Checking in with Alumni Board Member Wes Neece

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There’s a group of committed UGA alumni who dedicate their time, energy, and financial resources to bringing Bulldogs together year-round, worldwide, and lifelong. These spirited Alumni Board members represent the diverse and passionate UGA alumni family and strive to provide feedback, guidance and leadership as the University of Georgia seeks to ensure that its graduates Never Bark Alone. Throughout the year, we’ll get to know these individuals; they hail from various backgrounds and are involved in all corners of campus. Their goal: to empower the next breed of Bulldog to continue ta tradition of excellence.

Name:

  • Wes Neece

I live in:

  • Atlanta, GA

Degree:

  • 2000 – BBA in Management Information Systems (UGA)

I joined the board in:

  • 2018

Ways I support UGA:

Wes Neece with Home Depot

Wes represents UGA at a Home Depot summer intern networking breakfast in 2018.

My first job after graduation:

  • A computer programmer at The Home Depot

The class at UGA that I enjoyed most was:

  • Intro to Management Information Systems. I love the way that business and technology interact.

What makes me most proud to be a Georgia Bulldog:

  • The fact that our academic reputation continues to escalate!

My family includes:

  • Wife, Becky (BS ’01)
  • Daughters, Rowan and Carlson
  • Dogs, Olaf and Dolly
Wes Neece with his kids

Wes enjoys a tailgate on Myers Quad with his two daughters, Rowan and Carlson.

A special connection I have to UGA is:

  • I met my wife and my best friends there.

As a student, I was involved in:

My favorite place to study on campus was:

  • Law Library— cool, quiet, and close to downtown for when study time is over!

On a Friday night in college, you would have found me:

  • Having one too many at Sons of Italy and Steverino’s

When I was a student, I lived in:

  • Creswell
  • University Commons
  • College Park

My greatest accomplishment as a student:

  • Graduating Magna Cum Laude— I was proud of the balance I struck between partying and school!

My favorite memory from graduation:

  • I only slept for 90 minutes the night before my graduation ceremony. My mom was mortified that I wore flip flops to it!
Wes Neece graduation

Wes wearing his infamous flip flips at graduation in 2000!

A fellow UGA grad who inspires me is:

My favorite tradition at UGA:

  • The Battle Hymn Trumpet solo

When I visit Athens, I have to grab a bite at:

  • The Last Resort

On game day, you’ll find me:

  • Rushing to make kickoff after a kid’s soccer game!

My most disliked athletic rival is:

  • University of Florida— everyone knows that Gators wear jean shorts!

A few of my favorites:

  • Book: Pillars of Earth
  • Podcast: The Daily
  • Movie: The Shawshank Redemption
  • Band: Mumford & Sons
  • TV show: The West Wing
Wes Neece at Rose Bowl

Wes cheers on the Dawgs at the 2018 Rose Bowl.

Favorite alumni-owned restaurant:

No. 1 tip to a graduating Bulldog:

  • There will be higher highs (wedding day, birth of your children, etc.), but know that when you look back at your life, your time in Athens will be one that you long for. You only get one go at this. Make sure you enjoy it!

No. 1 tip to a fellow Georgia grad who has lost touch with their alma mater:

  • Your school has so much to offer you. It gives you a sense of grounding of who you are, who you were and, most importantly, what used to be important to you. A sense of grounding is incredibly important in the chaos that is today. Let UGA be an anchor for you.

Wes, who you might recognize from UGA’s 40 Under 40 Class of 2017, supports UGA in a variety of ways—including being a wonderful advocate at The Home Depot—and we appreciate his ongoing commitment to his alma mater.

MEET OTHER ALUMNI BOARD MEMBERS

Checking in with outgoing Alumni Board Member April Crow

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There’s a group of committed UGA alumni who dedicate their time, energy and financial resources to bringing Bulldogs together year-round, worldwide and lifelong. These spirited Alumni Board members represent the diverse and passionate UGA alumni family and strive to provide feedback, guidance and leadership as the University of Georgia seeks to ensure that its graduates Never Bark Alone. Throughout the year, we’ll get to know these individuals; they hail from various backgrounds and are involved in all corners of campus. Their ultimate goal: to empower the next breed of Bulldog to continue that tradition.

April Crow Headshot

April Crow, an outgoing board member and dedicated alumnus.

