GEORGIA INDEPENDENT COLLEGE ASSOCIATION REPORT To The Community GICA G EORGIA I NDEPENDENT C OLLEGE A SSOCIATION
G E O R G I A I N D E P E N D E N T C O L L E G E A S S O C I AT I O N
REPORTTo The Community GICAGEORGIA INDEPENDENT
COLLEGE ASSOCIATION
3 2 3
Dr. Susanna L. Baxter
President
Ms. Lisa K. Macke
Director of Member Services
Dr. Carolyn Sloane Mata
Director of Research
Mr. James M. (Chip) Moore III
Assistant Director of Research and Technology
Ms. Simotra Nana
Office Manager and Events Coordinator
GICA Staff
Table of ContentsStaff 2 Letter from Board Chair and President 4
GICA Overview 5
Institution Locations 5
Member Profiles 6
Research 19
Member Services 22
Board Members 36
Corporate Allies 37
Award Recipients 38
Honor Roll 38
This spread: Point University • On the cover: Students from Berry College,
Wesleyan College, Point University and Piedmont College
“I knew that a small school like Wesleyan would give me the chance to forge my own unique path. I also saw Wesleyan as a place of opportunity. I saw chances to become a better leader, student and person.”
Ashlee Day ’14Wesleyan College
2
4 4
GICAOVERVIEW
MEMBER INSTITUTIONS
LETTER FROM THE BOARD CHAIR AND PRESIDENT
The Georgia Independent College Association (GICA) and our 26 member institutions are honored to provide high-quality, affordable education to more than 75,500 students. GICA members serve a diverse population: 55% of students are non-white; 22% are over the age of 25 and 46% receive the federal Pell grant for disadvantaged students. Whether students are just leaving high school or are in the workforce looking to retool, Georgia’s independent colleges provide access to traditional and online programs to address workforce needs. GICA member institutions work hard to provide significant scholarship assistance to make the dream of a liberal arts, professional or graduate degree a reality for any student. By providing superb educational choices for students, we save the State of Georgia tens of thousands of dollars for each Georgia resident student we educate.
GICA’s efforts to form and nurture alliances among members, other organizations and state agencies helped create further efficiencies, shared resources and expertise to better serve students. Highlights of 2014 include:
• More than $516,000 awarded in student scholarships.
• GICA and the University System of Georgia partnered to further campus safety efforts through joint training to ensure policies and practices comply with new federal Title IX regulations.
• Sixteen GICA members joined with the state to better educate students regarding the transfer process through the GA-TRACS program.
• Participated in GA-AWARDS, the new state longitudinal data system designed to assist education policy researchers to better evaluate and create educational policies across Georgia.
GICA and our member institutions are grateful to the Governor, legislators, donors and Corporate Ally Partners for their support of the not-for-profit higher education sector. The continued financial support of student aid and scholarship programs is vitally important to students wanting to choose an institution that best fits their educational, social and spiritual needs. Without this support, students would have fewer choices and opportunities.
The following report highlights the private, not-for-profit sector and the various ways GICA supports our member institutions. These efforts are only possible with the generosity of our donors.
Sincerely,
Dr. Ed L. Schrader Dr. Susanna L. BaxterBrenau University, President President, GICA
1 AgnesScottCollege
2 AndrewCollege
3 BerryCollege
4 BrenauUniversity
5 Brewton-ParkerCollege
6 ClarkAtlantaUniversity
7 CovenantCollege
8 EmmanuelCollege
9 GeorgiaMilitaryCollege
10 LaGrangeCollege
11 LifeUniversity
12 MercerUniversity
13 MorehouseCollege
14 OglethorpeUniversity
15 PaineCollege
16 PiedmontCollege
17 PointUniversity
18 ReinhardtUniversity
19 SavannahCollege ofArtandDesign
20 ShorterUniversity
21 SpelmanCollege
22 ThomasUniversity
23 ToccoaFallsCollege
24 Truett-McConnellCollege
25 WesleyanCollege
26 YoungHarrisCollege
4
19
10
1
3
7
1411
13
20
5
8
22
1623
2
25
9
17
15
12
24
6
18
26
21
GICAsupportsprivate
highereducationin
Georgiaintheareasof
publicpolicy,fundraising
forstudentfinancialaid,
andcollaborativeprojects,
inpartnershipwith
institutions,businesses
andcommunityleaders.
GICA
FOUNDED: GICAwasfoundedbycollege
presidentsandcorporateexecutivesin1956.
LEGAL STATUS: A501(c)(3)tax-exempt
charitableorganization.
MEMBERSHIP: FullySACSCOC-accredited,
two-andfour-yeardegree-granting,
nonprofit,private,liberalartsinstitutions
inGeorgia.
PURPOSE: RaiseawarenessofGeorgia’s
private,liberalartscollegesanduniversities.
Influencepublicpolicyinsupportofhigher
educationinGeorgia.Securefundsandother
giftsforthebenefitofthememberinstitutions
andtheirstudents.Promotethemember
institutionsasdistinctalternativesinhigher
education.
MANAGEMENT:GICAisgovernedbyaBoard
composedofmembercollegepresidentsand
representativesfrombusiness,industryand
professionalcommunities.AMemberServices
Councilsupportsactivitiesandfundraising.
DISTRIBUTION OF CONTRIBUTIONS:
Designatedcontributionsaredistributed
accordingtodonors’wishes.Fundraising
membersshareequallyin60%of
undesignatedfunds;theremaining40%is
distributedinproportiontothenumberof
full-timeundergraduatestudentsateach
institution.
ENDOWMENT: GICAbenefitsfromseveral
endowments.In2014,thetotalvalueofthese
endowmentswasover$12.5million.
5
6 7
Agnes Scott College prepares all students to be leaders in a global society through its signature
four-year program, Summit. Summit provides a liberal arts education within a framework of
global perspectives and leadership development. Guided by a four-member curriculum and career
board of advisors, each student customizes Summit to fulfill her individual educational goals.
Each student travels on a short-term faculty-led global study tour during her first year and
may choose to study or intern abroad in later years. Students also immerse themselves in a
progressive curriculum of courses, labs and internships with themes of leadership and global
challenges. Students graduate from Agnes Scott with the skills necessary to succeed in the
workforce or in graduate school.
The Summit program builds on the strengths of Agnes Scott, which for the past 125 years
has educated women to think deeply, live honorably and engage the intellectual and social
challenges of their times. The student-faculty ratio is 11:1, and each tenure-track faculty
member holds a terminal degree in his or her field. More than 900 diverse students from
38 states and 32 countries study on a 100-acre campus in Decatur, Georgia, six miles from
downtown Atlanta.
AGNES SCOTTCOLLEGE
7
PRESIDENT
Dr. Elizabeth Kiss
YEAR FOUNDED 1889
FALL 2014 ENROLLMENT 930
STUDENT/FACULTY RATIO 11:1
DENOMINATIONAL AFFILIATION Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)
2014-2015 TUITION AND FEES Tuition: $35,742
Room and Board: $10,850
% OF STUDENTS RECEIVING FINANCIAL AID FROM ANY SOURCE 99%
DEGREES OFFERED B.A., B.S.
www.agnesscott.edu|404-471-6000|141E.CollegeAvenue|Decatur,GA30030
ANDREWCOLLEGE
Founded in 1854, Andrew College has remained an innovative leader for more than
160 years. Today’s student body reflects a diverse community, with 62 percent minority
enrollment and an emerging Hispanic population. Approximately 95 percent of students
reside in campus residence halls.
Andrew’s 40-acre campus is located in the Southwest Georgia town of Cuthbert, where the
Fighting Tigers compete in Region XVII of the NJCAA and the GCAA. Athletic teams
include men’s baseball, golf and soccer, and women’s basketball, soccer, softball and volleyball.
Students enjoy a broad selection of university-parallel liberal arts courses, and the college
holds more than 20 direct transfer agreements with baccalaureate degree-granting
institutions. Students engage with faculty members who encourage personal and spiritual
growth on a campus dedicated to a love of learning. Other opportunities include an honors
program, an active Phi Theta Kappa honor society, a robust servant leadership program and
student-led religious organizations guided by a United Methodist chaplain.
Andrew continues to be a celebrated institution that provides an academically challenging
liberal arts curriculum within a nurturing community. Students depart with invaluable skills
and memories, and they spread the Andrew Difference throughout Georgia and beyond.
