North Georgia College & State University

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North Georgia College & State University
Motto:	Truth and Wisdom
Established:	1873
Type:	Public
President:	David Potter
Students:	5,500[1]
Undergraduates:	4,700[1]
Postgraduates:	750[1]
Location:	Dahlonega, Georgia, United States
Campus:	Rural; 112 acres (Main Campus); 722 acres (Total)
Athletics:	NCAA Division II
Colors:	Blue and White
Nickname:	North Georgia, The Military College of Georgia
Mascot:	Saint Bernard
Website:	www.ngcsu.edu

North Georgia College & State University (NGCSU) is a four-year public university located in Dahlonega, Georgia. Founded as North Georgia Agricultural College in 1873, it is the oldest co-educational institution in the state.^[2] NGCSU is renowned for its ROTC and is designated as The Military College of Georgia and The Leadership Institution of Georgia. It is one of six senior military colleges in the United States.

The institution was founded as an agricultural branch of the University of Georgia in 1873, which was made possible by the Morrill Act and the efforts of William Pierce Price.^[2] Its first graduating class in 1879 consisted of 3 young men and a young woman, making it the first college in the state to award a degree to a woman. In 1929, its agriculture program was dropped and the name was changed to North Georgia College. The school received the designation of state university in 1996. Protesting alumni were successful in keeping the word college in the name after they became upset when the name North Georgia State University was suggested.^[2]

NGCSU's campus is nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains just south of the terminus of the Appalachian Trail. Campus buildings are located around the drill field which is used by the military for drill and training, and for recreation and intramural sports. As a sign of respect students do not take short cuts across the field from the dorms and barracks to the academic buildings. The main administrative building, Price Memorial Hall, is named in honor of founder William Pierce Price. It is built on the foundations of the mint that was established in Dahlonega during the gold rush^[2]. Its spire was gold leafed in 1970 from local gold as was the Georgia State Capitol in Atlanta. The university consists of 4 colleges and awards over 50 degrees. It is known for its teacher education, nursing, pre-med, and military programs.

Contents 1 Mission Statement 2 NGCSU Core Values 3 Academic and Student Affairs information 4 Programs 4.1 Undergraduate degrees 4.2 Graduate degrees 4.3 Other programs 5 Academic schools and departments 5.1 Mike Cottrell School of Business 5.2 School of Education 5.3 School of Arts & Letters 5.3.1 English Department 5.3.2 History and Philosophy Department 5.3.3 Psychology and Sociology Department 5.3.4 Modern Languages Department 5.3.5 Political Science and Criminal Justice Department 5.4 School of Science and Health Professions 5.4.1 Department of Mathematics and Computer Science 5.4.2 Department of Biology 5.4.3 Department of Chemistry 5.4.4 Department of Physics 5.4.5 Department of Nursing 6 Other Academic Units and Organizations 6.1 Honor Societies 7 Campus life 7.1 Student Organizations and Activities 7.1.1 Student Activities Board 7.1.2 Commuter Council 7.1.3 Greek Social Organizations 7.1.4 Other student organizations 8 Traditions 9 "The Boar's Head Brigade" 10 Military Specialty Units 10.1 Aggressor Platoon 10.2 Blue Ridge Rifles 10.3 Mountain Order of Colombo 10.4 The Golden Eagle Band 10.4.1 Mission 10.5 Chaplain Corps 10.5.1 Mission 10.5.2 History 10.6 Color Guard 11 References 12 External links

[edit] Mission Statement

North Georgia College and State University develops and educates leaders through strong liberal arts, pre-professional, professional, and graduate programs. North Georgia College and State University is proud to be designated by the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia and by the Georgia General Assembly as the Military College of Georgia and distinguished as a leadership institution of Georgia. North Georgia College and State University provides an environment of academic excellence that develops leaders who respect all people, maintain high ethical standards, continue intellectual and personal growth,and serve the community, the state, the nation, and the world.^[3]

[edit] NGCSU Core Values

This mission is founded upon the following core values: Courage — demonstrating the individual and institutional character required to translate thought into action under adverse or challenging conditions, Integrity — cultivating in ourselves and in others the willingness and steadfastness to act honestly and ethically, Loyalty- being faithful to the mission of the university, Respect — acknowledging the dignity and worth of all beings and preserving the richness of our cultures and ecology, Service — giving of oneself to enhance the life and richness of the university and all of its members, as well as the larger community, Truth- searching for and honoring truth as it relates to academics, individuals, self, and society, and Wisdom — making sound decisions in complex or ambiguous situations based on accumulated knowledge and experiences.^[4]

[edit] Academic and Student Affairs information

Each 2-3 years, NGCSU Academic Affairs compiles and issues a new Undergraduate Bulletin, a resource that lists the course requirements for each degree offered at the college. These books are available at the Academic Affairs office, Student Affairs, the Student Center & Activities Offices, and at the Learning Support offices. The Current Catalog has been issued for the duration of the Summer 2008-Spring 2010 semesters.

