By Suzy Alstrin
Recognition of community leaders making a difference included an honor for Reinhardt University President Mark A. Roberts. Dr. Roberts received the Georgia Impact 2024 Community Service Award for Academic Excellence at the Impact the Community Banquet hosted by the Cherokee Youth Foundation.
Georgia Impact Executive Director Shane Moore explains, “Dr. Roberts was chosen because of his leadership in providing opportunities through academics. Those opportunities have made a positive impact on our community and changed the lives of many for the good.”
Invited to speak about Reinhardt, Dr. Roberts says the award was unexpected, “I was very surprised and honored to receive the community service award from Impact, a local organization with great values and commitment to young people.”
Georgia Impact provides youth and adult soccer to approximately 4800 families in Cherokee and surrounding counties. Teams compete from recreational to national levels. Its coaches mentor players, instill team building, partnerships, discipline, and excellence, and provide opportunities. Their banquet honored players, coaches, and six external community members. “Georgia Impact does a great job of recognizing people in the community and supporting young people throughout Cherokee County,” commented Dr. Roberts.
Shane Moore explained that Dr. Roberts’ achievements in serving community interests go beyond leading the University. Moore has first-hand knowledge of Dr. Roberts’ commitment to the community as they help lead other organizations. For example, they serve on the board of the Young Singers of Flint Hall. Moore credits Dr. Roberts’ direction and support in making this group possible and in its inaugural year sees the lives of approximately 40 children being positively affected. Through common ties to the Rotary Club of Canton, Moore explains Dr. Roberts furthers the Georgia Rotary Student Program (GRSP) objectives by bringing an international student to Reinhardt each academic year and providing opportunities for children in the community.
