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University of North Georgia (̨Íåswag) leaders visited local businesses and met with state and local government officials in the two-day Regional Education and Economic Development (REED) Tour in Dawson and Lumpkin counties Sept. 13-14.

"We were grateful to have these discussions that allow us to see what our community needs and how ̨Íåswag can step into the gap to help," ̨Íåswag President Michael Shannon said. "This year's REED Tour was the beginning of many important conversations that will position us to serve our region and prepare a workforce that has the skills employers are seeking."

According to the most recent census population estimate, Lumpkin and Dawson are tied for third place among the fastest-growing counties in the nation based on percentage.

"This growth brings new opportunities but also a fear for many that these communities will lose their distinctive rural character," Bobbi Larson, executive director of economic development and community engagement, said. "We held the REED Tour to raise awareness of ̨Íåswag's academic programs and expertise, as well as partnerships with local businesses and organizations. We also wanted to highlight the career opportunities and leadership of our graduates in the region, as well as spotlighting ̨Íåswag's role in post-secondary education and regional economic development."

The first day of the tour included presentations from economic development officials from each county and the state Department of Community Affairs, as well as a roundtable of Lumpkin County business owners and leaders. Dr. Mary Gowan, dean of ̨Íåswag's Mike Cottrell College of Business, presented on a $200,000 Google.org grant the university and a variety of agencies in Dahlonega and Lumpkin County are partnering on to build the local entrepreneurial ecosystem.

The second day included a stop at the construction site of the new Northeast Georgia Medical Center-Lumpkin and visits to Dawsonville government, Dawson County Schools, and Cavender Creek Vineyard and Winery. It also featured a roundtable of Dawson County business and government leaders. State Rep. Will Wade, whose district includes Dawson and Lumpkin counties, joined the group at two Dawson County stops, sharing his vision for supporting education. Wade is a ̨Íåswag alumnus and currently serves on the House of Representatives' Education Committee.

Both days offered the chance for ̨Íåswag and the local communities to discuss ways to improve current collaborations and explore new partnerships to continue to add value for all of the organizations. Many of the local leaders at each of the portions of the tour were ̨Íåswag alumni, highlighting the university's role in serving the northeast Georgia region and the state.