In addition, every new school year, a new Student Handbook is issued. The information within the handbook contains the Academic Policies and Codes of Conduct determined by Vice President of Academic Affairs Linda Roberts-Betsch and Vice President of Student Affairs John S. Clower. The NGCSU Student Center and Activities office issues information on the Dining Hall (concerning meal plans), counseling services, and Student Organization policies. Calendar information is provided by faculty and staff. There are also advertisements for various businesses and services within Dahlonega. VP Clower of Student Affairs encloses a message of encouragement within the Student Handbook, encouraging students to "work hard, have fun, and, most importantly, learn all you can." ^[5]

[edit] Programs

[edit] Undergraduate degrees

NGCSU offers Bachelor of Arts and Science degrees in various areas of study:

• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degrees are offered in Art (concentrations in Studio Art and Scientific Illustration), English, English Education, French, French Education History, History Education, Music, Political Science, Spanish, Spanish Education, and Spanish with Business Emphasis.

• Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degrees are offered in Art Education, Art Marketing, Athletic Training, Biology, Biology Education, Chemistry, Chemistry Education, Computer Information Systems, Computer Science, Criminal Justice, Education (Early Childhood/Special Education and Middle Grades), Mathematics, Math Education, Music Education, Physical Education (emphases in teacher certification, exercise science, and physical education), Physics, Political Science, Psychology, Social Science, Sociology, Music Education, Physical Education, and Exercise Science.

• Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A) degree is offered in Accounting, Finance, Management, and Marketing.

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) degree is offered to selected registered nurses from A.S.N. programs and selected registered nurses from diploma programs.

NGCSU also offers an Associate of Science in Nursing (A.S.N.), which is a two year program with both academic instruction (at NGCSU) and clinical training at hospitals and nursing homes in the immediate area.

Minors are available in various subjects: Art History, Biology, Business Administration, Chemistry, Chinese, Computer Information Systems, English, French, Gender Studies, German, Mathematics, Music, Political Science, Psychology, Sociology, and Spanish.

[edit] Graduate degrees

As of 2008, NGCSU offers the following graduate degrees:

• Master of Arts in Teaching
• Master of Business Administration
• Master of Education
• Master of Public Administration
• Master of Science in Community Counseling
• Master of Science in Nursing Education
• Master of Science in Nursing, FNP Program
• Educational Specialist Degree Program in School Leadership with Building and District Level Emphasis^[6]

[edit] Other programs

In addition to the degree programs, NGCSU offers various other opportunities and certificate programs to its students.

• Teacher Licensure: NGCSU prepares students for licensure in P-5 programs, early childhood education/special education, middle grades education, and secondary education in various subjects.

• The Regents Engineering Transfer Program: Students pursuing a Bachelor of Engineering degree can begin their studies at NGCSU. When the pre-engineering curriculum is completed, students may transfer to Georgia Institute of Technology to complete their degree. Students in this program can expect to finish the requirements for a Bachelors in Engineering within 4–5 years.

• International Certificate Programs: For students who want to diversify their college experience by studying a particular geographic area. The European Union and Latin Studies Certificates are offered at NGCSU.^[7]

[edit] Academic schools and departments

NGCSU has 4 Schools:

• Mike Cottrell School of Business
• School of Education
• School of Arts & Letters
• School of Natural & Health Sciences

NGCSU's schools have 17 academic departments combined with each offering various programs of study.

[edit] Mike Cottrell School of Business

The Mike Cottrell School of Business offers degrees in Business Administration. Undergraduate students can major in accounting, finance, management, and marketing. In August 2008, the department began offering a Master's in Business Administration in a distance learning environment located in Forsyth County, Georgia.

