Alumni Association events and other events involving UGA

More Than a Ring: Legacy and Connection

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From ringing the Chapel Bell to cheering in Sanford Stadium, University of Georgia alumni around the world are united by an unbreakable bond.  

That shared loved for UGA is rooted in cherished memories, enduring traditions and milestones that forever shape every Bulldog’s journey. Every Dawg has a story. For many, that story is captured in a single, meaningful symbol: the UGA class ring. 

The UGA class ring is a permanent and personal expression of the classic UGA experience — one that connects past, present and future Dawgs. Worn to honor accomplishments, celebrate memories and showcase pride in the red and black, the ring serves as a lasting tribute to a time that helped define many Bulldogs — who they were becoming and who they are today.

History of the Class Ring 

In 1923, juniors and seniors adopted the official “Senior-Alumni Ring” to be worn exclusively by alumni and graduating students in good standing.  From the beginning, the ring represented achievement and a lifelong connection to the University of Georgia. 

Almost a century later in 2005, UGA partnered with Balfour to redesign the ring, resulting in the collection available today. While modernized, the current designs proudly retain timeless elements from the original ring design, including the iconic Arch. 

Today, the class ring also carries a powerful legacy of giving back. With every ring purchased, $85 supports the Young Alumni Leadership Council Finish the Drill Scholarship, which assists undergraduate students who have taken 60 or more credit hours to help them finish out their college journey without financial uncertainty.

Through the partnership between UGA and Balfour, support for this scholarship has continued to grow.  

Over the past decade alone, over 2,000 rings have been sold — each one helping another Dawg remain on track toward graduation and joining the alumni family. 

Custom(ization)s and Traditions 

Each class ring can be customized with a variety of metals and optional design elements, making it uniquely personal and reflective of every Bulldog’s individual journey. 

For those unsure of their ring size, the Student Alumni Council and Balfour host sizing opportunities at campus locations throughout the spring semester. Rings may also be viewed year‑round at the UGA Bookstore or ordered online, offering a convenient option for alumni who wish to claim this tradition after graduation. 

Class rings are officially presented during the annual UGA Ring Ceremony in April, when students are joined by family and friends to celebrate this milestone and don their rings for the first time. 

There is even meaning behind how the ring is worn. As a student, the Arch on the ring faces inward. After graduation, the ring is then turned outward, symbolizing completion of the degree and readiness to pass through the (actual) Arch into the next chapter of their Bulldog journey.  

The meaning of a class ring extends far beyond the materials used to craft it. Countless memories, lifelong friendships and moments such as passing under the Arch for the first time cannot be measured — but the ring serves as a tangible reminder of those defining experiences and special moments.  

Years later, the ring can evoke memories of the most transformative seasons at UGA: stepping onto the field for the first time to help create the Power “G” and for the last time to receive your degree. It honors the past, celebrates the present and reflects on the future still unfolding.  

A signature symbol of Bulldog pride, perseverance and lifelong connection, the UGA class ring is a piece meant to be worn for a lifetime. No matter where life leads, it stands as a reminder that the UGA family endures — and that Bulldogs never bark alone. 

Be Part of the Tradition

2026 Alumni Awards honorees celebrated at luncheon

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Members of the University of Georgia community gathered on April 2 in Athens to celebrate the 2026 Alumni Awards honorees, recognizing alumni, friends and faculty whose leadership, service and generosity have helped shape the university’s history. The awards, a UGA tradition spanning decades, honor those whose commitment continues to strengthen the Bulldog community. The 2026 honorees are:

  • Larry R. Benson | Alumni Merit Award
  • Nancy C. Juneau | Alumni Merit Award
  • Robert E. Hoyt | Faculty Service Award
  • Rene and Jim Nalley | Family of the Year Award
  • Brian E. Harman | Young Alumni Award

“The University of Georgia continues to reach new heights of excellence thanks to the generous support of our loyal alumni and friends,” said UGA President Jere W. Morehead. “It is a tremendous privilege to recognize this year’s honorees for consistently going above and beyond, generating a legacy of lasting impact in every corner of our campus.”

