In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, Gordon State College—along with its faculty, staff, students, and the local community—rallied together to provide immediate support for approximately 230 displaced students from two University System of Georgia (USG) institutions.

As Gordon State College leadership assessed damage to the Barnesville campus on the Friday when Hurricane Helene hit, relief efforts had already begun in other parts of the state. By Saturday, as communication lines reopened, requests for assistance reached GSC President Dr. Donald J. Green, the provost, the vice president for finance and administration, and the vice president for enrollment services and marketing.

Through a collaborative effort, GSC opened its doors and mobilized resources to ensure the students had refuge and essential assistance. The College expanded its housing capacity, welcoming students from South Georgia State College and Augusta University, with additional requests pending from two other institutions. Both schools had been impacted by power and water outages following the hurricane, leaving many residential students in need of temporary campus housing.

GSC faculty, staff, and their family members responded promptly, coming together to clean and prepare the space for the students’ arrival later that evening.

“I was deeply grateful for the overwhelming response from our Gordon State College family,” Green said. “We had a small army of employees and students who came together, working tirelessly to prepare rooms and provide a safe, welcoming space for our guests. Their dedication in a time of need truly reflects the spirit of Highlander Nation.”

Local organizations have stepped up to support the relief efforts, donating essential items such as water, snacks, linens, and toiletries. Christ Chapel in Zebulon, First United Methodist Church and First Baptist Church in Barnesville, and St. George’s School Episcopal School in Milner are among the contributors. Donations continue to pour in as the community remains committed to helping the students, with no set timeline for when regular operations will resume for many. SGSC students remain on campus, while AU students returned to Augusta on Sunday.

“I was delighted to see such an amazing outpouring of support,” said Melissa Johnson, GSC vice president for enrollment services and marketing. “As a public institution, GSC has a core mission to serve the needs of our state. This past week demonstrated that commitment in so many wonderful ways. Many thanks to our faculty, staff, and community partners, and a special thank you to our teams in Housing and Residence Life, Student Life, and Facilities for quickly coordinating efforts to accommodate our visitors.”

Hurricane Helene has caused widespread damage across Georgia, leaving many areas without power, non-potable water, and blocked roads. Several students in the National Guard and military reserves are playing an active role in the hurricane relief efforts, showcasing the strength and service of GSC’s student body.

For more information about GSC and how the College is making a difference in the community, visit www.gordonstate.edu.