Georgis Southwestern, Southern Union sign education memorandum of understanding

AMERICUS — Georgia Southwestern State University and Southern Union State Community College, located in Opelika, Ala., recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) designed to ensure concurrent enrollment and a smooth transition from SUSCC to GSW’s bachelor’s degree programs in education.

Through this agreement, students at SUSCC will be concurrently enrolled in GSW courses for two years. Upon successful completion of an associate’s degree at SUSCC in those first two years, students who meet the requirements will be eligible to transfer to GSW with up to 50% of the required credits for their selected education program.

“Together, we are fostering a seamless pathway that empowers students to reach their full potential and become tomorrow’s exceptional educators,” Jill Drake, GSW’s provost and vice president for academic affairs, said. “This collaboration embodies our commitment to excellence in education and to meeting the work force needs of the school systems in our service area.”

SUSCC President Todd Shackett expressed his enthusiasm as well and said he looks forward to partnering with Georgia Southwestern.

“The similarities between our colleges are striking,” Shackett said. “Our colleges are comparable in both culture and size. I think our students would find a comfortable home at GSW to continue their education.”

Rachel Abbott, dean of GSW’s College of Education, reiterated her excitement for the agreement, marking it as the first to span state lines.

“The College of Education is excited to partner with Southern Union State Community College,” she said. “It is a great opportunity for SUSCC students to enroll at both institutions and transition to GSW to continue their education, earn their bachelors of education degree, and propel their academic and professional growth.”

Learn more about GSW’s education programs at gsw.edu/education.

Georgia Southwestern State University, located in Americus, is an accredited, public four-year institution in the University System of Georgia serving approximately 3,500 students. Founded in 1906, Georgia Southwestern offers professional programs of study as well as degrees in the arts, humanities, sciences and graduate programs in business, computer science, education, English and nursing. Georgia Southwestern is often recognized as one of the best value colleges in the state. The GSW Hurricanes compete in the NCAA’s Division II Peach Belt Conference, and include athletic teams in basketball, baseball, softball, golf, soccer, tennis and cross country.

With campuses in Wadley, Opelika, and Valley, all in Alabama, Southern Union State Community College is the second-oldest two-year college in Alabama and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate’s degrees.

For more information about Southern Union State Community College, visit www.suscc.edu.

Special Photo: GSW