The Cadence 2021: A Year of Triumph

T H E

M A G A Z I N E

F O R

G M C

A L U M N I

A N D

F R I E N D S

2021

A YEAR OF TRIUMPH C A M PA I G N U P DAT E

EVENTS FROM WEEKEND OF

2021 - 2022

BE the ONE

MILITARY HERITAGE

UPCOMING EVENTS

THE MAGAZINE FOR GMC ALUMNI AND FRIENDS

Georgia Military College 201 East Greene Street Milledgeville, GA 31061 Phone: (478) 387-0230 Fax: (478) 445-2867

President William B. Caldwell IV LtGen, USA (Ret.)

INSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT Mark Strom Senior VP for Institutional Development Executive Director - The GMC Foundation

Sally Thrower Associate VP for Institutional Development

Janeen Garpow Director of Development Communications

Denise Wansley Business Manager - The GMC Foundation

Craig Portwood Director of Alumni & Community Engagement

Ravonda Bargeron Graphic Designer

Jennifer Greer Annual Fund Officer

Jennifer Stasney Executive Assistant

Alisha Overman Senior Data Analyst

Meg Gray Development Office Specialist

OFFICE OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS Jobie Shields Director of Public Affairs

TEAM SUPPORT Jay Bentley Contributing Photographer

Anna Lynn Garrett Contributing Writer

Michael Lerzo Contributing Photographer

The images and information contained herein are the property of Georgia Military College. Unauthorized use of this material for commercial or other purposes that are inconsistent with the goals and policies of Georgia Military College is prohibited.

COVER PHOTO: GMC ECP Cadets at commissioning ceremony in May

INSIDE 12 20 26 42 44 49 50

Prep School News Briefs Junior College News Briefs Corps of Cadets News Briefs Campus News Athletics Class Notes Taps

F E AT U R E S 4

A Year of Triumph

8

Be the One

Leaning Forward Amidst Pandemic Challenges

Campaign Update

18

The Smith Brothers

24

Winemaker Justin McNeill

30

Performing Arts

31

Upcoming Concerts

32

Military Heritage Weekend

36

Alumni Awards 2020

40 41

New Track & Field Complex

Prep Alumni Spotlight

Junior College Alumni Spotlight

2020-2021 Performances

2021-2022

Hall of Heroes, Grand Tattoo

Award Recipients Honored (on campus) from Virtual Alumni Weekend

Georgia Military Veterans Hall of Fame Inductee MG Peter J. Boylan Jr., USA (Ret)

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the entire human race, creating a disruption to our day to day lives unlike anything most of us have ever experienced. In an instant, we became a world rocked by confusion, fear, and uncertainty. Economies retracted.

Millions of jobs were lost. Medical systems bent under the weight of the virus. Classrooms were closed and students were sent home. For a brief moment in time, life as we knew it came to a standstill.

We were told to stay home, avoid contact, and stay safe, while the COVID-19 virus raged on.

For many across our state and nation, days turned into weeks, and then months of isolation. The lives so many of us once took for granted - the good health of our loved ones, daily commutes to work, in-person learning for our students, and gathering with family and friends came to a sudden halt.

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We must meet the challenge rather

As the pandemic entered its third month, GMC than wish it were not before us. found itself at a turning point. It was clear that a one size – William J. Brennan, Jr., fits all virtual education solution was not ideal. The Former Associate Justice school’s number one priority of ensuring student of the U.S. Supreme Court success was being put to the test. There was no playbook, no contingency plans for any school to deal with a global disruption of this magnitude. GMC was no different, yet it would soon pave its own path.

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It was at this critical point that GMC leaned forward, while so many other schools and colleges stood still. Under the strong and decisive leadership of President LtGen William B. Caldwell, IV, the faculty and staff of Georgia Military College engaged. Beginning in June 2020, less than three months from the start of the pandemic, GMC reopened its doors to in-seat instruction, becoming what we believe was the first school in the state of Georgia to do so.

And, it has remained open ever since.

In the face of so much uncertainty, the GMC family embraced the challenges of the unknown, and found solutions, for the benefit of our students.

The GMC mission, our vision, was too important, and we refused to leave any student behind. The measure of success was evident on June 26, 2020, when 100% of the Prep School Class of 2020

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A YEA

AR OF

graduated in-person on Grant Parade.

