by Artagus Newell '97 '05
In 1997, the year the current incoming freshman class was born, I and many friends walked across the stage in the H.P.E. Building to receive our undergraduate degrees from what was then known as the State University of West Georgia. My time at West Georgia is something I will always cherish. I made my very best friends, there. We all have been in each other’s weddings, been godparents to each other’s children, rejoiced in good times and mourned and comforted each other during times of sorrow. I learned so much about life and the world around me, and my time at West Georgia helped to shape me into the person I am today. After graduation, I felt my connection to West Georgia in many ways was unfortunately done and that there was no longer a place or role for me to remain connected with the university.
I was asked and am very thankful to have served on the Alumni Association’s Board of Directors for several years and work alongside dedicated volunteers and a wonderful professional Alumni Office staff. During my tenure on the board, I reconnected with old friends, made new friends, and had my passion for all things West Georgia reignited. I saw firsthand the wonderful educational, social, and recreational opportunities available to students and a modern, progressive spirit focused firmly on continuing to make West Georgia a “first choice” college destination.
Having served as co-chair and chair for the Annual Fund’s A DAY Campaign, I met some extraordinary young people who are already setting a pace to change the world for the better. These young people have emboldened me, through their stories of overcoming tremendous obstacles, to be high achievers in and out of the classroom; they are proving their naysayers wrong and are redefining their destinies.
I remain committed and challenge my fellow alumni to make it a priority to both donate your time, your talents, and your treasure, in whatever capacity you’re able to do so, in order to ensure current and future students have access to the educational, social, and cultural surroundings of our university. Reach out to the Alumni Association and help us advance UWG.
Artagus Newell is the zoning administrator at Carroll County Board of Commissioners.
