More than 60 University of Georgia students made the journey from Athens to Atlanta on Feb. 24 for the annual Dawgs at the Dome event at the Georgia State Capitol. Since its inception in 2014, the event has grown in popularity year after year because of the profound impact and new connections it presents to students.

The event is a collaborative effort between UGA’s Student Government Association and the Office of Government Relations and gives students the opportunity to interact with state elected officials and alumni serving under the gold dome. Throughout the day, students get a glimpse of how the legislative process works and witness the strong impact the university has throughout Georgia.

“Dawgs at the Dome is a unique way for us to showcase the outstanding work our students are doing to advance UGA’s land- and sea-grant mission and deepen our partnership at the state-level of government,” said Blake Raulerson, vice president for government relations.

Attendees started the day with a breakfast reception in the rotunda and networked with UGA alumni serving at the state level. Soon after, students gathered at the North Atrium stairs for a photo and were joined by UGA President Jere W. Morehead, Blake Raulerson, Vice President for Public Service and Outreach Stacy Jones, Rep. Holt Persinger, Rep. Demetrius Douglas, Rep. Houston Gaines, Rep. Noel Williams Jr., Rep. Trey Rhodes and Hairy Dawg.

“This event serves as a fantastic opportunity for students to expand their knowledge of the legislative process and interact with lawmakers from across the state. SGA and OGR did great work putting together this special, student-focused experience,” said Grayson Abbott, Georgia Beverage Association intern.

After the photos, students were dismissed to the galleries to watch the House and Senate convene for legislative day 23. The day concluded with a reception featuring the iconic strawberry ice cream pies from the University of Georgia Center for Continuing Education and Hotel and thoughtful conversations.

“Dawgs at the Dome is more than just a field trip — it’s an opportunity for students passionate about public service to see firsthand how state legislators work to strengthen Georgia. It allows students to experience state government in action, while also envisioning what they might one day do themselves and the real impact they can have on their communities and beyond,” said Sara Steinmeyer, SGA cabinet member.