Name:

  • April Crow

I live in:

  • Atlanta, GA

Degree:

  • 1995 – BS in Environmental Health (UGA)

I joined the board in:

  • 2015

What makes me proud to be a Georgia Bulldog:

  • The community of fellow Bulldogs around the state and the world that are doing great work in their communities. I love interacting with them both socially and professionally.

Ways I support UGA:

If I had $1 million, I would support the _____ fund on campus.

My first job after graduation

  • Regulatory Affairs Specialist at Coca-Cola

A moment that stood out as a UGA student was

  • I wanted to take Ballroom Dance for one of my P.E. courses, but you could only sign up with a partner. I recruited a good friend named Brian. Who knew that class would spark a little romance that made him my dance partner for life?

My family includes:

  • Husband, Brian (BSAE ’97)
  • Son, Garner
  • Daughter, Greer
April Crow and family at football game

April cheers on the Dawgs with her husband, Brian, and two children!

A special connection I have to UGA is…

  • Throughout my professional career, I have focused a significant amount of time and personal interest in solving the plastics in the ocean challenge. I connected with Jenna Jambeck, a leading academic researcher on the topic and a UGA professor. I’ve had the opportunity to work and speak with her at events around the world. It is great to see UGA contributing to such an important challenge.

A memory from my acceptance into UGA:

  • I remember answering the phone in our family living room during Spring 1991. Wen Williams, associate dean for academic affairs, congratulated me on being awarded a full tuition scholarship from the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.

As a student, I was involved in:

  • Zeta Tau Alpha
  • College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences Ambassador
  • Job at the Tate Copy Center
April Crow in Sanford Stadium

April Crow celebrating the Bulldog 100 with her husband in Sanford Stadium.

My favorite place to study on campus was:

  • Science Library

My favorite place to dine on campus:

  • Bolton Dining Hall –– My best friends and I loved making waffles and topping them with ice cream from the UGA Creamery!

On a Friday night in college, you would have found me:

  • At the Zeta Tau Alpha house getting ready to go downtown!

When I was a student, I lived in:

  • Boggs Hall
  • Zeta Tau Alpha house
  • Apartment at Rivers Edge

My fashion/hair style as a student

  • Floral, puffy sleeves
  • Jumpers for dressing up
  • Sorority/fraternity T-shirts

When in college, I wish I had known that …

  • The time would go by so quickly– I wish I could go back and soak in more of those experiences and meet more people.
April with son and husband

April with her son, Garner, and husband Brian.

The most significant change to campus since I was a student

  • Tate Center expansion!

When this song comes on the radio, I think of college:

  • “Love Shack” by the B-52’s

My most disliked athletic rival:

  • University of Florida

Favorite alumni-owned restaurant:

  • Condor Chocolates

My dream weekend in Athens includes:

  • Tailgating, seeing friends, enjoying lots of restaurants and shopping downtown.

No. 1 tip to a graduating Bulldog:

  • Learn as much as you can. Meet as many people as possible. Leverage the UGA network and give back financially and by helping other Bulldogs!

No. 1 tip to a fellow Georgia grad who has lost touch with their alma mater:

April’s term on the Alumni Board concluded June 30, but we know this loyal Bulldog will remain involved for years to come. Also, be sure to check out a special story about April and Brian’s financial support for UGA. LINK

MEET OTHER ALUMNI BOARD MEMBERS

UGA Alumni Association names new president, board members

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The UGA Alumni Association Board of Directors has elected its 77th president, Yvette K. Daniels (AB ’86, JD ’89), and approved eight new board members. Their terms began July 1.

Daniels has been on the board since 2015 and succeeds Brian Dill (AB ’94, MBA ’19), whose two-year term concluded June 30. Her passion for policy, mentorship and relationship-building has guided her career. She spent six years as an assistant state attorney in Florida, and then joined the Georgia Department of Public Health where she has held lobbying and director positions. Today, she is the director of university relations for the Georgia Department of Public Health.

“Yvette is a valued leader among this group of passionate alumni,” said Meredith Gurley Johnson (BSFCS ’00, MED ’16), executive director of alumni relations. “She embodies the spirit of UGA, is committed to the UGA community and goes above and beyond to serve our university.”

