Refined Talents: A story of firsts for Bulldog alumni

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The University of Georgia and a passion for quality whiskey brought five alumni together to create one of the most successful young distilleries in the country and win the highly coveted Double Gold medal for a whiskey from the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. This is the first such award for a Georgia whiskey.

Jim Chasteen (BBA ’98) and Charlie Thompson (AB ’99, MBA ’03, JD ’03) met at UGA while pursuing degrees in business and law. Jim and Charlie connected over their passion and interest in whiskey, which eventually spurred a desire to craft their own recipe. They founded ASW Distillery (ASW) in 2011, and eventually hired fellow alumni, Justin Manglitz (BBA ’04) as head distiller, and Chad Ralston as Chief Marketing Officer (BBA ’08), in 2015. Today, five out of six partners (including Kelly Chasteen (BSED, ’00) in ASW hold degrees from UGA.

Since ASW’s inception, it has won multiple awards, including the first Double Gold medal from the San Francisco World Spirits Competition for a one-year-old whiskey. Their award-winning Duality whiskey was also the first to combine malted rye and malted barley in the same batch.

Learn more about ASW in a recent Garden and Gun magazine feature.

Charlie is breaking down barriers outside of the beverage world, too—most recently by establishing a scholarship to support students in UGA’s MBA/JD dual program. Just like their award-winning whiskies, this scholarship is the first of its kind. Most importantly, though, it will support UGA students in perpetuity.

Maria Taylor shares her experiences with future leaders

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Maria Taylor (ABJ ’09, MBA ’13) is an alumna who models what it means to be committed to the University of Georgia. Most recently, Maria participated in the Terry Leadership Speaker Series where she shared her wisdom and experiences with UGA students.  

A breakthrough reporter on the national stage, Maria became the first black female to co-host ESPN’s College Gameday, and she is currently in her second season. Maria has a passion for developing leaders–whether it is through her charity, The Winning Edge Leadership Academy, or by serving on the Grady Society Alumni Board.  

As a double Dawg, Maria earned her bachelor’s degree in broadcast news in 2009, and her MBA in 2013. She was a student athlete in two sports: basketball and volleyball. During the Terry event in the UGA Chapel, Maria was interviewed by Kendall Kazor (BBA ’19), a fellow UGA volleyball alumna.

Opportunities are nearly endless for graduates to return to campus–like Maria–and share their advice and experiences with fellow students. Interested? The UGA Alumni Association can help connect you with the right person on campus.

Mary Frances Early honored with official UGA portrait

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Original article posted on Oct. 11, 2018 by Heather Skyler on UGA Today.

The University of Georgia celebrated the life and achievements of Mary Frances Early the first African American to earn a degree from the University of Georgia, by unveiling her portrait in the Administration Building at a ceremony on Oct. 10.

The portrait, by artist Richard Wilson, was installed in The Gordon Jones Gallery of the Administration Building to honor Early, who went on to become the director of music for Atlanta Public Schools and the first African American president of the Georgia Music Educators Association in 1981.

“Ms. Early is a distinguished educator, and it is clear that she has made a profound impact on the lives of countless individuals,” President Jere W. Morehead said at the ceremony. “Her portrait will serve as a lasting tribute to her dignified courage and her commitment to educational excellence.”

Ms. Early saw the finished portrait for the first time at the ceremony, and she was obviously pleased. “It’s very beautifully done as you can see, because it looks better than me,” she said, drawing appreciative laughter from the audience. “It always means so much to have the support of so many.

The installation of Early’s portrait is part of a series of accolades celebrating her life and career. In January 2018, Early received one of UGA’s highest honors, the President’s Medal. On Sept. 11, the documentary “Mary Frances Early: The Quiet Trailblazer”premiered in Atlanta.

A native of Atlanta, Early came to UGA in the summer of 1961. Earlier that year, Charlayne Hunter-Gault and Hamilton Holmes became the first African American students to enroll at UGA. Early had started postgraduate work at the University of Michigan when she transferred to UGA to complete her studies. She became the first African American to earn a degree from the University of Georgia when she graduated on Aug. 16, 1962, with a master’s degree in music education. She returned in 1964 to continue her education, earning a Specialist in Education degree in 1967.

