This week includes recognition of former College of Education students, background on the supply chain issues in the auto industry and steps to diversify the Dental College of Georgia.

Dental College of Georgia looks for more diverse students

As the state of Georgia’s only dentist training program, the Dental College of Georgiais uniquely positioned to positively impact diversity in the profession. The DCG has implemented many initiatives to meet Georgia’s needs, such as developing a pipeline for high school students, initiating an internal award for diversity champions and celebrating the diversity of the DCG family through various events.

“Obviously, we still have a lot of work to do in recruiting underrepresented minority students into the profession. Recruitment of diverse student bodies is just the beginning. Once they’re enrolled it’s critical that we strive to make all students feel welcome and included in our college community,” said Dr. Kevin Frazier, vice dean of the DCG and co-chair of the DCG Diversity and Inclusion Steering Committee.

“We’re working to create a college culture of unqualified respect and inclusivity so that everyone feels like they belong. It matters because greater diversity in the healthcare workforce enables us to meet our patient’s unique social, cultural and linguistic needs.”

Shortage of computer chips is causing a supply chain issue

There continues to be supply chain issues and the auto industry is being hit hard. The main reason is the lack of chips for vehicles.

“There are several factors but the main themes are suppliers’ inabilities to react to the increased demand, and governmental policies and responses,” said Dr. Mark Thompson, associate dean and professor of economics at the Hull College of Business.

“As it relates to the shortage of computer chips, what do you think consumers were demanding during the early phase of COVID? Computers, laptops and handheld devices, just to name a few. Technology companies responded and chip manufacturers switched to produce these items. As demand for new cars pick up, there’s a shortage of the chips necessary for the new cars.”

 Area teachers honored for their work after AU days

The College of Education at Augusta University has produced three area teachers of the year. Ashley Fryer won the award for Columbia County, Vicki Knox in Richmond County and Jami Walden in Burke County.

“Here, in the College of Education, we work extremely hard to prepare our students for the classroom. Our students get more field experiences than some programs around the state and certainly many programs around the nation. I think that makes a tremendous difference,” said Dr. Judi Wilson, dean of the College of Education.

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