PRESIDENT
Dr. Kirk Treible, Interim
YEAR FOUNDED 1854
FALL 2014 ENROLLMENT 303
STUDENT/FACULTY RATIO 14:1
DENOMINATIONAL AFFILIATION United Methodist Church
2014-2015 TUITION AND FEES Tuition: $13,755
Room and Board: $8,745
Fees: $471
% OF STUDENTS RECEIVING FINANCIAL AID FROM ANY SOURCE
Nearly 100%
DEGREES OFFERED A.A., A.S., A.M.
www.andrewcollege.edu|229-732-2171|501CollegeStreet|Cuthbert,GA39840
6
9
Berry College provides students with a firsthand educational experience that unites challenging
academic programs with meaningful work experience, opportunities for spiritual and moral
growth, and service to others. This mission remains as relevant today as it was when the
institution was founded in 1902.
Berry is an independent, coeducational college that offers exceptional undergraduate degree
programs in the sciences, humanities, arts and social sciences as well as undergraduate and
master’s degree programs in business and teacher education. Berry’s campus, located in Rome,
Georgia, is the the world’s largest at more than 27,000 acres, and offers opportunities for
recreation, study and research in a setting of natural beauty.
Berry’s growing reputation as a national leader has been affirmed by the Annapolis Group, an
organization of leading independent liberal arts colleges, which welcomed Berry as a member in
2008. And college leaders from across the country chose Berry as the nation’s number one
“Up-And-Coming” liberal arts college, according to the 2014 U.S. News Best Colleges rankings.
Students are encouraged to work to enrich their education experience, and more than 90 percent
participate. Work opportunities include jobs in research, information technology, business,
facilities and land resources, the equine and dairy centers, and outdoor adventure.
BERRY COLLEGE
PRESIDENT
Dr. Stephen R. Briggs
YEAR FOUNDED 1902
FALL 2014 ENROLLMENT 2,177
STUDENT/FACULTY RATIO 12:1
2014-2015 TUITION AND FEES Tuition: $30,530
Room and Board: $10,660
% OF STUDENTS RECEIVING FINANCIAL AID FROM ANY SOURCE
98%
DEGREES OFFERED B.A., B.Mus., B.S., B.S.N., Ed.S.,
M.A.T., M.B.A., M.Ed.
www.berry.edu|706-232-5374|2277MarthaBerryHighway,NW|MountBerry,GA30149
8
BRENAUUNIVERSITY
Founded in 1878, Brenau University enrolls about 3,000 students in graduate and
undergraduate studies on campuses and online. The Gainesville-based liberal arts doctoral
degree-granting institution, which includes the Brenau Women’s College, operates campuses
in Augusta, Kings Bay, Norcross and Fairburn. Its Gainesville footprint includes the historic
main campus and two other locations: Brenau East, home of the schools of nursing and
occupational therapy, a human simulator laboratory and dance studio; and the Brenau
Downtown Center, a performance venue and home for the physical therapy doctorate
program, human anatomy lab and Manhattan Gallery of Art. Brenau consistently places as
a top higher education value in the Southeast in various independent studies and as a top
workplace in published national and regional surveys.
Brenau offers these doctorates and a terminal M.F.A. degree as well as a range of master’s,
bachelor’s and associate’s degrees and professional certifications in more than 50 areas
of study. The Women’s College provides a full range of academic and extracurricular
experiences, including 10 nationally competitive varsity sports, national sororities and honor
societies, and outlets for artistic expression and community service. Brenau Galleries features
one of the finest university art collections held by an educational institution in the Southeast.
The university produces year-round art exhibitions, lectures and literary readings, musical
and theatrical performances, and other activities for students and the community.
PRESIDENT
Dr. Ed L. Schrader
YEAR FOUNDED 1878
FALL 2014 ENROLLMENT 2,937
STUDENT/FACULTY RATIO 12:1
2014-2015 TUITION AND FEES Tuition: $23,340 (Applies to residential
Women’s College students. Tuition
range for all others is $250 to $890
per semester hour.)
Room and Board: $11,998 (Applies
only to residential Women’s College
students.)
% OF STUDENTS RECEIVING FINANCIAL AID FROM ANY SOURCE 80%
DEGREES OFFERED A.A., B.A., B.A.M., B.B.A., B.F.A., B.M., B.S.,
B.S.N., D.N.P., D.P.T., Ed.S. M.A.T., M.B.A.,
M.Ed., M.F.A., M.I.D., M.S., M.S.N., M.S.O.T.,
O.T.D.
OTHER LOCATIONS Augusta, Gainesville (2), Kings Bay,
North Atlanta/ Norcross, South Atlanta/
Fairburn
www.brenau.edu|770-534-6299|500WashingtonStreet,SE|Gainesville,GA30501
9
11 10
CLARK ATLANTA UNIVERSITY
Brewton-Parker College offers an undergraduate education that is committed to academic excellence,
grounded in the liberal arts tradition and informed by the Christian faith. Founded in 1904, the
College’s heritage as a Georgia Baptist institution produces a concern for individuals that motivates
our community to nurture and develop the whole student in a caring, Christian environment.
Some of the finest students throughout the country, along with many from foreign countries,
continue to make Brewton-Parker College their choice for academic study. Minority students make
up 25 percent of the enrollment, including a growing Hispanic population. The College offers
programs of study ranging from English and Christian ministry to biology and business. Thirty
percent of graduates earn the bachelor’s degree in business administration with concentrations in
one of five different sub-specialties.
All students enjoy the support of a highly qualified faculty who are engaged in their academic
disciplines and dedicated to teaching. All academic areas emphasize both facts and critical thinking,
and all prepare students to live a life of Christian service while making a living in positions related
to their academic programs.
Brewton-Parker is located in Mount Vernon and Newnan. The Barons compete in 12
intercollegiate sports in the SSAC and NAIA, including baseball, basketball, cross country/track
and field, golf, soccer, softball, volleyball and wrestling. The College also has many active clubs, a
developing Greek program and a re-emerging music program.
BREWTON- PARKER COLLEGE
PRESIDENT
Dr. Charles Bass, Interim
YEAR FOUNDED 1904
FALL 2014 ENROLLMENT 602
STUDENT/FACULTY RATIO 12:1
DENOMINATIONAL AFFILIATION Baptist
2014-2015 TUITION AND FEES Tuition: $22,130 per year (Includes
Room and Board)
% OF STUDENTS RECEIVING FINANCIAL AID FROM ANY SOURCE
99%
DEGREES OFFERED A.A., B.A., B.B.A., B.Min., B.S.
OTHER LOCATIONS Newnan
www.bpc.edu|www.gobaronsgo.com|800-342-1087|201David-ElizaFountainCircle|MountVernon,GA30445
10
Clark Atlanta University (CAU), formed in 1988 as a result of the consolidation of two
independent historically black institutions – Atlanta University (1865) and Clark
College (1869) – is a United Methodist Church-related, private, coeducational, residential,
comprehensive urban research university. Among the largest of the 37-member UNCF
colleges, CAU is also the largest member institution of the Atlanta University Center, the
world’s largest and most prestigious consortium of African-American private institutions
of higher education. CAU is classified by Carnegie as a Doctoral Research University and is
accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
The University’s mission is to prepare a diverse community of learners to excel in their chosen
endeavors and to become responsible, productive, and innovative citizen leaders, locally
and globally. CAU enrolls undergraduate and graduate students from more than 42 states
and 10 international countries and offers 38 fields of study in undergraduate, graduate and
professional, and non-degree certificate programs through the schools of Arts and Sciences,
Business Administration, Education and Social Work. The 39-building main campus,
spanning over 126 acres of prime real estate, is located about 1.5 miles southwest of downtown
Atlanta and is accessible from all major roadways into the city.
PRESIDENT
Dr. Carlton E. Brown
YEAR FOUNDED 1988
FALL 2014 ENROLLMENT 3,407
STUDENT/FACULTY RATIO 17:1
DENOMINATIONAL AFFILIATION United Methodist Church
2014-2015 TUITION AND FEES Tuition: $21,334
Room and Board: $9,006
% OF STUDENTS RECEIVING FINANCIAL AID FROM ANY SOURCE 96%
DEGREES OFFERED B.A., B.S., B.S.W., D.A.H., Ed.D., Ed.S.,
M.A., M.A.T., M.B.A., M.P.A., M.S., M.S.W.,
Ph.D.
www.cau.edu|404-880-8000|223JamesP.BrawleyDrive,SW|Atlanta,GA30314
11
13 12 13 13
The mission of Covenant College is to explore and express the preeminence of Jesus Christ in
all things. Covenant educates Christians to engage culture and cultures, to examine and unfold
creation, and to pursue biblical justice and mercy in community. With the student-faculty
relationship and strong teaching and scholarship at the foundation, Covenant’s Christ-centered
community seeks to help students mature in three primary areas: identity in Christ, a biblical
frame of reference and service that is Christ-like.