[edit] School of Education

The School of Education offers Certifications in Teaching and Education degrees to students. Certifications and degrees are awarded in Early Childhood/Special Education; Middle Grades Education (grades 4-8); Secondary Education (grades 7-12) in English, History, Social Science, Mathematics, and Science; and P-12 certification in Art, Music, French, Physical Education, and Spanish. NGCSU also offers Master's of Education degrees for an Education Specialist and Teacher Leadership as well as certification in Administration and Supervision.

[edit] School of Arts & Letters

The School of Arts & Letters includes the English, Fine Arts, History & Philosophy, Military Science, Modern Languages, Political Science & Criminal Justice, and Psychology & Sociology departments.

[edit] English Department

The English Department offers concentrations in writing and literature. English students have the opportunity to become certified as a teacher at the middle/secondary level. In addition, they have the opportunity to work on Mountain Laurels and Unfettered Muse, NGCSU’s literary magazines, and may work tutoring students at the Writing Center. The English Department also has a chapter of Sigma Tau Delta, the English Honors Society.

[edit] History and Philosophy Department

The History and Philosophy Department offers programs leading to a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Science. The department also offers a minor in philosophy. Students can also join Phi Alpha Theta, the National Honors Society for History.

[edit] Psychology and Sociology Department

The Psychology and Sociology Department offers a Bachelor of Science degree in both Psychology and Sociology, a Master's degree in Community Counseling, and minors in Psychology and Sociology. The department also has a chapter of Psi Chi, the National Psychology Honors Society, and Alpha Kappa Delta, the International Sociology Honors Society.

There are also opportunities to earn a minor in Gender Studies and complete a certification program in Gerontology. The Gender Studies minor program was instituted in 2006, after the faculty self-organized numerous Women and Leadership conferences, committees and lectures. The program offers courses in sex, gender, and sexuality concentrated into the Literature, History, Sociology, Psychology, Criminal justice, Political science, and Nursing programs. The Gerontology program has been offered for the last six years at NGCSU. NGCSU is a part of the Georgia Gerontology Consortium through a distance learning partnership. NGCSU offers undergraduate and graduate courses in gerontology. The program aims to provide an introduction to gerontology theory, application, and research, clinical internships with older adults, and to provide public service programs to meet educational, professional, and community needs.

[edit] Modern Languages Department

The Modern Languages Department prepares students to communicate in a multi-lingual world. The department offers programs of study in French and Spanish and a minor in German and Chinese. In addition, there are education and business concentrations offered within the programs of study. There are many study abroad opportunities for students, including an exchange program with various Chinese universities, a French program within Quebec City at the Université Laval and the Centre d’Etudes Franco-Américain in Lisieux, France, a German immersion program within Bonn, Germany, and a Spanish study abroad program in Santander, Spain. On campus, students of modern languages can take advantage of the 50-seat language lab to further their study and knowledge of their language of choice, and can take part in summer immersion camps in Spanish and Chinese as well as Foreign Language Day, where NGCSU hosts high school competitions in Foreign Language.

[edit] Political Science and Criminal Justice Department

The Political Science and Criminal Justice Department offers various programs. Within Political Science, there are offerings in American Politics, International Relations, and Pre-Law. The department focuses mainly on political institutions (presidency, Congress, and courts), public administration, and international relations dealing with Asian, Latin American, and Western European Politics. The department also offers a European Union certification and an International Affairs degree, which provides students with an introduction to international relations. The department also offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice. Honor students are invited to membership in Alpha Phi Sigma (national criminal-justice honor society) and Pi Sigma Alpha (national political-science honor society).

[edit] School of Science and Health Professions

The School of Science and Health Professions offers degrees in Mathematics, Computer Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Nursing.

[edit] Department of Mathematics and Computer Science

The Department of Mathematics and Computer Science offers programs of study leading to the Bachelor of Science degree with majors in Mathematics, Secondary Education certification in Mathematics, Computer Science, and Computer Information Systems. In addition to the Bachelor of Science, NGCSU offers a Master's of Education in Mathematics Education. Math/CS students are offered many opportunities, including specialized computer labs and the MATH/CS Tutorial Center, which is staffed by qualified student tutors.

[edit] Department of Biology

The Department of Biology offers programs of study leading to the Bachelor of Science degree with majors in Biology and Biology Education. Furthermore, the department advises students who wish to apply to professional programs such as Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Medicine, Pharmacy, Physical Therapy, Physicians' Assistants, and Respiratory Therapy.

