University of North Georgia Alumni Weekend Set for April 17-19, 2026

The University of North Georgia (UNG) is preparing to host its annual Alumni Weekend from April 17-19, 2026, primarily on the Dahlonega Campus and at various locations throughout Dahlonega. The event promises a weekend of reconnection, networking, and celebration for UNG graduates.

Student Hosts Excited to Welcome Back Alumni

The 2025-26 Alumni Student Hosts are eager to contribute to a successful weekend, focusing on creating a welcoming atmosphere for returning alumni. Among the student hosts are Halle Enge, Cleo Johnson, Caitlyn Petty, Ilissa Roberson, Sophia Shaw, and Averie Thomas.

Student Perspectives on Alumni Engagement

For junior Cleo Johnson, a management major, the highlight of Alumni Weekend will be engaging with alumni, particularly former cadets. Johnson, actively involved in the Corps of Cadets, Student Government Association, and his own business ventures, will be providing golf cart transportation while prioritizing alumni enjoyment and connection. “My goal, honestly, is to ensure the alumni are having a great time, connecting with other alumni or former classmates,” Johnson stated. He also hopes to gain valuable insights from the experiences of alumni.

Caitlyn Petty, a junior kinesiology student with a concentration in exercise science, emphasizes the networking opportunities the event provides. “Working as an Alumni Student Host… has given me many opportunities to connect with UNG alumni and build meaningful professional relationships,” Petty shared, noting the supportive nature of alumni in helping students launch their careers.

Ilissa Roberson, also a junior, is looking forward to connecting with both current students and alumni, and learning about the university’s evolution over time.

Featured Events

Alumni Weekend will feature a variety of events, including:

• Courageous Challenge – Stop Suicide USA: April 17, Nighthawks Ridge Recreation Field.
• 51st Annual UNG Alumni Weekend Scholarship Golf Tournament: April 17, Achasta Golf Club.
• Class of 1976 Memorial Retreat Ceremony: April 17.
• North Georgia Corps of Cadets Association (NGCCA) Pre-Tattoo Tailgate: April 17, Promenade.
• Nighthawks Softball vs. Flagler: April 17, Haines & Carolyn Hill Stadium at Cottrell Park. A promo code (UNGAlumni2026) offers a 50% discount on up to four tickets.
• UNG Alumni Association Awards Banquet: April 17, Dining Hall Banquet Room-Veranda. Tickets will be available in late March.
• Class of 1976 50th Reunion Casual Gathering & Buffet Dinner: April 17, Alumni House Patio.
• Corps of Cadets Tattoo Ceremony: April 17, Gen. Lipp Livsey Drill Field.
• Fallen Soldier 5K: April 18, hosted by UNG Public Safety Academy, honoring alumni Edgar Flores ‘16 & Chase Redner ‘19.
• Military Awards Review: April 18, featuring Maj. Gen. Richard “Dwayne” Wilson, adjutant general of the Georgia National Guard.

A complete schedule of events is available on the UNG Alumni Weekend webpage.