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Food. Check. Fun. Check.

Georgia Gwinnett College’s (GGC) Grizzlyfest, the college’s unique version of homecoming, checked those two boxes and more. Celebrating GGC’s global community, more than 300 attendees enjoyed food from around the world, lots of activities and live entertainment.

Leading up to Grizzlyfest were a week’s worth of student activities, including a Sneaker Ball, students vs. staff kickball game, a bonfire with s’mores, a Greek Fest and tailgate, and a club Grizzly rodeo. Students also selected homecoming royalty, with Coreon Johnson named homecoming king and Gaby Sifuentes crowned homecoming queen.

One of Grizzlyfest’s most popular events is the annual Deans Chili Cook-off, in which GGC’s deans of the college’s schools and other administrators highlight their culinary skills in the hopes of getting the most votes and donations. This year, the cook-off raised $5,427. Proceeds go to the GGC Emergency Fund, which assists students facing food insecurities or homelessness.

The Deans Chili Cook-off winners were: first place – Dr. Karen Jackson, interim dean, Student Success; second place – Dr. Joseph Ametepe, interim dean, School of Science and Technology and third place – Dr. Tyler Yu, dean, School of Business.

Best-tasting chili winners were: first place – Dr. Tyler Yu, Asian-inspired chili; second place – Dr. Angie Jasper, dean, School of Education, spicy Pueblo chili; and third place – Dr. Paula Gordon, interim dean, School of Health Sciences, hearty Canadian chili.

Organizers expect the event to continue to grow as a fun-filled tradition for GGC students, alumni, faculty, staff and the community.

“Grizzlyfest is a great way to bring everyone at GGC and the community together for an afternoon of good fun,” said Holly Lisle, GGC’s director of Alumni Engagement. 

View and download Grizzlyfest photos.