On March 8, the Polk County Visioning Committee, with the assistance and guidance of the Fanning Institute team, adopted a new vision, mission, guiding principles, and goals related to leadership, education, infrastructure/resources, and economic development to be developed over the next three years. The Development Authority of Polk County signed a contract with Fanning in April 2011 to lead the county through a strategic plan.

To find out more: Fanning Institute

To find out more: Marine Extension Service

The Vinson Institute signed a contract in March with the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) to study the economic impact of MARTA on the area. The study, scheduled for completion in June, will address the extent to which operation of the public transportation system affects labor market mobility. The Vinson Institute’s Wes Clarke will utilize data from the U.S. Department of Commerce, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and the Bureau of Economic Analysis in addition to responses collected by MARTA’s rider survey to estimate the transit system’s impact. The Vinson Institute conducted a similar study for MARTA in 2007.

To find out more: Carl Vinson Institute of Government

More than 500 officials recently elected to city governments across the state participated in Vinson Institute training in Tifton March 2–3 and in Athens February 17–18. The Newly Elected Officials Institutes were cosponsored by the Georgia Municipal Association and the Vinson Institute and featured courses focused on building skills and knowledge as well as opportunities to network and learn about local government resources.

To find out more: Carl Vinson Institute of Government

Through a contract finalized with Georgia Sea Grant on March 15 and another with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) National Sea Grant Program on March 27, the Vinson Institute’s Environmental Policy Program will educate coastal communities about the potential effects of sea level rise and help them incorporate these considerations into their community and emergency preparedness planning. For the two-year Georgia Sea Grant project, environmental faculty will collaborate with Institute demography and geographic information systems technology experts to predict which areas will likely experience future growth and anticipate which properties will encounter increased risk from sea level rise as well as the dollar amount for potential lost property values at the regional level. The second project is a partnership between the City of Tybee Island, the Vinson Institute, Georgia Sea Grant, and the Coastal Resources Division of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources to develop a detailed climate adaptation plan for the Tybee barrier island. NOAA expects this project to serve as a model for advanced adaptation planning and implementation for other coastal communities of Georgia, of the southeast region, and across the nation. 67698703 67698713 67698715;} @list l0:level1 {mso-level-tab-stop:none; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in;} @list l0:level2 {mso-level-number-format:alpha-lower; mso-level-tab-stop:none; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in;} @list l0:level3 {mso-level-number-format:roman-lower; mso-level-tab-stop:none; mso-level-number-position:right; text-indent:-9.0pt;} @list l0:level4 {mso-level-tab-stop:none; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in;} @list l0:level5 {mso-level-number-format:alpha-lower; mso-level-tab-stop:none; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in;} @list l0:level6 {mso-level-number-format:roman-lower; mso-level-tab-stop:none; mso-level-number-position:right; text-indent:-9.0pt;} @list l0:level7 {mso-level-tab-stop:none; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in;} @list l0:level8 {mso-level-number-format:alpha-lower; mso-level-tab-stop:none; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in;} @list l0:level9 {mso-level-number-format:roman-lower; mso-level-tab-stop:none; mso-level-number-position:right; text-indent:-9.0pt;} ol {margin-bottom:0in;} u

To find out more: Carl Vinson Institute of Government

On March 1, SBDC cohosted an event with Google at the High Museum in Atlanta to introduce small business owners to a program offering free Web site development and hosting by Google and Intuit. Approximately 1,000 participants registered, and several SBDC staff served as instructors and exhibitors. This event is one of several that SBDC has been involved in over the past year at the request of Google in partnership with the national Association of SBDCs. 

To find out more: Georgia Get Your Business Online | Archway Partnership

The Pulaski County Archway Partnership Executive Committee coordinated training for UGA Fanning Institute–certified facilitators at the Sam Way Learning Center on February 7 and 14. Sixteen participants registered for the class. Members of the leadership organizations Ocmulgee Order and Pulaski Tomorrow joined the Archway Partnership Steering Committee. This joint effort represents a merging of community groups and a significant advance in community unity. The steering committee plans to commence a visioning process to help determine future work plans.

To find out more: Archway Partnership

On February 29, the Vinson Institute launched GOV360™, the first 360-degree assessment tool designed specifically for government managers. The tool gives them insights into their leadership performance based on feedback from raters and helps them set professional development goals. The launch marks the culmination of a multiyear partnership with faculty from UGA’s Department of Psychology. The Vinson Institute hopes to expand its market nationally and internationally.

To find out more: Carl Vinson Institute of Government

The Vinson Institute signed a contract with the Texas State Library and Archives Commission on February 12 to provide financial management and leadership training to seven “small libraries” throughout the state of Texas. Institute training faculty will travel to sites in Texas beginning in February to conduct the two-day workshops with the goal of giving these library locations access to the knowledge and resources needed to be efficient, well-run organizations. The first day of each workshop will focus on management. Day two will concentrate on financial aspects.

To find out more: Carl Vinson Institute of Government

The SBDC is sponsoring a technology company development program at Emory University in collaboration with the university’s technology transfer program and the UGA Office of Vice President for Research. The program commenced in February and will run for five weeks. It is the second of its kind using the Kauffman Foundation’s FastTrac® TechVenture™ curriculum. It is funded under the federal Small Business Jobs Act. The first program was completed at UGA in fall 2011. Cem Oruc, SBDC Director of Commercialization Services, is coordinating.

To find out more: Small Business Development Center

On February 1, Fanning client Liberty Regional Medical Center (LMRC) was named 2012 Business of the Year for businesses with more than 35 employees by the Liberty County Chamber of Commerce. Skip Teaster and the Fanning team designed, developed, and assisted the client in implementing a planning process that saved 450 jobs and helped return a positive cash flow with funds applied to reserves. LRMC has 525 employees and is the fourth-largest employer in Liberty County. LRMC is planning an $8 million to $12 million renovation-expansion process in 2013.