Early, who was class valedictorian at Henry McNeal Turner High School and earned a bachelor’s degree in music education from Clark Atlanta University in 1957, became a music teacher in the Atlanta Public Schools and was eventually promoted to music director of the entire school system. Early worked with teachers in the system’s 100-plus schools, and was in charge of the music curriculum, budget, textbooks and more.

Early retired in 1994 after working for 37 years in public schools. She has since taught at Morehouse College, Spelman College and Clark Atlanta University as head of the music department.

Meredith Dean among seven Grady College alumni inducted into UGA’s 40 Under 40 Class of 2018

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by Jessica Twine

The University of Georgia’s Alumni Association annually recognizes outstanding alumni who have made an impact in their careers through its 40 Under 40 program. Grady College is proud to have seven honorees in the 40 Under 40 Class of 2018: Brooke Bowen (ABJ ‘07, JD ‘10), Chase Cain (ABJ ’05), Meredith Dean (ABJ ‘14), Josh Delaney (ABJ’11, AB ‘11), Ivey Evans (ABJ ’06, BBA ’06, MBA ‘13), Quanza Griffin (ABJ ‘01) and Lauren Pearson (ABJ ‘02).

Selections were based on the graduates’ commitment to a lifelong relationship with UGA and their impact in business, leadership, community, artistic, research, educational and/or philanthropic endeavors. The 2018 Class will be honored at the award ceremony on Sept. 13 at the Georgia Aquarium.

Grady College will release profiles of the winners leading up to the awards ceremony.

Name: Meredith Dean

Graduation Year: 2014

Current Occupation: Founder, The Dean’s List and program coordinator, Seacrest Studios

How did Grady College help prepare you for your career?

Without Grady, I never would have learned any of the tech skills (especially Adobe Creative Suite) needed to start my digital branding company, The Dean’s List, or developed nearly as many professional connections for my career. The New Media Institute taught me the importance of knowing how to code and use graphic design while the broadcasting curriculum prepared me immensely for becoming the media professional I am today. Thanks to the faculty and staff that share their plethora of real life experience, every lesson or concept that I learned in the classroom actually translated into the real world. I am eternally grateful to Grady and can’t imagine what life would have been like if I picked a different school.

What advice do you have for today’s Grady College students/young professionals?

Grady will give you endless opportunities if you take advantage of the vast alumni network we have. You can go to any state and find a home with a Grady connection. When I worked in New York City, countless times I would meet Grady grads —whether it be a producer at MTV or Amy Robach who invited me on set as her guest at Good Morning America after I reached out to her. I now work at Seacrest Studios because of a Grady grad connection who runs the Nashville Seacrest Studios.  I am a walking example of how the Grady family looks out for each other. I will always do what I can to help a Grady student, as would countless other alumni, so don’t be afraid to ask for help.

What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned as you’ve navigated through your career?

Always empower others and stay curious. Every single person you meet could change the entire course of your life and vice versa. There is a Ted Talk called “Lollipop Moment” that has shaped the way I look at every interaction. Don’t brush people off or think that you don’t need to learn about that concept/person. In my opinion, people who are successful want to learn something about everything and can find fulfillment in even the smallest of things. For an example in media, every reporter used to have a cameraman. Nowadays, every reporter (or MMJ) needs to know how to shoot their own stories/stand ups, video edit, write their script for web, create their graphics, post on social and go on-air all in one day. Stay hungry by craving knowledge.

Meredith HouseDescribe a moment in your professional/personal career that you are most proud of.

I am most proud of how many patients and families’ lives we have been able to touch at Levine Children’s Hospital through our programming at Seacrest Studios. To see the emotional, spiritual and physical healing of these strong kids through music, new media, radio and TV is awe-inspiring. There is nothing like having a former patient come back to the studio just to visit as a happy and healthy child. Additionally, I have branded and career counseled over 100 clients all over the world with TDL. To focus on our mission of empowering women everywhere, I donate 10% of my profits to Habitat Aid Initiative, my family’s non-profit in Western Kenya. I have built a dormitory at Khwisero Girls School (Meredith House) and plan to build several more. My hope is to change the world little by little by helping these women in their educational pursuits and get my clients their dream jobs.

Originally published by the Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication.

Meet Julie Wade, new UGA Alumni Association board member and previous 40 Under 40 honoree

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When Julie Wade (AB ’96, JD ’00) first stepped foot on the University of Georgia campus to begin her undergraduate education she never envisioned attending law school—she also never imagined having the opportunity to serve on the UGA Alumni Association Board of Directors more than 20 years later.

