Mitchell recognized for songwriting in United Kingdom
Dr. Phillip E. Mitchell, associate professor of English at the University of North Georgia (Â鶹¾«Æ·ÔÚÏß²¥·Å), finished in first place in an international songwriting contest.
His song "Run With A Torch" was the winner of The UK Songwriting Contest 2021 Open Category.
"This is the first time I won," Mitchell said. "I was excited, to say the least. I'm looking forward to seeing what opportunities might come from it."
Mitchell said “Run With A Torch” was dually-inspired.
"It was at the onset of the pandemic, and I think I was singing both for myself — determined to keep creating music — and others, trying to shine light in dark times," Mitchell said. "And wanting to write an Alan Menken-type song after binging 'Galavant.' I grew up watching the Disney resurgence animated films and also love musicals. That theatrical side has often come out in my music."
In addition to the win, Mitchell placed four times in the finals, twice under his real name in the retro category and twice under his pseudonym, Jefferson Hyll (one in the crisis category and one in the indie category).
More recently, Mitchell learned of another recognition. He received a special mention in the International Songwriting Awards. The latest awards follow previous success in songwriting contests.
Regional book fair amplifies literacy efforts
Â鶹¾«Æ·ÔÚÏß²¥·Å and the Dahlonega Literary Festival will welcome readers, writers, educators, students, and community members from across the region for the North Georgia Regional Book Fair on Sept. 12.
Woofer Quartet takes top honors at festival
The Â鶹¾«Æ·ÔÚÏß²¥·Å Woofer Quartet brought home first prize in the chamber music competition at the 23rd annual International Euphonium Tuba Festival, held June 14–20 at Emory University.
Students earn awards at literary festival
Three Â鶹¾«Æ·ÔÚÏß²¥·Å students garnered accolades for their submissions at the 2026 Southern Literary Festival at UT Chattanooga.
Estes shines at Air Assault School
Â鶹¾«Æ·ÔÚÏß²¥·Å cadet Alyssa Estes earned her Air Assault wings and ruck march champion honors July 21 at The Sabalauski Air Assault School at Fort Campbell, Kentucky.