In a student community where academic achievement, leadership and personal growth are central values, the fourth annual Elite Scholars Summit carried deep meaning for students in the early stage of their career journeys. Held April 17 on Georgia Gwinnett College’s (GGC) campus, this year’s summit centered on the theme “Roadmap to Success.”
The event was part of a week dedicated to supporting the Elite Scholars Program through a series of engaging activities, including a service initiative at Streetwise Community, a career exploration and tabling event, and a kickball game.
“The Summit is an essential resource for our Elite Scholars members and all GGC students,” said Dr. Brandon Lewis, associate professor of curriculum and instruction and executive director of the Elite Scholars Program. “This experiential learning opportunity is a culmination of every topic we cover throughout the semester.”
During an afternoon of inspiration at the Elite Scholars Summit, GGC students, faculty and staff were invited to set goals, confront obstacles and build the professional networks that will carry them throughout their professional and personal lives.
Citing Margaret Mead, Dr. Matthew Robison, vice president for Student Affairs, reflected on the transformative mission that drives both Elite Scholars and the GGC community. “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it is the only thing that ever has,” Robinson said.
The summit’s theme — “Roadmap to Success” — came to life through a curated group of presenters whose expertise spanned education and career development.
This year’s summit featured an outstanding group of presenters, including Dr. Kyle Baldwin, assistant director of tutoring initiatives; Dr. Roslyn Brown, director of Career Services; Lyndon Earley, client engagement manager at Spectralink Corporation; and Mernice Oliver, senior manager of people development at Builders Insurance Group.
Nate Briggs opened the session. He is the son of Harry and Eliza Briggs, lead plaintiffs in Briggs v. Elliott, the South Carolina lawsuit case later consolidated into the landmark Brown v. Board of Education decision. As one of the earliest legal challenges to school segregation, the case remains a key foundation of civil rights history. He brought rare historical depth and resonance to the summit’s theme.
Rounding out the program was keynote speaker Benjamin Coker, ‘19, a cardiac clinical nurse manager at Northside Hospital Atlanta and an inaugural Elite Scholars member. His personal story offered students a compelling example of what persistence, discipline and purpose can build over time.
“If you do not assign a destination, the world will assign one to you — and usually the destination chosen by other people is smaller than the one you choose for yourself,” Coker said. His message spoke directly to how much the process toward success matters, often as important as the result or achievement itself.
Throughout the day, attendees connected with leaders, heard stories of resilience and perseverance, and strengthened professional relationships that will shape their careers.
The summit served as a reminder that the roadmap to success looks different for everyone. With keynotes and breakout sessions, participants heard from different speakers about navigating setbacks, pushing through adversity, giving back to the community or planning for what’s ahead.
More than a series of presentations, the summit was a celebration of purpose and leadership, a reminder that staying true to one’s path can lead to fulfillment that goes far beyond professional achievement.
For future involvement opportunities and upcoming events, visit the Elite Scholars portal through GGC Campus Groups.
By Laura Moscoso, student assistant, internal communications