To find out more: Fanning Institute

On February 12, the first class of the Athens Peer Court (APC) graduated. A collaboration among Fanning, the Athens–Clarke County Juvenile Court, and UGA Law, the APC is intended to promote behavioral change and reduce recidivism among first-time youth offenders. Youth volunteers receive training on the legal system, restorative justice, and leadership skills to serve as role models and mentors. Thirteen students from local high schools completed 14 hours of training, culminating in a mock hearing demonstration for families. The volunteers learned how to interview a client, conduct a direct examination, and write and deliver opening and closing statements. Emily Boness facilitated the graduation.

To find out more: Fanning Institute

End-of-year statistics for 2011 were reported: 197,000 people visited the Garden, a 5 percent increase over an average of 188,000 visitors. Much of the increase came in the final quarter (41,000 people compared with an average of 34,000—a 20 percent increase).

To find out more: The State Botanical Garden of Georgia

1.    The mayor of Athens–Clarke County announced January 19 that the Vinson Institute will play a leading role in the development of an economic development strategic plan for the community. The Institute will facilitate meetings of the new 27-member economic development task force to be led by former state Labor Commissioner Michael Thurmond. The task force will include residents, business owners, education leaders, and representatives from health care providers and local nonprofit organizations. The Institute will facilitate public input meetings during the strategic plan development process and will produce the final report.

To find out more: Carl Vinson Institute of Government

On  January 13, 2012, MAREX faculty John Crawford led a group of visiting marine scientists to Wassaw Island National Wildlife Refuge near Savannah aboard the RV Sea Dawg. Crawford coordinated with Dr. Jens C. Nejstgaard of the Skidaway Institute of Oceanography and the MESOAQUA group from the University of Bergen, Norway. MESOAQUA projects study changes in aquatic ecosystems from the Arctic to the Mediterranean.

To find out more: Marine Extension Service

The Vinson Institute’s Betty Hudson met with local legislators from the Macon–Bibb County area December 1 to discuss the findings of an Institute study exploring the experiences of Georgia’s three largest consolidated governments—Columbus–Muscogee Augusta–Richmond, and Athens–Clarke. The nonprofit organization New Town Macon had funded the study, which provides a behind-the-scenes view of why the communities pursued consolidation and their experiences during and after the process. The legislative delegation is expected to submit a consolidation charter to the General Assembly in January 2012 for a possible referendum on consolidation in November.

To find out more: Carl Vinson Institute of Government

The Vinson Institute’s local government services unit submitted its final report concerning the effects of census counts of deployed military personnel to the Liberty Consolidated Planning Commission on December 7. The commission had asked the Vinson Institute to examine the impact of the Census Bureau’s counting rules due to concerns of undercounts of the 13,000 military personnel deployed from Fort Stewart. The Vinson Institute report addressed the potential impact that the policy of attributing personnel to state population but not local jurisdiction populations has on reapportionment and funding in areas such as transportation or housing.

To find out more: Carl Vinson Institute of Government

In December, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation awarded a $59,786 grant to the State Botanical Garden Research Department to support restoration of quality bird habitat on the Garden’s floodplain and along the power line. This grant is provided through the Southern Company Power of Flight program and augments recent grants from the Institute of Museum and Library Services and U.S. Forest Service. A goal of the program is to generate a set of recommendations for floodplain restoration for landowners and land managers who wish to address habitat devastation caused by Chinese privet.

To find out more: The State Botanical Garden of Georgia

Georgia Power Company notified the SBDC in December that the company will provide a $40,000 sponsorship and $10,000 in participant scholarships to support the SBDC’s new GrowSmart™ program. This is a multi-session training program targeted at businesses that are poised to expand their sales and employment. It is a successor to the Kauffman Foundation’s FastTrac® GrowthVenture™ program, which the SBDC has offered for the past 12 years.

To find out more: Small Business Development Center

1.     The Vinson Institute and the Fanning Institute finalized plans to jointly provide mediation services for local governments that are undergoing the potentially contentious process of renegotiating distribution of the local option sales tax (LOST). Work began with Douglas County and the City of Douglasville on December 15. Through the Vinson-Fanning project, cities and counties will have access to experienced, impartial mediators who are well versed in the intricacies of legal aspects of LOST.

To find out more: Fanning Institute | Fanning Institute

       The Vinson Institute was notified on December 16 that it has been selected to lead the strategic planning process for the Alliance for Education Agency Heads (AEAH) in the first quarter of 2012. The Vinson Institute will facilitate a series of retreats for AEAH members and staff that will include needs assessments, visioning, and planning with the ultimate goal of strengthening interagency collaboration and aligning agency activities with the governor’s education and competitiveness initiatives.

To find out more: Carl Vinson Institute of Government

From October 15 to November 12, 2011 (five Saturdays) a Spanish/English Medical Interpreter Program is being conducted at the University of Georgia Gwinnett Campus. This 40-hour (continuing education unit award) certificate program prepares bilingual professionals with the theoretic, linguistic and procedural training necessary to comply with the Medical Interpreting Standards of Practice.

To find out more: Georgia Center |

On October 31, 2011, Governor Nathan Deal and Vinson Institute faculty members attended kickoff event for the Georgia Council for the Arts strategic planning process. The Georgia Department of Economic Development asked the Vinson Institute to contribute to the development of the council’s new strategic plan, which will serve as its guide through the next decade. The Vinson Institute will develop the procedures for gathering public input for the plan and facilitate two of the public input sessions as well as a meeting of the council’s board. Vinson Institute faculty members will also help write the final plan after receiving public and stakeholder feedback. The strategic plan will describe the council’s updated mission and its goals for arts education, traditional arts, arts organizations, artist support, and grants.

To find out more: Carl Vinson Institute of Government

On October 24-27, 2011, a certificate in grant writing program was held for the first time at the Coastal Georgia Center in Savannah, Georgia. This 30-hour (continuing education unit award) certificate program included comprehensive modules on the fundamentals of nonprofit development, proposal process, writing skills, funding resources, and grant management.

To find out more: Georgia Center |

On October 26, 2011, Office of Service-Learning (OSL) Assistant Director Paul Matthews presented overviews of service-learning and resources for students to William Kisaalita’s First-Year Odyssey Seminar. In addition, the OSL held two special presentations of this seminar on October 20 and 24, 2011, at the Miller Learning Center as featured events for UGA's new First- Year Odyssey program.

