This fall, Georgia Perimeter College faculty and staff will have two different events to mark the beginning of the 2014-15 academic year, which just happens to mark the college's 50th year of existence.

The college's traditional Fall Convocation event will shift from the second week in August to Sept. 5 this year--and it won't be so traditional after all. The welcome-back event for all faculty and staff will not only kick off the new academic year but also will kick off the college's 50th anniversary celebration.

The day will include a picnic cook-out on Clarkston Campus, followed by music and fellowship. “This will be a fun event,” says Jennifer Jenkins, Fine Arts, who is co-chairing the event with Wendy Davidson, Math chair.

On Monday, Aug. 11, faculty only will meet on the Clarkston Campus for an academic update by Phil Smith, Academic Affairs vice president. Discipline breakout meetings will follow in the afternoon.

Staff will report to their respective campuses Aug. 11, and the college will be open to help students register for classes, check on financial aid and other matters. The first day of the class for the fall term is Aug. 18.

Plans are currently underway for both events. Check the GPC Newsroom for updates.