UWG News Archive

Gerald Pilgrim is A DAY Chairman

September 2, 2003

CARROLLTON, GA - “I am like a juggler that just has to keep all the balls in the air and hope that I don’t drop one.” Gerald Pilgrim believes his juggling talent is the key to balancing the many roles that he plays in his life.

UWG News Photo Most prominently known as the Mayor of Carrollton, Pilgrim is also a father, husband, insurance guru, and this year’s A DAY for West Georgia chairman. Pilgrim has been involved with A DAY for 13 years, and he served as last year’s vice-chairman.

When asked why he decided to step up to the role of chairman this year, Pilgrim revealed, “I enjoy the opportunities that West Georgia provides, not only for academics, but also on a business level. In a down economy we have seen growth in Carrollton with the support of the University.”

“Join the Town and Gown Tradition,” is the theme for the 2003 A DAY fund raising campaign scheduled for Oct. 16. The theme fulfills the idea that it is the collective effort of academics and the community to create mutual benefits. As the chairman of A DAY, Pilgrim believes that he and Dr. Beheruz N. Sethna, UWG president, must make a commitment to bring the two organizations together.

“Positive effects occur when you bring the University and business together,” he explained. “People see how West Georgia brings in revenue for many businesses in this town, and how the University gives Carrollton exposure. On the other hand, the support of businesses for the University and A DAY helps to provide many scholarships for students and funds for various campus programs.”

Pilgrim has set his goals high this year for what he hopes to accomplish for the 2003 A DAY. “I hope to break last year’s record of $2.4 million. I would also like to see more student involvement. Students are the basis behind what A DAY is all about,” he noted.

Although not a graduate of West Georgia, Pilgrim has also set a goal for more community involvement for those who attended the University, as well as for those who did not.

“West Georgia will always be a part of my life,” he noted. “My wife and father-in-law both attended college here. My family has been football season ticket holders for years. The cultural advancements, athletic competitions, and much new business are all a result of having such an institution within our town. I support giving to the University because it provides so much for all of us.”

This A DAY chairman really knows how important the University of West Georgia is to all, old and young. Pilgrim has seen the impact that it has had on his son, John Martin, even at the age of five.

“He told me that his hero is Dr. Tim Hynes (vice president for academic affairs), and when I ask him why he says, ‘Because he listens to me.’ The University brings such great role models,” Pilgrim said. “John Martin wants to be a Brave, and he watches all the Saturday night football games. He even hopes to be the champion of the A DAY Tot Trot again this year.”

The Tot Trot is a part of the Run for A DAY that is scheduled for Oct. 2. Young supporters of UWG between the ages of 2-6 are encouraged to participate. The trot will begin a 5:15 p.m. followed by the One-Mile Walk/Run at 5:45 p.m. and the 5K run at 6:15 p.m., all sponsored by West Georgia National Bank.

Pilgrim’s agenda for the rest of this year includes finishing up his duties as mayor, and fulfilling the commitments he has made to his wife, son, and business. And, of course, leading the A DAY effort to new heights.

As the juggler that he illustrates himself to be, let’s hope that A DAY will always be a ball that he never drops.

For more information about the A DAY campaign, contact the UWG Foundation at 770-836-6582.

-30-

Use your browser's BACK button to return to the previous page.
Or find more news & info at the Communications & Marketing site.