To find out more: Office of Service-Learning

On October 24-26, 2011, the Georgia Leadership Institute for School Improvement (GLISI) held Leadership Summit 33 leadership training at the Evergreen Conference Center in Stone Mountain, Georgia. A total of 160 teacher leaders from the following counties attended and will continue developing their leadership capacity for leadership of system improvement: Athens-Clarke, Carroll, Coffee, Crisp, Griffin, Liberty, Macon, Mitchell, Monroe, Pulaski and Ware.

To find out more: Fanning Institute

On October 21-23, 2011, 100 educators gathered on Skidaway Island for “Celebrating Our Shared Shoreline,” the 2011 Joint Conference of the Georgia Association of Marine Educators and the South Carolina Marine Educators Association. Hosted by the Marine Extension Service, conference attendees participated in concurrent session, field trips, and keynote presentations related to coastal processes and environment.

To find out more: Marine Extension Service

On October 22, 2011, an article on UGA's Campus Kitchen Task Force was featured in the Athens Banner-Herald as an example of innovative campus-community partnerships addressing critical local issues such as food waste and insecurity. In October 2011, UGA Campus Kitchen delivered a total of 212 meals to 24 families with the help of 78 volunteer hours. Campus Kitchen is a national organization that seeks to reduce food waste and address food insecurity. The goal of UGA Campus Kitchen is to collect fresh and prepared food from various sources around the community, which would otherwise be wasted, and then use it to prepare nutritious meals that are distributed through programs of the Athens Community Council on Aging in order to alleviate senior hunger in the community. Sponsored by the Office of Service-Learning, UGA Campus Kitchen partners with the Athens Community Council on Aging, Talmage Terrace, the Georgia Center, and the Northeast Georgia Food Bank. UGA Campus Kitchen is the first chapter in Georgia and is the only Campus Kitchen branch nationally focused on alleviating and studying the problem of senior hunger.

To find out more: Office of Service-Learning

On October 19-20, 2011, plant conservation staff members hosted a statewide meeting of the Georgia Plant Conservation Alliance in Swainsboro, Georgia, where colleagues from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Forest Service, Georgia Power, and other higher education institutions from across the state gathered to report on plant conservation projects.

To find out more: The State Botanical Garden of Georgia

On October 19, 2011, the Office of Service-Learning (OSL) continued its fall workshop series with a two-hour session on Improving Student Learning Outcomes with Critical Reflection. Held at the OSL, this workshop introduced faculty members and graduate student attendees to best practices in implementing critical reflection in service-learning. The final workshop in this series will be held on November 9, 2011, and will focus on working effectively with community partners. Registration information is available on the OSL website.

To find out more: Office of Service-Learning

On October 14-15, 2011, Angela Bliss, representing the Marine Extension Service, presented on the Marine Extension Service’s previous work reporting and identifying invasive species at the Southeastern Association for Science Teacher Education (SASTE) Conference in Athens, Georgia. Session attendees included professors from the College of Charleston and College of Coastal Georgia along with high school teachers. The estimated 200 participants received the Marine Extension Service invasive species booklet, invasive species rack card sets, Adopt-a-Wetland saltmarsh posters, Vibrio rack cards, and brochures.

To find out more: Marine Extension Service

On October 15, 2011, the Marine Extension Service showcased the newly designed “Horseshoe Crab Discovery” as one of the many hands-on learning sessions for the public that took place during the annual Skidaway Marine Science Day. Designed to engage audiences of all ages and interests, the activity provided an opportunity for participants to learn about horseshoe crabs and their role in natural coastal systems. They held and touched live horseshoe crabs, counted the number of legs, determined male from female horseshoe crabs, looked for their book gills, and learned about their blue blood. In addition to learning horseshoe crab anatomy, participants walked away with a better understanding of the ecological and economic importance of horseshoe crabs living along Georgia’s coast.

To find out more: Marine Extension Service

On October 15, 2011, the 10th annual Skidaway Marine Science Day was held at the UGA Marine Education Center and Aquarium and surrounding campus. More than 2,000 people attended the four-hour public and family-oriented event, which was a collaborative effort among Skidaway Marine Science Campus partners ( UGA Marine Extension Service, Skidaway Institute of Oceanography, and Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary) with activities that included a lecture on sea turtles, coastal reptiles, a shark dissection, horseshoe and phytoplankton discovery labs, and behind-the-scenes aquarium tours.

To find out more: Marine Extension Service

On October 14, 2011, a group of Hart County Archway Executive Committee members met on the University of Georgia campus with faculty members from the UGA Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering. The group discussed possible avenues for partnership and collaboration between Hart County and faculty members and students in the various engineering majors. This is the first formal interaction between this program and an Archway Community.

To find out more: Archway Partnership

On October 13, 2011, 15 undergraduate students from the College of Coastal Georgia's Ecology 3300 class attended sustainable landscape and invasive plant presentations at the Marine Extension Service Brunswick Station and toured the on-site CoastScapes conservation landscaping demonstration garden.

To find out more: Marine Extension Service

On October 13, 2011, Washington County Archway Partnership Public Health Professional Laura Gillman coordinated a meeting at the Georgia Center for Continuing Education Conference Center and Hotel on the University of Georgia campus to connect Family and Consumer Science agents and students and faculty in the College of Public Health. The meeting was attended by 15 Family and Consumer Science agents and specialists. The goal of the meeting was to facilitate student internships with Family and Consumer Science agents and potential collaborations with the colleges.

To find out more: Archway Partnership

On October 11-12, 2011, the Fanning Institute facilitated the third immersion session of the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) Leadership Academy at the Fanning Institute.  The two-day event featured Quinn Hudson, Hudson Group principal, and Bucky Johnson, mayor of Norcross and chairman of the Atlanta Regional Round Table on Transportation. The ARC Leadership Academy will continue over the next eight months with independent work, guest speakers, and topical cohort brown discussions.

