Many state leaders, community leaders, and top level educators gathered to officially celebrate the opening of the new Convocation Center at the University of North Georgia Wednesday.
University President Bonita Jacobs says the new building serves more than just the students at the college saying, "We believe this is a facility that is designed to serve our region and to help with everything from trade shows to economic development events and of course proms and graduations, speakers, and concerts. It's endless."
The building began hosting events several months ago, but the school delayed the official ribbon cutting ceremony in order to ensure everyone involved with the creation of it could attend the ribbon cutting ceremony.
Senator Steve Gooch spoke to the crowd about the overarching benefits of the Convocation center saying, "The economic development impact that it is going to have not only here in Dahlonega and Lumpkin County, but across our region is immeasureable."
Senator Gooch thanked Governor Nathan Deal for placing the Convocation Center on his Capital Bond list in 2016 and warmly introduced him to the crowd.
Deal seemed pleased with the way the project turned out saying, "I hadn't been to this building until today and I want to tell you that the only word that came to my mind instantly was 'wow' and anyone who hasn't seen it, I think that might be the word that comes to their mind as well."
The new facility offers over 100,000 square feet of space and a seating capacity of over 4,000 people.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2018/5/673896/ung-convocation-center-open-to-community