Covenant’s beautiful 400-acre campus stretches atop Lookout Mountain, Georgia, and is nestled
amid the charming small town of the same name. Lookout Mountain boasts incredible vistas of
the Smoky Mountains and views that span across seven states. Just 10 minutes from its campus is
Chattanooga, Tennessee, a vibrant city with a rich history, naturally beautiful surroundings and
an optimistic modern spirit.
COVENANTCOLLEGEPRESIDENT
Dr. J. Derek Halvorson
YEAR FOUNDED 1955
FALL 2014 ENROLLMENT 1,104
STUDENT/FACULTY RATIO 14:1
DENOMINATIONAL AFFILIATION Presbyterian Church in America
2014-2015 TUITION AND FEES Tuition: $29,300
Room and Board: $8,830
% OF STUDENTS RECEIVING FINANCIAL AID FROM ANY SOURCE
99%
DEGREES OFFERED A.A., B.A., B.S., M.A.T., M.Ed.
www.covenant.edu|706-820-1560|14049ScenicHighway|LookoutMountain,GA30750
EMMANUELCOLLEGE
Emmanuel College is a four year, fully-accredited, Christ-centered, liberal arts institution
which strives to prepare students to become Christ-like disciples who integrate faith,
learning, and living for effective careers, scholarship and service.
Founded in 1919 in the Pentecostal tradition, Emmanuel College has grown into a
thriving, multidenominational college with more than 30 majors. Its 15:1 student-faculty
ratio provides a personalized educational experience with faculty mentors who know
students by name and genuinely care about them, their well-being and their futures. Our
classes are taught, not by teacher’s assistants or graduate students, but by seasoned faculty
members, 65 percent of whom hold a Ph.D.
Emmanuel College is one of the most affordable private colleges in the Southeast, though
you would never know it by visiting our beautiful campus. Situated on 150 acres in
northeast Georgia, it features a contemporary new residence hall and a brand new $10
million athletic center with stadium seating, basketball and volleyball courts, an indoor
track, a fully-equipped fitness center, a competition swimming pool, a bowling alley and
a food court. With a diverse residential community and vibrant spiritual life, Emmanuel
College is truly a place where students learn to integrate faith, learning and living.
PRESIDENT
Dr. Ron G. White
YEAR FOUNDED 1919
FALL 2014 ENROLLMENT 816
STUDENT/FACULTY RATIO 15:1
DENOMINATIONAL AFFILIATION International Pentacostal Holiness
Church
2014-2015 TUITION AND FEES Tuition: $16,800
Room and Board: $6,900
% OF STUDENTS RECEIVING FINANCIAL AID FROM ANY SOURCE 99%
DEGREES OFFERED A.A., B.A., B.S.
www.ec.edu|800-860-8800|181SpringStreet|FranklinSprings,GA30639
12
15 14
LAGRANGECOLLEGE
Since 1831, LaGrange College has been challenging minds, inspiring souls – and transforming lives. Today, LaGrange is a four-year liberal arts and sciences college offering 60 academic and pre-professional programs, including graduate degrees in education, and philanthropy and development.
The institution is dedicated to preparing global leaders who have a commitment to service. Students who enroll as freshmen receive $2,500 to study abroad their junior or senior year. A Servant Scholars Program offers selected upperclassmen the opportunity to work with community nonprofits to identify areas of need and strategies to address those needs.
Affiliated with the United Methodist Church, the college is consistently ranked in the top 10 among Southern regional colleges and as a “best value” by U.S. News & World Report.
Part of NCAA Division III, the LaGrange Panthers compete in 16 sports. In 2014, the men’s basketball squad and golf team advanced to the NCAA Division III National Tournaments, with LaGrange golfers finishing in the top 10 at the national championship.
The oldest private institution of higher learning in Georgia, LaGrange College covers more than 120 acres and is home to approximately 1,000 students.
PRESIDENT
Dr. Dan McAlexander
YEAR FOUNDED 1831
FALL 2014 ENROLLMENT 963
STUDENT/FACULTY RATIO 11:1
DENOMINATIONAL AFFILIATION United Methodist Church
2013-2014 TUITION AND FEES Tuition: $26,290
Room and Board: $11,050
% OF STUDENTS RECEIVING FINANCIAL AID FROM ANY SOURCE 97.6%
DEGREES OFFERED B.A., B.M., B.S., B.S.N., B.B.A.,
Ed.S., M.A., M.A.T., M.Ed.
www.lagrange.edu|706-880-8000|601BroadStreet|LaGrange,GA30240
Georgia Military College (GMC) is an accredited two-year liberal arts junior college recently ranked by
CNN Money as the best community college in Georgia and the ninth best community college in the nation.
Many GMC students transfer to Georgia’s four-year public and private colleges and universities where
they continue to pursue their educational goals and aspirations.
GMC charges no out-of-state tuition and is an open admissions college. GMC offers affordable and
easily accessible higher education opportunities to students who seek small class sizes, readily available
faculty members and convenient course schedules. The College has a record of success for students who
desire a second chance for a successful college experience.
As has been the case since its founding in 1879, GMC is committed to the concurrent development
of intellect and character in all its students.
Ninety-seven percent of the students enrolled at GMC are typical college students with no military
obligation attending classes at one of the 11 locations throughout the State. GMC also has a growing
online presence and offers all its degrees both in the classroom and online.
The remaining three percent are enrolled in a highly respected junior college military program
preparing young men and women for national service, the nation’s service academies and a two-year
Early Commissioning Program (ECP). The ECP prepares selected cadets for commissioning as
Second Lieutenants in the U.S. Army while earning an associate’s degree.
GEORGIA MILITARY COLLEGE
PRESIDENT
LtGen William B. Caldwell, IV USA
(Ret)
YEAR FOUNDED 1879
FALL 2014 ENROLLMENT 8,645
STUDENT/FACULTY RATIO 14:1
2014-2015 TUITION AND FEES
$5,394 (Milledgeville)
Cadet Tuition and Fees (Milledgeville)
$14,743
% OF STUDENTS RECEIVING FINANCIAL AID FROM ANY SOURCE
85%
DEGREES OFFERED A.A., A.A.S., A.S.
OTHER LOCATIONS Augusta, Columbus, Dublin, Fairburn,
Fayetteville, Madison, Milledgeville,
Sandersville, Stone Mountain,
Valdosta, Warner Robins
www.gmc.cc.ga.us|478-387-4900|201E.GreeneStreet|Milledgeville,GA31061
14 15
17 16 16
MERCER UNIVERSITY
Mercer University is one of America’s oldest and most distinctive institutions of higher
learning, offering rigorous programs that span the undergraduate liberal arts to doctoral-
level degrees. Founded by Baptists in 1833, Mercer is grounded in a free-church tradition
that embraces intellectual freedom, cherishes the sacred worth of every individual and
commits to serving the needs of humankind.
With more than 8,500 students enrolled in 12 schools and colleges on campuses in Macon,
Atlanta and Savannah, and at four Regional Academic Centers around the state, Mercer
is consistently ranked among the nation’s leading institutions by such publications as U.S.
News & World Report and the Princeton Review. Our more than 71,000 alumni are making
important contributions to their professions and communities throughout Georgia, the
Southeast and the world.
While offering a breadth of programs found at much larger universities, Mercer maintains
an intimate, student-focused culture more characteristic of smaller liberal arts colleges.
Mercer’s uniqueness is found in the way the University integrates five defining components
of its mission: liberal learning, professional knowledge, discovery, service to humanity
and community.
PRESIDENT
William D. Underwood, J.D.
YEAR FOUNDED 1833
FALL 2014 ENROLLMENT 8,557
STUDENT/FACULTY RATIO 13.5:1
2014-2015 TUITION AND FEES Tuition: $33,780
Room and Board: $10,678
% OF STUDENTS RECEIVING FINANCIAL AID FROM ANY SOURCE 98%
DEGREES OFFEREDB.A., B.A.S.C., B.B.A., B.M., B.M.E., B.S.,
B.S.E., B.S.Ed., B.S.H., B.S.N., D.Min.,
D.N.P., Pharm. D., D.P.T., Ed.S., J.D., LL.M.,
M.A., M.Acc., M.A.T., M.B.A., E.M.B.A.,
P.M.B.A., M.D., M.Div., M.Ed., M.F.T., M.M.,
M.M.S., M.P.H., M.S., M.S.B.S., M.S.E.,
M.S.N., M.S.P.S., Ph.D., Psy.D.
