ART DUNNING: Higher education remains catalyst for change in Southwest Georgia

Last week, the University System of Georgia released a study that showed the system’s economic impact on the state in 2016 increased by 8 percent for a total of $16.8 billion. Of that, Albany State University (ASU), in conjunction with the former Darton State College, contributed more than $289 million to this region. That’s a $4 million over our combined total in 2015.

Not only does higher education remain an economic contributor to the region in terms of direct and indirect spending, but it is also a catalyst for change for the people of these communities. Research has shown that higher education is a clear path to economic development at all levels. For us, that becomes more evident every day. The residents of this area want well-paying jobs to support their families, and employers want a highly-qualified workforce. The recent consolidation of Albany State University and Darton State College, which created the new ASU, puts us in a better position to impact both.

Higher education is a key component to the economic health of our community. It’s our responsibility as a university to understand the regional economy and how best to contribute to it. We are well positioned to drive change that will directly impact the residents of Southwest Georgia, and that impact can be felt right now.

We must continue to work strategically to support economic development by focusing on our strengths — to provide technical assistance, promote global reach, create a quality workforce, transfer expert business knowledge and advance innovation and creativity.

There’s something for everyone at ASU. We are preparing the next generation of workers by offering a curriculum that meets the needs of a changing student population and workforce. Our faculty and researchers are developing innovative technologies that allow us to find solutions to everyday problems here at home and globally.

We will continue to broaden the horizons of our students by exposing them to different experiences through our study abroad programs and international relationships with partner universities. Students are currently taking classes in our new, state-of-the-art Fine Arts Center, that will not only develop student talent and creativity, but will also bring cultural productions and events to the community at large.

In order for this university and this community to progress and thrive, there’s more work to be done. We know we can’t do this alone. It will take continual partnerships with our educational colleagues, civic leaders and industry partners.

I’m proud of the strides we have made so far, and I’m excited about what lies ahead. The recent articulation agreement with Albany Technical College (ATC) establishes a pathway for ATC nursing students to earn a bachelor of science in nursing degree from ASU. We partnered with Procter & Gamble to promote the university’s Global Sustainability Communication project, which raises awareness about environmental and sustainability issues and encourages local and global action.

We collaborated with the City of Albany and the Albany Transit System to offer convenient transportation between our campuses on Gillionville and Radium roads. This partnership is the first of many between ASU and the city to improve the way of life for our students and contribute to a vibrant downtown.

In May, we announced partnerships with the Flint RiverQuarium and the Dougherty County Rails and Trails Project to connect our campus community to downtown Albany. These agreements provide access to a greater student learning experience off campus and take into account the well-being of local residents. We want our students to learn more about river ecosystems and water policy, promote fitness and enjoy shopping and dining downtown.

We are motivated to work with city and business leaders who share our beliefs that Albany should and can be a college town. When ASU is successful, Albany is successful, and this region is successful. We are moving in the right direction to achieve our vision to become a world-class, comprehensive university and a powerful catalyst for the economic growth and development of Southwest Georgia.

Art Dunning is president of Albany State University.