[edit] Department of Chemistry

The Department of Chemistry offers degrees in Chemistry and Chemistry Education. The department also advises students who wish to pursue professional education in the fields of Pharmacy, Medicine, Dentistry, and Optometry.

[edit] Department of Physics

The Department of Physics offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics as well as a minor in Physics. The department also offers a joint partnership with Georgia Tech, Clemson University, and Mercer University that offers students the option to receive a dual degree in both Physics (from NGCSU) and an Engineering degree from the school of his/her choice.

[edit] Department of Nursing

The Department of Nursing was founded in 1974, with the Associate of Science Degree in Nursing program. The department has continued to grow with the addition of the Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing program. There are additional "satellite programs" offered in Cumming and Gainesville, and an LPN/RN Bridge program. In 1998, the Masters of Science/Family Nurse Practitioner Program was founded and in 2006, the Master of Science in Nursing Education was instituted.^[8]

[edit] Other Academic Units and Organizations

[edit] Honor Societies

NGCSU's faculty considers recognition of honor students to be well-deserved and, therefore, an essential function of the university. Accordingly, 21 honor-society organizations--19 of which are chapters of national and international honor societies and 14 of which are affiliated with the national Association of College Honor Societies--are active at the university, and initiate accomplished students to membership. The 21 organizations are affiliated with the Council of Honor Societies, a confederation that coordinates the annual Honor Societies' Initiation Banquet in mid-April.

The 21 honor-society organizations are:^[9]

• Alpha Kappa Delta (sociology)
• Alpha Phi Sigma (criminal justice)
• Beta Beta Beta (biology)
• Beta Gamma Sigma (business administration)
• Iota Tau Alpha (athletic-training education)
• Kappa Delta Pi (education)
• Mu Epsilon Delta (local, health sciences)
• Omicron Delta Kappa (leadership)
• Phi Alpha Theta (history)
• Phi Eta Sigma (freshman)
• Phi Kappa Phi (interdisciplinary)
• Pi Delta Phi (French)
• Pi Gamma Mu (social sciences)
• Pi Sigma Alpha (political science)
• Psi Chi (psychology)
• Rho Tau (local, physical therapy)
• Scabbard and Blade (military education)
• Sigma Delta Pi (Spanish)
• Sigma Pi Sigma (physics)
• Sigma Tau Delta (English)
• Sigma Theta Tau (nursing)

[edit] Campus life

[edit] Student Organizations and Activities

At NGCSU, student organizations and activities are a very important part of campus life. In addition to the honor societies and fraternities/sororities, there is also the Student Government Association (SGA), Students Activities Board (SAB), and the Commuter Council. SGA and SAB have representatives from each class, with freshman representatives elected each Fall Semester. These organizations are open to all civilian and cadet students.

[edit] Student Activities Board

SAB is one of the most diverse organizations on campus run by elected students. SAB organizes and funds social events that help provide a release for students during the school semester. Some of the events include Spring and Fall Jam, various concerts, outdoor movies, comedians, hypnotists, speakers, holiday activities, and dances. All students are invited to weekly meetings held on Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m.

The Student Activities Board Consists of 25 elected positions, ranging from President to Secretary to committee heads. Committees include:

• Social Activities: Plans entertainment from dances to comedy to concerts.
• Movie Crew: Provides entertainment for students through movies. Cartoons during exam week and films on the Drill Field are some of the events that this Committee coordinates.
• Random Acts: Brings special events to campus such as arts and crafts, cookouts, etc.
• Ideas and Issues: Brings professional speakers to campus who provide commentary and discussion on currents events, ideas, and issues that affect NGCSU students, Georgia, and even the entire country.
• Publicity: Ensures that the campus is informed and knowledgeable of current and upcoming events and programs using various media coverage.
• Recreation: Helps provide programs such as tournaments, contests and events. Promotes outdoor activities fostered by the natural beauty of the North Georgia mountains.
• Flush Flash: Creates and distributes the Flush Flash, which is a weekly calendar posted in all bathrooms on campus, containing a schedule of campus events, advertisements, and riddles.

[edit] Commuter Council

The Commuter Council was enacted to address problems and issues of NGCSU commuter students. The Commuter Council has elected voting representatives on the SGA and SAB. The Commuter Council hosts many social events such as cookouts, forums, and breakfasts that help commuter students relax and make new friends.

