CLARKESVILLE — North Georgia Technical College on Tuesday celebrated the opening of the Dr. Mark A. Ivester Center for Living and Learning, a long-anticipated facility designed to enhance student life and honor a transformative leader.
Known as “The Mark,” the new center officially opened during a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by college officials, state leaders, community members and students.
“This is a great day for our students,” said Amy Hulsey, vice president of institutional advancement and marketing.
Hulsey said the facility reflects Ivester’s vision of a campus experience that extends beyond academics, providing a space for students to connect, stay active and engage in college life.
“The name of this building is especially meaningful,” she said. “Dr. Ivester always loved the historical marker on our campus that reads ‘living and learning in the mountains.’ … He wanted that same spirit reflected in this space.”
The project, first funded in early 2021, was supported by state leaders and the Technical College System of Georgia throughout its development, said Dr. Michelle Shirley, executive vice president.
“We all know that today is the day we are here to celebrate the legacy of Dr. Mark Ivester,” Shirley said, while recognizing the many partners who helped bring the project to completion.
The facility replaces an older structure that was ultimately demolished and rebuilt to fulfill Ivester’s vision.
Greg Dozier, commissioner of the Technical College System of Georgia, said the finished building exceeded expectations and reflects the evolving needs of students.
“When you walk in The Mark, it’s a true wow,” Dozier said, describing the project as a bold investment in student success.
He said the center creates space for collaboration and communication — skills increasingly important for students entering today’s workforce.
College President John Wilkinson said the facility represents the college’s commitment to supporting the “total student.”
There’s a lot more to school than just academics,” Wilkinson said. “I think this building is a good indication of where our focus is.”
Wilkinson, who described Ivester as a lifelong friend, said the project fulfills a vision years in the making.
“I think that Mark’s looking down,” he said. “I think he’s very proud of this building.”
The center also honors the college’s history, including the gymnasium named for J.A. Cy Grant, Wilkinson said.
Campus Life Director Sherry Seal said the facility will serve as a hub for student engagement and wellness.
“This facility is more than just a new building,” Seal said. “It’s a full circle moment.”
The upper level includes a multi-purpose gymnasium for basketball, volleyball and large events such as commencement and the college’s annual gala. The lower level features a fitness center, game room, classroom space and areas for students to gather.
Seal said new programming — including intramural sports, fitness and wellness classes, and student activities — will begin this summer, with community memberships expected to launch in the fall.
College leaders said the center reflects NGTC’s broader commitment to its students and surrounding community.
“We will showcase The Mark as evidence of NGTC’s commitment to students,” Seal said, “and to providing excellent experiences for our employees and our community.”
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