2026 Alumni Awards honorees celebrated at luncheon with UGA leaders.

UGA leaders and Alumni Awards honorees, pictured from left to right: Jill Walton, vice president for development and alumni relations; Corey Dortch, alumni association president; Robert Hoyt; Larry Benson; UGA President Jere W. Morehead; Nancy Juneau; Nancy Harman, mother of Young Alumni Award recipient Brian Harman; Jim Nalley; Rene Nalley; Street Nalley; and Clay Nalley. (Photo by Justin Evans Photography)

2026 Alumni Merit Awards

Larry R. Benson is a 1974 graduate of the Terry College of Business and is the owner and chairman of Benson’s Inc., the Athens‑based parent company of Benson’s Bakery and Benson’s Hospitality Group. A third‑generation leader of the century-old family enterprise, Benson’s commitment to UGA is reflected prominently through Benson Hall in the Terry College Business Learning Community, which honors three generations of the Benson family   — Larry; his father, Ed; and his grandfather, Howard — each of whom played a meaningful role in the university’s history. Larry’s father, Ed Benson, was a devoted alumnus and university leader who served in multiple roles, including on the University of Georgia Foundation and University of Georgia Athletic Association boards. In recognition of their shared impact, Larry and his father were named the UGA Alumni Family of the Year in 2018. Larry has served as president of the Rotary Club of Athens and has contributed to the boards of the Touchdown Club of Athens, the Oconee County Industrial Development Authority and Piedmont Athens Regional Foundation. In 2024, he received the University System of Georgia’s Regents’ Alumni and Distinguished Friends Award, recognizing exceptional service and support. Through personal giving and the Lawrence R. Benson Foundation, Larry has supported a wide range of UGA priorities including the Terry College Business Learning Community and the new School of Medicine’s medical education and research building, reflecting a lifelong commitment to the institution that shaped him.

Nancy C. Juneau is a 1982 graduate of the Mary Frances Early College of Education and is a trustee of the UGA Foundation and a board member of the University of Georgia Real Estate Foundation. A dedicated advocate for student success and innovation, she also serves on the advisory board for the university system’s Innovation and Entrepreneurial Strategies initiative and on the board of the Georgia Independent College Association. A sought‑after public speaker, Juneau regularly shares industry insight at conferences, panels and business forums, including engagements with UGA’s Terry College, the National Association of Women in Construction and the Engineering News‑Record Groundbreaking Women in Construction Conference. She is a committed mentor and has been named one of the Most Influential Women in Georgia Engineering by Engineering Georgia Magazine for several years and was honored as one of Atlanta’s Most Admired CEOs by the Atlanta Business Chronicle. She also received the Women of Distinction Award from the March of Dimes in 2018. In 1997, Juneau and her husband, Les, co‑founded Juneau Construction Company. With more than 200 employees, Juneau Construction ranked No. 2 on the Atlanta Business Chronicle’s Top Women‑Owned Firms list in 2023 and 2025. The Juneaus are longtime supporters of UGA, contributing to projects such as the Russell Hall renovation, Rutherford Hall and Building 1516 residence hall. Their philanthropy includes the Juneau Construction Professorship in Civil Engineering, Georgia Women Give and multiple Georgia Commitment Scholarships, reflecting a lasting commitment to strengthening the university.

2026 Family of the Year Award

Jim, a 1965 graduate of the Terry College, and Rene Nalley are longtime champions of UGA, with decades of support that have shaped the university’s academic programs, campus facilities and athletic excellence. Their philanthropy reflects a multigenerational commitment to education, leadership and investing in institutions that strengthen communities. A third‑generation automotive leader, Jim Nalley joined the family business in 1971, continuing a legacy that began in 1918 when his grandfather opened the first Nalley dealership. The Nalley family’s entrepreneurial spirit continues through the next generation. Their sons — Clay (BBA ’03), Slater and Street (BBA ’01) — founded SONS Auto Group. Clay’s sons, Chase and Camden, now carry the Bulldog tradition forward as current UGA students. The Nalley family’s impact is visible across campus. They have been major supporters of the Terry College, athletic association, the Jere W. Morehead Honors College and the medical education and research building for the new School of Medicine. Their generosity has helped name the Marilyn Overstreet Nalley South Gallery at the Georgia Museum of Art, establish the Nalley Family Golf Championship and endow both the Nalley Distinguished Chair in Business and the Nalley Distinguished Chair in Finance. A former chair of the UGA Foundation, Jim also played a pivotal role in establishing the UGA Real Estate Foundation and has served as a practitioner and lecturer in the Terry College. He was honored with UGA’s Alumni Merit Award in 2000 and the Blue Key Service Award in 2008 and continues to serve as an emeritus trustee and alumni leader.

