The start of a new year will also see a new director of public safety for the University of North Georgia. Beginning Jan. 21, Justin Gaines will serve the university encompassing Dahlonega, Gainesville, Cumming and Oconee campuses. Gaines brings to the role education and experience from Georgia College and State University in Milledgeville, where he served as the associate director of emergency preparedness, as well as earning his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and master’s degree in public administration.