The initial concept for the Georgia Center called for a modern and innovative adult learning center, based on the belief that learning is a continuous process throughout life. The Center would strive to offer consciously and deliberately planned educational activities, "a broad program of organized learning experiences based on the needs and interests of the people" (Georgia Center's Annual Report 1953-1954).

Georgia's Plan, the 1953 University of Georgia proposal to the W. K. Kellogg Foundation to establish the Georgia Center for Continuing Education, advocated the creation of a dynamic, extraordinary program that would provide adult and continuing education for the people of the State of Georgia and the nation. The Plan also promised a state-of-the-art facility, with the capabilities to employ the latest media technologies throughout an individual's stay, as well as interiors and grounds designed to facilitate and support the learning process.

In January 1955, an informal groundbreaking ceremony headed by University of Georgia President O.C. Aderhold and the first Director of the Georgia Center, Hugh B. Masters, marked the realization of Georgia's Plan.

The Georgia Center for Continuing Education, although still slightly under construction, conducted its first conference, the Southern Forest Tree Improvement Program, January 8-9, 1957.

The Georgia Center: Program development and delivery capabilities as well as meeting facilities and services, food services, and an on-site hotel -- all under one roof!

"It is our objective to provide through The University of Georgia an institution where all educational resources available will be brought into service of all people of our area to the end that more people may live richer, more useful lives." Georgia's Plan