Gwinnett Daily Post

Photo by Michael Buckelew

LAWRENCEVILLE -- U.S. Sen. Johnny Isakson is slated to give the keynote address to Georgia Gwinnett College students who graduate in December.

The winter commencement will mark the college's fourth graduation ceremony since its doors opened in 2006, and 40 students are expected to receive their diplomas.

Isakson, R-Marietta, has been involved in Georgia politics for 35 years, serving 17 years as a member of the Georgia General Assembly in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. In a special election in 1999, Isakson succeeded House Speaker Newt Gingrich for his congressional seat, and five years later, he was elected to the U.S. Senate, following the retirement of U.S. Sen. Zell Miller.

Georgia Gwinnett College, a member of the University System of Georgia, was accredited in June by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Following the Dec. 19 commencement, the college will boast more than 125 graduates.

Located in Lawrenceville, Georgia Gwinnett College had fewer than 120 students and offered four degree programs when it opened. The college now has 11 degree programs and more than 3,000 students.

Former keynote speakers at GGC graduation ceremonies include Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle, Georgia Regent Elridge McMillan and Gen. David Petraeus, commander of U.S. Central Command.