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For 27 years, Dr. Margaret Williamson has taught introduction to sociology. Now, the University of North Georgia (°ÄÃÅÁùºÏ²Ê¹Ù·½ÍøÕ¾) professor thinks it is time for an upgrade.

"Although I update the course with new statistics, examples and illustrations every year, I've been teaching it the same way year after year," she said. "I feel the need to shake things up."

Supplying her with the tools to alter the course is the . Established by former Georgia Gov. Zell Miller and offered through the Institute of Higher Education at the University of Georgia, the symposia provide Georgia's higher education faculty with expanded opportunities to develop important teaching skills.

Williamson was selected as one of 16 faculty members from across the state to participate in the new cohort from September 2019 to April 2020. The cohort meets three days a month.

Williams said it was a huge honor to represent °ÄÃÅÁùºÏ²Ê¹Ù·½ÍøÕ¾.

"I'm so excited and amazed," she said. "It's almost overwhelming."

Williamson said she plans to learn new techniques and share them with her °ÄÃÅÁùºÏ²Ê¹Ù·½ÍøÕ¾ colleagues.

"From my first three days of class, it is incredible how much information, wisdom and insight I have received," she said. "The classes are an awesome experience, and I would encourage more °ÄÃÅÁùºÏ²Ê¹Ù·½ÍøÕ¾ faculty to apply to the program and explore these opportunities."