The Atlanta native graduated from the University of Georgia in 1986 with a bachelor’s degree in political science and in 1989 with a law degree. She resides in Stone Mountain, Georgia, with her husband, Frederick L. Daniels Jr. The couple has two daughters – Kasey is a second-year student at UGA, and Kinsey is a senior at Arizona State University. Daniels will be the first Black woman president of the UGA Alumni Association.

Alumni joining the board on July 1 include:

  • Charlene Johnson Benn (BS ’85), Director of Operations and Technology Strategy, Fiserv; Suwanee, Georgia
  • Ericka Brown Davis (AB ’93), Chief Communications Officer, State Road and Tollway Authority and Atlanta-Region Transit Link Authority; College Park, Georgia
  • Deretta Rhodes (BSFCS ’92, PHD ’10), EVP/Chief People Capital Officer, Atlanta Braves; Atlanta
  • Paton Faletti (BBA ’99), President and CEO, NCM Associates; Atlanta
  • Ashley M. Horne (ABJ ’01), Chief Marketing Officer, Womble Bond Dickinson (U.S.); Atlanta
  • Adam C. Johnson (MBA ’16), Director, Jabian Consulting; Atlanta
  • Christian Robinson (BBA ’04), Executive Director, JP Morgan Chase & Co.; Charlotte, North Carolina
  • Marisa “Marsay” Simpson (BSW ’97), Director of Legislative and Governmental Affairs, Atlanta Gas Light; Greensboro, Georgia

The executive board members who will serve alongside Daniels include:

  • Lee Zell (AB ’96), Vice President — Account Executive, Turner Sports; Atlanta
  • Bobb Watts (AB ’10), Secretary — Associate, Jones Day; Atlanta
  • Dominique Holloman (BS ’01, AB ’01, MED ’04, JD ’04), Nominating Committee Chair — Government Affairs Manager, Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority; Atlanta
  • Stephanie Powell (BSED ’94, MED ’97, EDS ’99), Student Engagement Committee Chair  — Director of Internal Affairs, Joe Powell and Associates, Inc.; Cumming, Georgia
  • Corey Dortch (BSA ’03, MED ’05, PHD ’11), Affinity Committee Chair — Associate Dean, Evening MBA Program, Emory University Goizueta Business School; Mableton, Georgia
  • Cheri Leavy (BSED ’97), Events Committee Chair — Editor/Creative Director/Founder, guide2athens/Bulldog Illustrated/The Southern Coterie; St. Simons Island, Georgia
  • Todd Phinney (BBA ’88), Chapters Committee Chair — Business Consultant-Field Operations, Chick-fil-A, Inc.; Bishop, Georgia

“These new board members represent an array of diverse perspectives and alumni experiences at the University of Georgia,” said Johnson. “Their dedication to leadership and service are invaluable in engaging alumni and inspiring Bulldogs year-round, worldwide and lifelong.”

Board members concluding their terms on the board include:

  • Bill Caldwell (BLA ’97), Smyrna, Georgia
  • Jody Corry (ABJ ’88, JD ’91), Watkinsville, Georgia
  • April Crow (BSEH ’95), Atlanta
  • Shelly Hutchinson (MSW ’00), Snellville, Georgia
  • Lex Kenerly (BS ’78), Jesup, Georgia
  • Luther Lockwood (BBA ’89), Charlotte, North Carolina
  • Bonney Shuman (BBA ’80), St. Simons Island, Georgia

The UGA Alumni Association Board of Directors works closely with UGA’s alumni relations staff to promote, support, and advance the programs and services that are offered to nearly 340,000 living alumni around the world.

View the Full Alumni Board of Directors

Ten jokes for UGA fans on International Joke Day

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In honor of International Joke Day (July 1), we’re spreading smiles and laughter among the Bulldog Nation by poking fun at our biggest rivals.

  1.  What’s the difference between a Georgia Tech football player and a dollar? 

    You can get four quarters out of a dollar!

  2.  How do you keep a Gator out of your front yard?

    Put up a goal post!

  3.  What do you get when you cross a Gator with a groundhog?

    Six more weeks of bad football!

  4.  How many Gators did it take to tackle JT Daniels? 

    Good question, no one knows!

  5.  What does a Georgia Tech grad call a UGA grad?  

    Boss!

  6.  What’s the best thing to come out of Gainesville, Florida? 

    I-75!

