LEGACY
e Alumni Magazine of Albany Tech
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It is with great pride and admiration that I introduce the 2025 edition of Legacy Magazine. Each year, this publication allows us to pause and reflect on the remarkable achievements of our alumni—individuals who represent the very best of Albany Tech. It is a true honor and privilege to feature their stories, share their journeys, and celebrate the powerful impact they continue to make in their professions, their families, and their communities.
The alumni spotlighted in this issue are testaments to the value of technical education. They come from diverse backgrounds and have faced unique challenges—but all have shown resilience, determination,
and purpose. Their success is not just their own; it is a reflection of what is possible for every student who walks through our doors.
At ATC, we believe in the lifechanging impact of education. We know that when students are given the right tools, the right support, and the right opportunities, they can build lives of meaning, security, and service. That’s why celebrating our alumni is so important. They inspire future students to see beyond the present, to dream big, and to understand what’s possible through hard work and education.
Dr. Emmett Griswold President
COOKING UP CHANGE: Using Culinary Training to Empower Albany’s Youth King Randall
For King Randall, Albany Technical College wasn’t just a place to earn a credential—it was the launching pad for a life of leadership, service, and community transformation.
A 2017 graduate of the Culinary Arts program, King found more than kitchen skills at Albany Tech—he found confidence and clarity of purpose. “Albany Technical College gave me the tools and confidence to build a better life for myself and my family,” he says. “One instructor in particular saw potential in me and pushed me to aim higher—that encouragement changed my path. Albany Tech didn’t just give me an education—it gave me purpose.”
Today, King leads The X for Boys, a youth organization focused on mentoring, skills training, and leadership development for young men in Albany. His work blends discipline, practical instruction, and empowerment—values shaped by his own educational journey.
His short-term goal is to expand this mission, reaching more young men through mentorship and hands-on training.
Long term, King envisions a thriving Albany transformed by investment in education, entrepreneurship, and community development. “I want to continue being a leader who creates real change right here at home,” he says.
From the culinary lab to the classroom of life, King Randall proves that with the right support and determination, a local education can become the foundation for a national movement—and a better future for generations to come.
Susie Clyde
BUILDING STRONGER FOUNDATIONS: Shaping a Future in Craft and Community
When Susie Clyde enrolled in Albany Technical College's Carpentry and Masonry program, she wasn't just learning how to build structures—she was laying the foundation for a thriving career and an empowered sense of self.
A 2011 and 2012 graduate, Susie credits Albany Tech and instructors like Clifford Singleton, helping her sharpen the specialized skills that have enhanced her family-owned business and boosted her career potential. "I gained specialized knowledge and skills that save time and overhead cost," she says. "And the support I received—from hands-on training to career guidance—continues to benefit me even now."
That guidance included the support of Career Services professional Judy Jimmererson, whose encouragement helped Susie build the confidence to network more effectively and pursue new professional opportunities. One of those opportunities came through a career fair held at Albany Tech, which led to her current position with WebstaurantStore in Albany, Georgia.
Beyond her technical credentials, Susie holds a bachelor's degree in Business Management from Strayer University, graduating Magna Cum Laude—a reflection of her ongoing commitment to excellence and lifelong learning.
Active in her community, Susie is a former member of Women in Construction and now serves on the Terrell County Historic Preservation Society board. She is also a core member of Terrell County Community Heart and Soul and is affiliated with Escape the Loop, LLC, a community-driven initiative.
"My long-term goal is to continue learning to improve skills for future challenges and to maintain a healthy lifestyle," she says. Her journey speaks to the inspiration of education— and the importance of confidence, community, and craft in building a meaningful life.
Jeanetta
Miles
FROM STUDENT TO SPACE SHAPER:
For Jeanetta Miles, success isn't just measured in degrees or job titles—it's rooted in the life she's built for herself and her family, one blueprint at a time.
A 2013 and 2015 Albany Technical College graduate, Jeanetta earned a Drafting Technology diploma and an associate degree specializing in Architectural Drafting. Today, she is a fulltime CADD Operator at SRJ Architects Inc. in Albany, Georgia—a firm known for creating spaces that inspire growth, joy, and community across the Southeast.