2026 Faculty Service Award

Robert E. Hoyt’s career spanned nearly four decades of service to UGA, leaving a lasting impact on the Terry College and generations of Bulldog students. He joined UGA as a faculty member in 1988 and retired in December 2025 after a distinguished tenure marked by excellence in teaching, leadership and mentorship. Hoyt served as interim dean of the Terry College in 2007 and led the college’s department of insurance, legal studies and real estate for 23 years. He held the Dudley L. Moore, Jr. Chair of Insurance and was a professor in the C. Herman Terry Risk Management and Insurance Program, where he taught corporate and enterprise risk management. As instructor of the program’s capstone Corporate Risk Management course, Hoyt taught every undergraduate RMI student between 1994 and 2025. For more than 25 years, he organized the RMI Careers Day that connected over 400 students annually with industry recruiters. He also oversaw student selection and mentoring for the Annual Insurance Management Seminar, where participants present to dozens of industry executives each year. Hoyt’s contributions have been recognized with numerous honors, including the Terry College Outstanding Teaching, Research and Service awards, the Richard B. Russell Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching and the Walter H. Buce, Jr. Memorial Award for Insurance and Risk Management Professional of the Year. Along with his wife, Patti, Hoyt has supported UGA through gifts to Terry College, State Botanical Garden of Georgia, Redcoat Band and the establishment of the Hoyt Family Scholarship. Since 2021, he has served as a mentor with the UGA Mentor Program.

2026 Young Alumni Award

Brian E. Harman is a 2011 graduate of the Terry College who exemplifies excellence both on the golf course and in service to UGA. A Savannah native and former standout student‑athlete, Harman has remained deeply committed to UGA through his volunteerism, philanthropy and support of student opportunity. While at UGA, Harman was a member of the Men’s Golf Team where he lettered and earned recognition as a three-time Second-Team All-American, a Presidential Scholar and an SEC Honor Roll honoree. He turned professional in 2010 and captured his first victory at the Manor Classic on the eGolf Professional Tour. His career reached a defining milestone with his victory at the 2023 Open Championship. Harman, a four-time winner on the PGA Tour, has represented the U.S. at the 2023 Ryder Cup and the 2024 Presidents Cup, reached a career‑high world ranking of No. 8 in August 2023 and recorded multiple top 10 finishes during the 2025 season. Harman’s philanthropic journey with UGA began as a founding donor to the UGA Alumni PGA Tour Professionals Georgia Commitment Scholarship. Building on his passion for conservation and natural resources, he established the Harman Family Forestry Field Course Experiential Learning Scholarship in 2024, expanding access to immersive, hands‑on learning experiences that connect students with the forestry industry from harvesting to processing. Beyond the university, Harman founded the Brian Harman Foundation Inc., which supports organizations including the Coastal Coalition for Children and the Frederica Foundation.

“Our 2026 recipients have given so much to the University of Georgia, and it is a privilege to recognize them,” said Jill S. Walton, vice president for development and alumni relations. “Their dedication reflects the very best of UGA, and we are deeply grateful for their continued service and partnership as we build an even stronger future together.”

More information about these distinguished members of the UGA community, including video spotlights, is available at alumni.uga.edu/alumniawards.

Mentorship that builds futures

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When Mong Vo ’26 first stepped onto the University of Georgia campus as a freshman, she was filled with curiosity and just a little uncertainty. With no immediate family members working in the corporate world, she wondered how to navigate the journey toward her dream career. Should she pursue research opportunities? Should she join a student organization? What were the steps she could take to get her where she wanted to go?

That’s when she discovered the UGA Mentor Program, which is designed to connect students with alumni and professionals who can provide guidance, encouragement and real-world perspective. Mong hoped it would help her understand the corporate world and give her direction. What she didn’t know then was that it would also lead her to a mentor who would change the trajectory of her career.

A mentor’s motivation to give back

Hayden Scarbrough (BSEE ’18), a proud UGA alumnus and lifelong Georgia Bulldogs fan, had already been involved with the UGA Mentor Program for several years when he met Mong. For him, mentoring was about more than just giving advice — it was about giving back to the university community that shaped him.

“I saw how mentoring was such an instrumental part of corporate culture,” Hayden explained. “I wanted to make sure I had my Dawgs’ backs as they transitioned into their careers.”

Hayden has been able to provide guidance and mentorship to Bulldog students through the UGA Mentor Program.

Opportunity awaits

Hayden helped Mong sort through the choices ahead — research versus corporate work and the many paths within computer science — offering perspective and encouragement.