  7.  How do you make Gator cookies? 

    Put them in a big bowl and beat for three hours!

  8.  How does a UGA grad get a Gator fan off his porch?  

    Tip him for the pizza he bought!

  9.  What’s the difference between the Yellow Jackets and Cheerios?  

    One belongs in a bowl. The other doesn’t!

  10.  Why did the Georgia Tech football team cross the road?  

    Because it was easier than crossing the goal line!

Pride Month Spotlight: UGA’s LGBT Resource Center

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The University of Georgia aims to foster a welcoming and inclusive environment for students of all backgrounds. There are a variety of resources available to students seeking support and a community on campus, including the LGBT Resource Center. We sat down with Chad Mandala, the center’s director, during Pride Month to learn more about how his team supports UGA students throughout the year.

History

The LGBT Resource Center was established in 2005 to serve as a safe space for LGBT-identified students and their allies. The center is committed to supporting and affirming every member of the UGA community inclusive of sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.

The LGBT Resource Center mission is to foster self-discovery and acceptance in a holistic, supportive environment. Located in Memorial Hall in the heart of campus, the center houses an extensive library with entertaining and educational films, books, pamphlets, and health resources. Students enjoy the center’s lounge area to relax, socialize and study between classes.

“It’s a community that has been like a safe haven,” said Tyquavious Kelley (BS ’21), a former student who valued the center.

From empowering students to educating the community, the LGBT Resource Center at UGA ensures that no Dawg barks alone.

“No matter what a student is going through, we are here to remind them that they are loved,” said Mandala.

Programs and resources

The LGBT Resource Center offers resources and programs to meet the needs of the LGBT and ally communities through advocacy, education, and support. Signature events like Sugar Rush and Lavender Graduation advocate for a safer, more equitable climate on campus. Educational programs provide opportunities for the UGA community to address the complicated issues that surround sexual and gender identity. Some of these programs include the student-run radio show, Queeries, and the Lunch with Leaders program, which coordinates a lunch for students and an LGBT-identified leader in the community who shares their coming-out story and career trajectory.

Chad shared a bit about the signature events his team hosts:

  • Sugar Rush: Sugar Rush is a social each September during which first-year students make campus connections over candy. It’s a “sweet” welcome for the newest generation of Bulldogs to the LGBT Resource Center.
  • PRISM: This dialogue group for students who identify as LGBTQ people of color was developed in partnership with the Office of Multicultural Services and Programs to recognize and address intersections of race, ethnicity, gender, and sexual identity.
  • Lavender Graduation: Lavender Graduation is a cultural celebration to acknowledge the achievements and contributions of LGBT students on campus. This positive recognition will hopefully encourage graduating students to maintain a connection to UGA, its students, and fellow alumni beyond commencement.
  • Safe Space: This program is a 3.5 hour training for faculty, staff, and students who are interested in learning about gender and sexual identity, homophobia, heterosexism, and how they can support and become an ally for the LGBT community.

Support the LGBT community

The LGBT Resource Center relies on charitable donations to support the rapidly growing student population at UGA.

“As we continue to evolve, we need help. The ability to grow is dependent on alumni who believe in us. Every gift has the ability to transform what we are able to do,” said Mandala.

By donating to the LGBT Resource Center Endowment, you can help to end discrimination and promote lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer equality on campus. According to Mandala, the fund is one of the most effective ways to remove barriers and open doors for the next generation of Bulldogs because it provides general support for the center, including program expenses, guest speakers, conference expenses, emergency funding to support students in crisis situations, travel, equipment, supplies, etc.

 

Give to the LGBT Resource Center
brian dill

Checking in with outgoing Alumni Board President Brian Dill

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Brian Dill in front of Wray-Nicholson House

There’s a group of committed UGA alumni who dedicate their time, energy and financial resources to bringing Bulldogs together year-round, worldwide and lifelong. These spirited individuals represent the diverse and passionate UGA alumni family and strive to provide feedback, guidance and leadership as the University of Georgia seeks to ensure that its graduates Never Bark Alone. Throughout the year, we’ll get to know these individuals; they hail from various backgrounds and are involved in all corners of campus. Their ultimate goal: to empower the next breed of Bulldog to continue that tradition.

