Dr. Bonita C. Jacobs, president of the University of North Georgia (UNG), and Dr. Donna Mayo, dean of the university's Mike Cottrell College of Business, have been named by the Atlanta Business Chronicle as two of the top 100 leaders in education in metro Atlanta.<br />
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The annual "Who's Who in Education" guide, published on May 9, recognizes leaders for their initiative and vision in developing the region's K-12 and postsecondary educational institutions.<br />
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Jacobs was also named to the list in 2013 and 2012. Earlier this year, Georgia Trend magazine included Jacobs in its list of the 100 Most Influential Georgians. Jacobs' presidency has included leadership of the university's consolidation, expansion of efforts to increase student scholarship funds, and initiatives to bolster degree attainment and regional development.<br />
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"I am honored by this recognition, but it is really a reflection of the outstanding work by our faculty and staff to ensure the success of our students and to engage with our community partners to meet the needs of this region," Jacobs said. "As a multi-campus, regional university that is serving a fast-growing area, we are focused on academic and leadership development opportunities that prepare students to become leaders for a diverse and global society."<br />
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Jacobs' focus on increasing student scholarships led to the creation of an annual Scholarship Ball, which raised more than $1 million in 2014. In 2013, she launched an internal grants initiative to foster faculty innovation, research, and professional development, which, in turn, enhance students' academic experiences.<br />
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Mayo has served as dean of the Mike Cottrell College of Business since the summer of 2012. She began her role during the consolidation of Gainesville State College and North Georgia College & State University, and was instrumental in merging the two institutions' business programs. She currently serves on the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business' (AACSB) Initial Accreditation Committee and is co-chair of the AACSB Small School Affinity Group.<br />
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"I am grateful to be recognized in this group of outstanding educators, and to represent the Mike Cottrell College of Business at UNG," Mayo said. "This honor recognizes not my own effort, but the efforts of our students, faculty, staff, and communities. Because of the hard work and dedication of many, the continued support and engagement of our communities, and the generosity of many such as Mike and Lynn Cottrell, great opportunities lie ahead for the Mike Cottrell College of Business. We encourage innovation, engagement, and relevancy in our classrooms, and focus on developing strong graduates who can grow strong communities."<br />
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Under Mayo's guidance, the Mike Cottrell College of Business has been named a Best for Vets Business Schools by the Military Times. The college also continues to bring national and international business leaders to UNG campuses to speak and interact with business students, strengthen its students and regional businesses through the BB&T Center for Ethical Business Leadership and the Center for the Future of North Georgia, and build student employment through a strong focus on internships.<br />
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Other education leaders named to this year's list include Hank Huckaby, chancellor of the University System of Georgia; Dr. Merrianne Dyer, superintendent of Gainesville City Schools; Dr. L.C. "Buster" Evans, superintendent of Forsyth County Schools; and Will Schofield, superintendent of the Hall County Schools.