As the summer progressed, in-person graduations were held at every GMC campus across the state. The administration, faculty, and staff never wavered in their enthusiasm to ensure the sacrifices our students had made over their time at GMC were honored and celebrated at a live graduation ceremony.

The summer of 2020 became a time of preparation. In June, President Caldwell announced that all instruction would be open to in-seat instruction in the fall. The GMC family sprang into action to ensure our students would be able to return to campus safely as soon as possible. The GMC Foundation and Alumni Association fully partnered with the school to guarantee this goal would be realized. Heavy investments were made in the latest technologies, including rapid temperature checking stations, UV wands to sterilize high traffic surfaces, fogging machines and chemicals, bi-polar ionization air purification technology, and enhanced ventilation, all to make the buildings at all of our 14 campuses safer. In addition, a Five-Step Program: Preventing the Spread of COVID-19 built on respect Over this past year our GMC family for others was developed for our school demonstrated what makes GMC so special — communities to follow. GMC viewed the the strength and resiliency of our students, parents, Five-Step Program as an extension of our faculty, and staff, who ensure our students receive character-based educational mission.

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the best education possible during a challenging time.

By creating a safe and effective learning environment at GMC, we can now celebrate a year of triumph.

– President Caldwell

As the calendar turned to August, most educational institutions were planning to continue with remote learning for the fall.

GMC chose to walk a different path. From Day 1 of the fall term, the doors were opened. Thus, Georgia Military College began an extra-ordinary journey for the 2021 school year. It was filled with constant change, but instead of focusing on the challenges faced due to the pandemic, we will remember it more for the incredible dedication of our faculty and staff, the enthusiasm and passion of our students, and the resiliency of our 141-year institution at large.

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GMC Persistence and determination alone mitigated the are omnipotent. The slogan ‘Press On’ threat of returning to has solved and always will solve the in-seat learning through a problems of the human race. variety of strategic tactics.

– Calvin Coolidge GMC leadership followed CDC guidelines by placing hand sanitizing stations across campus, limiting student gatherings, and promoting social distancing. For Prep students, temperatures were checked before entering the school. Every person on campus was encouraged to carry a mask at all times and use it when necessary. Our students were never required to wear a mask, although they did, because they were taught to have courtesy and respect for their classmates, teachers, and community. GMC even took precautions a step further, by investing heavily in ventilation and air purification systems, in every building, on every campus.

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GMC did everything it could to provide the safest learning environment possible for our preparatory school and college students. With careful consideration from a strong committee of GMC leadership and medical professionals, we implemented the Five-Step Program to prevent the introduction and spread of COVID-19.

Our Five Steps: 1. If in Doubt - Stay Out. 2. No Entry If You Have a Fever.

3. Enhanced Cleaning and New Technology.

4. Respect and Courtesy Are GMC Values.

5. Etiquette and Self-Responsibility

Visit www.gmc.edu/current-students/coronavirus-info.cms for additional details about our Five-Step Program.

Five-Step Program of COVID-19 Preventing the Spread

1.

2.

3.

4.

Out. If in Doubt - Stay

or higher; a fever (studentsStay home if you have symptoms. o higher) or COVID-19 related faculty/staff-100.4 or

100o

a Fever.

No Entry If You Have r their

to monito Everyone is required have their temperature temperature and will any GMC facility. read before entering

. and New Technology Enhanced Cleaning ed with ionizers, been equipp GMC facilities have sanitation stations.

UV wands, and hand-

Are GMC Values.

Respect and Courtesy face covering or mask is required to have a Everyone ted ed to wear it in conges on campus and expect le. distancing isn’t possib areas or when social

5.

esponsibility. ce Etiquette and Self-R (20 sec.), social distan hands Everyone should wash tless greetings, etc. when possible, contac

g and healthy learnin s on campus in a safe Educating student all part of the top priority. We are environment is GMC’s Program effective. the GMC Five-Step solution in making

We adapted teaching methods and technology so if students chose to, they could continue with remote learning. If a student did want to return to campus, they now had a safe environment to receive in-person learning once again.

During this remarkable year, our students, our faculty, our communities all rose to the challenge. We’ve seen students grow and learn thanks to hands-on instruction in our classrooms, and sports teams compete and excel at the highest level. In a year where we could have let our limitations hold us back, we allowed the challenge to spur us on further in our journey with even greater momentum.