OTHER LOCATIONS Atlanta, Savannah, Columbus, Eastman,
Newnan, Henry County, Douglas County
www.mercer.edu|800-MERCERU|1501MercerUniversityDrive|Macon,GA31207
17
Life University is a health sciences institution best known for its chiropractic degree, the largest
program of its kind in the world. In addition, LIFE offers master’s degrees in clinical nutrition
and sport health science, and bachelor’s degrees through its undergraduate programs in biology,
biopsychology, business administration, computer information management, dietics, exercise science,
general studies, health coaching, nutrition and psychology.
All academic programs focus on a positive, wellness-centered approach to health, human performance
and life success, based on a philosophy of vitalism. Life University also incorporates Eight Core
Proficiencies into its academic curriculum. These proficiencies are designed to advance personal
integrity and provide the foundation for professional success, social contribution and cultural change.
US News & World Report ranked Life University fifth in the nation for affordable private college
tuition. The Chronicle of Higher Education ranked Life University the sixth fastest-growing, nonprofit
master’s level institution in the country. Diverse Issues in Higher Education ranked Life University a
Top 40 degree-producing college for minority students.
Life University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on
Colleges (SACSCOC), and has programmatic accreditation through the Council on Chiropractic
Education (CCE), and the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND).
LIFE UNIVERSITY
PRESIDENT
Dr. Guy F. Riekeman
YEAR FOUNDED 1974
FALL 2014 ENROLLMENT 2,754
STUDENT/FACULTY RATIO 17:1
2014-2015 TUITION AND FEES Undergraduate - $210 per credit hour
+ $350 quarterly fee;
Graduate - $238 per credit hour
+ $350 quarterly fee;
Chiropractic - $316 per credit hour
+ $350 quarterly fee
% OF STUDENTS RECEIVING FINANCIAL AID FROM ANY SOURCE98%
DEGREES OFFEREDA.S., B.B.A., B.S., D.C., M.A.T., M.S.
www.LIFE.edu|770-426-2884|1269BarclayCircle|Marietta,GA30060
16
19 18 19
Morehouse College is the nation’s largest, private liberal arts college for men. The college offers 26
majors in three academic divisions, as well as programs through the Leadership Center at Morehouse
College, the Morehouse Research Institute, Andrew Young Center for Global Leadership, the Martin
Luther King Jr. International Chapel and the Journalism and Sports Program, among others.
Morehouse College was named the No. 1 HBCU by BestColleges.com; the No. 3 HBCU in the nation
for 2015 by U.S News & World Report; one of America’s Best Colleges by Forbes magazine; one of the
Top 100 Social Media Colleges in the Country by studentadvisor.com; and a top liberal arts college in
the nation by Washington Monthly.
Prominent alumni include Martin Luther King Jr., Nobel Peace Prize winner and civil and Human
rights non-violent leader; Jeh Johnson, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security; Dr. David Satcher,
former U.S. Surgeon General and director of the National Center for Primary Care of Morehouse
School of Medicine; Shelton “Spike” Lee, filmmaker and president of 40 Acres & A Mule Productions;
Samuel L. Jackson, Academy Award-nominated actor; and Maynard H. Jackson, the first African
American mayor of a major Southern city.
MOREHOUSECOLLEGE
PRESIDENT
Dr. John Silvanus Wilson Jr.
YEAR FOUNDED 1867
FALL 2014 ENROLLMENT 2,106
STUDENT/FACULTY RATIO 12:1
2014-2015 TUITION AND FEES Tuition: $23,966
Room & Board: $13,322
% OF STUDENTS RECEIVING FINANCIAL AID FROM ANY SOURCE92%
DEGREES OFFERED B.A., B.S.
www.morehouse.edu|404-681-2800|830WestviewDrive,SW|Atlanta,GA30314
DEGREESCONFERREDATGICAMEMBERINSTITUTIONS,2005-2013
Georgia’s independent colleges meet workforce development needs. Last year, they awarded 14,149 degrees including associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees. This represents a 109% growth in associate’s degrees, 11% growth in bachelor’s degrees, 29% growth in master’s degrees, and 59% growth in doctoral degrees since 2007.
TotalInstitutionalGrantAidDistributedin2012-2013:
$93.7 million
14,149 degreesawardedannually(over8,100baccalaureate)
TheaveragecostoftuitionandfeesatGICAmemberinstitutionsis
$8,391lessthanthenational
privatecollegeaverage
1 in 6 undergraduatebaccalaureatestudentsinGeorgiaattendan
independent,not-for-profitcollege
10,000 11,000 12,000 13,000 14,000 15,000
2006-2007
2007-2008
2008-2009
2009-2010
2010-2011
2011-2012
2012-2013
2013-2014
RESEARCH
18
21 20 20 21
Nearly5 in 10
undergraduatesatGICAmembercollegeswhoapply
foraidreceivePellGrants
55%
ofstudentsareminorities(34%areAfricanAmerican)
20
GICAmemberinstitutionsparticipateintheYellow
RibbonProgramtoprovideaffordableprivateeducation
toveterans
GICAmembersenrollmorethan
75,000
students
GICAMEMBERINSTITUTIONENROLLMENTFALL2013
ATTENDANCESTATUSBYDEGREETYPE
Full-timeUndergraduate
Part-timeUndergraduate
Source: U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics, Integrated Postsecondary Education Data Systems (IPEDS).
Source: U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education
Statistics, Integrated Postsecondary Education Data Systems (IPEDS)
GICA institutions provide the majority of all grant aid given to students attending the state’s private colleges and universities. For first time, full-time students receiving institutional aid, the average award is $12,134.
Source: U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics, Integrated Postsecondary Education Data Systems (IPEDS).
ENROLLMENTANDDEGREESAWARDEDAT4-YEARGEORGIAINSTITUTIONS,2012
ENROLLMENT
(asapercentoftotalstate-wideenrollment)
BACHELOR’S DEGREES CONFERRED
(asapercentoftotaldegreesinthestate)
GICA4-yearInstitutions GeorgiaPublic4-yearInstitutions Non-GICAIndependentInstitutions
Students enrolled in GICA member institutions graduate in a more timely manner. 44% of students at Georgia independent colleges graduate in four years, compared to 24% of students attending Georgia public colleges.
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60%
24%
44%
9%
21%
58%
57%
51%
54%
20%
Source: U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education
Statistics, Integrated Postsecondary Education Data Systems (IPEDS).
GRADUATIONRATESATGEORGIAFOUR-YEARCOLLEGESANDUNIVERSITIESBYSECTOR,2012
76%
18%
6%17%
71%
12%
AverageInstitutionalGrantAid:$12,134
22%ofstudentsare
over25yearsold
GeorgiaIndependent,Not-for-Profit
GeorgiaFor-Profit GeorgiaPublic
Full-timeGraduate
Part-timeGraduate
$33,777
Theactualtotalcost
ofattendancefora
first-time,full-time
studentwhoreceives
financialaidisabout
halfthestickerprice.
Source: U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics, Integrated
Postsecondary Education Data Systems (IPEDS).
Averagetotalpublishedprice(2013-2014)
Averagepublishedtuitionandfees(2013-2014)
Averagenetpriceofattendance(2012-2013)
$21,703
$19,546
WHATDOESITCOSTTOATTENDAGICAMEMBERINSTITUTION?
96%
8-Y
EA
R6
-YE
AR
4-Y
EA
R
OF GICA MEMBER INSITUTION FULL-TIME, FIRST-TIME UNDERGRADUATES RECEIVE SOME TYPE OF FINANCIAL AID, 2012-2013
9,046(18%
)
42,
095
(82%)
7,981
(67%)
3,966(
33
%)
23 23
ProcurementGICA’s members collaborate to save money and increase efficiency.
Twenty-four companies participate in the GICA Procurement
Portfolio, which provides cost-savings for GICA members in key
areas. GICA’s members save money and time utilizing GICA’s growing
portfolio of contracts. These pricing agreements include savings
on a diverse range of products and services that include, but are
not limited to, software, furniture, office supplies, financial literacy
programs, purchasing cards and the leasing of equipment. To increase
access to discounts offered through national contracts, GICA is a
member of The Coalition for College Cost Savings, E&I and Provista.
GICA member campuses spent over $13 million through the GICA
Procurement Program during 2014.
ScholarshipsGICA administers twelve named scholarship programs, totaling
over $135,000, in scholarship assistance to students who attend a
GICA college or university. Together with endowment funds for
scholarships, more than $516,000 in scholarship aid was distributed
to GICA schools in 2014. With the assistance of these scholarships,
students are able to attend the GICA member institution that
best fits their academic preferences and needs. These scholarships
award financial assistance to deserving students and assist them in
achieving their career goals. Many GICA scholarships are awarded
to financially needy students who might otherwise be unable to
attend college.