To find out more: Fanning Institute

On October 12, 2011, the Vinson Institute participated in the kickoff of the OneGeorgia Rural Policy Center and its policy-making arm, the Georgia Rural Development Council (GRDC). At the request of the Governor’s Office, the Vinson Institute will provide support for GRDC activities, which include creating policies to encourage development in the state’s rural areas. Vinson Institute facilitators will guide the GRDC through discussions and policy formulation and will help draft policy papers. The Vinson Institute will also assist in deploying the resources of the University System of Georgia (USG) by identifying and subcontracting with USG entities that can conduct research on rural development issues.

To find out more: Carl Vinson Institute of Government

On October 11, 2011, the Service-Learning Fellows monthly meeting was held and focused on effective strategies for student reflection (written, arts-based, and oral). The Fellows took part in sample reflective activities and applied specific models of critical reflection. Eight faculty members from across campus are participating in this year-long, competitive faculty development program and working to implement service-learning projects throughout the academic year.

To find out more: Office of Service-Learning

On October 11, 2011, the Vinson Institute and Seoul Municipal Government (SMG) signed a memorandum of understanding to formalize their partnership in training, assistance, and cultural exchange. The new partnership reinvigorates and expands the Vinson Institute's involvement in Korea through short- and long-term programs for high-ranking Seoul city officials to enhance their career enrichment and promote connections between South Korea and the United States. It will host select, high-ranking Seoul officials who will work at the Vinson Institute during yearlong internships. The agreement also designates the Vinson Institute as manager of all short-term training programs in the U.S.

To find out more: Carl Vinson Institute of Government

On Friday, October 7, 2011, Office of Service-Learning Director Shannon Wilder; Sarah Jackson, Campus Kitchen coordinator; and Nik Heynen, assistant professor of geography and former Service-Learning Fellow, spoke at the First Friday Eats program sponsored by the Office of Sustainability. They led a discussion about hunger in Athens and how initiatives such as Campus Kitchen and a geography service-learning course known as the Athens Urban Food Collective are striving to alleviate food insecurity. First Friday Eats occurs on the first Friday of each month and is a “green bag” bring your own lunch series, which focuses on different topics pertaining to sustainability in the community.

To find out more: Office of Service-Learning

On October 6, 2011, nearly three dozen leaders participated in the Camden County Economic Development Summit held in Kingsland, Georgia. Leaders representing the county, cities, and institutional partners engaged in a discussion about the future, and crafted a plan and framework to work as a team in making Camden County more attractive to business and industry. The discussion was facilitated by Joy Wilkins and Langford Holbrook of the Fanning Institute.

To find out more: Fanning Institute

On October 6, 2011, the Grady County Archway Partnership held a kick-off community listening session in Cairo, Georgia. Total attendance was 180 with approximately 20 percent of those in attendance from the Hispanic community - the best minority representation to date in an Archway Community.

To find out more: Archway Partnership

On October 5, 2011, some 25 faculty members, students, staff and community members attended the Fall Service-Learning with Latino Communities meeting. This session, held at the Fanning Institute in collaboration with public service associate Maritza Soto Keen and the Latino Interest Group, featured a community panel from partnering organizations for service to Latino communities, information sharing, and discussions on how better to prepare students to engage with Latino communities.

To find out more: Office of Service-Learning

Eight University of Georgia (UGA) faculty members gave presentations at the 12th annual National Outreach Scholarship Conference in East Lansing, Michigan, on October 2-4, 2011, on the campus of Michigan State University. UGA is one of 15 universities that supports the National Outreach Scholarship Conference Partnership, which is working “to build strong university-community partnerships anchored in the rigor of scholarship, and designed to help build community capacity.

To find out more: 2011 NOSC Presenters |

On October 1-4, 2011, Office of Service Learning Director Shannon Wilder and Assistant Director Paul Matthews presented and facilitated sessions at the National Outreach Scholarship Conference held at Michigan State University. Presentations featured an overview and evaluation of the OSL’s faculty development programs, as well as assessment of the Spring 2011 pilot of the Public Service and Outreach Student Scholars program.

To find out more: Office of Service-Learning

On October 2-3, 2011, 50 people participated in a design charrette in the Visitor Center. Advisory Board members, staff members, Friends of the Garden, and volunteers joined 24 students and faculty members from the UGA College of Environment and Design in planning and mapping new facilities that will form part of the new Master Plan for the Garden.

To find out more: The State Botanical Garden of Georgia

On October 3, 2011, David Mathis, who coordinates the Rural Medical Scholars program for Mercer University in Sandersville, Georgia, traveled to Hawkinsville, Georgia, for a meeting with Archway Partnership Executive Committee member Dan Maddock to talk about the program and tour the Taylor Regional Hospital facilities. The Pulaski County Archway Executive Committee has emphasized interest in finding ways to build a stronger relationship between Pulaski County and the Mercer University School of Medicine. The Mercer Rural Scholars program is one of the community health ideas being developed.

To find out more: Archway Partnership

In October 2011, the Archway Partnership worked with Taylor Regional Hospital in Pulaski County to create a Rural Medical Scholars partnership with Mercer School of Medicine. The program will be the second in the state and is patterned after the successful pilot program in Sandersville, Georgia, coordinated by Archway Partnership health professional Laura Gillman.

To find out more: Archway Partnership

In October 2011, data on the impact of the 2010-2011 Scholarship of Engagement Grants became available. The grant program was funded by the Office of the Vice President for Public Service and Outreach. The six grants, ranging from $4,610 to $8,000 and totaling $41,255, supported projects by academic faculty members who combined public service and outreach with teaching and research activities.

To find out more:

On September 24, 2011, approximately 1,000 people (50 percent children) attended Insectival. Displays, crafts, programs and puppetry informed and engaged the crowds in appreciating the diversity and ecology of insects and spiders. Hundreds of monarch butterflies were released at the Garden.

To find out more: The State Botanical Garden of Georgia

In October 2011, staff members John Maynard, Teresa Williams, and Roswell Lawrence began their participation in the University of Georgia Public Service and Outreach Leadership Academy.

