ATLANTA (June 25, 2009) – Sen. Don Balfour (R- Snellville) today congratulated Georgia Gwinnett College (GGC) on achieving accreditation from the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). GGC is Georgia’s newest four-year college, and the nation’s first four-year college founded in the 21st century.
“This institution achieved their accreditation in only a year after their candidacy, when most schools need four to six years to get similar results,” said Balfour. “I am extremely proud of the achievements by GGC President Daniel J. Kaufman and faculty members to provide excellent education for students in Gwinnett County, and the state of Georgia.”
A champion for public education, Sen. Balfour was a driving force behind passing legislation to create the college in the Georgia General Assembly. The school was established by the legislature in 2005, and began teaching students in 2006. The school held its first graduating ceremony in 2008, just days after being granted candidacy for accreditation from SACS.
Receiving accreditation proves that GGC has obtained a high level of educational excellence. It assures the public that the school will be reviewed by a set of strict guidelines.
GGC has already had a positive impact on Georgia, with several of their graduates going to prominent institutions of higher learning, including Harvard University. The school is also providing students’ quality financial aid including Pell grants and Stafford loans.
Sen. Don Balfour serves as Chairman of the Rules Committee. He represents the 9th Senate District which includes a portion of Gwinnett County. He may be reached by phone at 404.656.0095 or by e-mail at don.balfour@senate.ga.gov.
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release:
June 25, 2009
For Information Contact:
Raegan Weber, Director
Jennifer Kitt, Press Office Coordinator
jennifer.kitt@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028