Job fair attracts thousands of job-seekers, unemployed

September 24 - The Northwest Georgia Shorter College Job and Career Fair attracted thousands of job seekers to downtown Rome today.

The job fair, held at The Forum, took place from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Job seekers could been seen waiting in lines outside the Forum doors as early at 8 a.m. this morning. More than 75 employers – mostly local business and industry – crowded the facility floor, accepting resumes and taking applications. The final count on job fair attendees was officially recorded at 2,500.

“We were amazed at the number of people who showed up looking for a job this morning,” said job fair organizer Britt Madden Jr. Madden is also corporate education liaison for Shorter’s Professional Studies Program. “We were also so thankful for the employers and our volunteers that took time from their day to attend this job fair. It’s our hope that by hosting this event, we were able to help at least one person find a job – an answer to a prayer that’s become all too common these days.”

Job seekers filling out applications at the career and job fair.

The job fair was sponsored by Shorter College, along with the Georgia Department of Labor, The Forum, Floyd County and The Rome News-Tribune.

Four American Sign Language interpreters were on hand at the job fair, offering assistance to those who needed it. Additionally, 24 computers were also available at the fair today, allowing for prospective employees to fill out applications electronically.

Founded in 1873, Shorter College is a Christian college committed to excellence in education. Since 2003, U.S. News & World Report has ranked Shorter among the South’s best baccalaureate colleges. The college offers bachelor’s degrees in 48 major areas, master’s level and undergraduate degree programs for working adults, online courses, and a vibrant intercollegiate athletic program. Shorter will transition to university status June 1, 2010. For more information, visit www.shorter.edu.

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