[edit] Greek Social Organizations

There are 13 fraternities and sororities at NGCSU, offering friendship and leadership opportunities. Sororities are governed by the Panhellenic Council, which is made up of representatives from each of the five sororities on campus. The eight fraternities are governed the Interfraternity Council (IFC).

There are several guidelines for eligibility in Greek organizations. There is no Greek housing on campus, so Greeks must live in university housing or commute. First year students are not eligible to participate in Greek Life until they have completed 12 hours at NGCSU and have a standing 2.3 GPA (cadets must be off quarters to be eligible). Recruitment begins in the spring semester, which gives students the advantage of checking out sorority and fraternity open houses and functions.

The 13 Fraternities and Sororities are:

• Alpha Gamma Delta Sorority
• Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity
• Delta Zeta Sorority
• Kappa Delta Sorority
• Kappa Sigma Fraternity
• Phi Mu Sorority
• Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity
• Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity
• Sigma Chi Fraternity
• Sigma Kappa Sorority
• Sigma Nu Fraternity
• Sigma Omega Fraternity

[edit] Other student organizations

There are many organizations at NGCSU that are general interest organizations such as the Step Team, the Swim Club, Karate Club, Equestrian Club and the Outdoor Club to name a few.^[10]

[edit] Traditions

• Arch: The NGCSU Arch, which is located at the campus entrance nearest to Dahlonega's square, was built by the class of 1951 to commemorate their classmates who died in the Korean War. By tradition, freshmen are not supposed to walk through the larger arch and instead walk though the smaller arch to the side.
• Bugle Calls:
  • Reveille is played every morning at 7:00 a.m., at which time cadets and civilians alike stop and face the flag.
  • Retreat is played every afternoon at 5:00 p.m., at which time all outdoor activity on campus ceases to pay respect to the American flag. Cadets stand at attention and salute the flag while civilians stop, remove their hats, face the flag, and place their right hand over their heart.
  • Taps is played every evening at midnight (2:00 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays of open weekends) to indicate the end of the day. Cadets are required to be in their dorms at this time.
• Drill Field: The Owen Drill Field is located in the heart of the main campus. This field is the parade grounds for the Corps of Cadets and is used for drill and ceremonies. It is also used for recreational activities, though the activities of the Corps take precedence. Students do not cut through the field as a shortcut; instead, they walk around. On April 18, 2009, the drill field was dedicated to retired General William J. Livsey.
• Memorial Wall: The Memorial Wall, located in front of Memorial Hall, was built in 1983 and honors NGCSU students and alumni who died either in service to their country or while attending NGCSU. Students do not enter the area around the wall unless they are stopping to show honor to those listed on the wall.
• Retreat Triangle: The triangle is located near the Drill Field, Dining Hall, and Dunlap Hall. It holds the original retreat cannon, a 1902 three-inch gun, which was fired daily for more than 50 years. The cannon was recently restored by the NGCSU Parents Association. Students do not walk on the triangle or tamper with the cannon.
• Dining Hall Steps: Freshman Cadets are not allowed to use the stairs located just outside of the Dining Hall, and must instead walk around on the sidewalk and road to get to the Dining Hall.

[edit] "The Boar's Head Brigade"

The Boar's Head Brigade is the official designation of the ROTC unit at NGCSU. It is formed along standard military units at a smaller scale. There are two battalions, and each battalion has three companies. There is one detached Headquarters Company. 1st Battalion is housed in Sirmons Hall and is made up of Alpha, Bravo, and Charlie Companies. 2nd Battalion is housed in Gaillard Hall and is made up of Delta, Echo, and Foxtrot Companies. HHC Company resides in Sanford Hall as well as the Assassin detachment, which was formed in 2008. Headquarters and Headquarters Company consists of the Brigade Staff, the Golden Eagle Band, the Blue Ridge Rifles (a nationally recognized rifle drill team), the Nurse Detachment, Color Guard, and the Ranger Challenge Team.

A special company known as Golf Company is sometimes formed during the summer term when Corps participation is low.

The female membership of the Corps moved to Sirmons Hall in 1991 (formerly housed in the Lewis Residence Hall), making Sirmons Hall the first co-ed housing facility on campus, though access to the female residences was restricted by card key; however, co-ed showers and latrines are used, with a sign merely being changed outside the main door. Now, all Military Resident students live in co-ed dorms; Sanford, Gailard, and Sirmons Halls.