To find out more: Small Business Development Center

In October 2011, staff member John Maynard was named Assistant State Director for Capital Acquisition. In this role he will be overseeing the Small Business Development Center’s response to the tight credit market for small business owners and enhancing efforts to help owners understand what is required to access debt and equity capital.

To find out more: Small Business Development Center

In October 2011, Beth Melnik, Assistant State Director for Organizational Effectiveness and Marketing, was named Vice Chair of the national accreditation committee for the Association of Small Business Development Centers/U.S. Small Business Administration. This committee oversees accreditation of Small Business Development Center programs on campuses in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and American Samoa.

To find out more: Small Business Development Center

In October 2011, the Public Service and Outreach Student Scholars meetings featured visits to the Botanical Gardens, the Small Business Development Center, and Marine Extension Service. PSO Scholars met with faculty members in these units and learned about their activities, programs, and history. The PSO Student Scholars are a competitively selected group of 10 undergraduates coordinated by the Office of Service-Learning and sponsored by the Office of the Vice President for Public Service and Outreach, who are exploring UGA's public service and outreach mission and will participate in a 150-hour internship in a public service unit during the Spring semester. On October 29-31, 2011, during UGA's Fall Break, the PSO Scholars also had a three-day visit to the Georgia coast, including meetings with the Washington County Archway Partnership professional, programming at the Marine Education Center and Aquarium on Skidaway Island, and volunteer and networking activities with the UGA Alumni Association for the Georgia-Florida Oyster Roast on Jekyll Island.

To find out more: Office of Service-Learning

During October 2011, the Marine Extension Service began several months of collaboration with Savannah College of Art and Design sculpture professor Edward Barbier whose exhibit of metal works marine invertebrates and landscapes opened to the public on October 15 at the UGA Marine Education Center and Aquarium. Dr. Barbier’s work includes larger than life, scientifically accurate, and touchable marine invertebrates. A five-foot long white shrimp, five-foot high hermit crab, and a two-foot wide blue crab are among the pieces being exhibited in the aquarium through December 2011.

To find out more: Marine Extension Service

The summer of 2011 brought a sub-adult female loggerhead sea turtle into the hands of the crew of the research vessel the Georgia Bulldog. Marine Extension Service Brunswick staff members caught the sick turtle in the Nassau Sound just north of Mayport, Florida, and arranged for her safe transportation to the Georgia Sea Turtle Center on Jekyll Island for rehabilitation. “Truck” was rescued and named for Georgia Bulldog crew member Herbert “Truck” McIver. After spending several months undergoing treatment at the center, Truck was released in October 2011 from the Jekyll beach. To track Truck’s movements, click HERE.

To find out more: Marine Extension Service

During October 2011, the research vessel Georgia Bulldog served as an at-sea educational platform for several community groups totaling 41 visitors aboard. Groups visiting the Georgia Bulldog learned about the working of a shrimp boat and that of a research vessel. Sample trawls were pulled, and students and guests learned to identify local coastal species. Groups included 12 members of the Glynn Environmental Coalition, 19 students of Dr. Katherine Craven’s Armstrong Atlantic University classes, and 10 management and staff members of King and Prince Seafood.

To find out more: Marine Extension Service

From September 29 to October 1, 2011, Marine Extension Service Brunswick staff members and research vessel Georgia Bulldog crew members participated in the Beaufort, South Carolina, two-day shrimp festival that attracts 10,000 visitors annually. This was the 12th consecutive year of their participation. Almost 3,800 attendees were treated to time aboard the Georgia Bulldog and learned about working shrimp boats and the research vessel. Two shrimp net models were displayed and turtle excluder devices explained. Staff members gave vessel tours and answered questions.

To find out more: Marine Extension Service

On October 1, 2011, as Georgia’s largest celebration of coastal natural resources, CoastFest set an event record with more than 9,000 visitors attending the free, family-oriented educational festival in Brunswick, Georgia. Organized by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Coastal Resources Division, the event hosted more than 75 interactive natural resource exhibitors and additional activity areas. 2011 exhibitors included the Marine Extension Service and Georgia Sea Grant spotlighting the CoastScapes native plant landscaping program, the marine debris initiative, Marsh Madness educational program, and the Marine Education Center and Aquarium education program.

To find out more: Marine Extension Service

In October 2011, the Marine Extension Service’s Brunswick Station and Georgia Sea Grant assisted the Glynn Environmental Coalition and three other public agency partners in the redesign and production of a user-friendly single-page Fish Consumption Advisory pamphlet for waterways in Glynn County, home to four federal Superfund sites. The multi-agency partnership between the Coastal Health District (Glynn County Health Department), Georgia Department of Natural Resources (Coastal Resources Division), Georgia Environmental Protection Division (Environmental Toxicology Program), University of Georgia (Marine Extension Service), Georgia Sea Grant program, and the Glynn Environmental Coalition makes fish consumption advisories easier to understand. The updated pamphlets for Glynn County are available in English with a Spanish version in final production.

To find out more: Marine Extension Service

On September 27, 2011, the Governor’s Office of Children and Families launched a website and database designed by the Vinson’s Institute’s Office of Information Outreach Technology at a ceremony in Atlanta. The First Lady of Georgia, Sandra Deal, was present at the “virtual ribbon cutting ceremony,” where the new site was unveiled, along with several representatives from the Vinson Institute who had worked on the project. The website is the culmination of several years’ work in aggregating juvenile justice data so the data can be shared among the many state agencies involved with juvenile programs. This data had previously been stored in separate databases with limited access. The new site will facilitate coordination between agencies and help provide more effective services to meet the needs of youths

To find out more: Carl Vinson Institute of Government

Office of Service-Learning (OSL) faculty members continue to provide course-based presentations overviewing service-learning to students as guest speakers for classes. September sessions included presentations to students in Pratt Cassity’s Global Engagement Learning Community (September 13), Trish Kalivoda’s First-Year Odyssey Seminar (September 19), and Stephanie Tingler’s Music Learning Community (September 26). OSL Assistant Director Paul Matthews also presented a service-learning videoconference for an education course at the University of Pretoria, South Africa (September 16).