Name:

  • Brian Dill

I live in:

  • Carrollton, Georgia

Degrees:

  • 1994 – AB in Political Science (UGA)
  • 2019 – MBA (UGA)

I joined the board in:

  • 2007

What makes me most proud to be a Georgia Bulldog:

  • Being a part of a diverse and highly successful alumni family.
Brian Dill speaking at 40 Under 40

Brian speaking at UGA’s 40 Under 40 Awards Luncheon.

Ways I support UGA

If I had $1 million, I would support the ______ fund on campus.

My first job after graduation was

  • lobbying for the Atlanta Homebuilders Association

The UGA class I enjoyed most was

  • Southern Politics with Charles Bullock III
Brian Dill as Redcoat Band Member

Brian was a proud member of the Redcoat Band.

A moment that stood out as a UGA student was

  • My first game as a freshman in the Redcoat Band – the season opened with a night game in Baton Route against LSU.

My family includes:

  • Wife, Carmen (BSFCS ’95)
  • Son, Mason – attending Dean College in Massachusetts
  • Datson/Beagle, Jake
  • English Bulldog, Savannah
Carmen Brian and Mason Dill at the Arch

Brian (center) and his wife, Carmen, and son, Mason.

A special connection I have to UGA is:

  • My wife, Carmen, and I met on campus and later married in the UGA Chapel.
Carmen and Brian in Sky Suites

Carmen and Brian cheer for the Dawgs whenever they can!

As a student, I was involved in:

  • Redcoat Band
  • College Republicans
  • Job in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Crop and Soil Science department

My favorite place to study on campus was:

  • Main Library

My favorite place to dine on campus was:

  • Tate Center – quick and easy!

On a Friday night in college, you would have found me:

  • Studying? Oh yeah, downtown!
Brian Dill Delivering Commencement Address in 2019

Brian Dill delivering welcome remarks to the Class of 2019.

Graduation was:

  • On a very hot day, in the morning, and we sat in the stands at the time – not on the field.

When in college, I wish I had known that:

  • Just because they offer you credit card deals with free stuff doesn’t mean you should take them – not the best financial move back in the day!

A fellow grad who inspires me is:

  • Maria Taylor (ABJ ’09, MBA ’13), sportscaster for ESPN

A fellow student I knew who has since “made it big” is:

  • Brett Bawcum (BMUS ’97, MM ’00, DMA ’17), Redcoat Band director. It’s a pretty big deal to lead a band that you were a member of. Very proud of him!

Favorite UGA tradition:

  • Singing the Alma Mater in Sanford Stadium
Brian Dill and Hairy Dawg

While serving on the board, Brian has run into Hairy Dawg a few times!

When visiting Athens, I have to grab a bite at:

  • The Blind Pig Tavern

On gameday, you’ll find me:

  • Tailgating on North Campus

When this song comes on the radio, I think of UGA/college:

  • “Georgia On My Mind” by Ray Charles
Kevin Steele, Carmen and Brian Dill at 2015 Bulldog 100 Celebration

Carmen and Brian with Kevin Steele, a former UGA Student Alumni Council member, during the 2015 Bulldog 100 Celebration.

Most disliked athletic rival:

  • Georgia Tech

A few of my favorites:

  • Book: Decision Point by George W. Bush
  • Podcast: Andy Stanley
  • Band: Jimmy Buffett
  • TV/Streaming Show: Blue Bloods
  • Alumni-owned Business: Onward Reserve
  • Move: Smokey and the Bandit

Describe your dream weekend in Athens.

  • Friday night at Georgia Theatre with Kinchafoonee Cowboys, Saturday in Sanford Stadium watching the Dawgs beat the Nerds, and a Sunday brunch at Hilltop Grill listening to Jeff Dantzler (AB ’07) and Kevin Butler (AB ’18) break down another whupping from a Bulldog Saturday night!

No. 1 tip for a graduating Bulldog:

  • If you ever get an offer to work for a Georgia Tech grad … don’t!

No. 1 tip for a fellow Georgia grad who has lost touch with their alma mater:

  • We Never Bark Alone, so get re-engaged. You will never regret it. Go Dawgs!
Brian Dill speaking

Brian Dill speaking during a 2014 Alumni Board meeting in Athens.