Her contributions span major projects in communities such as Eastman, Camilla, Vidalia, Bainbridge, and Brantley, Alabama. Locally, she has helped shape school facilities in Dougherty, Pike, and Stewart counties and assisted with renovations at Doublegate Country Club and the C&H Event Center. She continues investing in her field by earning numerous industryrelated certifications, including Commercial Roofing and Metal Building Components credentials.
Jeanetta also gives back to Albany Technical College, volunteering for the college's Engineering Workshops during National Engineering Week. There, she shares her knowledge and real-world experience with high school students exploring future careers in design and drafting.
"Albany Technical College helped me to obtain a stable life and a career that I love and enjoy," Jeanetta shares. "The training and education I've received enabled me to become a good provider for my two children. I'm finally self-sufficient and recently realized the 'American Dream' of homeownership. Albany Tech makes dreams become reality."
Outside of work, Jeanetta is active in her community. She's a proud graduate of Albany's Strive to Thrive program, performs with the Albany Theater, and serves as a drummer at her church, CCOF.
Looking ahead, she aspires to become a project manager with SRJ Architects and plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in architecture. Her journey—from student to professional to mentor—is a powerful reflection of what it means to build not just buildings but a legacy.
For Daniela Norman, earning a degree in Law Enforcement wasn't just a career step—it was a commitment to understanding the full scope of public service and applying it in unexpected places.
A 2016 graduate of Albany Technical College, Daniela earned her Associate of Applied Science in Law Enforcement while working full-time. "I always knew I wanted to hold a degree in law enforcement even though it wasn't required for my job," she says. "The program helped me better understand different aspects of my responsibilities and made me more efficient overall. I have a great appreciation and respect for my instructors—many of them worked in the field and still chose to teach others."
Today, Daniela is employed at AB&T, where her background in law enforcement supports her role in compliance and customer protection. She continues to grow professionally, having completed the Georgia Bankers Association Compliance School in 2022 and also holds a state certification as an At-Risk Adult Crimes Tactics Specialist through the Georgia Department of Human Services.
Her dedication to leadership development earned her a spot in the Leadership Albany Class of 2022—part of her ongoing mission to give back to the community and stay active in local initiatives.
"My long-term goal is to continue my education," Daniela notes. "I feel that I can never learn enough."
Her story reflects the evolving nature of career paths today—where diverse skills can intersect in powerful ways and where a foundation from Albany Tech can support success across multiple industries.
2025 ALUMNI OF THE YEAR Jennifer D. Lewis
Albany Technical College is happy to announce Ms. Jennifer D. Lewis as the 2025 Alumni of the Year. This prestigious honor recognizes her remarkable contributions to education and her unwavering dedication to uplifting others through her work. As a proud graduate of Albany Technical College's Child Care & Development program in 1990, Ms. Lewis represents the very best of the college’s alumni.
Ms. Lewis will be formally recognized during the Fall Gala at Albany Technical College alongside other Distinguished Alumni. Later in the year, she will join honorees from Georgia’s 22 technical colleges at the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) Fall Leadership Conference in Savannah, where her accomplishments will be celebrated on a statewide stage.
A Career of Excellence
Ms. Lewis’s journey to this recognition has been marked by over two decades of distinguished service in education. A former Teacher of the Year for the Dougherty County School System, she has excelled as an educator, mentor, and leader. Her expertise spans curriculum development, classroom management, and professional development for teachers.
Her educational career began with a foundation laid at Albany Technical College, where she developed skills that would shape her passion for early childhood development and education. She continued her studies, earning advanced degrees from Albany State University, including a Master’s and a Specialist degree in Educational Leadership.
Beyond her formal education, Ms. Lewis has been a trailblazer in both the school and district levels. She has consistently improved student achievement, with her initiatives often increasing performance by over 15%. Her innovative approaches to curriculum development, including integrating brainstorming into social studies to inspire creativity and critical thinking, have set a standard for excellence.