To find out more: Office of Service-Learning

On September 25, 2011, 21 state representatives and senators received certificates for completing the Georgia Legislative Leadership Institute (GLLI). The legislators, all serving first terms, were nominated by their parties’ leadership to participate in the program. The participants met in May and September and engaged in activities designed to help them learn more about their personal leadership styles and how to apply those successfully in a legislative setting. This was the fourth Georgia Legislative Leadership Institute, which is conducted every two years by the Vinson Institute on behalf of the Georgia General Assembly Training Institute and with funding from the Woodruff Foundation.

To find out more: Carl Vinson Institute of Government

On September 7-25, 2011, the Vinson Institute’s International Center led a group of 20 Chinese leaders from the Shaanxi Province State-Owned Asset Supervision and Administration Commission in Athens, Atlanta, New York, and Washington, D.C. The purpose of the delegation’s visit was to learn more about enterprise and legal risk prevention and control. During their trip, they met with representatives from law firms, a U.S. trade representative, the Georgia state treasurer, business representatives, tourism and economic development officers, and others. Their meetings provided them with a perspective of the legal framework for conducting business in the United States and how to manage risk in public and private sector organizations.

To find out more: Carl Vinson Institute of Government

On September 24, 2011, the UGA-Duke Talent Identification Program (TIP) Academic Adventures program recorded the largest enrollment in the program’s history. A total of 127 gifted fifth and sixth grade students from around the state visited the Athens campus to study advanced topics with UGA faculty members, graduate students, and instructors. Courses were held across the UGA campus, and covered a wide variety of topics including robotics, medicine, physics, neuroscience, graphic design, screenwriting, and animation. The Georgia Center offers this program in partnership with the College of Education’s Torrance Center for Creativity and Talent Development and the Duke University Talent Identification Program.

To find out more: Georgia Center for Continuing Education |

On September 23-24, 2011, Maritza Soto Keen facilitated The Padres e Hijos Weekend held at the University of Georgia. Twenty-one academically prepared high school seniors and their families attended. Interim Vice President for Institutional Diversity Michelle Garfield Cook delivered the welcoming address and UGA senior and Padres alumna Andrea Giraudo was the student presenter. Students and their families learned about the college admission and financial aid processes, dialogued with faculty and staff about first-year university programs, toured the university, and interacted with current UGA students. The goal of the program is to increase the diversity of high school seniors who are competitive when applying to UGA.

To find out more: Fanning Institute

On September 22, 2011, over 30 faculty, students, staff and community members attended the Fall Service-Learning Interest Group (SLIG) meeting at the Office of Service-Learning (OSL). This session provided a venue for information sharing about engagement between campus and community, especially relating to the OSL “engagement hubs” of community food issues, Latino initiatives, and K-12 service-learning.

To find out more: Office of Service-Learning

On September 20-22, 2011, the Campus Kitchen Project (CKP) began its fall food collection and deliveries to food insecure senior citizens by establishing a new partnership with Talmage Terrace/Lanier Gardens Senior Residence. Talmage Terrace provides commercial kitchen space and ServSafe supervision, as well as an opportunity for intergenerational service-learning as senior citizens in their facility volunteer alongside UGA Campus Kitchen students. Senior citizens and UGA students provided meals for 14 families headed by Grandparents Raising Grandchildren with local produce grown at UGArden, and food from local restaurants. Campus Kitchen is a food recovery and redistribution program with affiliates at 29 colleges and universities nationwide.

To find out more: Office of Service-Learning

On September 20, 2011, the Service-Learning Fellows monthly meeting focused on effective service-learning course design. Denise Domizi, Center for Teaching and Learning, led a session on linking assessment with learning goals, and fellows also provided updates on their individual service-learning projects. Eight faculty members from across campus are participating in this year-long faculty development program.

To find out more: Office of Service-Learning

On September 19, 2011, Paul Matthews, assistant director of the Office of Service-Learning, presented a workshop on incorporating service-learning into study abroad courses in conjunction with UGA Costa Rica’s “Teaching Here vs. Teaching There” workshop series. Intended for faculty members offering coursework at UGA Costa Rica, this session included an overview of a faculty toolkit for international service-learning developed collaboratively by UGA Costa Rica and the Office of Service-Learning.

To find out more: Office of Service-Learning

On September 17, 2011, Adopt-A-Wetland (AAW) Volunteer Appreciation Oyster Roast and Potluck was held at the Roebling House on the Skidaway campus. Sixty-five AAW volunteers and guests attended the event, which included presentations by Chandra Franklin (Savannah State University) and Jan Mackinnon (Georgia Department of Natural Resources-Coastal Resources Division) and training sessions. In addition, a live band provided entertainment; and $125 worth of door prizes, contributed by Latitude 32 and Moon River Brewery and Restaurant, was given out during the roast. The Oyster Roast and Potluck was accomplished with cooperation and support from Tara Muenz and Allison Hughes (Georgia Environmental Protection Division) and Franklin.

To find out more: Marine Extension Service

On September 16, 2011, the Marine Extension Service Aquarium donated a gag grouper to the South Carolina Aquarium in Charleston. The 15-pound gag grouper, caught at Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary, had outgrown its tank. The grouper had been on exhibit to illustrate the fisheries research being conducted at Grays Reef National Marine Sanctuary by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The gag is an example of the interstate aquarium network being established by the Marine Extension Service that provides aquarium resources, animal husbandry consultation, and advice for aquarium maintenance.

To find out more: Marine Extension Service

September 2011 marked the beginning of the Marine Education Center and Aquarium's annual teaching season. The following programs illustrate the variety of student groups that participate in marine science and coastal ecology programs offered by Marine Extension Service faculty members. On September 8, 2011, Savannah Ocean Exchange Trawl: Marine Extension Service faculty members led a research vessel Sea Dawg estuarine sampling trip for Ocean Exchange adult participants. On September 10, 2011, Mommy and Me: During this first of a series of classes, toddlers and parents learned through story, marine animal yoga, and show and tell the ways marine animals move. On September 12-14, 2011, Epstein School: 48 sixth graders and their teachers participated in a series on field explorations, laboratories, and boat studies. On September 14-16, 2011, Mercer University: Undergraduates and research faculty members undertook a series of focused estuarine, lab, and barrier island studies with Marine Extension Service faculty members. On September 16, 2011: Hardeeville Elementary School, Beaufort County, South Carolina: Marine Extension Service faculty and staff members led education activities for 825 elementary students during the first ever Catfish Festival.

