From an early age, Randy Groomes found a connection between education and community.

Groomes became active in 4-H as a sixth grader, and he’s carried those lessons forward since then. Now, as director of professional and community engagement at UGA’s Terry College of Business, he’s teaching students how to blend business and public service.

“It goes back to those younger years, first with my parents and then with 4-H, learning the importance of being a good citizen, being involved and working to make a difference,” he said.

His work to build a welcoming space for all students in Terry College was recognized recently with the President’s Fulfilling the Dream Award. Presented at the Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Breakfast held Jan. 16, the award recognizes students, faculty, staff and community members who exemplify the words and legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

“I don’t think I could receive an award that would mean more to me because it embodies what I believe in — helping the collective get better,” Groomes said. “Everyone deserves an opportunity to live a better life, and that’s what Dr. King worked toward.”

Groomes earned a bachelor’s degree in risk management and insurance and later a Master of Business Administration from the University of Georgia. He spent 13 years working in the private sector before coming back to Athens to work for the Alumni Association as director of multicultural programs. He spent three years in that role before taking his current role in Terry College.

“Just being able to see young people with great potential, challenging them and giving them resources and helping them develop has been the most rewarding work that I could have imagined,” he said.

Groomes has spearheaded several initiatives in his time at Terry College. In 2009, Groomes launched the William E. and Barbara H. Beckham Jr. Workforce Management Certificate, which provides participants with the professional, social and cultural knowledge to successfully begin a career in a competitive job market.

“It’s really teaching students how to work with people from all backgrounds, the skills you need to build strong teams and to understand what motivates others,” he said. “It’s been a phenomenal opportunity.”

Another opportunity is the Accelerated Business Program, a highly selective, pre-collegiate program for exceptional high school juniors and seniors that provides an inside track on the various fields of business with a focus on career paths in high-demand fields. Terry College students serve as resident advisors, guiding the high school students through the program. Participants leave feeling empowered to make a difference in their own communities, and about 40% later enroll at UGA.

“A lot of what I do is help them take the reins. I don’t do it for them, but I coach them and empower them to learn those skills — learn how to manage, learn how to lead and learn how to make an impact,” he said.

According to Groomes, it’s programs like this that not only build future business leaders, but also future community leaders.

“It’s really helping people to believe in themselves and to develop the confidence to take action,” he said. “Sometimes, it’s helping them to pull the best out of themselves.”

His family serves as inspiration, but Groomes also credits his mentors, including civil rights attorney Don Hollowell, for instilling a desire to give back and stay involved in the community. He’s been actively involved with the Mind Blowers program, which connects UGA students with local Boys and Girls Club participants for tutoring sessions. Outside of work, he’s been a member of organizations like Toastmasters and Rotary Club, served on the board of advisors for the United Way and Goodwill.

Groomes believes people are happier when they’re helping others. It’s important to look outward and find ways to make a difference.

“Dr. King’s legacy is to take action. Where you see an issue that needs addressing, ask ‘Why not me?’” he said. “Find a way to build coalitions or get the resources and just start.”