Military life on campus is full-time during the week. A typical week on campus begins with a full brigade drill on Monday. Military drill starts the academic year with brigade drills in the fall, company drills in the winter, and squad drills in the spring. Companies submit to a "white collar" inspection of quarters each academic term. Quarters are meticulously cleaned, and bunks must meet specific inspection requirements with a "white collar" turn down.

Daily life begins with First Call at 6:45 a.m. and Reveille at 7:00 a.m. Retreat is sounded each day at 5:00 p.m. and Taps is played at 12:00 a.m. For Retreat, everyone on campus stops what they are doing, just like on a military post, and pays respect while the flag is lowered.

Cadet uniform requirements vary by weekday: Monday through Thursday is Army Combat Uniform (ACU), and Friday, Saturday and Sunday is Class "B"s. On some Fridays, under the guidance of the Brigade Commander, cadets are authorized to wear "Campus Casual" attire that consists of a blue NGCSU polo shirt, khaki slacks, dress shoes, and a belt.

Members of the Corps may dress down to "civies" at 5:00 p.m. given academic minimums are met, otherwise cadets must report for "quarters" (required study hall lasting Sunday through Thursday each week) at 8:00 p.m. There is a quarter's break at 10:30 pm and quarter's taps at 11:00 p.m. NCOs within each company alternate as CQ (Charge of Quarters) monitoring each company hall who stay on duty from 8:00 p.m. until official taps at 12:00 a.m.

Inspections and physical fitness are two things the Boar's Head Brigade prides itself on and are thus alternated during the week beginning with First Call. Monday, Wednesday, and Friday are designated as "PT" days, while Tuesday and Thursday are the "inspection" days. On inspection days, the Corps also has Cadet Professional Development classes (CPD). These classes consist of policies, traditions, and techniques that can be used to foster a successful future at NGCSU, let alone the Corps. Cadets are additionally required to pass the Army Physical Fitness Test each academic quarter.

[edit] Military Specialty Units

[edit] Aggressor Platoon

The Aggressor Platoon is a co-curricular organization sponsored by the NGCSU Corps of Cadets Military Department and is open to all students, both military and non-military. The unit functions as one of ten military organizations and seeks to train students in light infantry, Ranger, Special Operations, and guerrilla warfare tactics. Using these skills the Aggressor Platoon provides a realistic opposing force (OPFOR) for Pre-Camp and Corps of Cadets Field Training Exercises (FTX). Members use intense training and demanding FTX’s to enhance their levels of discipline, leadership, and tactical proficiency.

The Aggressor Platoon was originally formed in 1963 as an affiliate of the Scabbard and Blade in order to provide an opposing force for juniors before they went to LDAC. Members were selected from the sophomore class based on their prior military experience and motivation. The platoon was nicknamed the “Black Tigers” in reference to the all black fatigues worn by the members in addition to their ability to lurk in the shadows and strike ferociously in an instant. The platoon was reorganized in the late 1970’s into its current form taking all volunteers from the school. Aggressors can be seen as leaders in the Corps, Military, and civilian sector. Their motto is "Aggressors Lead the Way!"

To become an Aggressor, eligible students must show up at the Aggressor Rock in uniform and complete a physical fitness test, a timed obstacle course, and a 6-mile ruck march. Upon a successful completion of tryouts, the student may have the opportunity to be a candidate in the platoon. To advance in rank, members must complete all assigned tests scoring 80 percent or above and show outstanding leadership in FTXs and regular training events.^[11]

[edit] Blue Ridge Rifles

Perhaps one of the most highly regarded and respected units on campus are the Blue Ridge Rifles. The BRR get their name from a volunteer rifle unit that was located in Dahlonega, GA, during the Civil War. After the Civil War was over, members of the unit remained in contact. In the 1950s, NGCSU deicded to from a platoon that specialized in rifle drills and showmanship and called the unit the Honor Platoon. Over the years the name of the unit was changed until finally sticking with The Blue Ridge Rifles. They chose this name to pay homage to the original unit.^[12] More info can be found here at the Blue Ridge Rifles page.

The BRR are a nationally acclaimed unit that have performed in many drill competitions across the country. They pride themselves on this fact and are often considered to be one of the best drilling units in the country. They frequently compete with other highly esteemed drill units such as Texas A&M and West Point. Their motto is "Blue and Gray All the Way!"