With his guidance, Mong landed an internship at AT&T, one of UGA’s top 25 employers for 2024, which was a major milestone in her professional journey. During her internship, Hayden continued to mentor her, offering advice as she delivered presentations to executives, collaborated with teams, and navigated the corporate environment.

By the end of the program, Mong had earned a coveted full-time job offer with AT&T, giving her the security of knowing she would graduate with a career already in place.

“I’m so grateful,” Mong said. “The job market, especially for computer science degrees, has been really competitive. Having that offer gave me peace of mind for my last year of school.”

Mong, Hayden and team present their project with AT&T during Mong’s internship.

Lessons in networking

Beyond the internship and job offer, Mong says the most important lesson she learned from Hayden was the value of networking.

“Networking is the job,” Hayden told her. At first, Mong thought of networking as something useful but secondary. Through Hayden’s guidance, she came to understand that building relationships was central to success — not just for landing a job, but for finding opportunities within a company and connecting with people who genuinely want to see you succeed.

During her internship, Mong put that advice into practice, meeting colleagues across teams and even helping connect fellow interns to opportunities. “I love that feeling of being able to help other people through my network,” she said.

Hayden echoed the importance of networking, noting that it has been the most impactful advice he has received in his own career.

“Networking is what allows you to climb the ladder others have built for you,” he explained.

“Mong went from not knowing what she wanted to do to owning it,” Hayden said proudly of his mentee. “She took charge, excelled in her internship, and earned a full-time position. That’s not easy to do.”

“Once you find that one mentor you really click with, it can change the trajectory of your academic and career journey,” Mong said of her mentor.

Their story is a testament to how the UGA Mentor Program provides guidance, confidence and connections to students. For alumni, it offers the chance to give back and witness firsthand the impact of investing time in future Bulldogs.

Hayden encourages other alumni to get involved, reminding them that mentorship doesn’t require an executive title or hours of weekly commitment. “There’s always time to give back,” he said. “Any stage of your career can be beneficial for students. All perspectives are welcome.”

As Mong prepares to graduate with a full-time job secured, and Hayden continues to mentor future Bulldogs, their journey shows that mentorship is more than advice — it’s a bridge to opportunity, growth and lasting success.

Join the UGA Mentor Program today to make an impact on the next generation of Bulldog leaders and attend the Spring Career & Internship Fair to find the next step in your professional journey.

 

Join the UGA Mentor Program 

 

Attend the Spring Career & Internship Fair

 

The (holiday) magic of mentorship

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Regan Holroyd (BBA ’99) has carved a career path for herself. As chief operating officer of The Lumistella Company, she has helped grow a beloved global brand while staying deeply involved with the University of Georgia community that helped shape her journey.  

What started out as a simple online job application in 2012, turned into a career-defining opportunity whose mission hit close to home — literally.  

Regan’s daughter had an Elf on the Shelf, and that personal connection sparked her interest in the company behind the magic. That spark turned into a dream job and more than a decade later, Regan is helping lead the very company that created this well-known brand that brings joy to millions of families around the world.  

The Lumistella Company is a family-owned business committed to elevating holiday celebrations and enriching family moments. Their portfolio of brands, collectively known as the Santaverse, includes the iconic Elf on the Shelf. Their reach spans 25 different countries across five continents. 

As COO, Regan oversees the company’s administrative operations. As a member of the Executive Board, she has oversight for people operations, finance and accounting, philanthropy, facilities (the physical office footprint infrastructure) and administrative services — essentially, all of the internal operations that help run the business beyond the creative, sales and supply chain functions. 

Although she credits many people for helping her to grow during her career, her current manager, who hired her back in 2012 and is now the company’s president and chief legal officer, has been the biggest mentor and champion for her throughout the years. 

“Over the years, I’ve had numerous mentors, and they come in different forms,” Regan said. “Having that resource makes a huge difference, so I thought it would be a great opportunity for me to explore this.” 

That desire to give back led her to joining the UGA Mentor Program, where she wanted to invest in someone, just as others had done for her. 

Regan matched with Kay Kergosien ’27, a Leonard Leadership Scholar studying finance and business management, during Kay’s first semester at UGA. Their bond has only continued to grow since then. 

Regan Holroyd and Kay Kergosien pose together at The Lumistella Company office.

“I value her authenticity, honestly, and especially her positivity,” Kay said. “I think that it was cool to see just how excited someone was to pour into me.” 

