JagPerks program connects Augusta University students with local businesses

By Spencer Smith | Staff writer

The JagPerks program, established by Augusta University’s Office of External Relations, offers students and staff the opportunity to shop locally while enjoying exclusive discounts. In partnership with Destination Augusta, a hub for all things Augusta, JagPerks features a variety of businesses that provide students with everything they need at a reduced cost. To access these discounts, students simply present their university ID at participating establishments.

With insights from Suzanne Tatum, deputy chief of staff and associate vice president for external relations, and Jen Lask, manager of internal communications, I gathered details about the program.

“We are proud to partner with our local Augusta community to provide discount opportunities to our students and members of the Augusta University community,” Tatum said. “In collaboration with Destination Augusta, we launched our JagPerks program to offer discounts to students and university partners in the local Augusta area. We encourage our students, faculty, and staff to shop and dine locally.”

Tatum also announced new additions to the JagPerks network, including Pasche’s Island Soul Restaurant, Augusta Draft Society, Land of Thee, Blue, and Elemy’s Bagels.

To ensure easy access, JagPerks promotions are shared through multiple platforms, including social media, the MyAugusta mobile app, and Augusta University’s website.

“Many of our Jag Partners have renewed their JagPerks discounts with us because they see the value in supporting AU students,” Tatum said. “We continue to promote JagPerks to reach new students who may not yet be familiar with the program.”

Local Businesses Supporting Students

Several Augusta-area businesses participate in the program, including Mod Ink, a screen printing and design facility specializing in high-quality, custom screen-printed posters and apparel. The business serves as a valuable resource for students, particularly those designing materials for projects or campus organizations.

“We understand that students are already managing a lot of expenses, so we do our best to offer the lowest possible pricing and promotional sales when available,” said Leanne, a co-owner of Mod Ink. “It never hurts to ask!”

For students looking to unwind on the golf course, Forest Hills Golf Club offers discounted rates.

“Most events and tournaments are organized and hosted by external organizations, and students are welcome to contact those groups directly for information and registration,” said Matthew Barman, head golf professional at Forest Hills. “Our role is to provide the facilities and ensure everything is prepared for the event.”

Barman also provided details on student pricing:

• Weekday 18-hole riding rate: $45 (regularly $70)

• Weekend 18-hole riding rate: $85 (regularly $150)

For beginners, the club offers lessons tailored to individual skill levels.

A Historic Learning Opportunity

Another JagPerks participant is Meadow Garden, the historic home of George Walton, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence.

“We have offered discounts to Augusta University students for several years, even before my time as director,” said Ransom Schwerzler, director of Meadow Garden. “We’ve seen a steady increase in student visitors in recent years.”

Schwerzler emphasized the interactive nature of the tours.

“All our tours are led by docents, which allows us to adapt to the interests of our guests,” he said. “We always enjoy having students on our tours, whether they’re asking about our historical sources or the preservation process. It’s great to share our research and discuss how it shapes our interpretation of the site.”

Expanding the JagPerks Network

For businesses interested in joining the JagPerks program, Tatum outlined the process.

“Our team reaches out to locally owned or alumni-owned businesses to see if they’re interested in becoming Jag Partners,” she said. “We provide a custom JagPerks window cling to indicate that the business is an official partner, and we promote them to students, faculty, and staff through our website and social media. We also try to utilize JagPerks partners for on-campus catering needs. It’s a win-win opportunity that enhances community engagement.”

For more information on participating businesses and available discounts, visit Augusta University’s JagPerks webpage.

Contact Spencer Smith at csmith82@augusta.edu.