Building a Legacy
Ms. Lewis’s career has always been about more than personal achievement. She has dedicated herself to mentoring young
teachers, fostering collaboration within educational teams, and advocating for students and families. Her role as an intermediary between schools and families during her tenure as Virtual Learning Liaison demonstrates her commitment to ensuring every child has access to quality education, even in challenging circumstances.
Reflecting on her journey, Ms. Lewis credits her grandmother for instilling in her the value of education. “My grandmother often said education was the key to becoming anything we desired and going anywhere in the world,” Ms. Lewis shared in a past interview. These lessons became the cornerstone of her philosophy as an educator, where she strives to instill a belief in possibility and resilience in her students.
When asked about being named Alumni of the Year, Ms. Lewis expressed deep gratitude. “I am deeply honored to be recognized as ATC’s Alumni of the Year. As a proud graduate, I attribute much of my success to the foundation I built at Albany Tech. This acknowledgment motivates me to continue impacting the lives of others through education.”
Dr. Emmett Griswold, President of Albany Technical College, commended Ms. Lewis for her accomplishments, stating, “Jennifer Lewis embodies the spirit of our college. Her passion for education and commitment to service exemplify the values we strive to instill in our students.”
A Symbol of Success
Ms. Lewis’s achievements emphasize the influential power of technical education. As Albany Technical College’s Alumni of the Year, she serves as a symbol of inspiration for current students and alumni alike. Her life’s work demonstrates how technical education can lay the foundation for impactful careers that make a difference in the community.
As ATC celebrates its 2025 honoree, it also recognizes the vital role alumni like Ms. Lewis play in advancing the college’s mission. Her story underscores the potential of every student to create lasting change and achieve greatness.
Ms. Lewis’s recognition as Alumni of the Year is not just a celebration of her accomplishments—it is an example of how education can transform lives, and the enduring legacy of Albany Technical College graduates.
James Shaw
SAFETY, SERVICE, AND SCHOLARSHIP: Protecting Futures
On and Off the Job
Dr. James Shaw knows the value of a strong foundation—and for him, that foundation began at Albany Technical College.
A 2003 graduate of the Applied Manufacturing Technology program, James credits Albany Tech with providing the technical skills and professional confidence that have helped shape his career. “ATC gave me a solid foundation to build my personal and professional skills,” he says. “It helped me provide for my family, opened doors in manufacturing safety, and ignited a passion for teaching.”
Today, James serves as Safety Manager at Molson-Coors Beverage Company, where he oversees health and safety practices in a major manufacturing environment. His credentials reflect a deep commitment to excellence: he holds certifications as a Certified Safety Professional (CSP) and Certified Instructional Trainer (CIT) through the Board of Certified Safety Professionals and is an active member of the American Society of Safety Professionals.
Education has remained a driving force in his journey. Since earning his degree at Albany Tech, James has gone on to teach full-time and adjunct courses at Columbia Southern University and Waldorf University, sharing his expertise in both manufacturing and safety disciplines. He completed his doctoral studies in Occupational Safety and Health at Columbia Southern University in July.
“Albany Tech confirmed my desire to continue learning and to give back through teaching,” he says. His short-term goal was to complete his doctorate, and long-term, he plans to remain in safety leadership while potentially returning to the classroom.
From factory floors to university forums, James Shaw demonstrates how Albany Technical College empowers its graduates to protect, lead, and inspire.
Lisa Y. Stephens' journey began with a dual enrollment course at Albany Tech—and has evolved into a powerful dual impact in both healthcare and education.
A 2002 graduate of Albany Tech’s Patient Care Assistant program, Lisa credits the experience as her professional springboard. “Albany Technical College was my start in healthcare,” she says. “Through dual enrollment, I was introduced to a field I might never have explored otherwise. That early exposure gave me confidence and a clear path forward before I even finished high school.”
Today, Lisa serves in dual roles at Albany Tech and Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital, drawing from a deep well of academic and leadership experience. She holds multiple degrees, including a Master of Business Administration with an emphasis in Healthcare from Mercer University and a Bachelor of Medical Science in Medical Imaging Education from Emory University School of Medicine. Her credentials include advanced technical certificates in CT and MRI, as well as quality assurance and instructional expertise.