Once GMC opened in August of 2020, the institution never once shut down due to COVID - a remarkable feat. Our Junior College Corps of Cadets remained free of active cases in the barracks for nearly the entire year. Once available, GMC leadership, in partnership with local departments of health and private pharmacies, coordinated vaccination clinics on our campuses to make the vaccinations more available to our faculty and staff, ensuring any staff member who wished to receive the vaccine could do so conveniently right on campus.

Our Prep School One Act students were able to perform in front of a live audience again this year, achieving 2nd place at the State Competition. Our Prep School athletes were able to compete in GHSA competitions, reaching new goals and achieving state-level recognition. The Boys’ Soccer team won the GHSA State Championship, making them back-to-back state champs. Our Prep Track and Field athletes performed exceptionally at the state level, with Senior De’Aisha Stephens winning first place in the Long Jump. The Literary and Rifle teams both took home state championship titles as well.

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While the NJCAA canceled athletic competitions for the fall, our Men’s and Women’s JC Golf teams and Women’s Softball team were grateful to compete this spring. In March 2021, GMC resumed hosting Parades, and by the end of the school year, all Prep and JC Cadets were able to participate in this GMC time-honored tradition.

The 142nd GMC Corps of Cadets celebrated one of the largest commissioning classes, and Georgia Military College awarded the largest number of associate degrees in the history of the institution, with 1,992 earning their diplomas this year.

GMC was immensely blessed by the generosity of our donors this year. Our supporters answered the call to Be the One and have supported our students even amidst the most challenging circumstances of our lifetime. The GMC Foundation stepped up with over $500,000 in financial support to create a COVID-19 Crisis Humanitarian Fund, to provide scholarship support for students at any GMC facility across the state, whose families were economically harmed by this unprecedented crisis.

As we graduate the next generation of leaders, we stand proudly on the hallowed grounds that so many have passed throughout our history.

GMC not only survived this most challenging year, it has thrived. Despite all odds, it has been a year of triumph. When so many others stood still, the GMC family leaned forward and embraced the unknown.

A YEAR OF TRIUMPH

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To every student, to every employee, to the alumni and friends of GMC…we are grateful!

A new generation of GMC alums are poised to embark on their own personal journeys. We know their stories don’t end here. Truly, they are just beginning. Our newest alumni will certainly face more storms in life, but we hope the lessons of resilience, determination and persistence our students have learned at GMC will serve as a guide throughout their lives. Our mission has been accomplished.

And once the storm is over, you won’t remember

how you made it through, how you managed to survive.

You won’t even be sure, whether the storm is really over.

But one thing is certain. When you come out of the storm, you won’t be the same person who walked in.

That’s what this storm’s all about.”

– Haruki Murakam

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Be The One: The Campaign for Georgia Military College is the largest comprehensive fundraising campaign in the history of the school. With a goal to raise $15 million dollars by 2024, this campaign is a movement of generosity, ignited by the entire GMC community to support the growth and success of the institution. As you may know, we moved from the quiet phase to the public launch of the campaign in December 2020, asking you to Be The One to pave the way for the next generation of students.

hope giving

We are proud to share the impact of your giving:

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Estate Gifts

12

Annual

totaling

$972,500

Scholarships Established

13%

23

increase in

President's Circle Membership

Endowed

Scholarships Established

Quiet Phase Successes (July 1, 2017 – December 3, 2020)

This campaign is centered around the four distinct priorities of giving hope, providing opportunity, instilling excellence, and developing leadership for the next generation.

The purpose of the campaign is to impact GMC in a way that gives our current and future students more tools to succeed in our Preparatory School, our Corps of Cadets, and all of our college campuses across the state of Georgia.

We invite you to read about our dedicated college faculty member, Dr. Aman Kay, as well as prep school parents Kelli and Boyce Rutherford who have accepted the call to Be The One by giving to this campaign.

You will also enjoy reading about Cadet Maria Figueroa, a current GMC cadet whose life has been impacted by the opportunities afforded to her at GMC. For more campaign spotlight stories, we encourage you to visit: alumni.gmc.edu/be-the-one-campaign/.