Professional Development OpportunitiesGICA hosts professional development programs for key campus
groups to provide inexpensive, high-quality opportunities for
professional growth and development. In 2014, GICA held meetings
for 328 participants from 25 member institutions, including chief
financial officers, information technology directors, human resources
directors, library directors and chief student affairs officers. These
meetings allow participants to remain current in their fields of
practice and to discuss potential solutions to issues that often face all
campuses. In addition, GICA hosts state-wide meetings to address
timely topics of interest, such as infectious disease management and
SACSCOC accreditation issues. These meetings are held in a variety of
formats, including webinars, conference calls and in-person meetings.
GICA is committed to providing nationally-recognized speakers for
these events, and to reduce training costs for member institutions by
leveraging economies of scale and minimizing travel costs.
Collaborative Work Group ProjectsGICA’s member institutions often collaborate to increase efficiency
of their operations and to reduce their operating costs. In 2014, a
compliance work group was formed by its member institutions to
address the most pressing compliance issues on its campuses. A
two-day GICA Title IX intensive training event was held in October
as a collaborative effort with Georgia’s public institutions of higher
education. The event featured two nationally-recognized speakers
who presented material focused on assisting Georgia colleges and
universities in utilizing best practices when responding to sexual
harassment and sexual assault cases on their campuses. A peer audit
system is under development to assist campuses in supporting one
another with compliance issues, and the work group is initiating
creative ways to reduce the costs associated with compliance.
GICA launched a new Resources section of its website in 2014 to
provide members with a convenient starting point to begin research
for a variety of issues pertaining to higher education. The website
now includes links to relevant and reliable websites, professional
development slideshows and original material from speakers. Initial
topics include student retention, pandemic preparedness, sexual
assault prevention and response, and transfer student resources.
A number of other collaborative projects have been initiated
through work groups and will come to fruition in 2015.
MEMBER SERVICESGICA’s members collaborate in a variety of
ways to enhance the educational experience
and operational efficiency of each campus.
GICA also raises funds to provide scholarships
for the students of our member institutions
and to help defray the costs associated with
launching collaborative initiatives.
22
OGLETHORPEUNIVERSITY
GICA
Oglethorpe University has entered an era of innovation, reinvigoration and growth with
the opening of the $16 million Turner Lynch Campus Center in 2013 and the launch
of a $50 million comprehensive campaign. Founded in 1835, Oglethorpe is Atlanta’s
leading liberal arts and sciences university, of 1,100 students representing 34 states and 28
countries. Renowned for its groundbreaking Core program, Oglethorpe is a member of
the Annapolis Group, comprised of America’s most selective liberal arts institutions, and
has been named among U.S. News & World Report’s Best Liberal Arts Colleges, Forbes’
America’s Best Colleges and Princeton Review’s Best Southeastern Colleges.
In fall 2013, Oglethorpe opened the A_LAB (Atlanta Laboratory for Learning),
an incubator for experiential learning through civic engagement, global education,
professional development and undergraduate research. In 2012, Oglethorpe launched
two strategic partnerships with study abroad provider Global LEAD and EF (Education
First), the world leader in international education. Oglethorpe is home to the Oglethorpe
University Museum of Art and Georgia Shakespeare, a professional theatre-in-residence.
PRESIDENT
Lawrence M. Schall, J.D., Ed.D.
YEAR FOUNDED 1835
FALL 2014 ENROLLMENT 1,080
STUDENT/FACULTY RATIO 13:1
2014-2015 TUITION AND FEES Tuition: $32,200
Room and Board: $12,000
% OF STUDENTS RECEIVING FINANCIAL AID FROM ANY SOURCE92%
DEGREES OFFERED B.A., B.B.A., B.L.S., B.S.
www.oglethorpe.edu|404-261-1441|4484PeachtreeRoad,NE|Atlanta,GA30319
23
25 24
PIEDMONT COLLEGE
Founded in 1897, Piedmont College is a comprehensive liberal arts institution with an
enrollment of 2,120 students at campuses in Demorest and Athens. Graduate programs
in education also are offered at off-campus locations across Georgia.
The Demorest campus includes nine residence halls housing more than 600 students,
while the Athens campus is designed for commuting students and is located in the heart
of Georgia’s Classic City. Piedmont offers more than 50 undergraduate majors in the arts
and sciences, business, education, and nursing and health sciences. Graduate programs
are offered in business, education and nursing.
With a long history of producing many of Georgia’s top educators, Piedmont was
recently selected by the Woodrow Wilson National Fellowship Foundation in Princeton,
New Jersey, as one of five Georgia universities to participate in a program designed to
help attract the nation’s very best science, technology, engineering and math candidates to
the teaching profession.
Piedmont is a member of the NCAA Division III USA South Athletic Conference and
fields teams for men and women in 17 sports. Last year, more than half of the Piedmont
student-athletes earned Academic All-Conference awards in the USA South.
PRESIDENT
Dr. James F. Mellichamp
YEAR FOUNDED 1897
FALL 2014 ENROLLMENT 2,120
STUDENT/FACULTY RATIO 14:1
DENOMINATIONAL AFFILIATION UCC (United Church of Christ) and
NACCC (National Association of
Congregational Christian Churches)
2014-2015 TUITION AND FEES Demorest Campus Tuition: $21,350
Room and Board: $8,786
% OF STUDENTS RECEIVING FINANCIAL AID FROM ANY SOURCE 96%
DEGREES OFFERED B.A., B.F.A., B.S., B.S.N., M.B.A., M.S.N.,
M.A., M.A.T., Ed.S., Ed.D.
OTHER LOCATIONSAthens
www.piedmont.edu|800-277-7020|P.O.Box10|1021CentralAvenue|Demorest,GA30535
25
Paine College, founded in 1882, is affiliated with the United Methodist Church and the Christian
Methodist Episcopal Church. The beautiful 64-acre campus is located in the heart of Augusta,
Georgia. This four-year, private, co-educational institution provides a liberal arts education of the
highest quality that emphasizes academic excellence, ethical and spiritual values, social responsibility,
and personal development to prepare men and women for positions of leadership and service in
the African-American community, the nation and the world. Students can earn a bachelor of arts
or bachelor of science degree in majors through the School of Arts & Sciences, and the School of
Professional Studies.
Paine College students learn the process of learning to “love truth and to seek it above material
things.” Paine College aims to produce an enriched environment where students can create a path to
success in their chosen profession. Our students have the opportunity to pursue internships, engage
in global experiences, and conduct meaningful research in their respective fields of study. Upon
graduating, our students are prepared for enhanced opportunities in employment graduate education
and global mobility.
PAINE COLLEGE
PRESIDENT
Dr. Samuel Sullivan, Interim
YEAR FOUNDED 1882
FALL 2014 ENROLLMENT 841
STUDENT/FACULTY RATIO 12:1
DENOMINATIONAL AFFILIATIONChristian Methodist Episcopal Church
and United Methodist Church
2014-2015 TUITION AND FEESTuition and Fees: $12,832
Room and Board: $6,674
% OF STUDENTS RECEIVING FINANCIAL AID FROM ANY SOURCE95%
DEGREES OFFEREDB.A., B.S.
www.paine.edu|706-821-8200|1235FifteenthStreet|Augusta,GA30901
24
27 26 26
Point University is a private, four-year liberal arts institution preparing students to influence
the culture for Christ in all spheres of life – through business, church, government, arts and
entertainment, education, media and family. Founded in 1937 as Atlanta Christian College,
Point University offers degree programs in areas of study ranging from biblical studies to
business. The Access Program offers associate and bachelor’s degrees for adult learners,
as well as online courses.
The university provides a broad, comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for
their chosen professions. Just as importantly, the university equips students to take their faith
into the marketplace in new and culturally relevant ways – to erase the lines between who they
are and what they do so that they see life and mission as one and the same.
At Point University, we are committed to doing big things together – not just in the future, but
now. The university was named to the 2013 President’s Higher Education Community Service
Honor Roll for its commitment to volunteering and service to the community. Our Christian
values are at the heart of everything we do, both in the classroom and in the local community.
Every class in our curriculum is taught from a Christian worldview by professors who know
their students by name. Point professors serve as mentors to their students, helping them discover
what they were put on this earth to do and then equipping them with the tools to do just that.
POINT UNIVERSITY
REINHARDT UNIVERSITY
Founded in 1883, Reinhardt is now a comprehensive university grounded in the liberal arts.
Students attend classes on a scenic residential campus 45 minutes northwest of Atlanta, at a
bustling adult education center in Alpharetta, at sites in Marietta, Cartersville and Canton,
and online.
