that connects successful upper-level students with first-year students. This program connects students who have already navigated college successfully with those who are just beginning their journey.
For the students served by TRIO, the grant represents more than funding.
Jernigan feels: “It means guidance, encouragement and a community that believes in their potential. Through expanded support services and peer connections, GGC is creating pathways for students to overcome barriers, stay on track and reach graduation with confidence.”
Peachtree Corners releases 2025 State of City video
The City of Peachtree Corners has released its 2025 State of the City video, providing residents, businesses, and community partners with a comprehensive update on the City’s accomplishments, services, and priorities for the future. Presented by Mayor Mike Mason, the annual video highlights how strategic planning, technology, and community engagement continue to shape one of metro Atlanta’s most innovative cities.
- Watch the full video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HE3nTpj1yjw
Jackson EMC recognized Right Choice homebuilders
Jackson EMC recently recognized local builders and industry partners who are raising the standard for energy-efficient homes built through the cooperative’s Right Choice homes program. For more than 20 years, Right Choice homes built in Jackson EMC’s service area have been delivering comfort and energy savings to benefit members.
New homes built through the Right Choice program meet higher construction and energy efficiency performance standards. Each home undergoes inspections and testing to verify that heating and cooling systems, insulation levels and overall air sealing in the home meets program requirements. Right Choice homes also receive Jackson EMC’s lowest residential electric rate, which provides long-term energy savings for members.
The following list of winners includes the location where they are currently building Right Choice homes.
The Contractor of the Year awards honors contractors in their industry who have played a vital role to support Right Choice homebuilders:
- Keith Porter Insulation and Fireplace, insulation contractor of the year (Barrow, Gwinnett, Hall and Jackson counties);
- Stuart Pro Heating and Air, HVAC contractor of the year (Barrow, Clarke, Gwinnett, Hall and Jackson counties).
The Community Spotlight Award honors Right Choice builders whose dedication to energy efficient construction has a tremendous impact on the Jackson EMC community. The Community Spotlight Awards went to:
- Century Communities (Hall, Gwinnett and Jackson counties)
- Chafin Builders (Barrow, Gwinnett, Hall and Jackson counties)
- DRB Homes (Gwinnett County)
- D.R. Horton West (Hall and Jackson counties)
- O’Dwyer Properties (Gwinnett County)
- Pulte Group (Gwinnett and Hall counties)
- Richardson Housing Group (Gwinnett County)
For more information about Jackson EMC’s Right Choice homes program, visit jacksonemc.com/rightchoice.