But the mentorship isn’t just a one-way street. Regan finds herself just as inspired by Kay. 

“She’s very inquisitive,” Regan said. “And we’ll talk about what’s going on in my world, which is super interesting because it actually has the opposite effect, where, in many ways, she’s also developing me as a human.”  

“I think that’s why we continue to talk,” she continues. “Because we just left it like, ‘Hey, I’m here for you. Anytime you reach out, I will hop on with you, whatever you need.’” 

Kay recently visited Regan at The Lumistella Company and had the opportunity to dive headfirst into the corporate world as she looks ahead to a long-term career in corporate philanthropy and social responsibility.  

“The culture that I experienced at The Lumistella Company is something that, once you’re exposed to and you know that it exists in the corporate world, it’s definitely something that I’m not going to be able to let go of as I look for a job in the future,” Kay said. 

Not only was it the company culture that interested Kay, but it was the way that Regan carried herself and led her team. 

“I would hope to be the type of leader she is,” Kay said. “I mean, you can tell how she empowers the people around her. You can tell how much respect people have for her, her personal relationship skills, but also her ability to get the job done.” 

For Regan, part of that strong leadership comes from her love for her team. 

“I feel so fortunate to work with this amazing group of people,” Regan said. “I feel like the team is just so incredibly smart and entrepreneurial that they elevate me and inspire me to continue on my own journey of growth.” 

Her advice to current Bulldog students and future alumni entering the workforce: “Enjoy the journey and let the path take you where it takes you.” 

Regan’s story is proof that a UGA degree is just the beginning. Her commitment to mentorship and leadership ensures that the next generation of Bulldogs is in good hands.  

One connection can spark a lifelong impact. Whether you’re looking to guide a student or grow with a mentor by your side, the UGA Mentor Program is where meaningful mentorships begin. 

Become a Mentor Today

Regan Holroyd and Kay Kergosien pose with Elf on the Shelf toy at The Lumistella Company office.

From uncertainty to empowerment: a mentorship journey

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A new beginning

When Lily Valdes (BS ’25) transferred to the University of Georgia and its School of Computing within the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences, she was navigating more than just a new campus. She had already moved from a private institution to a community college before arriving at UGA, and with each transition came new academic, social and professional challenges.

“I didn’t know how to meet people or get involved in clubs,” Lily recalled. “I was overwhelmed and shy. I just went to class and went home.”

UGA campus

That changed when she joined the UGA Mentor Program. Inspired by a class presentation and encouraged by a friend who had benefited from the program, Lily began searching for someone who could guide her, not just academically, but through the real-world challenges of entering the tech industry. She wasn’t just looking for a connection; she was looking for direction, confidence, and clarity.

UGA campus

 

A Bulldog guide

Aries Aviles (BS ’21), a UGA School of Computing alum and former transfer student, understood the complexities of starting fresh. He had once faced the same uncertainties and wanted to help students like Lily find their footing. “I was proud of what I’d accomplished,” Aries said. “And I knew how helpful it would’ve been to have someone to talk to who could answer questions or just listen.”

Their mentorship began in August 2024 and quickly evolved far beyond either’s expectations. Over the course of 16 weeks, Aries offered practical advice and emotional support; he even shared his first resume to show Lily that everyone starts somewhere.

“I didn’t even know how to write a tech resume, but Aries showed me his and said, ‘You’re not far off.’ That gave me so much confidence.”

A shift in mindset

That confidence translated into action. Lily became vice president of a student club, WeCan Code, which pairs business majors with computer science students to foster mutual learning and mentorship. “I never thought I’d be here,” Lily said. “But Aries helped me realize I had the skills, I just needed the confidence to show them.” That confidence led to nearly 50 job interviews, multiple final-round offers, and a clear understanding of what she wanted from her career.

“I learned not to settle, I got an offer outside of tech, but I knew it wasn’t what I loved. Aries taught me that passion matters and that the right opportunity will come.”

One of the most memorable moments came during a hackathon, where Lily and her team — most of them first-timers in the competition — earned runner-up honors. When judges were about to leave without reviewing their project, Lily chased them down in heels and a suit, determined to make her case. “I remembered Aries saying, ‘Don’t sell yourself short,’” she said. “So, I ran after them and asked for a chance. We ended up presenting in a back room and that’s how we got recognized. ”Aries, who had participated in many hackathons himself, was stunned. “I’ve never seen someone chase down a judge before lunch,” he laughed. “But it showed me how much Lily had grown. She had that grit all along; she just needed someone to help unlock it.”

