Here at Augusta University, there are many things that have us excited, and no, its not just the cooler weather. We have a new but familiar face on campus; Dr. Brooks Keel, the former Pi Kappa Phi, Augusta College, and Medical College of Georgia Student has returned.

Augusta University–the rookie on the field when it comes to research institutions–is catching up to competitors such as UGA and Georgia Tech. Dr. Keel is now the forefront of our movement. As the recent president of Georgia Southern University, he has definitely left an impact on students.

However, here on campus, the movement has just begun. To kick it off, one thing we lack is the students' “idea” of college. Students these days do not just pick a university because of the academics. They want a place they can find comfort, motivation, and purpose. However, not since before the consolidation of Augusta State University and Medical College of Georgia has our campus held this idea.

It is the very thing that is stopping us from being the first choice on applications. Yes, we are the only public dental school in the state, we are number one for cancer research, and our medical programs are one of the best! What does that offer the rest of the student body? Not everyone is a doctor or a dentist. We need the networking, the opportunities, the commitment to Jaguar Nation that any other research institution has. We need that holistic experience.

The person that is going to lead us there is Dr. Brooks Keel himself. He is our motivation and our comfort, leading us to our passion. He is the leader of this new movement. I welcome you to campus, Dr. Keel, and I wish you the best of luck here in the Jaguar Nation! May this experience be as welcoming and very much anticipated for you as it has been for us!

Go Jags!