The honor will recognize local entrepreneur Mike Cottrell, who committed a $10 million contribution, the largest in the university’s history, to the business school. The Mike Cottrell School of Business was officially named on July 1.

“We have the opportunity to make the North Georgia business school one of the best schools of its kind and size in the country,” said Cottrell. “That’s the goal and I think it’s one we can achieve.”

The business school will, in the coming years, play a vital role in regional engagement, one of the university’s four strategic themes, as the Center for the Future of North Georgia – an economic development and entrepreneurial center – is established.

The Sept. 19 event will feature the unveiling of the “Mike Cottrell School of Business” sign, placed near the top of Newton Oakes next to the towering glass exterior of the building’s atrium and facing Chestatee Street. The prominent sign will be in full view along one of Dahlonega’s main downtown roadways.

Community members, business leaders, students and faculty and staff are invited to the event. The Newton Oakes Center is home to North Georgia’s business programs. -JP