Lessons for both mentor and mentee

Their relationship wasn’t just about career advice. The pair bonded over shared experiences, mutual respect, and personal growth. Both were transfer students. Both had faced uncertainty. And both learned from each other. “I think Lily’s journey reminded me how much can happen in a year,” Aries said. “It’s easy to forget that when you’re caught in the day-to-day grind. But watching her grow was a refreshing reminder that transformation is always possible.” Lily echoed that sentiment. “I think I’ll always remember how Aries taught me to read people at career fairs,” she said. “How to present myself, how to make an impression. That’s something I’ll carry with me forever.” And for Aries?

“I’ll remember the hackathon,” he said. “But more than that, I’ll remember the growth. Watching Lily go from unsure to unstoppable is something I’ll never forget.”

UGA campus

UGA Mentor Program evolves

The mentorship ripple effect is real as shown by Lily’s Hackathon teammates seeking Aries’s advice through her. Just like Lily and Aries, the UGA Mentor Program has organically grown — what began as a one-on-one connection platform has expanded to include “circles of success,” which pair an alumni mentor with several students, and “quick chats,” one-time conversations lasting 15 to 30 minutes that offer a format potentially less intimidating for students and more time-efficient for mentors.

“The UGA Mentor Program gave me the tools to build something bigger,” Lily said. “It helped me start a club, connect students, and even mentor others myself.”

As Lily and Aries concluded their 16-week commitment with the program, the two reflected on how far they’d come — not just as mentor and mentee, but as collaborators, peers, and friends. Their story is a testament to the power of mentorship, not just in shaping careers, but in building confidence, resilience and community. And it’s a shining example of what the UGA Mentor Program was designed to do:
Connect students with alumni who understand their journey, empower them to take bold steps, and remind them that transformation is always within reach. 

Ready to Inspire the Next Generation of Bulldogs?

Become a Mentor Today →

 

Photography by Logan Lewis

 

UGA to host monthlong Spotlight on the Arts festival

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‘Circles of Success’ empower students and alumni

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Midway through their first mentorship meeting, Sidi Ndiaye ’25 and Lindsay Ayers (BBA ’15) were both surprised at what they heard. 

“Our first meeting via Zoom was unexpectedly impactful. Hearing Lindsay share her similar journey — starting with an interest in medicine, but shifting to the healthcare business side while longing to find that balance — motivated me to fully embrace the experience,” said Sidi, a fourth year psychology student. 

“During our first meeting, I shared my experiences and insights from the health care industry. One student said, ‘Wow, that’s exactly the type of information I need to hear, I didn’t even know I needed to hear that!’” said Lindsay. “Moments like these remind me that the lessons I’m still learning can set someone up for success before they even step into the field.”  

Sidi and Lindsay are both participants in the UGA Mentor Program’s inaugural Circle of Success, with Lindsay serving as a mentor to Sidi, one of three mentees in the circle. Their relationship has blossomed through the program, leading to personal and professional growth for both as they explore their careers. 

Sidi and Lindsay meet via zoom.

Sidi and Lindsay meet via Zoom. (Photo: Submitted)

Circles of Success are a new, additional mentorship approach within the UGA Mentor Program. Unlike traditional one-on-one mentoring, this approach enables students to join a group led by a matched mentor. This model fosters collaborative learning and networking, connecting individuals like Sidi to peers and professionals who share similar interests and goals. 

Currently, there are 18 active circles supporting 75 students, with additional mentors ready to start new circles in January. 

“Group mentoring allows students to discover questions they didn’t know they needed to ask and gain insights they might not have considered alone,” said Lindsay. “In a less intimidating environment, they can learn alongside peers, realizing they’re not alone in their uncertainties.” 

“Even during my time at UGA, I’ve had a couple of mentors, but a program like this is incredibly valuable, as the individual expertise of these professionals creates a great opportunity to maximize your potential,” said Sidi. 

The UGA Mentor Program is a digital platform that facilitates mentoring relationships between students and UGA mentors — faculty, staff, and alumni. The program’s vision is for every UGA student to have a mentor before graduating, so they are focused on meeting students where they are, fostering inclusivity, and making mentorship an integral part of the student experience. Mentors participate as volunteers, driven by a genuine desire to give back. 

“She’s only here to help, and when you have that support in your life, why not use it?” said Sidi. 

