History & Tradition

Our History & Traditions

Click to view our historic timeline in PDF.

History of Georgia Military Global Online Leadership College

For over 140 years, Georgia Military College has served the men and women of Georgia by believing in one simple tenet – every person, regardless of background or circumstances deserves the opportunity to better themselves through education.  For that reason alone, we decided to open our doors and our arms to students across the globe so that opportunity would not be limited by geography any longer.  In 2011, Georgia Military College launched the Online Campus that began serving students from all over the world.  Careful attention was paid to crafting this campus, and we ensured that any student would have access to the same quality education and services even if they never set foot on one of our campuses across the state.  Since that time, our program has grown remarkably, and we teach over 4,000 online students today.  In 2019, under the direction of President Caldwell, the GMC Online Campus was reformed to launch the Georgia Military Global Online Leadership College in an effort to open our arms even wider and expand our programs to more deserving students.  To support the launch of the Georgia Military Global Online Leadership College, President Caldwell invested greatly to expand and build upon our successful first eight years.  The new college will be able to enroll and educate more students, provide even greater support services and produce even more online graduates than in years past.  When you become one of our students, you will be participating in a tradition that stretches back over a century, and you will be proud to earn the title of graduate from our school.

A Message from the President

Major General Terrence McKenrick

For nearly a century and a half, Georgia Military College has been transforming lives through education rooted in character, leadership, and opportunity. Today, that mission remains just as powerful—and just as urgent—as it was in 1879. Our students come from every corner of Georgia and beyond, united by a common goal: to take hold of their future with confidence and purpose.

What drew me to GMC is what draws so many of our students to our institution: the chance to be part of something greater. This is a place where learning challenges the mind and builds the foundation for living an impactful life. It’s a place where faculty and staff go beyond teaching—they mentor, support, and walk alongside each student on their journey. GMC is a place where the development of character is just as important as the pursuit of knowledge.

GMC is a diverse institution of higher education where students from all backgrounds, committed to bettering themselves and the world around them, gather together with a common purpose. We remain open-access, with resources like free tutoring, small class sizes, and individualized academic support to help every student thrive.

Whether you’re attending classes on our historic Main Campus, online through our Global Online Leadership College, or at one of our eight satellite locations across Georgia, your experience at GMC is focused on flexibility, affordability, and quality. Our faculty believe in teaching, and they believe in you. Our Graduation and Enrollment Coaches are committed to helping you navigate every step, from your first class all the way through earning your degree.

Looking ahead, I am honored to help lead this institution into the future, building on our legacy while meeting the evolving needs of today’s learners. GMC continues to grow because we care deeply about the lives we touch and the leaders we help develop.

Since 1879, GMC has helped students build strong minds, strong character, and strong futures. And that mission continues—with you.

Leadership Is Our Legacy, and Your Future.