Brian will remain on the Alumni Board of Directors as immediate past president, so we’ll still see him around – plus, as they say: Once a Dawg, Always a Dawg!

Meet Other Alumni Board Members

 

Pete Correll

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In May 2021, the University of Georgia lost one of its most accomplished, supportive and proud alumni: Alston D. “Pete” Correll, Jr.

Read more

Welcome to Austin, Bulldogs!

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The University of Georgia Class of 2021 will send a wave of red and black from coast to coast when they depart the Classic City. With the help of alumni across the country, we curated guides to a few cities to which new grads may move to when they leave the Classic City. Welcome to the city, Bulldogs!  

Austin, Texas, is the Lone Star State’s capital city and is home to both the largest urban bat colony in North America and the University of Texas. Located in the center of the state, the city’s up-and-coming tech industry is surrounded by a vibrant outdoor scene. Austin residents and UGA alumni Ryan Carty (ABJ ’09, MED ’13) and Sara Robertson (ABJ ’99) share a few tips for Bulldogs who want to “keep Austin weird.” 

Favorite part about living in Austin.

“Austin is a vibrant city full of young professionals eager to meet new people and make friends. The tech industry is booming here, and I’ve connected with other people who work in the industry. I also enjoy the outdoors. You can often find people running along the river, paddle boarding or kayaking on the lake or going for a hike. And you can’t forget that it’s the live music capital of the world!” – Ryan  

How do you spend a free day in Austin? 

“A free day in Austin would start with coffee and breakfast tacos before a dip at Deep Eddy pool. After swimming, I’d be ready for lunch, which means more tacos. Afternoons are best spent out of the heat and sun, so I’d head to Book People or the Blanton Museum. After feeling re-energized, I’d be ready for dinner on an outdoor patio, which would mean more tacos and definitely a margarita or two. The Austin experience must include live music, so I would end this day by attending a taping of the iconic Austin City Limits television show.” – Sara  

The Texas State Capitol is located in Austin, Texas.

What makes Austin special? 

“Austin is special because there is something for everyone to enjoy. I think it’s best for people who are open to new experiences and meeting people unlike any others they’ve ever met before.” – Ryan  

“I’ve observed Austin go through several booms and busts, but there has always been an underlying creative and entrepreneurial spirit that drives innovation and optimism.” – Sara  

One thing people may not know about Austin. 

“Austin’s real estate market is growing at a rapid rate, and Austin has the most expensive cost of living in Texas. Budget accordingly if you decide to move here.” – Ryan

“Austin has a lot of work to do regarding equity and advancing social issues. There is a lot of room for more civic engagement. Luckily, there are endless way to be involved and make a difference.” – Sara  

Austin’s best cup of coffee.

“Jo’s Coffee.” – Sara  

 “Cosmic Coffee and Beer Garden.” – Ryan 

Favorite park or green space in Austin. 

“Zilker Park, Krause Springs, Sculpture Falls, Barton Creek, Lady Bird Lake and Lake Travis.” –Ryan   

Best place to catch live music in the live music capital of the world?

“Hole in the Wall or Austin City Limits Live at the Moody Theater.” – Sara 

Austin’s must-see sights.

“The ATX sign on Fifth Street and North Lamar Boulevard, historic Sixth Street and Rainey Street’s bungalow bars” – Ryan  

Austin city is known for its _____. 

“Outdoor scene!” – Ryan  

“Food and music!” – Sara  

Advice for a Bulldog new to Austin.

“Register to vote and meet your councilperson. Get to know the local business owners in your neighborhood and support them with your business. A great way to meet new people is to volunteer with a nonprofit organization or join a networking organization.” – Sara  

“Live near the areas you frequent most, whether that’s downtown, your favorite park or a body of water.” – Ryan  

To connect with the Austin Chapter of the UGA Alumni Association, you can follow along on Facebook (Austin Dawgs) and Instagram (@austin_dawgs).

Find My Chapter
 

 

Check out similar guides to the following cities:

Welcome to Chicago, Bulldogs!

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The University of Georgia Class of 2021 will send a wave of red and black from coast to coast when they depart the Classic City. With the help of alumni across the country, we curated guides to a few cities to which new grads may move to when they leave the Classic City. Welcome to the city, Bulldogs!  