Academic programs include graduate degrees in business, education, music and public
administration, and 37 undergraduate degrees ranging from business, education and
biology to theater, political science and math. With the only School of Performing Arts in
Georgia, Reinhardt has the largest private college music program in the state. Reinhardt’s
Police Academy offers P.O.S.T. Basic Peace Officer Certification.
Because how alumni live their lives is even more important than what they do for a living,
“the Reinhardt experience” starts in the classroom and may extend to intercollegiate sports,
clubs, events, leadership opportunities, service projects and internships. A vibrant spiritual
environment, grounded in the United Methodist tradition, encourages personal growth and
is welcoming to people of all faiths.
Community visitors are drawn to Reinhardt for concerts and plays in the Falany
Performing Arts Center and to attend events and tours at the Funk Heritage Center –
Georgia’s official frontier and Southeastern Indian interpretive center.
PRESIDENT
Dean C. Collins
YEAR FOUNDED 1937
FALL 2014 ENROLLMENT 1,522
STUDENT/FACULTY RATIO 20:1
DENOMINATIONAL AFFILIATION Christian Churches
2014-2015 TUITION AND FEES Tuition and Fees: $17,650
Room and Board: $6,350
% OF STUDENTS RECEIVING FINANCIAL AID FROM ANY SOURCE 99%
DEGREES OFFERED A.A., B.A., B.B.A., B.S.
OTHER LOCATIONS Atlanta, Peachtree City, Savannah,
and Birmingham, Alabama
www.reinhardt.edu|770-720-5600|7300ReinhardtCircle|Waleska,GA30183-2981
26
www.point.edu|855-37- Point|507West10thStreet|WestPoint,GA31833
PRESIDENT
Dr. J. Thomas Isherwood
YEAR FOUNDED 1883
FALL 2014 ENROLLMENT 1,428
STUDENT/FACULTY RATIO 17:1
DENOMINATIONAL AFFILIATION United Methodist Church
2014-2015 TUITION AND FEES Tuition: $18,996
Room and Board: $7,276
Fees: $250
% OF STUDENTS RECEIVING FINANCIAL AID FROM ANY SOURCE
95%
DEGREES OFFERED B.A., B.C.J., B.F.A., B.H.A., B.M.,
B.M.E., B.S., M.A.T., M.B.A., M.Ed/ECE,
M.Ed/SPED, M.M., M.P.A.
OTHER LOCATIONSNorth Fulton (Alpharetta),
Cartersville, Marietta, Canton
27
29 28
The University for Creative Careers
The Savannah College of Art and Design is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution conferring
bachelor’s and master’s degrees at distinctive locations to prepare talented students for professional
careers. SCAD offers degrees in more than 40 majors, as well as minors in more than 60
disciplines. With over 29,000 alumni worldwide, SCAD demonstrates an exceptional education
and unparalleled career preparation.
At locations in Savannah and Atlanta, Georgia; in Hong Kong; in Lacoste, France; and online
through SCAD eLearning, the diverse student body consists of nearly 12,000 students from across
the United States and more than 100 countries. Each student is nurtured and motivated by a
faculty of more than 650 professors who have extraordinary academic credentials and valuable
professional experience. SCAD’s innovative curriculum is enhanced by advanced, professional-
level technology, equipment and learning resources. The university and its students, faculty and
alumni have garnered acclaim from respected organizations and publications, including TIME,
Vogue Magazine and U.S. News & World Report.
SAVANNAH COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN
PRESIDENT
Paula Wallace
YEAR FOUNDED 1978
FALL 2014 ENROLLMENT 11,973
STUDENT/FACULTY RATIO 19:1
2014-2015 TUITION AND FEES Tuition: $33,795
Room and Board: $13,710
% OF STUDENTS RECEIVING FINANCIAL AID FROM ANY SOURCE98%
DEGREES OFFERED B.A., B.F.A., M.A., M.Arch.,
M.F.A., M.U.D.
OTHER LOCATIONS Atlanta, Georgia; Hong Kong;
Lacoste, France; and eLearning
www.scad.edu|912-525-5100|342BullStreet|Savannah,GA31401
28
SHORTER UNIVERSITY
Shorter University offers excellent educational opportunities within a Christ-centered
environment. Our students receive individualized attention from caring faculty members
who want to help the students become all that God designed them to be. At Shorter,
classes are taught by professors who are well-trained academically with experience in their
respective fields. More importantly, they have a deep commitment to Christ and view their
work as a ministry in which they prepare students for various career paths who will have a
global impact for the cause of the Kingdom.
The Princeton Review annually includes Shorter on its list of best Southeastern colleges.
Shorter’s 150-acre hilltop campus in Rome, Georgia, is home to the university’s traditional
programs. In addition, Shorter operates campuses in Duluth, Marietta and Riverdale
offering undergraduate degree programs for working adults. Online courses and degree
programs are also available. The recent purchase of Thornwood, the historic home of
university namesake Colonel Alfred Shorter, has expanded Shorter’s footprint in Rome,
offering newly renovated facilities for Shorter’s Ben and Ollie Brady School of Nursing and
the university’s School of Education.
Shorter is a member of Division II of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA),
and its well-rounded athletic program is part of a vibrant campus life. The university is also
affiliated with the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA).
www.shorter.edu|706-291-2121|315ShorterAvenue|Rome,GA30165
PRESIDENT
Dr. Donald V. Dowless
YEAR FOUNDED 1873
FALL 2014 ENROLLMENT 2,358
STUDENT/FACULTY RATIO 15:1
DENOMINATIONAL AFFILIATION Baptist
2014-2015 TUITION AND FEES Tuition: $19,880
Room and Board: $9,400
% OF STUDENTS RECEIVING FINANCIAL AID FROM ANY SOURCE 98%
DEGREES OFFERED A.S., B.A., B.B.A, B.C.M., B.F.A., B.M., B.M.E.,
B.S., B.S.E., B.S.M., BS.BA., BS.Ed., M.A.,
MACC, M.A.T., M.B.A., M.Ed.
OTHER LOCATIONSDuluth, Marietta, Riverdale
29
31 30
Spelman College is a prestigious, highly selective, liberal arts college that prepares women
to change the world. Located in Atlanta, this historically Black college boasts a 76 percent
graduation rate, and outstanding alumnae such as Children’s Defense Fund Founder Marian
Wright Edelman, Sam’s Club CEO Rosalind Brewer, Broadway producer Alia Jones-Harvey,
former acting Surgeon General and Spelman’s first alumna president Audrey Forbes Manley,
author Pearl Cleage and actress LaTanya Richardson Jackson.
More than 88 percent of the full-time faculty members have Ph.D.s or other terminal degrees.
Spelman awards bachelor’s degrees in 26 areas of study. Popular undergraduate majors include
biology, chemistry, English, political science and psychology. STEM (science, technology,
engineering and math) majors comprised more than 40 percent of the College’s first-time, first-
year enrollment for the 2013-2014 academic year. Spelman College is one of only six colleges
in the country designated by the National Science Foundation and the National Aeronautics
and Space Administration as a Model Institution for Excellence in undergraduate science and
mathematics education.
The College is dedicated to academic excellence in the liberal arts and sciences and the
intellectual, creative, ethical and leadership development of its students.
SPELMANCOLLEGEPRESIDENT
Beverly Daniel Tatum, Ph.D.
YEAR FOUNDED 1881
FALL 2014 ENROLLMENT 2,055
STUDENT/FACULTY RATIO 10:1
2014-2015 TUITION AND FEESTuition and Fees: $25,495
Room and Board: $11,945
% OF STUDENTS RECEIVING FINANCIAL AID FROM ANY SOURCE
93%
DEGREES OFFERED B.A., B.S.
www.spelman.edu|404-681-3643|350SpelmanLane,SW|Atlanta,GA30314
30
THOMASUNIVERSITY
Thomas University is an independent, not-for-profit, regionally-accredited institution offering associate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees. TU has 23 degree programs with a variety of concentrations. Established in 1950 in Thomasville, Georgia, Thomas University provides quality education through a dynamic learning environment. Its mission is to provide an educational experience that explores and develops each student’s full potential.
Thomas University offers undergraduate business and nursing programs in China with Chinese Central government approval at Chinese partner universities. It offers online degree programs and operates satellite programs in Tallahassee, Florida (R.N.-B.S.N., Bachelor of Social Work); Moultrie, Georgia (R.N.-B.S.N.); Bainbridge, Georgia (Teacher Certification Programs); and six sites throughout the state of Georgia (M.Ed.).
In 2012, just one mile from its Main Campus, the University opened its West Campus where students have access to a brand new gymnasium and Student Life Center. The focal point of the Main Campus is Smith-Bonvillian Hall, a 19,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art academic building that opened in the fall of 2013.
