DAHLONEGA — Mark Causey and Melissa Durand, both of Forsyth County, were recently recognized by the North Georgia Dahlonega Alumni Shared Interest Group at the University of North Georgia.

Causey received the Young Alumnus award, given to alumni within 20 years of their graduation who have distinguished themselves through outstanding professional careers and/or outstanding community service.

Causey graduated magna cum laude with a bachelor of science in biology in 2006. He is president of the Georgia Orthodontists Foundation and his practice was voted Best of Forsyth in 2015.

Durand received the Ralph Colley Spirit of North Georgia award, which is given to an alumnus who has experienced adverse circumstances to live an exemplary life.

Durand attended the university from 1993-95 and received early acceptance to then-Medical College of Georgia's School of Dentistry.

After sustaining serious injuries in a 2008 car wreck, which required a five-week stay at Shepherd Catastrophic Care Center, Durand spent six months in physical therapy before returning to practicing dentistry.