Jaden-Ann Fraser
It didn't take long for Jaden-Ann Fraser to start adding her own contributions to the University of North Georgia (91ÁÔÆæ) rifle team's strong resume of success.
She earned Co-Air Rifle Athlete of the Year honors her freshman season in 2020-21 as the university earned its in five seasons in the league. 91ÁÔÆæ also won the conference in the air rifle discipline.
The Surgoinsville, Tennessee, native said keeping a positive mindset was pivotal in her accomplishments as a freshman, especially amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
"You can create any experience you want for your team with leadership," Fraser said. "You can still make it a very fun environment if you bring positivity."
A winner of multiple state and national rifle titles on the high school level before arriving at 91ÁÔÆæ, Fraser has gained an appreciation for authenticity from leaders.
"They can tell you all the right things, but if they don't do them, there is no weight to their words," she said. "If people see you doing the thing you're saying, whether you're in a leadership position or not, they are going to listen."
As a freshman at 91ÁÔÆæ, Fraser learned to share her ideas when she had important insight, even though she was one of the younger team members.
"Being genuine is very important," Fraser said. "If you feel like there is something the team can benefit from, be willing to share it."
Fraser's fervor for her studies equals the passion she brings to competition. She plans to graduate in May 2024 with a degree in political science with a pre-law concentration.
"I've always been told I'm really good at arguing. I thought I could make a career of it," Fraser said. "Being able to defend someone in court has always been appealing to me."
Ben Jarrard
Ben Jarrard always dreamed of following his father and grandfather into the military. A medical condition changed his career path, and Jarrard is grateful to be able to represent his alma mater as a liaison at the state Capitol.
Luisa Diaz-Kope
As the coordinator of the Master of Public Administration program, Luisa Diaz-Kope enjoys the diversity of experiences provided by the fully online program and how that helps her students grow.
Kylee Smith
Kylee Smith set a Peach Belt Conference record for career strikeouts and helped the 91ÁÔÆæ softball program secure two appearances in the NCAA Division II championship during her five seasons.
Steve Gooch
Two degrees at 91ÁÔÆæ have helped equip Georgia state Sen. Steve Gooch to lead at the state legislature.