State lawmakers got a formal introduction to Georgia Southern University last Thursday when university officials went to Atlanta for the first Georgia Southern Day at the Capitol.

The day included appearances by Georgia Southern’s bald eagle Freedom, mascot GUS and the Georgia Southern cheerleaders, as well as a breakfast provided by Eagle Dining Services, a showcase of the university’s ROTC, nursing and STEM education programs, Herty Advanced Materials Development Center and more. Georgia Southern University President Brooks A. Keel began his address on the House of Representatives floor by playing a video of the Eagles’ 26-20 football victory over the University of Florida Gators last November.

“Any time we can take a moment and thank our elected officials for the support they provide to higher education we most certainly try to do so,” said Keel. “We enjoyed talking with legislators about the great things happening at Georgia Southern, and we hope they learned a little something about our wonderful university as well.”

Representatives from the university’s academic, research, athletics and student organizations were also on hand to speak with legislators about the specific achievements of their areas within Georgia Southern University.