Dr. Barbara Johnson, Dean of Perimeter College
Dear Faculty and Staff:
We are heading toward the close of another successful semester at Perimeter, but not before we celebrate an estimated 669 graduate candidates, some of whom will receive their associate degrees at a commencement ceremony set for Thursday, Dec. 19 at 2 p.m. I hope that you have made plans to participate as we cheer on our graduates for their significant milestone achievement.
Next week also will include our traditional nurse pinning, a unique ceremony that acknowledges the hard work and commitment to coursework and clinicals for our nursing graduates. I am honored to take part once again in this special rite by sharing remarks with our nursing students and extending well wishes as they prepare to fill high-demand healthcare positions in communities throughout metro Atlanta and beyond.
As we prepare for a well-deserved winter break, I also want to once again invite you to join me in supporting our “Spirit of Giving” canned food drive to benefit local nonprofits that are serving those in need. I am grateful to Library Services for partnering with us as we endeavor to donate nonperishable canned goods at the campus drop-off spots listed here. Faculty, staff and students have until Tuesday, Dec. 17 to participate. Our campaign to raise money for student scholarships also continues. If you have not done so already, please consider making a gift to Perimeter’s 60 for 60 fund to celebrate our six decades of student achievement.
In addition, I ask that you keep a few spring signature events top of mind. Our fifth annual Mario A.J. Bennekin Black History Symposium is scheduled for Feb. 17-21, 2025, with activities on every Perimeter Campus. Our keynote speaker will be Perimeter alumnus Tim Fielder, ’86. Mr. Fielder is an award-winning illustrator, concept designer, cartoonist and animator. Watch your email for more details about his presentation and other activities during the week-long symposium.
Mark your calendar for our Spring Semester Virtual Kickoff scheduled on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 11:30 a.m.-12:45 p.m. via Webex (link will be sent via email). This event will give us a chance to hear college updates and plans for the spring semester. Department chairs will inform you of the day, time and modality for program/departmental meetings.
The following are other important events planned for the spring semester:
- Math, Engineering & Computer Science Conference, Friday, Feb. 7, Clarkston Campus
- Daffodil Festival and Symposium, Wednesday, Feb. 19, Newton Campus
- STAR Awards, Wednesday, March 26, Clarkston Campus
- STEM Week, April, various campuses
- Spring Commencement Ceremonies, week of May 5-9, GSU Convocation Center
While there is plenty of which to look forward to in spring 2025, I encourage you to take time to rest and enjoy family and friends during winter break. Please know how much I value your contribution to student success at the college. As faculty and staff, you are an important part of what makes us so special. Thank you and happy holidays!
Warm regards,
Barbara J. Johnson, Ph.D.