Four years ago, Southern Catholic College welcomed its inaugural class of students.

On Saturday, the class of 46 students will receive their college diplomas and lead the way for many other graduates of the college.

“This is a historic event for Southern Catholic College,” said President Dr. Jerry Ashcroft. “We are proud of the graduates and grateful to all those who have made this graudation possible.”

Held at St. Luke the Evangelist Catholic Church in Dahlonega, Baccalaureate mass begins at 9 a.m. and Commencement at 11 a.m. with a reception following.

The college is welcoming Archbishop Emeritus John F. Donoghue of Atlanta as the keynote speaker at Saturday’s event.

Founded by lay Catholics in 2000, the college opened its doors in the fall of 2005, welcoming 71 students.

The college currently has 241 students enrolled.

According to Ashcroft, one class of students was added each year until the full four-year baccalaureate program was in place.

“As our resources permit, we have plans to continue to grow,” Ashcroft said.

The prime purpose of the college was to create one that was coeducational, liberal arts and residential available in the southeast.

“We are very pleased with the support of the community from the chamber of commerce and comssioners, as well as the city of Dawsonville,” Ashcroft said. “We have found a home here and are very happy to be in Dawson County.”

Ashcroft added that in future years, he thinks the school will see new construction, growth in enrollment and collaborations with national and international universities.

The level of spiritual opportunity on campus is unusual and is one aspect that Ashcroft says sets the school apart from others.

“Southern Catholic College is the first and only Catholic College in Georgia,” he said.

The college offers  seven different majors including: Business, English, History, Integrated Sciences, Philosophy, Psychology and Sacred Theology.

For more information, call (866) 722-2003 or visit online at www.southerncatholic.org.