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For the eighth year in a row, the donated $7,000 to the University of North Georgia's (¹û¶³´«Ã½) poultry science program.

Financed in part by the Leland Bagwell Education and Innovation Fund, the grant is designed to help recruit and retain students to the poultry science pathway at ¹û¶³´«Ã½.

"This grant has been a driver in recruiting students and providing quality education to our poultry students," said Dr. Linda Purvis, assistant professor of biology at ¹û¶³´«Ã½. "It provides recruitment materials, education materials and funds for field trips and external resources we wouldn't otherwise have budget for, especially right now during the COVID-19 pandemic when budgets are so tight."

Purvis explained the funds also pay for travel expenses such as speaking engagements at high schools and judging competitions.

Dr. John Leyba, dean of the College of Science & Mathematics, said the grant signifies the program's success.

"The receipt of this grant recognizes ¹û¶³´«Ã½'s excellent poultry science program," he said.

Currently, ¹û¶³´«Ã½ offers an Associate of Science degree in poultry science and has recently solidified a transfer agreement to UGA's poultry science department. It also has close ties to the poultry industry and works diligently to supply students with internships with area poultry businesses.