By: Abigail Klein
Carrollton, Ga. – Two University of West Georgia media experiential learning labs are merging to create the new Digital Journalism Innovation Lab, a single learning lab focused on multi-platform journalism.
For more than four decades, The West Georgian and WUTV have operated as separate labs, providing students with hands-on training and professional experience in preparation for careers in the media industry. With the steady decline in demand for print journalism and the growing emphasis on digital content, the programs have united under one initiative designed to meet the evolving demands of the field.
The School of Communication, Film, and Media is pleased with the results of the merger so far and looks forward to the opportunities ahead.
By Hailey Petruska
Carrollton, Ga. - At the corner of Highway 27 and Alabama Street in downtown Carrollton, a new multimillion-dollar development is underway. The plans for the complex include new businesses, restaurants, housing, and more.
Carrollton City Manager Tim Brooks said, “The housing that we want to put there, we envision that being for young professionals, young married couples, empty nesters, folks that are tired of doing yardwork and that want the walkability of being downtown and being able to walk to dinner every night.”
Linco Properties was selected to lead the project and will make the final decisions about which businesses occupy the new spaces. The plans for the complex were adopted in 2024, and the targeted completion date is between January and March 2027.
By Blake Giddens
Carrollton, Ga.- The University of West Georgia is undergoing major changes on its Carrollton campus with two key construction projects in progress.
Pafford Hall, built in 1968, is being demolished and rebuilt to include 17 new classrooms, providing updated learning spaces for students and faculty.
Behind Boyd Hall, a drainage project is underway to fix flooding issues that have affected the building’s lower level.
The Pafford renovation has also led to parking changes on campus. Lot 5 is closed for construction staging, and several spaces near the Townsend Center have been converted from commuter to faculty and staff parking. While there is not an exact date for the completion of construction, university officials expect the projects to continue through the next academic year, with an estimated completion date of April 2027, and updates will be provided to students and faculty as work progresses.
By: Julius Johnson
Carrollton, Ga. – A new business on the University of West Georgia campus is serving healthy refreshments to students and the community.
Wolfden Nutrition opened in the weeks leading up to the fall 2025 semester, offering protein shakes, teas, and coffees. The business is owned by Lisa and Barry Willis, while their son, Aiden Willis, a current UWG student, manages the store.
Balancing his studies with overseeing daily operations, Aiden serves as a hands-on leader in the family business. The Willis family has a history of operating similar businesses near universities across Georgia, and this new campus location continues that tradition.
By Justin Lynn
Lagrange, Ga. - West Georgia Technical College is building a new Electrification and Transportation Center on its East LaGrange campus.
The facility will feature three wings and provide students with access to industry-standard equipment, preparing them for careers in the automotive, electric vehicle and transportation industries.
Brittney Wells, executive director of institutional advancement, said, “In that part of phase two, we’re going to add electrical technology, line worker, plumbing, auto collision and logistics, which we’re not currently offering at all in this area. We’re very excited for this expansion.”
While some classes are already taking place in the center, West Georgia Tech anticipates construction will be completed in time for classes to begin in spring 2027.
By Blake Giddens
Carrollton, Ga - The University of West Georgia wrapped up Homecoming Week with an exciting football game on October 25 at RA-Lin Field, University Stadium. The Wolves defeated Central Arkansas 18–17, with quarterback Davin Wydner throwing two late touchdown passes to seal the win.
This year’s NASCAR-inspired theme brought school spirit and fun to campus, with events like Climbwall Speedway, Wear Red, Get Fed, the Sidewalk Competition, and Fast Lanes & Food Trucks. At halftime, Homecoming King Jalen Adams and Queen Sydney Penn were crowned, alongside court members and A-Day Ambassador Anna Kate Graham. Administrators said the week allowed students to connect, showcase talent, and celebrate UWG traditions.
Danielle Jackson Woods launched her journalism career at the University of West Georgia, gaining experience as an anchor and executive producer with UTV 13 while earning her degree in Mass Communication. She went on to report in Baton Rouge, Greensboro, and Nashville, covering major national stories and earning an Emmy for Public Affairs Reporting. Woods now serves as a content producer for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, creating storytelling-driven content for child advocacy initiatives.