Barnesville Paints the Town Blue as Gordon State College Welcomes Fall Semester
Annual initiative highlights the partnership between GSC and downtown businesses while welcoming students back with community pride, year-round discounts and a new signature Highlander drink.
By Karolina Philmon, GSC marketing manager
As fall classes begin at Gordon State College on Aug. 12, downtown Barnesville is once again showing its Highlander pride through the third annual Paint the Town Blue initiative.
A collaborative effort between GSC and the City of Barnesville, the initiative celebrates the return of students while strengthening the connection between campus and the local community.
"Paint the Town Blue has become a tradition that reflects the strong partnership between Gordon State College and the Barnesville community," said Natalie Rischbieter, executive director of advancement, marketing and communications. "Our local businesses continue to embrace Highlander Nation and create an atmosphere where our students feel welcomed, supported and connected beyond campus."
Throughout downtown, businesses are displaying Gordon State spirit and welcoming Highlanders through special promotions, decorations and exclusive discounts for students, faculty and staff.
One of the newest additions to this year's celebration is The Highlander, a signature brown sugar and butterscotch latte topped with maple cold foam, created by downtown favorite The Corner Perk to welcome GSC students back for the fall semester.
Many participating businesses offer exclusive discounts to GSC students, faculty and staff year-round. To receive participating offers, visitors simply need to mention they are part of GSC or present their Gordon State ID.
Mayor Kelly G. Hughes, a Gordon State alumna, said the initiative continues to showcase the shared pride between the college and the city.
"Gordon State College is an important part of Barnesville's identity," Hughes said. "Paint the Town Blue is one of the many ways our community comes together to welcome students and celebrate the energy they bring to our city."
The celebration comes as GSC continues Welcome Week, Aug. 7 through 14, with events designed to help students connect with campus life and one another. The highlight of the week is Connect Fest on the first day of classes, bringing together students, campus organizations and community partners for an afternoon of music, activities and opportunities to get involved. This year's event will also feature a performance by Jack and Gin, a duo that includes Gordon State alumnus Eli Ingram.
Located just minutes from campus, downtown Barnesville offers students, employees and visitors a variety of locally owned restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques and specialty stores, making it a favorite destination throughout the academic year.
As a new semester begins, GSC invites the campus community and local residents to explore downtown, support local businesses and experience the welcoming spirit that continues to strengthen the partnership between Barnesville and Highlander Nation.