James January-February 2025 web - Flipbook - Page 37
CULTURAL VIBRANCY
One of the most distinctive aspects of GSU is its commitment to
diversity and access. With a student
body that mirrors the demographics of
Atlanta, GSU serves as a microcosm of
the city’s cultural vibrancy.
“We’re diverse across all ethnicities. We have large populations of
Black, White, Asian American and
Latinx students. About six percent of
our students are international,” said
Blake. “We’re also very socioeconomically diverse. So, we are a true melting pot. And that also influences the
research we do. Our research is much
more informed by our diversity. Our
research teams allow for perspectives
that really have a society-wide impact.
ECONOMIC IMPACT & THE FUTURE
As one of Atlanta’s largest employers, GSU plays a significant role in the
local economy, generating billions of
dollars in economic impact annually.
The university’s development projects,
such as the revitalization of Turner
Field into the GSU Stadium and the
expansion of its downtown campus
has transformed the urban landscape
and spurred economic growth in the
surrounding neighborhoods.
GSU also plays an active role in addressing social issues through community service and outreach programs.
The university partners with local
schools, non-profit organizations, and
government agencies to tackle challenges such as educational inequity,
homelessness, and public health.
When asked about what he sees
for the future of GSU, Blake answered:
“A larger, stronger university. When you
talk about Atlanta , you must talk about
Georgia State. Academically, we’ll offer
more career-ready, graduate programs
and create more partnerships with
industry in the city. I think you’ll see the
types of disciplines that we offer will
increase over the next decade. I would
love to see us have more clinical sciences or clinical and health sciences.
“I would love for us to engage
in more STEM fields, and we will be
looking for disciplines where there’s
great need. We’re already growing in
nursing— and we will continue to grow
in nursing and look for other health
science-related fields where there’s
a massive shortage. Cybersecurity is
another growth space. We have one of
the largest computer science programs in the country.
“Ultimately, I see us continuing
to produce a workforce that’s instrumental to the competitiveness of the
nation,” he concludes.
In a time when higher education
faces unprecedented challenges, Georgia State University serves as a powerful example of resilience and progress.
By leveraging technology and prioritizing student outcomes, it is clear to this
writer that GSU is not just preparing
students for the future, it is shaping the
future of higher education itself.
Cindy Morley is a staff writer for both James and
James Magazine Online.
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