Beyond the classroom and clinical environment, Lisa is a recognized leader statewide. She recently chaired the board of directors for the Georgia Society of Radiologic Technologists and has served as president and officer in that organization and the Georgia Educators Association of Radiation and Medical Imaging. She is a member of the Executive Board of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce, a board member for Leadership Albany Board, and a recipient of the 2025 NISOD Excellence Award, which celebrates innovation and impact in higher education. Lisa is also an active member of the Americus Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., where she continues to serve her community through service, sisterhood, and social action.
Her leadership legacy also includes student success. As a SkillsUSA adviser, Lisa helped guide Albany Tech’s chapter to win the college’s first-ever Gold Chapter of Distinction honor in 2017–2018. Most recently, she has played a central role in the development of the Phoebe Living and Learning Community, a groundbreaking initiative that provides housing, academic support, and holistic student success programming for nursing and allied health students.
“Inspired by creating opportunities that change lives,” Lisa says, “I believe success comes from strategic planning, collaboration, and staying focused on impact. Excellence isn’t accidental—it’s the result of consistent, intentional effort and believing in the value of your work”.
Looking ahead, Lisa plans to expand business and healthcare career exploration at Albany Tech through initiatives like “Are You Man Enough to Be in Healthcare?” and new summer camps targeting underrepresented students. Long-term, she intends to pursue a doctorate in Workforce Education to continue shaping education and training systems that elevate both opportunity and leadership.
Lisa Stephens
FROM DUAL ENROLLMENT TO DUAL IMPACT Leading in
MISSION-DRIVEN TECH: Securing Success in Service and Cybersecurity Patricia “Kay” Rowland
For Patricia “Kay” Rowland, a leap into technology as a nontraditional student at Albany Technical College became a launchpad to a long and meaningful career in service to her country.
A 2010 graduate of the Computer Information Systems –Networking Specialist (Microsoft Windows Network Administrator) program, Kay entered Albany Tech with determination and left equipped with the knowledge and confidence to thrive in a demanding field. “ATC provided me with a wonderful opportunity to become a knowledgeable and productive student of Information Technology,” she says. “Instructors like Elaine Mercer, Tim Edwards, Charlie Griffin, and J.D. Willard were instrumental in giving me the tools for success.”
Those tools quickly opened doors. While still a student, Kay earned a trainee position at the Marine Depot Maintenance Command (MDMC) aboard Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany. Sixteen years later, she’s still there—now serving as an Information Systems Security Officer (ISSO) for several U.S. Marine Corps test equipment systems. In her role, she manages hardware and software procurement, inventory assignments, database administration, and serves as Information Owner for a global USMC website. She maintains her Security+ certification—a Department of Defense requirement—and commits to continuous annual training to stay current. “Technology changes daily,” she notes. “My goal is to stay ahead of those changes to better support the Marines in the field.”
Her career is marked by a long list of honors and leadership roles. She was named Civilian Marine of the Quarter in 2023 and received numerous performance, time-off, and special act awards across nearly two decades of federal service. Kay is also a past chairperson of the Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) Communications and Leadership Committee, a former road race coordinator for Aids Athens, and a longtime volunteer for events like the Snickers Marathon. She holds several industry certifications including PC Repair and Network Technician, Microsoft Networking, and Network Administrator.
A former GOAL nominee and National Technical Honor Society member, Kay returned to Albany Tech as the guest speaker for the 2010 Fall Commencement and served on the college’s Computer Information Systems Advisory Board. Beyond her professional life, she is an active 3.5-ranked player and board member with the Albany Tennis and Pickle Ball Association and a proud member of the United States Tennis Association (USTA).
What’s next? More certifications, more learning, and continued excellence. “As policy changes, so do my responsibilities,” she says. “I want to be prepared to grow within my position as best I can.” “Know that your skillset and attitude are your best assets for success.”
Know that your skillset and attitude are your best assets for success.
Derrick S. Teemer Sr. didn’t just earn degrees at Albany Technical College—he built a lifelong mission to serve, uplift, and engineer better living conditions for others.
