Editorial for August 15, 2001

Welcome to ABAC students



Today, another year of teaching, learning and living will begin at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College and we welcome back students, teachers and administrators.

It is impossible to imagine what Tift County and the entire Tiftarea would be without ABAC. It contributes to our local community in so many ways, a fact to which I'm sure our merchants would gladly attest.

A study done several years ago showed that ABAC has a $75 million impact on our community, with an initial spending impact of $50 million and around another $25 million in the multiplier effect. This year, it appears attendance will be up again with between 750 and 800 students living on campus in the school's four dormitories. The total number of students should be between 2,650 and 2,700 students, an increase for the third consecutive year.

The gains in attendance reflect the success the school continues to have. They draw students from around Georgia, around the country and around the world, from those who grew up on Ridge Avenue to those who grew up in a communist country. They have all found at least a temporary home in Tift County.

This time of year is always exciting at the school and it is especially that way this year with the new president Michael Vollmer here. His fresh ideas and new vision will make this year even more exciting for students and the community alike.

We should keep in mind that many of these students are experiencing our area for the first time and the first impression they get will usually last the longest. Let's welcome these students and let them know we are glad they chose ABAC as their school.