John Fuchko, President, Dalton State College

John Fuchko, president of Dalton State College, spoke with Focus: about comprehensively preparing students to be leaders in their communities. “Dalton State College prepares people to succeed in careers and life by exposing students to a rigorous education, different perspectives, experiential learning, and sciences,” he said.

What changes over the past year have had the biggest impact on Dalton State College, and in what ways?

Dalton State College developed its new strategic plan, Vision 2050, this past year, and we are using it to drive our focus and innovation. One of the initiatives is a scholarship program, which is designed to provide full coverage for tuition and fees for qualifying students who live in Northwest Georgia. We are one of the most affordable public institutions in the country. Along with low tuition and fees, we have generous scholarships available through our foundation. Working in collaboration with our local technical college to raise funds, we are nearly halfway to our 2025 fundraising goal of $10 million. 

Another initiative is the creation of a new model for how we prepare K-12 educators. The model incorporates classical education, a dual-language immersion experience, and a focus on outdoor play and experiences. We produce many of the teachers in Northwest Georgia, and we want to empower those students with an understanding of this model. We’ve seen terrific results in literacy and sciences, preparing students for academic success through high school and higher education. 

Also, as part of Vision 2050, we are expanding the number of opportunities to participate in experiential learning, including undergraduate research, study abroad, and internships in our region’s massive flooring industry. We’re seeing growing opportunities to get our students engaged. Just last year, the Wall Street Journal ranked us as the second-most recommended institution, by students and alumni in the country.

How is Dalton State College adapting its courses and curriculum to meet the demands of a fast-changing job market?

In today’s modern setting, the majority of jobs require a college degree, and we want to create a transformative experience for all our students. Our approach looks at two major parallel efforts. 

On one side, we are looking at how to produce graduates who are proficient in using current and emerging technology tools, taking ethical considerations into account. We can’t blindly introduce technology; our students need to understand the limitations of emerging technology. We want technology to be a tool and enhancer, not a replacement for the human person.

On the other side, we teach foundational skills and purposes in higher education that prepare students to lead and give back to their communities. Over half of our graduates are first-generation college students, and we teach them additional life skills they may not have learned otherwise. For example, our business school students do mock interviews, learn how to dress professionally, and learn etiquette. 

Overall, we teach students to listen to others, think critically, and engage on a face-to-face basis. This balance allows students to bring their whole selves to their educational experiences and into their communities.

Has there been an increase in enrollment in recent years, and if so, how is Dalton State College attracting a new student population?

We have seen over 10% growth in the student body in the last two years. This percentage makes us one of the fastest-growing colleges in the state, in spite of national trends predicting a decline in enrollment. Our athletics program also attracts national attention from prospective students. Our women’s golf program, which has won several championships, is hosting the NAIA Women’s Golf National Championships in 2027 and 2028. Just last year, our men’s golf and soccer teams won the NAIA National Championships.

What is the value proposition of higher education in modern times, and how is Dalton State College encouraging its students to pursue continuing education?

For many students and their families, their return on investment is ultimately about getting a job and providing for their families. In the state of Georgia, having a four-year degree increases lifetime earnings, on average, by $1.4 million in additional income. Dalton State’s low tuition and fees strengthen that financial return on investment. Dalton State College prepares people to succeed in careers and life by exposing students to a rigorous education, different perspectives, experiential learning, and the sciences. The greater return on investment is preparing for your future. Higher education is the most effective means of providing a wide group of people, from all backgrounds and educational preparation, with a set of credentials, skills, and knowledge that positions them to pursue their calling in life.

What is in the pipeline for Dalton State College in terms of new programs to meet emerging needs?

We are developing new academic programs and a focus on a lifelong learning model, which incorporates micro-credentials that are responsive to regional needs. Traditionally, students work toward one credential at the end of a two-year or four-year program. Many jobs in today’s market require specific industry and professional certifications. Dalton State is looking to build out a program for people who already have a four-year degree to help them increase expertise in metrics, analytics, and strategic planning. These disciplines are all important to planning, organizing, and assessing industry needs and bringing together different ways of thinking. We are also developing a direct Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, addressing our region’s growing demand for healthcare workers.