Ely Abbott

This document outlines Georgia State University's strategic plan, which introduces 20 new initiatives built upon foundational pillars of identity placemaking and belonging, innovating research, scholarship and creative activity, and student success leading to careers. The mission aims to foster a community of belonging, transformational research, student success, and career preparation. Key initiatives include prioritizing high-impact practices, strengthening the core curriculum, advancing student and faculty research, and establishing 'Panther quads' on every campus, all designed to position the university as a leader in opportunity, transformation, and success through its 'blueprint to 2033'.

This document serves as the Undergraduate Catalog for Georgia State University for the 2012-2013 academic year, providing comprehensive information on both undergraduate and graduate programs. It details course offerings, academic policies, admission requirements for various applicant types, financial aid, tuition and fees, and a wide array of student services and regulations. The catalog functions as an essential informational guide for students, faculty, and staff regarding the university's academic and operational framework.

This podcast episode explores the essential elements of an effective strategic plan, particularly within the context of higher education. It defines a strategic plan as a critical tool for institutions to answer fundamental questions about their identity, purpose, and future direction, thereby fostering proactive growth rather than reactive problem-solving. Key discussions include the evolution of strategic planning over 25 years, emphasizing that effective plans require strong execution, an understanding of institutional culture, and a 'pull' approach to engagement. The importance of having both a concise strategic framework and a separate, detailed internal action plan is highlighted. Georgia State University's successful strategic plan, approved in January 2011, is cited as an example, with its achievements attributed to strong leadership, an inspiring vision focused on student success, diligent execution, and a commitment to scaling innovations internally and externally to benefit the broader educational community.

The document details the 102nd commencement ceremony for Georgia State University. Key events included the faculty procession, the platform party introduction, the performance of the national anthem by Melissa Joseph, and remarks by President Dr. Mark Becker. Dr. Becker's address focused on the graduates entering a "spiky" world characterized by urbanization and diversity, referencing studies showing Atlanta as an example of this trend and emphasizing that diversity fuels innovation. The event also featured recognitions for leadership (Nell Hamilton Trotter Student Leadership Award winner Fortun Onwuzurike), academic excellence (Kell Award winner Jenny Park), class gift contributors (blue tassel recipients), and honor students (gold cord recipients). The process concluded with the formal conferral of degrees by the Provost upon the candidates.

The document records the Spring 2018 Wednesday Ceremony Commencement event. Key activities included the faculty and platform party processions, the national anthem performance, and welcoming remarks from the University President, Dr. Mark Becker. The President's address focused on Georgia State University's national recognition for innovation, the importance of embracing change, and encouraging graduates to apply creative solutions in their future endeavors. The ceremony also featured the presentation of the Nel Hamilton Trotter Student Leadership Award to Sarah Agnew and the Kell Award to Kylee Ruffle for achieving the highest scholastic average. Honor students wearing gold cords were recognized, followed by the formal presentation of candidates for various degrees and the conferral of those degrees, symbolized by the moving of tassels. The final segment involved proceeding with individual student recognitions from the Andrew Young School of Policy Studies and the Gene Mac Robinson College of Business.