In her new role on the alumni board, Julie looks forward to continuing her history of giving to the university. “It’s an incredible honor. There are so many distinguished and amazing people on the board and I am excited to contribute what I can and become more fully engaged and immersed in the Bulldog experience.”

The Wade FamilyJulie is the executive director of Park Place Outreach Emergency Youth Shelter, a temporary residential home for at-risk youth ages 11-17 in Savannah, Georgia. Prior to working with Park Place, Julie clerked for a judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit and practiced law in both Hawaii and Boston. In Savannah, she practiced law at The Wade Law Firm, Hunter Maclean and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

In addition to her directorship and serving on the alumni board, Julie is committed to giving back to her local community. She serves on the board of directors for Girls on the Run, America’s Second Harvest of Coastal Georgia and Educate Chatham. Julie is also committed to giving back to UGA; she and her husband, Drew Wade (BS ’97, AB ’97), have been making annual gifts to the university for 24 consecutive years.

In celebration of her impressive career pursuits, her ongoing dedication to her community and strong demonstration of leadership, Julie was recognized by the UGA Alumni Association as a 40 Under 40 honoree in 2011.

Julie offers the following advice for UGA students: “Embrace all the opportunities that come with being a student at Georgia—join clubs, join organizations, get to know professors, and dive in. By doing so, you’ll make richer experiences and better connections—all which will serve you in the long term. It’s about so much more than just going to class and making good grades.”

40 Under 40 reflections: Travis Moore

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The 40 Under 40 program began in 2011, and celebrates the personal, professional and philanthropic achievements of young UGA graduates. To continue our 40 Under 40 coverage, we caught up with three agriculture professionals–Travis Moore, Amelia Dortch and Sam Watson–from the 2017 honorees to learn about their career journeys and the wisdom they’ve gained along the way. 

Meet Travis Moore

  • 40 Under 40 Class of 2017
  • BSA ’03
  • Senior Brewmaster at Anheuser-Busch InBev

Professional Journey

Travis Moore is the head brewmaster at the St. Louis Anheuser-Busch InBev site, the largest and oldest brewery. Moore oversees the brewing process, which includes making sure that each product meets the correct quality standard. He manages 100 brewers.

After Moore graduated with a bachelor’s degree in food science and technology, he worked for Bravo Foods & Bakery, a production facility in northeast Georgia. There, he learned the basics of manufacturing. In 2008, Moore started an entry level job at the Cartersville Anheuser-Busch InBev site. Eight years later, he managed to work his way up to the senior manager before moving to the St. Louis site in 2016.

Being named 40 Under 40

“It’s pretty amazing to me because, the University of Georgia has so many great students come through. It’s a huge organization to be singled out of – 40 seems like a lot, but when you think about the thousands and thousands who to come through there, it’s a small percent. And to me, that’s an honor. I learned so much when I was at the university that I was able to excel in my career, and this is a way to be rewarded for that.”

Nailing his dream job

“People are always going to have to eat or consume something in our culture, and I wanted to be a part of that. Some industries may come and go, but this is very stable…I always had a love for brewing. When you think about beer, most people probably don’t think about it being a product of agriculture, but it is certainly. Anheuser-Busch is one of the largest purchasers of rice in the United States. There’s an art behind the brewing process, and that’s what’s fun to me.”

Lessons from UGA

“I only applied to one college and Georgia was the only school I ever wanted to go to. I was in the food science program and the different labs and projects forced me into the understanding of what it’s like in the real world. I got the feeling that UGA was preparing me for something different, something better.”

Words of wisdom

“Study something that you’re going to enjoy. If you don’t think you’re gonna like it, then you’re wasting your time. Pick something and stick with it and see through it. Understand what you’re going to get out of your degree.”

Career destination

“My goal is to always question the way things are, and try to move up to become a future senior leader of the largest brewing company in the world. The culture at Anheuser-Busch is to not be complacent. I’m always setting higher goals.”

Young alumni offer advice to new graduates

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This post was contributed by the UGA Alumni Association Young Alumni Leadership Council.

Finals? Check. Picture in cap and gown? Taken. Celebrations with family and friends? Definitely. Walking under the Arch for the first time? Finally It’s official: You are now a graduate of the University of Georgia – congratulations!