Thomas University is a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and the Sun Conference. For the past four years, it has been recognized by the NAIA as a Five State Champions of Character Institution – a program that instills and embraces good character and values in sports.
PRESIDENT
Dr. Gary Bonvillian
YEAR FOUNDED 1950
FALL 2014 ENROLLMENT 1,138
STUDENT/FACULTY RATIO 10:1
2014-2015 TUITION Tuition: $14,800
Room and Board: $5,050
% OF STUDENTS RECEIVING FINANCIAL AID FROM ANY SOURCE 98%
DEGREES OFFERED A.A., A.S., B.A., B.S., M.B.A.,
M.Ed., M.S., M.S.N., M.S.N.-M.B.A.
OTHER LOCATIONS Capital Regional Medical Center and
Tallahassee Memorial Hospital (both
in Tallahassee, FL); Colquitt Regional
Medical Center (Moultrie, GA); Tallahassee
Community College (Tallahassee, FL);
Bainbridge State College (Bainbridge, GA);
M.Ed. sites throughout Georgia.
www.thomasu.edu|229-226-1621|1501MillpondRoad|Thomasville,GA31792
31
33 32
Toccoa Falls College (TFC) is a Christ-centered educational institution nestled in the foothills
of the Smoky Mountains. Students experience a college environment that is intentionally
designed to encourage their spiritual growth. The College motto is, “Where character is
developed with intellect.” TFC currently offers 29 majors and 39 minors through which
students are challenged to understand faith, life and work from a biblical worldview. In
addition to robust residential programs, TFC offers online classes and degrees. Men’s and
women’s intercollegiate sports are a strong component of campus life, and TFC boasts of
several national championships in its division.
The campus is in the center of 1,100 acres of forest, mountains and streams, and on the edge
of the Chattahoochee National Forest. Its famous landmark and namesake is a breathtaking
186-foot waterfall.
TOCCOA FALLSCOLLEGEPRESIDENT
Dr. Robert Myers
YEAR FOUNDED 1907
FALL 2014 ENROLLMENT 915
STUDENT/FACULTY RATIO 17:1
DENOMINATIONAL AFFILIATION Christian & Missionary Alliance
2014-2015 TUITION AND FEES Tuition: $19,150
Room and Board: $7,020
% OF STUDENTS RECEIVING FINANCIAL AID FROM ANY SOURCE 98%
DEGREES OFFERED A.A., B.A., B.B.A., B.M., B.S.
www.tfc.edu|706-886-7299|107KincaidDrive|ToccoaFalls,GA30598
32 33
TRUETT-McCONNELL COLLEGE
Truett-McConnell College (TMC) equips students to fulfill the Great Commission by fostering a Christian worldview through a biblically-centered education. TMC offers 10 undergraduate degree programs, one master’s level degree program, and has 17 programs of study, including business, Christian studies, education, English, history, interdisciplinary studies, music, psychology, science and world missions.
In 2013, TMC added to its curricular offerings a B.S.N. (nursing) degree and in the fall of 2014, launched its first ever master’s program – a Master of Arts in Theology degree.
The faculty at TMC are professing Christians whose pedagogical foundation is the Holy Bible. More than 70 percent of the faculty holds terminal degrees from some of the nation’s most prestigious universities, including Harvard and William & Mary.
A liberal arts college, TMC embraces its divine mandate to prepare students to find their calling and to live with a steadfast commitment to biblical principles.
PRESIDENT
Dr. Emir Caner
YEAR FOUNDED 1946
FALL 2014 ENROLLMENT 1,660
STUDENT/FACULTY RATIO 13:1
DENOMINATIONAL AFFILIATION Baptist
2014-2015 TUITION AND FEES Tuition: $16,650
Fees, Room and Board: $7,870
% OF STUDENTS RECEIVING FINANCIAL AID FROM ANY SOURCE 99.8%
DEGREES OFFERED: B.A., B.S, M.A.
www.truett.edu|706-865-2134|100AlumniDrive|Cleveland,GA30528
35 34
Wesleyan College was founded in 1836 as the first college in the world chartered to grant degrees
to women. Today it is regarded as one of the nation’s finest liberal arts colleges and is consistently
recognized for academic excellence. According to the ninth annual report of the National
Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE), Wesleyan outperformed the top 10 percent of colleges
and universities nationally in all categories studied. Wesleyan offers a strong merit scholarship
program and is one of the nation’s most affordable selective colleges. A close-knit community of
students from all across the United States and more than 20 foreign countries values Wesleyan’s
rigorous academic program renowned for its quality.
The school offers undergraduate degrees in 31 majors and 28 minors, plus the option to self-
design an interdisciplinary major, as well as pre-professional programs in seminary, medicine,
pharmacy, veterinary medicine, allied health sciences, dentistry and law. A new Bachelor of
Science in Nursing program will graduate the first cohort of students in spring of 2015. The
Master of Education in Early Childhood Education program and an accelerated executive
Master of Business Administration program enroll both men and women, and were designed to
accommodate working professionals. Beyond academics, Wesleyan offers a thriving residence
life program, NCAA Division III athletics, a championship IHSA equestrian program and
meaningful opportunities for spiritual development and community leadership.
WESLEYANCOLLEGE
PRESIDENT
Ruth Austin Knox, J.D.
YEAR FOUNDED 1836
FALL 2014 ENROLLMENT 705
STUDENT/FACULTY RATIO 11:1
DENOMINATIONAL AFFILIATION Methodist
2014-2015 TUITION AND FEESTuition: $19,750
Room and Board: $8,800
% OF STUDENTS RECEIVING FINANCIAL AID FROM ANY SOURCE 95%
DEGREES OFFERED B.A., B.S.N., M.B.A., M.Ed.
www.wesleyancollege.edu|800-447-6610|4760ForsythRoad|Macon,GA31210
34 35
YOUNG HARRISCOLLEGE
Young Harris College (YHC) educates, inspires and empowers students to be strong,
capable, well-rounded leaders who dare to aspire to goals that others may think
unattainable. Founded more than 125 years ago, YHC has been transformed into a
progressive model of liberal arts education, featuring innovative academic programs,
state-of-the-art facilities and competitive NCAA Division II athletics – which means more
learning opportunities, better teaching, a smarter curriculum, greener living, a stronger
community and happier students.
Nestled in the southern Appalachian mountains of northeastern Georgia, YHC provides
an intimate setting that allows students and faculty to work closely, forging nurturing
relationships and strong bonds that endure well past graduation. YHC currently has more
than 1,200 students across five divisions – Education, Fine Arts, Humanities, Mathematics
and Science, and Social and Behavioral Sciences. The historic campus in Young Harris,
Georgia, is currently undergoing major improvements to accommodate the College’s
growth. Recent LEED-certified campus improvements include a 226-bed residence hall
for freshmen, a 57,000-square-foot recreation and fitness center, a 248-bed apartment-style
residential village and the 121,000-square-foot Rollins Campus Center – the new social and
intellectual heart of campus.
PRESIDENT
Cathy Cox, J.D.
YEAR FOUNDED 1886
FALL 2014 ENROLLMENT 1,216
STUDENT/FACULTY RATIO 13:1
DENOMINATIONAL AFFILIATION United Methodist Church
2014-2015 TUITION AND FEESTuition: $25,726
Room and Board: $9,200
% OF STUDENTS RECEIVING FINANCIAL AID FROM ANY SOURCE More than 90%
DEGREES OFFERED B.A., B.M.E., B.S.
www.yhc.edu|800-241-3754|P.O.Box68|1CollegeStreet|YoungHarris,GA30582
37 36 37
Elizabeth KissAgnes Scott College
Kirk TreibleAndrew College
Stephen R. BriggsBerry College
Ed L. SchraderBrenau University
Charles BassBrewton-Parker College
Carlton E. BrownClark Atlanta University
J. Derek HalvorsonCovenant College
Ronald G. WhiteEmmanuel College
William B. Caldwell, IVGeorgia Military College
Michael Meyer Von BremenHall, Booth, Smith & Slover, P.C.
Seth HarpHarp Poydasheff
Cynthia HoltMarketing & Communications Consultant
Eric JohnsonHussey, Gay, Bell & DeYoung
Scott WolleInvesco
R. H. Seaman, Jr.J. C. Penney Company (Ret.)
Nancy JuneauJuneau Construction Company
Keith H. ShurbuttKPMG LLP
Dan McAlexanderLaGrange College
Guy RiekemanLife University
William D. UnderwoodMercer University
John Silvanus Wilson, Jr.Morehouse College
Lawrence M. SchallOglethorpe University
Samuel SullivanPaine College
James F. MellichampPiedmont College
Dean C. CollinsPoint University
J. Thomas IsherwoodReinhardt University
Ruth H. MarstonRichmond Sterling, Inc.