A two-time graduate of Albany Tech, Derrick completed the Air Conditioning Technology program in 2001 and earned an associate degree in Electrical & Computer Engineering Technology in 2015. Today, he serves as Director of Maintenance for the Albany Housing Authority, where he leads efforts to improve the quality of life for residents across the city.
“My educational tenure at ATC opened doors for me,” Derrick shares. “The knowledge and skills I gained allowed me to take on roles that positively impact the living facilities of others. It gives me great pleasure to provide a better quality of life for the people I serve.”
During his time at Albany Tech, Derrick worked closely with mentors like Emmett Griswold, Dennis Courtney, Manual Hall III, and the McGee sisters, Noreen and Maureen. He also helped launch the college’s first engineering club and assisted with its robotics program—early indicators of his leadership and passion for innovation.
Derrick Teemer
ENGINEERING CHANGE:
A Career Built on Service and Skill
His accomplishments stretch beyond the classroom. Derrick holds a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology from DeVry University and became a licensed State of Georgia Conditioned Air Contractor in 2013. He has worked as a Maintenance Supervisor and Service Manager with housing companies nationwide and previously returned to Albany Tech as an adjunct instructor in the Air Conditioning Technology program.
“My short-term goal is to make the maintenance department at the Albany Housing Authority one of the premier departments in Georgia,” he says. “Long term, I want to own and operate my own housing community.”
From classroom leader to city-wide changemaker, Derrick Teemer exemplifies how Albany Technical College alumni continue to lead with heart, hands, and high standards.
Jwana L. Washington’s career path proves that the skills you learn in one field can empower you in many others. What began in a Surgical Technology classroom at Albany Technical College has evolved into a dynamic journey of leadership, advocacy, and lifelong learning.
A 2000 graduate of Albany Tech, Jwana credits the college with teaching her tenacity and igniting her love for learning. “If you stick to it, eventually you will master it,” she says. “Albany Tech showed me the value of being a lifelong learner. As a former GOAL winner, I will forever treasure the opportunity to see so many of my peers excel.”
Now serving as Executive Director of Keep Albany-Dougherty Beautiful, Jwana uses her leadership to make a tangible difference in the community through environmental awareness, civic pride, and volunteer engagement. She has also earned a Bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership from LaGrange College and a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Albany State University, with concentrations in Human Resource Management and Public Management.
Her passion for communication and leadership extends beyond the workplace. She is the current president of Artesian Toastmasters Club #3379, a member of the Albany chapter of Blacks In Government, and proudly serves on the Albany Tech Foundation Board.
Looking ahead, Jwana plans to grow her public speaking skills and possibly launch a podcast to spotlight the stories of people she finds inspiring.
Her journey—from the precision of the operating room to the frontlines of community engagement—illustrates how Albany Tech graduates can lead with clarity, heart, and purpose.
Jwana
Greetings Alum,
It’s a great day to be a Titan. I am Michelle Williams, the Executive Director for Institutional Advancement, and I am proud to be a Titan. I am excited to serve as your point of contact for Alumni-related information and I am hopeful that you will accept this message as an open invitation to reconnect with your alma mater in meaningful and exciting ways.
As an Alumni, you are a vital part of the Titan legacy. Whether you graduated last year or decades ago, your story matters. There are great initiatives taking place on campus and in the community that highlight many of the academic programs in which you are affiliated. We are proud of the students we serve, and we are especially fond of the college's alumni population.
My office is here to support alumni initiatives and foster lifelong relationships between you and the college. Please don’t hesitate to contact me directly with your ideas, questions, or just to say hello. I look forward to working with each of you as we collaborate and have a record-breaking year for Alumni participation.
Michelle Williams
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albanytech.edu As set forth in its LEGACY Magazine, Albany Technical College complies with the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG). The TCSG State Board prohibits discrimination on the basis of an individual’s age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status (“protected status”). No individual shall be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise subjected to unlawful discrimination, harassment, or retaliation under, any TCSG program or activity because of the individual’s protected status; nor shall any individual be given preferential treatment because of the individual’s protected status, except the preferential treatment may be given on the basis of veteran status when appropriate under federal or state law.