Now what?

Members of the UGA Young Alumni Leadership Council certainly know the feeling of “now what?” So, they’re sharing some advice from things that motivated, guided and helped them along the way. Good luck with wherever your journey takes you and remember–Once A Dawg, #AlwaysADawg!

“Go with your gut and do something you love…at least give it a try…it might work out! You are more likely to succeed doing something you enjoy.” -TJ Callaway (BBA ’07)

“When starting your career, whether you’re assigned a seemingly mundane task or a huge opportunity, do everything you can to knock it out of the park. Be the person that leaders can depend on and trust with both the little things and the big things, and seize every opportunity presented to you.” -Elizabeth Cox (BBA ’13)

“As you embark on this new chapter in your life, be sure to cherish those memories that you have made but don’t be afraid to make new ones. The world has so much to offer and don’t worry about taking that extra leap into a new job, a new city, or a new career! You have acquired the necessary skills during your time at UGA so take that leap of faith!” -Sumita Dalmia (BSFCS ’10)

“If you need help ask for it. It always surprises me how many people have questions, or need help with something, but they are afraid to ask. There are lots of people out there that want to help you! Remember to do unto others as you would have them do unto you. So help others whenever you can.

Say yes–be willing to say yes to new and sometimes seemingly scary opportunities because you never know where it will lead.

Manage your online reputation carefully. Post your successes, highlight your expertise, etc., but remember everything you post ‘sticks to you like a tattoo.’

Continue educating yourself (formally and informally) because learning never stops.

Work smart and ALWAYS be kind.

Dawg nation is behind you. I can’t tell you how many times I have gotten an opportunity because I’m a Georgia Bulldog.” -Yvette Dupree (BBA ’03, MAT ’07, PHD ’12)

“Although you are graduating college, your education is just now beginning. Treat each work day as an opportunity to learn from those around you. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Work harder than anyone else. And above all, never compromise your values or integrity.” -Derek Hammock (BBA ’15, MACC ’16)

“No task is beneath you. Demonstrate you can handle the small stuff and you will find yourself in charge of much more.” -Travis Johnson (AB ’11)

Lewis Howes once said, “Effective networking isn’t a result of luck – it requires hard work and persistence.” -Courtney McCants (BBA ’10)

“Be a joy for others to work with.” -Caleb Nicholson (BSED ’09)

“Never underestimate the power of your network. Start building it now and keep in touch with your friends, classmates and professors from UGA. You never know when your paths will cross again, or how you can help each other out down the road.” -Elizabeth Powell (BS ’06, ABJ ’06)

“Seek out opportunities and apply! You may not have every qualification listed in a job posting, but you may be a great fit for the position. Don’t let perfect be the enemy of good. UGA prepared you for great things!” -Anna Reddish (BSA ’08 MADS ’09)

Designing Women

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Every year, the UGA Alumni Association recognizes top businesses owned by UGA graduates through the Bulldog 100 program. These outstanding businesses range from financial firms to barbecue restaurants and even interior design companies.

This year, Women of UGA Council Member Amber Gizzi (BSFCS ’14) from Pineapple House Interiors in Atlanta and Charlotte Lucas (BSFCS ’05), owner of Charlotte Lucas Interior Design in Charlotte, NC made the list.

We had the opportunity to talk with Charlotte and Amber about their time at UGA and their experiences with Bulldog 100.

Charlotte and Amber both graduated from the furnishings and interiors program in the College of Family and Consumer Sciences (FACS). They described the program as influential to their development as interior designers and as business owners.

“They required summer internships so I was really able to kind of get my feet wet for two summers in between school,” said Charlotte. “That really helped me to understand and get some experience.”

Charlotte’s company, which specializes in “providing perfectly proportioned rooms and one-of-a-kind, customized designs,” made the Bulldog 100 list for the second time this year, coming in at spot number 15. Her company placed fourth on the list last year and was the first time a graduate from Family and Consumer Science made it in the top 10.

Charlote Lucas design

A nook designed by Charlotte Lucas Interiors

“I was so thrilled and so excited to be included and so excited to have a connection back to Georgia again,” Charlotte said. “It makes me proud that I have grown my business the way I have and that I am being recognized by my school. I think that just being on it is a thrill and an honor.”