John Paul RowanSavannah College of Art and Design
Donald DowlessShorter University
Beverly Daniel TatumSpelman College
Mary M. “Peggy” BrockingtonStrickland Brockington Lewis LLP
Gary BonvillianThomas University
Robert MyersToccoa Falls College
Emir CanerTruett-McConnell College
Ruth A. KnoxWesleyan College
Cathy CoxYoung Harris College
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Ed Schrader, Chair
James Mellichamp, Vice Chair
Keith H. Shurbutt, Treasurer
Susanna Baxter, Ex Officio
Seth Harp, At-Large
Cynthia Holt, Ex Officio
Eric Johnson, At-Large
Nancy Juneau, At-Large
Ruth A. Knox, At-Large
Ruth Marston, At-Large
Dan McAlexander, At-Large
Robert Myers, At-Large
Guy Riekeman, At-Large
John S. Wilson, At-Large
PRESIDENT EMERITUS
William W. Kelly, Marietta, GA
LIFETIME HONORARY TRUSTEES Robert K. Ackerman, Lexington, SC
Nancy Blake, Griffin, GA
John S. Burd, Gainesville, GA
Many F. Gilmer, Woodstock, GA
R. Kirby Godsey, Macon, GA
James M. Griffin, Sanibel, FL
Henry J. Hector, Montgomery, AL
Ross W. Lenhart, Pawleys Island, SC
Sarah H. Lunsford, Roswell, GA
Walter Y. Murphy, Atlanta, GA
Manning M. Patillo, Atlanta, GA
I. Clayton Ramsey, Atlanta, GA
Donald S. Stanton, Lake Junaluska, NC
John K. Trainer, Jacksonville, FL
Preston C. Williams, Montezuma, GA
BOARD
403b Advisors
Adapture
Aerohive Networks
Ansley Communications
Apogee
ARAMARK
CapinCrouse
Carter
Casagrande Consulting
College and University Employee Benefits Solutions
Collins Project Management
Contract Furniture Alliance
First American Education Finance
GovConnection
Howard Technology Solutions
HRP Associates, Inc.
Interface
J.P. Morgan Chase
Johnson Controls
Mauldin & Jenkins
McMillan Pazdan Smith Architecture
Metcalf Davis
GEORGIAINDEPENDENTCOLLEGEASSOCIATION
36
BOARD2014-2015
The Georgia Independent Colleges Association Corporate Allies Program is designed to promote a closer working relationship between GICA’s member institutions and businesses that support the work of GICA.
“We’ve had the pleasure of working with GICA for the past
seven years with technology-related group purchasing
agreements. Their passion and commitment to the advocacy
and interests of its member institutions is remarkable. We
are proud to partner with GICA and help serve the Georgia
independent colleges and universities.”
—Bob Smith, ScholarBuys
GICA wishes to gratefully acknowledge the following companies whoformed the inaugural class of GICA Corporate Allies Program in 2014:
Millennium Advisory Services
Morgan Stanley
Netchex
Nimble Storage
Office Max
Pearson
Perkins + Will
Pond & Company
Provista
Reference Services
SageView Advisory Services
SALT
ScholarBuys
Sizemore Group
SSC Service Solutions
Stevens & Wilkinson
TIAA-CREF
VALIC
Warren Averett
WeCare TLC
39 38 38 39
Years indicate total years giving. Asterisk (*) indicates new donors.
401k/403b Advisors, 1 year*
Adapture, 1 year*
Aerohive Networks, 2 years
Ansley Communications, 4 years
Apogee, 1 year*
Aramark, 16 years
Arthur H. & Ernest B. Merry Foundation, 46 years
B&D Industrial, 45 years
Frank Barron, 24 years
Thomas W. Barron, 34 years
Susanna L. Baxter, 5 years
Blake Developments, Inc., 46 years
John S. Burd, 18 years
The Carpet Shop, Inc., 30 years
Carter, 9 years
Casagrande Consulting, LLC, 4 years
College & University Employee Benefits Solutions, 1 year*
Collins Project Management, Inc., 3 years
Colonial Oil Industries, Inc., 56 years
Community Welfare Association, 55 years
Conklin Metal Industries, 45 years
Contract Furniture Alliance, 2 years
Cornerstone Communications Group, Inc., 17 years
Crawford Investment Counsel, Inc., 28 years
The Dixie Group Foundation, Inc., 50 years
James Dykhouse, 22 years
First American Education Finance, 3 years
Genuine Parts Company, 26 years
Manly F. Gilmer, 6 years
Robert B. Glass, 9 years
GovConnection, 2 years
James M. Griffith, 15 years
Henry J. Hector, 10 years
Jodi Hester, 3 years
Simotra Houston-Nana, 1 year*
Howard Technology Solutions, 3 years
Mark Huffman, 1 year*
J&J Industries, 47 years
John and Emma Derst Foundation, Inc., 55 years
John and Mary Franklin Foundation, Inc., 44 years
Johnson Controls, Inc., 4 years
J.P. Morgan Chase, 3 years
Juneau Construction Company, 5 years
Gary Lee, 16 years
Lilly Realty Associates, Inc., 19 years
Carolyn & Mayo Livingston, 49 years
Lisa Macke, 2 years
Mannington, 43 years
Carolyn S. Mata, 3 years
Mauldin & Jenkins, 5 years
McMillan Pazdan Smith Architecture, 2 years
McNeely Foundation, Inc., 52 years
Millennium Advisory Services, 1 year*
James M. Moore, 3 years
Myers McRae, Inc., 19 years
New Riverside Ochre Company, Inc., 52 years
Nimble Storage, 1 year*
Office Max, 1 year*
Perkins + Will, 2 years
The Pittulloch Foundation, 52 years
Powers Creative, Inc., 5 years
Provista, 1 year*
Reference Services, 1 year*
Sage View Advisory Services, 2 years
SALT, 1 year*
Sandersville Railroad Company, 51 years
ScholarBuys, 3 years
R.H. Seaman, 18 years
Shaheen Carpet Mills, Inc., 40 years
Shaw Industries, Inc., 48 years
Keith H. Shurbutt, 5 years
SmartThinking, 2 years
SSC Service Solutions, 3 years
Stevens & Wilkinson, Inc., 5 years
Sidney S. Tate, 2 years
Thiele Kaolin Company, 57 years
TIAA-CREF, 8 years
VALIC, 6 years
Warren Averett, 1 year*
Washington EMC, 48 years
WeCare TLC, 2 years
Wehadkee Foundation, Inc., 54 years
The William E. and Audrine C. Honey Foundation Inc., 54 years
Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of Georgia Foundation, 40 years
GEORGIAINDEPENDENTCOLLEGEASSOCIATION
HONOR ROLL
PACESETTERS
SPONSORS
PARTNERS
ASSOCIATES
FRIENDS
($50,000 - $99,999)
($15,000 - $24,999)
($10,000 - $14,999)
($5,000 - $9,999)
($4,999 AND UNDER)
The Council of Independent Colleges, 28 yearsUPS Foundation, 40 years
Milliken & Company, 54 yearsVulcan Materials Company, 47 years
AFLAC, 38 yearsMetcalf Davis, 5 yearsThomas H. Lanier Family Foundation, 22 years
Gertrude & William C. Wardlaw Fund, Inc, 51 years J. W. & Ethel I. Woodruff Foundation, 47 yearsNorfolk Southern Foundation, 46 yearsPACCAR, Inc, 23 years
Distinguished 2014 Investors
Endowment and Trust SupportWe are also pleased to recognize the special endowment and trust funds which supporters have created over the years to benefit GICA’s member colleges and their students. In 2014, almost $381,000 was returned to member insitutions in the form of scholarship aid.
Bank of America
GICA Member Services Council
Julia and Lawrence Willet
Lucy Claire Harris
Plantation Pipe Line Company
Reunette W. Harris
W.P. Stevens
William W. and Catherine M. Kelly
RECOGNITION OF 50-YEAR
MILESTONE DONORS
The Dixie Group Foundation
MILLER-DEAL LEGACY AWARD
Senator Cecil Staton
Award Recipients
40 40
Thispublicationissponsoredinpartby:
GeorgiaIndependentCollegeAssociation
600WestPeachtreeStreetNW,Suite1710
Atlanta,GA30308
www.georgiacolleges.org
Phone:404.233.5433|Fax:404.233.6309
©February2015by
GeorgiaIndependentCollegeAssociation
GICAGEORGIA INDEPENDENT
COLLEGE ASSOCIATION