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.

Meet the 40 Under 40 Class of 2016

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Each year, the UGA Alumni Association’s 40 Under 40 recognizes successful young graduates of the University of Georgia. These exceptional graduates are making a difference in their personal and professional lives and we are proud to call them Georgia graduates. Nearly 400 nominations from around the world were submitted for this distinction.

The Class of 2016 includes graduates from several schools and colleges, majors and backgrounds. While several hail from the state of Georgia, some live as far away as California or New York. The list includes current and former NFL players, a country music artist, entrepreneurs, lawyers and more.

Without further ado, meet this year’s honorees!

VIEW THE LIST

Please save the date and make plans to join the UGA Alumni Association at the 2016 40 Under 40 Awards Luncheon on Thursday, September 8 at Flourish Atlanta. Registration will open in the coming weeks. 

#UGA40U40

2016 Alumni Awards Celebration

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On April 15, the UGA community gathered together in the Tate Student Center to enjoy the 79th annual Alumni Awards Luncheon, and celebrate this year’s group of honorees. Meet this year’s accomplished honorees and learn more about their UGA experiences.

Young Alumni Award

Christie Haynes, a Double Dawg from the Class of 2010 is the president and CEO of the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce. Christie is a former president of the Student Alumni Council who re-launched the G Book, UGA’s traditions handbook, with another SAC member when they were students. She is a former 40 Under 40 honoree and a past president of SPIA’s Alumni Board.

Support Christie’s passion and make a gift to the School of Public and International Affairs today.

Friend of UGA Award

The 2016 Friend of UGA Award was presented to Larry D. and Brenda A. Thompson. Larry is an emeritus trustee of the UGA Foundation and serves on the faculty of the UGA School of Law. Brenda is a current UGA Foundation trustee and chair-elect of the Georgia Museum of Art Board of Advisors.

Would you like to support the Georgia Museum of Art, too? Learn more now.

Alumni Merit Award

Henry D. “Greg” Gregory, Jr. (AB ’06) is a UGA Foundation Trustee who has shown his commitment to the UGA History Department in a number of ways, including the establishment of the Amanda and Greg Gregory Chair in the Civil War Era and his providing financial support for Civil War research on campus.

Are you a Civil War buff? Consider supporting the Amanda and Greg Gregory Chair in the Civil War Era today.

Faculty Service Award

Karen A. Holbrook, former UGA Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs and Provost, also served as the first female president of The Ohio State University. Holbrook established a number of important initiatives while at UGA, including advocating for new programs in the biomedical and health sciences, which led to the creation of the College of Public Health.

Support the College of Public Health with a gift today.

Alumni Merit Award

The Honorable Saxby Chambliss (BBA ’66) is a long-serving and well-respected politician who retired from public service in 2014 after serving four terms in the U.S. House of Representatives and two terms as a U.S. Senator. Recently, he established the Senator Chambliss Leadership Forum to increase students’ exposure to domestic and international politics.

Support students participating in the Senator Chambliss Leadership Forum with a gift today.

 

Interested in learning more about the Alumni Awards and seeing past honorees? Click here.

alumni_awards

Are you a graduate of the University of Georgia? Please take a moment and update your information to stay up-to-date with all things UGA!

 

Commit to G-Day!

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UPDATE:

 

“I just want to tell everybody how great it is to be back home. I love the energy and passion here tonight. We want to see the same energy and passion at the spring game. We want to see 93,000 there to come out and support us.

The easiest thing in recruiting is when your fanbase is united and everybody is pulling in the same direction. That’s what we need, that’s what we want, that’s what we expect. We want to get that done.”

Coach Kirby Smart (BBA ’98)

 

G-Day Schedule

G-Day is April 16, 2016, at 4:00 p.m. 

Admission is free!

1:00 p.m. – Stadium Opens
1:15 p.m. – Flag football game between former football players
2:45 p.m. – Dawg Walk
3:00 p.m. – Team stretch on the field
3:45 p.m. – Ludacris performance
4:00 p.m. – G-Day Spring Football Game

Stadium and Parking

All stadium gates will be open, beginning at 1:00 p.m.

Seating throughout the stadium is general admission, with the following exceptions:

  • Sections 135 & 136, Rows 1 – 25
  • Sections 209 – 215
  • Sections 225 – 226

View more details at georgiadogs.com.

Stadium Info

Parking Info

View from the sidelines

Whether you’re at G-Day, watching from home, or on the road, tune in to the official University of Georgia Snapchat accounts listed below. All three accounts will be posting from the sidelines throughout G-Day!

Follow footballuga on Snapchat

Follow the UGA Alumni Association on Snapchat

Follow UGA on Snapchat!

 

Around Campus

  • MPA 50th Anniversary Celebration G-Day Tailgate
  • G-Day Tailgate with CAES Dean Sam Pardue

Alumni Chapter G-Day Watching Parties

Are you a graduate of the University of Georgia? Please take a moment and update your information to stay up-to-date with all things UGA!

 

Alumnus Spotlight: Drew Cronic (BSED ’97)

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Drew Cronic (BSED ’97) was recently honored as the American Football Coaches Association’s NAIA Region 1 Coach of the Year. Cronic has been a member of Reinhardt University’s football program since 2012, and was named head coach in 2015. In the span of a few months, he has led Reinhardt into its best season record yet, with nine wins and just two losses.

Drew Cronic

For Cronic, this passion for athletic achievement is nothing new. While at UGA, he was a member of the football team where he earned varsity letters and Southeastern Conference All-Academic honors in 1996 and 1997. After graduation, Drew continued to pursue his passion as a graduate assistant coach at the University of West Georgia, and continued to develop at other programs, such as Furman, James Madison, and Central High School in Carrolton, Georgia.

Reinhardt Director of Athletics Bill Popp said, “I’m so proud of the accomplishments of our football program, and this is one of those ‘icing on the cake’ moments for Coach Cronic. I could not be more proud of him and the young men on that team for the job they did this year. This is a very well-deserved honor for Drew Cronic.”

On the other hand, Cronic believes that the team won this award, and is looking forward to the future of coaching this young football program.

“Head coaches win awards because assistant coaches and players do an amazing job,” Cronic said. “Really, I consider this a team award. This was the year we were really able to put Reinhardt on the map and start turning some heads around the country.”