Set against the backdrop of Lake Michigan and a host of architectural gems, Chicago is a feast for the eyes. The third-largest city in America boasts a bustling restaurant scene, world-renowned museums and plenty of history. Michael Lyons (BBA ’15), president of the UGA Alumni Chicago Chapter, Amber Wallin (ABJ ’13), Dana Todd (ABJ ’92), and Nisha Katti (AB ’16, ABJ ’16) share tips to help Bulldogs make the most of life in the Windy City.

Favorite part about living in Chicago.

“I like living in a big city that has a neighborhood feel, the influence that many cultures have left on the city, and the imprint of early 1900 American retail and steel companies.” – Michael

“It was hard leaving Athens after graduation, but then you realize that Chicago, with its varied neighborhoods, feels like a collection of small towns. It’s beautiful forming neighborhood camaraderie!” – Nisha

How do you spend a free day in Chicago?

“I love the downtown area, and I love taking visitors around to see the various buildings and art museums. I also love taking the architectural boat tour down the river. Chicago’s architecture is just gorgeous, and once you start learning the history you see so much more than just glass and steel.” – Dana

“On a warm day, I like biking around the city to favorite coffee spots and local shops and ending the day on the lakefront with a picnic overlooking the city.” – Michael

“Breweries (favorites: Lake Effect Brewery, Lagunitas, Begyle Brewing), beer on my back patio, or beer and elotes in Humboldt Park. Also, 100% the architecture boat tour! In the winter, it’s nice to snuggle up somewhere like Kibbitznest for hot drinks, board games, and books or take in warmth and greenery at the beautiful (and free) Garfield Park Conservatory. Remember to always make a donation, though!” – Nisha

What makes Chicago special?

“Chicago combines the best of Midwest benefits (affordability, nice people, middle of the country, accessible by many transportation options) with big-city benefits like great public transit, lots of jobs, arts and culture, and lots of universities.” – Dana

“We don’t put ketchup on our hot dogs.” – Michael

“It’s walkable, it’s accessible by public transit, it’s infinitely parkable (download SpotHero now!), and it’s a major American city. How is that even possible?” – Nisha

Built in 1921, The Chicago Theatre, originally known as the Balaban and Katz Chicago Theatre, is a landmark theater located on North State Street in the Loop area of Chicago.

One thing people may not know about Chicago.

“Chicago is an amazing city for comedy and comedians, like me.” – Amber

“In the winter, there is a widely-accepted ‘dibs’ rule. If you’ve dug your car out of the snow, you can save that spot for when you return. Empty spots are held by placing household objects, like patio furniture or vacuums, in parking spots during the day. It’s common to go down a block during a cold February morning and see holes in two feet of snow with a lonesome patio chair.” – Michael

“The best view of the city is from Museum campus, near the Shedd Aquarium. I like to go at night when the museums are closed and there’s no traffic and street park down there!” – Nisha

Chicago’s best cup of coffee?

“Dollop or Intellgentsia.” – Amber

“Dark Matter.” – Michael

Favorite local park.

“Millennium Park, of course! There’s also a cool sculpture park near Skokie.” – Dana

“Garden of the Phoenix in Jackson Park, Garfield Conservatory, Oz Park.” – Michael

“Humboldt Park, hands down. There are so many hidden nooks, swan paddle boats, elotes and fresh mango sold by vendors, and plenty of space to picnic.” – Nisha

The waterfront along the Chicago River boasts views of Chicago’s unique architecture.

Best place to catch live music.

“West Side bars like Cobra Lounge have underground and punk bands. For big performances in a huge park, go to Ravinia Park. City Winery has mainstream jazz and singers … there’s something for everyone here.” – Dana

“Chicago is the birthplace of house music and home to a lot of jazz. Kingston Mines is perfect for a night of jazz, ad Smart Bar features local house artists every weekend.” – Michael

“I love B.L.U.E.S., the Green Mill Lounge, and the California Clipper!” – Nisha

Chicago’s must-see sites.

“The Chicago Cultural Center is an overlooked gem. It has permanent and rotating art exhibits of important Chicago culture and artists.” – Amber

“The Bean, also called Cloud Gate.” – Dana

“The Garfield Park Conservatory, the murals in Pilsen, and Palmisano Park (which has transformed from coral reefs to quarry to landfill to park)!” – Nisha

Chicago is known for its _____.