To find out more: Marine Extension Service

The Journal of Higher Education Outreach and Engagement has been experiencing tremendous growth recently. In January 2011, the Journal transitioned to a completely online, open access format, meaning there are no longer subscription fees and that all articles are available on the Journal’s website, www.jheoe.uga.edu. Since this migration, the Journal has averaged 993 unique visitors to the website each month, a significant increase over the fewer than 200 subscribers at the end of 2010. As of mid-September 2011, those users had downloaded more than 70,000 articles, and there was a nearly 40 percent increase in manuscript submissions for peer review.

To find out more:

On September 15, 2011, the Office of Service-Learning (OSL) debuted its fall workshop series with a three-hour session on Effective Service-Learning Course Design. This workshop introduced faculty attendees to best practices in service-learning, including course and syllabus design, learning outcomes, characteristics, and resources available to support service-learning. Additional workshop sessions in this series will focus on facilitating critical reflection and working with community partners.

To find out more: Office of Service-Learning

On September 14, 2011, more than 80 participants attended the 2011 Georgia Gold Medal Symposium and plant sale at the Callaway Building. Horticultural talks from invited speakers and guest of honor Vince Dooley received excellent reviews. Similar reviews were received from attendees of other courses and lectures including tree identification, beekeeping, the annual Johnstone Lecture, Friends First Friday, seed saving, sedge identification, metalsmithing, beneficial insects, and plant families.

To find out more: The State Botanical Garden of Georgia

On September 12-14, 2011, the Georgia Leadership Institute for School Improvement (GLISI) 2011-2012 held Base Camp 33 leadership training at the Evergreen Conference Center in Stone Mountain, Georgia. Base Camp 33 is a customized leadership development opportunity for teams of district-led and principal-led teacher leaders. The session helps teacher leaders recognize and act upon their leadership role in team-based system improvement that leads to increasing the percentage of students graduating from high school prepared for the demands of college and careers. Participants apply their learning between sessions to create a sense of urgency among key stakeholders around students’ college and career success.

To find out more: Fanning Institute

On September 9, 2011, more than 60 members of the Board of Advisors met at the State Botanical Garden; they, the staff and Interim Vice President Jennifer Frum welcomed Kathy Young as the new chair and thanked outgoing chair Jimmy Jeter for his past two years of board leadership. In addition, the board greeted four new advisors who, with 20 experienced members and partners, were treated to an orientation session and tour by Botanical Garden staff on September 8.

To find out more: The State Botanical Garden of Georgia

On September 7-9, 2011, the national Association of Small Business Development Centers (ASBDC) Conference was held in San Diego, California. Four Georgia SBDC faculty members were chosen to present at the conference, which is the principal professional development program for SBDCs across the country. Also, Ron Simmons, area director of the SBDC’s Gainesville office, was recognized as a national ASBDC “Star Performer” for his work with small business owners in Georgia. The conference drew more than 1,500 participants.

To find out more: Small Business Development Center

On September 8, 2011, The Garden celebrated and honored outstanding donors at the 2011 Giving Tree Tribute at the Visitor Center. This year’s Distinguished Honoree was Deen Day Sanders, and the Southern Magnolia Honorees recognized were the Frances Wood Wilson Foundation and Nancy and John Ludwig. Their generosity was celebrated by 130 other donors and guests at the Garden Conservatory. Joining the toast to donors was UGA President Michael Adams, Senior Vice President Tom Landrum, and Interim Vice President Jennifer Frum.

To find out more: The State Botanical Garden of Georgia

On September 7, 2011, the Vinson Institute’s Office of Communications signed an agreement with UGA Office of Institutional Diversity to produce a video that will become part of UGA’s First-Year Odyssey program. The video features two UGA undergraduate students providing information to incoming freshmen about the value of diversity among UGA’s students and faculty and staff members. They also discuss diversity-related resources available to students, events, and opportunities for becoming involved around campus. All of UGA’s incoming freshmen will view the video as part of the First Year Odyssey program, giving them a strong familiarity with the campus and its many opportunities.

To find out more: Carl Vinson Institute of Government

On September 2, 2011,"Eddie" the loggerhead sea turtle was released on Wassaw Island, Georgia, after being raised from a hatchling to three years of age at the Marine Education Center and Aquarium. The release was a coordinated effort among Marine Extension Service staff members, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, and the Caretta Research Project. The turtle was tagged with coded-number flipper tags and a Passive Integrated Transmitter (PIT) tag so that data can be reported to studies of loggerhead movements and habitat use.

To find out more: Marine Extension Service

The impact data for the 2010-2011 Scholarship of Engagement Grants has been released. A total of six Scholarship of Engagement Grants were awarded to UGA faculty members in four colleges at the Athens and Griffin campuses. Grants ranged from $4,610 to $8,000 with a total of $41,084 awarded to the faculty members in support of their public service and outreach activities. Priority was given to projects that include a service-learning opportunity for students; that demonstrate collaboration among faculty members in the schools and colleges, and public service units; and that have an assessment-of-impact built into the project. The grants are supported by the Office of the Vice President for Public Service and Outreach.

To find out more:

The State Botanical Garden, with assistance from Public Service and Outreach, moved forward with developing a new 10-year master plan. This will be conducted by the College of Environment and Design (CED) as both a service to the Garden and a research and education opportunity for CED. Completion date is targeted for summer 2012.

To find out more: The State Botanical Garden of Georgia

During September 2011, the Public Service and Outreach Student Scholars meetings featured visits to the Office of Service-Learning, the Carl Vinson Institute of Government, and the Georgia Center for Continuing Education. The PSO Student Scholars are a competitively selected group of 10 undergraduates coordinated by the Office of Service-Learning who are exploring UGA's public service and outreach mission and will participate in a 150-hour internship in a public service unit during the Spring semester.