[edit] Mountain Order of Colombo

In 1960, the Order of Colombo Mountain Platoon was conceived by a group of cadets who were interested in forming a unique organization after watching a demonstration performed by the cadre of the U.S. Army Mountain Ranger Camp. After requesting information and training assistance from the ranger camp, Master Sergeant Louis P. Colombo, who was assigned to Camp Merrill, volunteered his time and knowledge. Prior to MSG Colombo’s departure, the unit was named in his honor. MSG Colombo died in November, 1995.

The unit is sponsored by the military department to promote interest in military mountaineering and small unit infantry tactics. Members are selected from those cadets who successfully pass a rigorous physical fitness test and tactical skills test. Their mission is to train and develop cadets into potential mountain combat soldiers with emphasis on the subjects of mountaineering, fixed installations, terrain navigation, small unit tactics, hand-to-hand combat and survival tactics.

Small unit tactics are initially taught in the classroom, followed by practical exercises in a field environment. Mountaineering skills are initially taught in the classroom, practiced on the rappelling tower, and then perfected at Mount Yonah. Their motto is "If you can't keep up, drop out of the formation!"^[13]

[edit] The Golden Eagle Band

The Golden Eagle Band of North Georgia College and State University is one of the most unique specialty units on campus. Not only is it a military organization, but it is also an academic class. The GEB is the oldest specialty unit on campus that traces it origins back with the founding of the university in 1873. It is also the oldest marching band in the state of Georgia. As such, it has a great level of history and tradition. Its members are always willing to accept new ways of accomplishing tasks as one of the most visible ambassadors of the university.

[edit] Mission

The Golden Eagle Band's mission is to "provide quality musicianship, discipline, and leadership through both military and musical training. We set and maintain the highest standards to represent North Georgia College & State University's Boar's Head Brigade."^[14]

Several times each semester, the Corps of Cadets has reviews and functions in which marching is involved. The Golden Eagle Band serves as "the heartbeat" of the Corps at these functions as they maintain the tempo for marches and perform the many bugle calls that are a required part of military processions. The majority of the band's performances are military processions. However, the band has recently integrated Drum Corps International^[15] techniques and shows into their regimen. The GEB goes on a tour across the Southeast every Spring semester. This makes for a more thorough and complete collegiate band experience as well as to entertain those who come to see the military reviews and processions.

Even though the GEB is one of the several military units on campus, it is in fact open to both cadets and civilian students. Participation is not limited to those with a background in music as all skills needed to perform in a military band are taught by the instructors and cadre. The GEB has two mottoes used to distinguish between new and veteran players; "Talons of Steel" for new members, and "Raise Hell" for veterans. More information about the GEB can be found at the Golden Eagle Band's Website or here at the Golden Eagle Band's page.

[edit] Chaplain Corps

[edit] Mission

The mission for the chaplains in the Boar's Head Brigade is to help identify problems in the unit, propose solutions, and help commanders maintain a positive command environment. Chaplains will also maintain the capacity to present religious opportunities to the Corps, on a voluntary basis, and provide information on religious activities in the surrounding community.^[16]

The cadet chaplains also provide morale and motivation for each Cadet company and therefore help to form the backbone of the unit. Each of the 10 chaplains are in positions of responsibility over morale, mental and spiritual health, and motivation in the Corps of Cadets. The motto of the Chaplain Corps is "Storm the gates of hell!"

[edit] History

The Cadet Chaplain Corps was started in the fall of 2000 with only one brigade chaplain. It has now grown to include one chaplain in each company, one chaplain in each battalion, and the brigade chaplain, all of which are volunteers. In 2008, the Boar's Head Brigade Cadet Chaplain Corps was constituted and became an official specialty unit on campus. The Chaplain Corps hosts a variety of events on campus, including Corps Bible study and Prayer Breakfast.

[edit] Color Guard

The NGCSU Color Guard is without a doubt the single most important specialty unit on campus. It is their job to safeguard and present the colors (American, State, and Boar's Head Brigade) at each and every function of the Corps of Cadets. Their unit is open to any member of the Corps of Cadets that is willing to participate. The Color Guard is also tasked out to present any cadets being honored in the many ceremonies that take place throughout the semester at NGCSU. The Color Guard Motto is "Duty, Honor, Country!"

[edit] References

[edit] External links

• North Georgia College & State University

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Coordinates: 34°31′50″N 83°59′12″W / 34.53055°N 83.98656°W / 34.53055; -83.98656