The University of North Georgia (UNG) celebrated its summer graduates at commencement July 26 in the Convocation Center at UNG's Dahlonega Campus. Students earned more than 500 degrees and certificates this summer, and 260 graduates took part in commencement.

Raul Ceja Vazquez, a Gainesville, Georgia, resident who earned a bachelor's degree in human services delivery and administration, was a first-generation college student. While working toward his degree, he left UNG for four years before coming back in 2023 to improve his job prospects.

He particularly appreciated the way Dr. Pamela Elfenbein, director of UNG's Institute for Healthy Aging, helped connect him with internships at Legacy Link Area Agency on Aging and the Hall County Senior Life Center.

"I learned so much from her about the growing field of gerontology," Ceja Vazquez said. "Man, I love it. I was able to build those relationships at Legacy Link and the Hall County Senior Life Center. I fell in love working with older adults there."

Ceja Vazquez enjoyed being part of the Latino Student Association and appreciated UNG's Multicultural Student Affairs office. Ultimately, graduating was a dream a long time in the making.

"I can't believe it's finally happening. I never thought I would wear a black cap and gown," he said. "I never thought I would make it this far."

Dr. Michallene McDaniel, professor of sociology and human services, served as the keynote speaker. She has taught at UNG since 2001. McDaniel encouraged graduates to treat people the right way.

"How you treat people impacts whether you get the job you want or not. It impacts your leadership ability, whether that's in the context of a business, service or military career," McDaniel said. "How you treat people impacts whether people will help you when you need it. It's simply a matter of choosing to do small things on a daily basis, letting people know that they matter. You will learn from others, and sometimes you will make lifelong friends."

Frederyck Odom, '15, served as the alumni speaker. He earned his Bachelor of Business Administration in marketing and was selected as a New Student Orientation leader, rush chairman for Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity, Homecoming King, and Mr. UNG.

Odom began his career in technology sales at SAS in North Carolina, and he now works at the Chick-fil-A Support Center on the team that produces their annual business and leadership conferences.

"As a fellow graduate who has sat in your shoes, let me reassure you that you absolutely have what it takes to succeed because North Georgia instills in each of its graduates a character trait that is invaluable for your life and career," Odom said. "Now if you're wondering what character trait is, that's actually a sign that you have it: curiosity. North Georgia teaches you how to be curious, how to ask better questions, from professors who challenge you to think about the why behind your answer to classmates who push you to consider a different perspective or even learning from the Corps of Cadets the sacrifice and strength it takes to serve in the United States Army."