To find out more: Office of Service-Learning

In September 2011, Sarah Brackmann, graduate assistant in the Office of Service-Learning, was one of 14 graduate students internationally selected as a 2011 Editorial Fellow by the International Association for Research on Service-Learning and Community Engagement (IARSLCE). As part of this program, the Editorial Fellows will work to produce the 2011 IARSCLE annual conference proceedings.

To find out more: Office of Service-Learning

In September 2011, the Marine Extension Center and Aquarium (MECA) Summer Marine Science Camp Program was a featured story in Georgia Magazine, circulation of 200,000 households. http://uga.edu/gm/ee/index.php?issue/2011/09/.

To find out more: Marine Extension Service

In September 2011, the crew of the research vessel Georgia Bulldog studied the interactions between blacknose sharks and shrimp trawlers in the South Atlantic. This year, Marine Extension Service staff members will help local shrimpers learn to identify migratory shark species. The project, funded by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Cooperative Research Program is also supported by Georgia’s Coastal Resources Division of the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and Georgia Sea Grant.

To find out more: Marine Extension Service

In September 2011, four new marine education interns arrived for 50 weeks of learning and teaching. This longstanding Marine Education Internship program is funded through Georgia Sea Grant and administered and coordinated by Marine Extension Service faculty members. The new interns are: Ashley Powenski, Orchard Park, New York, graduated from the University of New England with a B.S. in marine biology; Kelly Muench, Marlton, New York, graduated from Coastal Carolina University with a B.S. in marine science; Jaclyn Miller, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, graduated from the University of North Carolina-Wilmington with a B.S. in marine biology; and Catharine Parker, New Ark, Delaware, graduated from Eckerd College with a B.S. in environmental studies.

To find out more: Marine Extension Service

In September 2011, the Georgia Center Professional and Personal Development (PPD) Program had its first class of 12 people in the online course, “Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) 205: Green Buildings and Preparing for the LEED Green Associate Exam” offered in partnership with Learning Resources Network, Inc. (LERN). The participants are from the University of Georgia’s Cooperative Extension Service and are located throughout Georgia.

To find out more: Georgia Center for Continuing Education |

In September 2011, the UGA College of Public Health is coordinated a needs assessment for the Pulaski County community at the request of the Archway Community Health Issue Work Group. This effort was coordinated through the College of Public Health with the assistance of Laura Gillman, Archway public health professional.

To find out more: Archway Partnership

In September 2011, Archway Professional Mary Beth Chew developed a white paper regarding the need for leadership development programming in Brunswick and Glynn County, Georgia. This white paper will be used to create a new leadership development curriculum in Glynn County and provide a framework to discuss issues and needs within the community, as well as a suggested time line for implementation, and stated goals and outcomes. This paper was shared with the Leadership Development Task Force, as well as with the Archway Executive Committee, for its review and approval.

To find out more: Archway Partnership

This Fall semester (2011), Senior Associate Vice President Trish Kalivoda is teaching a First Year Odyssey Seminar focused on UGA's public service and outreach mission, community engagement, and citizenship. In the course, students are discussing what it means to be a part of the UGA, Athens-Area, and Georgia communities, and beyond. They are exploring opportunities for community engagement as part of UGA's Land-Grant mission through course-based service-learning projects, community service, and volunteerism.

To find out more: First Year Odyssey |

In August, the Georgia SBDC Network obtained evidence from the annual economic impact survey that entrepreneurs who utilize SBDC assistance experience employment and sales growth greater than the state average. Key findings show the employment base of the Georgia SBDC Network’s existing business clients grew by 6.1% from 2009-2010, while overall employment levels in Georgia decreased by 1.4%. Also, during the same time period, the SBDC’s existing business clients increased their sales by an average of 10%, while the average Georgia business experienced a 2.5% increase in sales.  Overall, 93% of all existing business clients reported they benefited from working with the Georgia SBDC Network.

To find out more: Small Business Development Center

Two Federal Work-Study students have been awarded funding through the Office of Service-Learning as inaugural participants in the Assistants in Community Engagement (ACE) program. These students work with faculty members in a range of disciplines including music education, horticulture, social work, and environment and design. ACE students act as undergraduate teaching assistants in service-learning courses and provide support for the service-learning activities and logistics, such as on-site support at off-campus venues, tracking project activities and outcomes, and communication between students, faculty and community partners.

To find out more: Office of Service-Learning

The Office of Service-Learning (OSL) announces the availability of the 2011-2012 mini-grant program. This program provides up to $500 in "just-in-time" funding for faculty members and graduate students who are implementing academic service-learning. Funding can be used for materials, background checks, or other expenses directly related to the service-learning component of their course. Since 2008, the Office of Service-Learning has provided some $20,000 in direct support of service-learning through its mini-grants program. Applications are available on the OSL website at www.servicelearning.uga.edu.

To find out more: Office of Service-Learning

In August 2011, aquarium curator Devin Dumont collaborated with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Coastal Resources Division Sportsfish Monitoring Program to collect exhibit specimens for the aquarium. Dumont offered field assistance and expertise with the research program conducted in the Wassaw Sound estuary system.

To find out more: Marine Extension Service

During August 2011, Marine Extension Service aquarium staff members collaborated with Savannah State University (SSU) to provide an opportunity for Edge Fellowship winner Heather D’Hanna to gain aquarium maintenance and animal husbandry experience. The fellowship awarded by SSU has allowed D’Hanna to work in the aquarium for the summer, and now that school is in session, D’Hanna continues to participate as a volunteer.

To find out more: Marine Extension Service

During June-August 2011, Heather Cram, a student from West Georgia College, completed an eight-week internship program at the Marine Extension Service education facility on Skidaway Island, Georgia. She worked with Marine Extension Service staff members in the summer marine science programs, and taught students ages four to 12 about Georgia's coastal environment, salt water fish, and invertebrates. In addition, Cram worked closely with aquarium curator Devin Dumont to assist with animal care and feeding at the aquarium. The intern program is tailored to the interests of each student, and offers hand-on learning experiences in an education/aquarium setting.

To find out more: Marine Extension Service