James_Jan-Feb_2026_web - Flipbook - Page 39
Dr. John Fuchko was named to head Dalton State College after serving as
president of Columbus State University. Previously he served as the University System of Georgia’s chief audit of昀椀cer and vice chancellor for internal
audit, which included responsibility for 25 campus audit shops. He also
oversaw the USG’s compliance program.
A decorated colonel in the Georgia Army National Guard, his service included roles such as battalion commander for the 221st Expeditionary Military
Intelligence Battalion and two deployments to the Middle East. The Georgia native holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Kennesaw
State University, earned an MBA at Georgia State University and a master’s
degree in strategic intelligence at the National Intelligence University. He
also holds a doctorate in education from the University of Georgia.
PHIL KENT You have been president
since October 2023. What has been
your biggest accomplishment so
far, and what is your vision for the
future of Dalton State?
DR. JOHN FUCHKO One of our
greatest accomplishments has been
setting a bold vision for Dalton
State’s role in advancing our region.
Through our Vision 2050 strategic
plan, we are creating transformational opportunities for students and
the community— removing financial
barriers, building K–12 partnerships,
and expanding workforce-focused
degrees that strengthen Northwest
Georgia’s competitiveness.
A centerpiece of this vision is the
Northwest Georgia Promise scholarship program, developed in partnership with Georgia Northwestern
Technical College. We are in the final
stages of launching this initiative,
having already raised more than $7
million toward our $10 million goal—
and with scholarships set to begin
in fall 2026, this reflects the extraordinary support and collaboration of
our community.
Northwest Georgia Promise is
more than a scholarship— it is an investment in the region’s future workforce and economic vitality. By covering tuition and fees after HOPE, Pell,
and other aid, the program will open
doors for qualified students across
Catoosa, Dade, Gilmer, Gordon, Murray, Pickens, Walker and Whitfield
counties. Beginning this year, it will
ensure that local students who meet
academic requirements can pursue
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