Amber, whose business Pineapple House Interiors made the 2018 list at number 56, shares that sentiment.

“I was so excited and proud when I found out we made the Bulldog 100 list,” said Amber. “We work really hard, so it felt good to get some recognition and validation amongst impressive peers. Being honored by UGA feels like something I love loving me back. I want to make my school proud and represent it the best I can.”

Amber Gizzi design

A living space designed by Amber and her team at Pineapple House Interiors

Pineapple House Interiors works globally on projects ranging from decorating, to renovations, to new construction. Amber credits her UGA education with preparing her to take on a partner role at such a young age. Still, she says nothing beats real world experience.

“School gave me a great foundation in design, but I couldn’t have told you where to buy a sofa when I graduated, let alone pulled together a cohesive design plan,” said Amber. “Even if your goal is to eventually start your own company, you need to go work for an experienced designer or business owner first.”

Nominations for the 2019 Bulldog 100 are open through May 31, 2018.

SUBMIT NOMINATION

 

The Dawgs converge on Music City

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The University of Georgia marked the Vanderbilt game weekend with a reception for alumni, friends and supporters in the Nashville area on Friday, Oct. 6. Georgia first faced off against Vanderbilt in 1893, and the teams have played every year since 1968. Georgia leads the series 55-20-2.

A large crowd attended the reception at The Country Music Hall of Fame. The event gave President Jere W. Morehead, Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations Kelly Kerner, Executive Director of Alumni Relations, Meredith Gurley Johnson, and other administrators and staff an opportunity to connect with UGA supporters who live and work in the city.

“Whenever we travel to cities across the country, I am more impressed by the wonderful work that our graduates are doing in their professions and their communities,” Johnson said. “Our alumni in the Nashville area are eager to remain involved with and support their alma mater. They make us proud!”

Nearly 2,800 alumni live in Nashville, working in fields ranging from law to healthcare to music. There is an active chapter in Nashville, and they will be hosting a special book signing with Vince Dooley after the Vanderbilt game as a part of the weekend’s festivities.

“We want our graduates to remain connected to the university year round, and one of the easiest ways to do that is through involvement with our chapters,” Johnson continued. “Our dedicated volunteers keep the UGA spirit alive in more than 80 cities across the country. We encourage all of our alumni to get connected with your local chapter and build your Bulldog network.”

In Tennessee, there are also chapters in Chattanooga and Memphis. These chapters and others across the nation host events for local alumni throughout the year. Connect with your local chapter today!

Allison Moran (MED ’91) named 2017 Retailer Executive of the Year

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Allison Moran (MED ’91), CEO of the University of Georgia’s long-standing partner RaceTrac Petroleum Inc., has been selected as 2017 Retailer Executive of the Year by Convenience Store News.

The award recognizes a retailer executive who exemplifies leadership, business acumen, dedication to the industry and commitment to community service.

Allison joined her family’s 83-year business in 1994, working in the operations department. She is responsible for the creation and development of RaceTrac’s human resources department, which she oversaw for six years before being promoted to senior vice president in 2005. She assumed the role of chief executive officer from her father, Carl Bolch Jr., who now serves as chairman of the company.

In addition to her work at RaceTrac, Allison serves on the executive committee for the Family Business Network, is on the board of trustees for the Westminster Schools, the board of trustees for Rhodes College, and is a member of the board of directors for the Association for Convenience and Fuel Retailing (NACS).

RaceTrac Petroleum is one of the Southeast’s largest and most successful businesses. Headquartered in Cobb County, the company runs more than 700 stores in the region and is Georgia’s third largest privately held company. RaceTrac was also one of the top 20 chains in CSNews’ annual Top 100 list. Founded in 1934, RaceTrac Petroleum is now worth more than $7 billon and is one of America’s largest private companies.

The University of Georgia is a proud partner with RaceTrac. In February, Allison graciously served as a panelist during the University of Georgia’s Inaugural Women’s Leadership Forum, and UGA’s Real Estate Society hosted RaceTrac employees. Her company employs 55 UGA alumni, and six out of 18 interns participating in RaceTrac’s All Star Internship Program this summer are UGA students.

Allison was recognized as Woman of the Year in the 2014 CSNews Top Women in Convenience awards program, and was also recognized as the 2016 Woman Executive of the Year by Shelby Report.