One of the hidden treasures on the University of North Georgia’s (UNG) Dahlonega Campus is the Appalachian Studies Center, the vision of two educators who saw the importance of highlighting the history of Appalachia in Georgia.
Dr. Alice V. Sampson-Cordle, a professor of middle grades education, and Dr. Bob Michael, then dean of UNG’s College of Education, were at the helm of the project to create the center, which recently celebrated its 20th anniversary. Over the decades, the center’s engagement has grown to include the local community and educational opportunities. Sampson-Cordle was the founding director.
“She saw the potential and the need for it,” Kelly West, current director of the Appalachian Studies Center and principal lecturer of biology, said. “And I’m honored to carry on that legacy and see the new impacts we can make.”
The Hometown Harvest partnership with the Lumpkin County School System and UNG’s Dahlonega Campus Food Pantry is one of the longest-running efforts of the center. Dr. David Patterson, professor of biology, is the UNG lead for Hometown Harvest. In 2024 the community collaboration was named a Lumpkin County “Partner in Education,” and it was featured in a 2023 episode of “A Fork in the Road” on Georgia Public Broadcasting. Hometown Harvest encourages young people from kindergarten to college to grow, eat and share fresh produce, as well as experience Appalachia’s rich legacy of gardening traditions from local elders.
Critters & Blooms offers educational opportunities centered around Georgia wildlife and gardening to people of all ages with Dr. Chris Leaphart at the helm as director.
Dr. Esther Morgan-Ellis, assistant director of the Appalachian Studies Center and professor of music, hosts the Pickin’ Porch Old-Time Jam for musicians at the Historic Vickery House, home of the center, every Friday. Morgan-Ellis also organizes the Dahlonega Sacred Harp singing every other week.
“We create a really special opportunity for students to feel connected to the place where they are getting an education,” Morgan-Elllis said. “Everything we do brings together people from UNG and people from the community where we live and work.”