Local students have achieved significant academic honors for the Fall 2025 semester across various institutions, showcasing remarkable dedication and performance in their studies.
Belhaven University Honors Michael Morgan
Michael Morgan of Dalton has earned a spot on the President’s List at Belhaven University for the Fall 2025 semester. This prestigious recognition is reserved for students who maintain a perfect 4.0 grade point average while completing a full course load of at least 12 semester hours. Morgan’s achievement highlights his commitment to academic excellence.
Acknowledging Academic Success at Berry College and Beyond
A number of students from Dalton have also made impressive strides at Berry College, being named to the Fall 2025 Dean’s List. This honor recognizes students who achieve a minimum GPA of 3.5 while carrying at least 12 credit hours. The honorees include: Sally Berbery, Semora Brabson, Preston Green, Michelle Hamoui, Monica Hernandez, Ian Lively, Sophia Pichardo, Isaac Plavich, Litzy Reyes, Grayson Sneed, Audrey Stafford from Crandall, John Walters from Cohutta, and Owen Witt from Dalton. This recognition underscores their hard work and academic dedication during the semester.
At Bob Jones University, Zachary Edmondson, a Junior Multimedia Journalism major from Chatsworth, was among over 700 students named to the Fall 2025 Dean’s List. This accolade is awarded to students with a GPA between 3.00 and 3.74.
Additionally, Carlos Rivera of Dalton participated in the winter 2025 commencement ceremony at Georgia College & State University on December 13. Rivera completed his master’s degree in Management Information Systems from the J. Whitney Bunting College of Business & Technology, marking a significant milestone in his academic journey.
Local student Sophia LaBoy has also made the Dean’s List at Belmont University for the Fall 2025 semester, reflecting her academic achievements in a challenging environment.
Graduation Ceremonies Celebrate Local Achievements
The University of North Georgia (UNG) recognized numerous local students on the President’s Honor Roll for the Fall 2025 semester. This honor is awarded to students enrolled in bachelor’s programs who achieve a 4.0 GPA while taking 12 or more credit hours. The students include Audra Leonard, Zoe West, Hayden Burns, Charlsey Richards, Jason Smith, Caden Barbree, Ava Collins, Bailey Warnix, Yoselyn Torres, Addeline Sisson, and Sophia Hargis.
Furthermore, the Dean’s List at UNG featured Adrian Salazar-Lunsford, Cameron Longley, Ava Brock, Sianna Blankenship, Cole Ridley, Caden Painter, Adrianna Hernandez, Caitlyn Petty, Rylie Pinson, Macey Cook, Grace Ridley, Beau Ellis, AnLeigh Shirley, and Kendall Gee. Dean’s List eligibility requires at least a 3.5 GPA and no grade lower than a B.
During the Fall 2025 commencement ceremonies, UNG awarded over 1,000 degrees and certificates. The ceremonies, held on December 9-10 at the Convocation Center in Dahlonega, celebrated the achievements of local graduates. Notable graduates included: Jeremiah Morgan, who graduated With Distinction with an Associate of Arts in Art Pathway; Emily Foxx, who earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology; Alondra Hart, with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science; and Audra Leonard, who graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice.
These accomplishments reflect the dedication and hard work of students in the region, highlighting the importance of education in achieving personal and professional goals.
