This fall, North Georgia College & State University will play host to a number of speakers, including the executive vice president of The Weather Channel and the president and CEO of the Atlanta Falcons.

Starting Sept. 6, the fourth annual Cottrell Speaker Series will kick off at the Mike Cottrell School of Business, with students hearing from five different speakers throughout September, October and into November.

"We are very pleased with the caliber of this year's speakers," said Donna T. Mayo, dean of the Mike Cottrell School of Business. "This will be an excellent opportunity for students and community members to learn business strategies and tactics from some of the best in the field."

Speakers for this year's series include: Shirley Powell, executive vice president, The Weather Channel, on Sept. 6; Doug Keith, president of Drive Technologies Division, Siemens, on Sept. 20; David McNeill, president and managing partner, 4th Strand, on Oct. 4; Penny McIntyre, president, Newell Consumer Group, Newell Rubbermaid, on Oct. 18; and Rich McKay, president and CEO, The Atlanta Falcons, on Nov. 1.

"I have been so impressed with the quality and variety of executives that have visited our campus to share their experiences with our students as part of this program," North Georgia President Bonita Jacobs said.

Topics addressed by the speakers will cover a broad range of subjects, including what it takes to get a job, preparing and executing for what lies ahead, starting and building a successful new business, the easy and the difficult elements of working and winning in international markets, and why the NFL has become the dominant sports league and brand in America.

Presentations are open to the public and free of charge. Each session will be held in the second floor auditorium, room 232, of the university's Health and Natural Sciences Building at 159 Sunset Drive, Dahlonega. Sessions will begin at 12:55 p.m. and conclude at 1:50 p.m.