DAHLONEGA — Courtney McDonald of Americus has graduated from the University of North Georgia (UNG) with a master of science in criminal justice.

The university’s fall commencement ceremonies were held Dec. 13-14 on UNG’s Dahlonega and Gainesville campuses. This semester, UNG conferred some 670 degrees. Additionally, 18 graduating members of the Corps of Cadets took oaths as second lieutenants in the National Guard or U.S. Army.

“We are here to honor you with the richest tradition of the academic community … a commencement ceremony, celebrating the completion of your degree and the beginning of your professional lives. Congratulations on this milestone in your life,” UNG President Bonita Jacobs told graduates. “We take tremendous pride in your accomplishments. We know what it took for you to reach this point, and we are optimistic about your future. We know that, as graduates of UNG, you will add tremendous value to the lives of all those around you.”