By Corey Mobley
On Aug. 26, Dr. Jann L. Joseph addressed faculty and staff at the fall State of the College meeting held in the Convocation Center. Her remarks highlighted recent accomplishments, a new culture statement and top priorities for the college.
Joseph opened by celebrating the college’s recent achievements, noting they demonstrate “what happens when we bring our best every single day.”
Key highlights included:
Board of Regents approves new blended mission
Beginning in July 2026, Georgia Gwinnett College (GGC) expects to launch graduate programs in high-demand fields such as education, building a pipeline to help address the state’s teacher shortage.
Advancing technology and AI integration
The Information Technology team upgraded campus systems and launched an Artificial Intelligence Steering Committee, which is collaborating with higher education leaders nationwide to help shape the role of AI in teaching and learning.
Success in fundraising
The inaugural GGC Four Pillars Scholarship Gala raised nearly $290,000 for scholarships and programs.
Secured grants
Research and Sponsored Programs secured more than $871,000 in external funding, bringing Georgia Gwinnett College’s (GGC) active grants portfolio to 30 awards worth more than $4.2 million.
Joseph also unveiled a new culture statement that “captures the essence of who we are and what we strive for:”
GGC’s leaders are committed to a culture that stewards resources wisely and fosters a purpose-driven community that empowers faculty and staff to help students succeed.
She then presented seven trust-based guiding principles designed to ensure student success:
Support the whole student and foster success through care, connection and clear expectations.
Lead with integrity and accountability, pursue continuous improvement and adapt with courage.
Partner with purpose, building trust-based relationships that expand opportunity and drive impact.
Empower innovation and support bold, capable teams that lead with trust and initiative.
Use technology strategically to enhance learning, communication and meaningful outcomes.
Champion belonging by valuing and cultivating all voices in GGC’s global community.
Be an employer of choice, fostering a respectful culture where faculty and staff thrive
Looking ahead, President Joseph emphasized the importance of aligning GGC’s efforts with the University System of Georgia’s strategic pillars. She outlined three bold priorities
Strengthening Student Retention and Degree Completion – with a goal of reaching a 70% first-to-second-year retention rate and raising graduation rates.
Expanding Career-Connected Learning and Regional Workforce Development – ensuring every academic program provides meaningful career-preparation opportunities.
Advancing Financial Sustainability and Strategic Enrollment Growth – growing to 12,500 students while maintaining a balanced, sustainable budget.
The next campus update will take place at 2 p.m. Nov. 4.