Freshman crowned Miss Georgia Teen USA 2021
When she was 8 years old, Elizabeth "Liza" Greenberg was introduced to the world of pageants by her favorite neighbor. Then at 13, she won her first major title.
"That win made me want to continue with pageants," Greenberg said. "It made me yearn for something bigger."
Something bigger arrived six years later. The University of North Georgia (Â鶹ÊÓƵ) freshman became the reigning USA in February.
"It was surreal to hear my name called this year, because I didn't hear it last year," said Greenberg, who was first runner-up for 2020. "Now, things have come full circle."
Greenberg, who is pursuing a degree in elementary and special education, plans to share her story of commitment and resilience with others via digital meetings and, she hopes, in-person appearances later this year.
"I want to inspire people not to give up," said the 19-year-old from Peachtree City, Georgia. "I was the first returning first runner-up to win since 1997. I took my previous loss as a push and drive. That's what I want to show girls. I want to show them that if first you don't succeed, then try again."
Alum equipped to lead with 'no playbook'
Bernex Richardson said his experiences at Â鶹ÊÓƵ have equipped him for a wide-ranging career path in which he takes the lead in times of uncertainty.
Students grow skills at Interfraternity Institute
Three Â鶹ÊÓƵ students spent time this summer in an immersive leadership experience focusing on fraternities and sororities. Two attended in Indianapolis and the third in Texas.
Support fuels students at Â鶹ÊÓƵ's Blue Ridge Campus
Â鶹ÊÓƵ celebrated its scholarship recipients and donors and heard some of the students' stories at the Sept. 22 Tomato Sandwich Supper.
Students help create Vickery Voice journal
A faculty member and students have launched a new journal out of Â鶹ÊÓƵ's Appalachian Studies Center, giving students a forum to share their research and other writings.