“Mentors are not here out of obligation; they choose to be here because they genuinely want to help. Having once been in your shoes, they are excited to see you grow and succeed,” said Lindsay. 

Lead a circle by joining the UGA Mentor Program today

UGA Mentor Program celebrates 5 years

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The UGA Mentor Program has become a robust connection point between alumni and students.  

The secret to its success, according to Bethany Bagwell (MED ’17, EDD ’22), director of the UGA Mentor Program, is that the program has been innovating and adapting its structure since the very first day. What began as a standard one-to-one 16-week mentoring model — which still exists today — has since evolved to include one-time-only quick chats and a new “Circles of Success” model, which involves one mentor working with a group of two to eight mentees.  

“We wanted to communicate directly with the students and find out what would stop them from participating in a program like this,” Bethany remembers. “What we heard was that the formal interview-type structure can be intimidating, so we wanted to give everyone options that would best fit their needs. 

“It turns out that that type of flexibility really appealed to the mentors as well,” she says.  

In the five years since its inception, the UGA Mentor Program has become a near-ubiquitous sight for students on campus. This popularity, Bethany stresses, is all because of the students and their dedication to sharing their experiences.  

UGA Mentor Program staff pictured with Hairy Dawg.

Bethany Bagwell, Hairy Dawg, Rebecca Hughes and Drew Sanford celebrate the UGA Mentor Program’s fifth birthday at a student event in Tate Student Center.

During her freshman year, Priscilla Bissah ’25 thought she wanted to begin her UGA journey as an intended pre-law major. It wasn’t until she became involved with the UGA Mentor Program and heard from her first mentor about their experience in law school that Priscilla decided to pivot.  

“Participating in the program was really good for me because it made me realize I want to be on a totally different path in my life,” the now-intended pre-medical student says.  

“I definitely want to come back and participate in the program as a mentor once I graduate,” continues Priscilla. “It’s made such a huge difference for me, and I want to be able to pass on that experience to students in the future.” 

College can be a confusing and stressful time for students. For many of them, it is their first time away from home and the world is at their fingertips. With all that opportunity, however, can be an immense pressure to perform at a high level. Mentors can help students navigate those pressures and forge their own paths in a way that can be difficult to find anywhere else. 

“We hear stories of students who were scared or needed help and didn’t know who to turn to and were able to get that support from their mentors in this program,” Bethany says. “That’s what I’m most proud of: the impact that we are able to have on both mentors and mentees.” 

Dr. Joe Bartges (DVM ’87), Bulldog Veterinary Medicine Professor at the UGA College of Veterinary Medicine, has been a mentor with the program since its beginning in 2019, and he still keeps in touch with those he’s mentored over the years. “The program is really beneficial for both mentees and mentors,” he says. “I’ve learned just as much and maybe even more than the students do from these mentoring relationships.”  

Dr. Bartges has mentored students in the College of Veterinary Medicine’s Georgia Veterinary Scholars Program as well as through the UGA Mentor Program. He believes that the process has kept him more connected to his students. “Mentoring has kept me engaged with where students are at mentally and emotionally more than I would be if I just stood at the front of the classroom and lectured all day long.” 

For faculty like Bartges and Ron Walcott (PHD ’99), vice provost for graduate education and dean of the Graduate School, the UGA Mentor Program provided a formal structure for the type of work they were already doing with their students.  

For Walcott, it was his experience as a first-generation student at Iowa State University that led him to mentor students through the program. “It wasn’t until I found a mentor who really worked to create a home away from home for me that I felt like I belonged,” he says. “From then on, my experience in college was much more fulfilling.” 

Mentors and mentees gather at a table.

Mentors and mentees gathered for “Bulldogs Connect,” an event facilitated by the UGA Mentor Program and Student Affairs.

Micarjo Benjamin ’26, another mentee and one of 24 UGA Mentor Program Ambassadors, also says that participating in the program helped to overcome anxiety about her future, especially as a first-generation college student. 

“I was really uncertain about a lot of the decisions you have to make about your future,” she says. “Becoming a mentee gave me the opportunity to form a relationship with someone who is well-versed in those decisions and who has made a successful career post-graduation. 

“It helped me to come out of my shell and eventually become an ambassador for the program so that other students can benefit in a similar way,” Micarjo concludes. 

The UGA Mentor Program has had quite the impactful first five years as it celebrates its birthday this year. But participants and staff have their eyes on what the future holds.  