“Cold winters, but more importantly, perfect summers.” – Michael

“Wind! Block parties! Chicago-style hot dogs!” – Nisha

Cloud Gate, also known as The Bean is a public sculpture by Indian-born British artist Sir Anish Kapoor. It is the centerpiece of AT&T Plaza at Millennium Park.

Favorite Chicago Alumni Chapter event.

“Game-watching parties at Highline Bar + Lounge are my favorite and they attract up to 450 people. It’s fun to cheer on the Dawgs with a crowd so far from home.” – Michael

Advice for a Bulldog new to Chicago.

“Buy a winter coat and a shovel! And get ready to taste some of the most incredible food in your life.” – Amber

“Don’t be afraid of the buses and trains. They are the best way to get around the city, and the bus drivers are trained to be helpful if you want to know where something is. If you have a free day, get on an L and just let yourself go everywhere to get acquainted with the neighborhoods.” – Dana

“Don’t be scared of South and West Chicago. Educate yourself on the history of geographical segregation and gentrification of the city and appreciate the history and beauty of neighborhoods outside of the Loop and the North side. I have a special fondness for the Northwest side, specifically the Six Corners district of Portage Park. Also, don’t bother with umbrellas, but invest in a good down coat that resembles a hooded sleeping bag.” – Nisha

To keep up with the Chicago Chapter of the UGA Alumni Association, you can follow along on Facebook (Chicago Dawgs), Instagram (@chicagodawgs), Twitter (@dawgschicago) and LinkedIn.

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Welcome to Denver, Bulldogs!

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The University of Georgia Class of 2021 will send a wave of red and black from coast to coast when they depart the Classic City. With the help of alumni across the country, we curated guides to a few cities to which new grads may move to when they leave the Classic City. Welcome to the city, Bulldogs!  

Denver, Colorado, combines natural beauty with city attractions. With six professional sports teams, a walkable downtown and proximity to the mountains, Colorado’s capital city brings is a modern-day metropolis set against the backdrop of the Wild West. President of the UGA Alumni Association Colorado Chapter Linda Fernekes (BS ’05) shares her advice for thriving in the Mile High City.

Favorite part about living in Denver.

“My favorite part of living in Denver is the weather. You can’t beat the 300 days of sunshine!” 

How do you spend a free day in Denver? 

“If it’s winter, I’d head up to the mountains for a day of skiing. The rest of the year, I’d head to a rooftop or patio to enjoy some coffee or a local Colorado brew.”

What makes Denver special? 

“Denver has all the benefits of a large city (a great restaurant scene, world class museums, multiple professional sports teams) while being close to mountains to escape it all.”  

Larimer Square is a historic block in Denver, Colorado. It was the city’s first designated local historic district.

One thing people may not know about Denver.

“There are still signs of the Wild West. Each year, longhorn steer parade through downtown to mark the beginning of the National Western Stock Show.” 

Best cup of coffee in Denver.

“The Bardo Coffee House.” 

Favorite restaurants in Denver.

“Fruition Restaurant, La Loteria Taqueria, Izakaya Den, Tavernetta, Angelo’s Taverna.” 

Fa vorite park in Denver.

“Washington Park.” 

Denver’s best spot for live music.

“Red Rocks Amphitheatre.” 

Red Rocks Amphitheatre is an open-air amphitheatre built into a rock structure in the western United States, near Morrison, Colorado, ten miles west of Denver.

Denver’s must-see sights. 

“Denver Art Museum, History Colorado Center, Denver Museum of Nature and Science, Denver Zoo, Denver Botanic Gardens.” 

Denver is known for its _____. 

“Green chili.”

What is your favorite Colorado Chapter event for alumni?

“My favorite alumni event is SEC Ski Day. It’s great to get all the schools together for a day of tailgating and skiing.” 

Name a well-known UGA graduate who lives in or is from your city?

“Knowshon Moreno (M ’10), who was a running back for the Denver Broncos.”

Advice for a Bulldog new to Denver.

“Connect with our alumni chapter. We typically hold several events throughout the year, so there is sure to be one that interests you. Events are a great way to meet other local alumni.”

To connect with the Colorado Chapter of the UGA Alumni Association, you can follow along on Facebook (Colorado Dawgs), Instagram (@codawgs) and Twitter (@Denver Dawgs). 

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