IESA students earn surveying scholarships
Students and a recent alumna from the University of North Georgia's (Â鶹ÊÓƵ) Lewis F. Rogers Institute for Environmental and Spatial Analysis (IESA) earned more than half of the (SAMSEF) scholarships awarded for 2025-26 in Georgia.
The scholarship winners included:
Ben W. Fortson Scholarship, $3,500
- Adriana Colon-Martinez
Regional, $3,000
- Lewis Bailey IV
- Ethan Scarborough
- Daniel Shoch
SAMSEF Technical Scholarships – $750
- Daniel Stepanskiy
- Jesse McCauley
Bailey, a junior from Savannah, Georgia, pursuing a degree in environmental spatial analysis, works a full-time job as a senior geospatial data technician.
"This scholarship is a huge burden lifted off my shoulders," Bailey said.
He is grateful for the immediate value of his coursework at Â鶹ÊÓƵ.
"I am able to apply my skills in my professional life as I learn them. Unlike many students, I currently work in a similar field that lets me apply what I learn as I progress through the program," Bailey said.
Scarborough, a senior from Buford, Georgia, who is also pursuing a degree in environmental spatial analysis, works at the same company as Bailey. After previously being a linguist, Scarborough came to Â鶹ÊÓƵ with the hope of earning a degree so he can procure his surveying license. The scholarship is a difference-maker.
"It takes a lot of pressure off me and my family being able to afford to come back to school and work full time," Scarborough said.
Bailey said the students, faculty and staff in IESA make everything more pleasant.
"Throughout my journey at Â鶹ÊÓƵ I have had a lot of the same people in the same classes, which makes it easier as you take classes," Bailey said. "You end up building a network and support to make sure everyone succeeds."
Grads prepare to step into workforce
Students will earn more than 1,000 degrees and certificates this fall from Â鶹ÊÓƵ, and the university will celebrate these milestones in the Dec. 9-10 commencement ceremonies.
Student speakers set for fall commencement
Three fall graduates will serve as student speakers at their respective Â鶹ÊÓƵ commencement ceremonies Dec. 9-10 in the Convocation Center at Â鶹ÊÓƵ's Dahlonega Campus.
Â鶹ÊÓƵ formalizes its role with career expo
Â鶹ÊÓƵ has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Center for Civic Engagement to support its Youth in Government Expo in March 2026.
Â鶹ÊÓƵ honors scholarship recipients in Blue Ridge
The Tomato Sandwich Supper held Nov. 6 at Â鶹ÊÓƵ's Blue Ridge Campus celebrated 24 scholarship recipients and showcased the transformational power of Â鶹ÊÓƵ's work.