“The goal would be to see every UGA student paired with a mentor at some point throughout their college experience,” says Bethany. “We also want to make sure that we’re staying on top of the most current research and trends in mentorship and adapting those to fit the needs of our students.” 

Are you an alum looking to deepen your connection with UGA and share your knowledge with current students? Consider becoming a mentor today and help provide resources to students for generations to come! 

A good mentor is simple to find

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The UGA Mentor Program offers connection and inspiration to participants in a variety of professional fields, including those who serve or plan to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces. 

The ease of finding a mentor with his exact dream job was the first among many pleasant surprises for Cadet Chase Martel ’25 when he first began to use the Mentor Program’s online platform. An ambitious undergraduate in the Terry College of Business, Chase’s expectations were exceeded soon after he first engaged with the program. His professional goal is to become a Judge Advocate General in the United States Air Force, and he thought the likelihood of finding a UGA alum in that career who was also a mentor was low. Enter: a “major” surprise. 

“It’s been really impactful to have someone who is working my dream job to offer his perspective and experience by looking back to when he was in my shoes,” Chase describes. “It’s sort of like looking at myself years down the road.” 

Major Kevin Mitchell (AB ’05) joined the Mentor Program thinking that if today’s students were anything like he was, a little extra guidance would be helpful as they navigate college and the job market. When Major Mitchell was a first-generation rural student, there were many times that he had a network of people to help him navigate his career path. In the spirit of a true Bulldog, Major Mitchell decided then to pay it forward to the next generation by serving as a UGA mentor.  

The mentor-mentee pair mainly meets through Zoom calls and emails given Major Mitchell’s station in Hawaii, but they were able to meet face-to-face when Major Mitchell returned to Athens as one of the UGA Alumni Association’s 40 Under 40 honorees in 2023. The duo met up for coffee and a walk around campus. From Candler Hall, where Major Mitchell studied as a student, to Sanford Stadium, where Chase remembered his experience watching the 2022 College Football Playoff National Championship his freshman year, the pair discussed their respective memories at UGA. Despite being decades apart in age and experience, the two had similar college experiences.  

Cadet Martel and Major Mitchell used virtual meetings to overcome time and distance.

A benefit for both 

Chase is not the only one who benefited from participation in the mentor program; Major Mitchell did, too.  

“Not only does it allow you to provide advice to someone who is passionate about what you do, but it also allows you the space to reflect on the aspects of your job that really fulfill you,” Major Mitchell says.  

That reflection is invaluable to professionals who may not initially think they have anything to offer the next generation. “It’s inspiring for me to see someone Chase’s age be so excited and thoughtful about the future,” Major Mitchell describes. “It’s a comforting thought to have Chase as an example of how the next generation will navigate the world.” 

“It’s almost like recharging your batteries,” he continues. “It’s energizing to know that what you do matters to people and that the future is in good hands because of it.” 

It should come as no surprise then that the two encourage both potential mentors and mentees to try the program for themselves. Even if a potential mentee has a less-than-clear idea of their dream job, the Mentor Program can help mentees receive a practical perspective that may be difficult to access in a classroom. As for potential mentors, it can provide an inspiring and energizing opportunity for reflection.  

“I couldn’t ask for a better college or post-grad experience than the one I’ve had with UGA,” Major Mitchell says. “Not just with a successful football team and all the joy that entails, but participating in this program and meeting Chase has been a really meaningful way to stay engaged with the university.” 

Whether it’s being a part of Bulldog Nation, or being a part of a greater collective in the armed forces, Major Mitchell and Chase’s experience in UGA’s Mentor Program highlights the importance of connecting with fellow Bulldogs who share your passions and values.

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Happy 239th birthday, UGA!

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How do you celebrate 239 successful years as the country’s first public institution of higher education? With a 239th birthday party, of course!  

More than 1,150 students celebrated the University of Georgia’s 239th birthday in style during this year’s Founders Day event held in the Tate Student Center on January 26. The event, which was organized by the Student Alumni Council with generous support from the Office of the President, brought together 11 of the university’s 18 schools and colleges to celebrate UGA’s academic excellence and the incredible campus we call home. 

Student attendees received a “passport” for the event and earned stamps for completing activities organized by those schools and colleges in attendance. Those who filled their passport received a special Founders Day memento.

Attendees also had the opportunity to take home other UGA swag, write thank you notes to UGA faculty and staff, take photos with Hairy Dawg, and enjoy UGA-themed birthday treats.

View photos from the event — and see if you spot yourself!