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Dr. Aman Kay spends his days teaching English and Humanities at Georgia Military College’s Augusta campus, but his heart for students surpasses merely educating them in the fields of English composition or world literature. Dr. Kay cites the Martin Luther King, Jr. quote, “Intelligence plus character—that is the goal of true education,” as a central motivator for him as he instructs students and prepares them for opportunities in their future.

“Daily interaction with my students in a relaxed and yet structured teaching-learning environment and seeing their genuine motivation and interest in learning and expanding the scope of their knowledge and skills is my favorite aspect of daily life at work,” shared Dr. Kay. What is so remarkable about Dr. Kay is that his season of life at GMC-Augusta is one he ventured into after leading a successful career at various levels in the American educational system as well as with the Department of Defense. At the Department of Defense, Dr. Kay had the privilege of working with military men and women from all four services and the civilian federal government agencies during two wars.

After working twelve years at the Department of Defense, Dr. Kay retired and joined the GMC-Augusta campus in 2011 as a tutor and an adjunct professor. In 2013, he was offered a full-time position as an assistant professor. He served as an Assistant Professor of English and Humanities. In 2016, Dr. Kay was awarded a Professor rank at GMC. Through his time working at GMC-Augusta, Dr. Kay has realized the importance of a junior college in building the best bridges for future achievements. “This realization has particularly impacted my life as I do my best to be better organized in preparing our students for future challenges. I, too, have developed a clearer understanding of why it is vital to have commitment to and respect for one’s community,” he notes.

Dr. Kay has a sincere respect for the traditions on which GMC is founded. “GMC is structured on military, academic, civil and other American traditions that are singular and honorable. My dream is that we will continue to retain and respect those traditions and at the same time explore fresh possibilities,” he noted.

Dr. Kay is also deeply loyal to Georgia Military College and the students he has the opportunity to teach. “I can share countless stories of former students who went on to receive higher degrees and have become successful professionals. I am delighted that I had a very small role in their success as they constantly express their gratitude to GMC. Against all the challenges, our students keep pressing forward, and I can only think about the difference in their futures. That keeps motivating me to support GMC students,” he said.

He expresses that loyalty each day as he teaches but also shares it through the financial gifts he gives to GMCAugusta. He shared: “I’ve learned that it is not the amount of what you can offer that matters, but the spirit of what you can offer that becomes a contagious quality. When you help one student, you are helping several other individuals who are somehow connected to that one student. They go on to be constructive in life and will be a positive influence in their communities. In the long term, this becomes a circle of success and productivity, and you will always be a part of it. You have forever touched the future of this land and the world in a proud and constructive manner.”

Since the 1970s, Dr. Kay has published a multitude of articles, book reviews, and his own prose and poetry books.

He has also presented professional papers and book chapters in academic circles and universities in America and overseas.

providing

opportunity

He reflects daily on the wisdom and integrity of the following words: “A hundred times every day I remind myself that my inner and outer life depends on the labors of other people, living and dead, and that I must exert myself in order to give in the measure as I have received and am still receiving.” – Albert Einstein

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Kelli and Boyce Rutherford have been proud GMC Prep School parents and supporters since 2012. Kelli was an attorney for 22 years and has been a Juvenile Court Judge for the Ocmulgee Judicial Circuit since the fall of 2020. Boyce owns his own timber business, Rutherford Timber Harvesting.

This Jones County family wished for their children, Luke and Lauren, to be in a strong academic environment that taught traditional American values, so they were instantly drawn to GMC’s ideals. Kelli’s father served in the National Guard – she was raised on the notion of respect and honor for the United States and the American flag. “Once our son Luke started in the 6th grade and we went to our first GMC parade, the school felt like home,” noted Kelli.

Luke, the Rutherford’s oldest child thrived as a student at GMC. He was motivated by the different awards and rank structure. “Luke really came out of his shell with the opportunities GMC gave him. The luncheons and dinners where he got to meet with VIP guests and officials helped him mature. He learned how to speak to an adult in conversation and shake hands, all while he was still in high school. Those are the kinds of experiences you just don’t get everywhere,” Kelli said.

Luke graduated from GMC Prep in 2019. He was a dual-enrollment student and graduated with his associate degree from GMC on the very same day. Luke is now studying mechanical engineering at Georgia Institute of Technology. The family notes that GMC Prep’s academic structure was pivotal in helping Luke prepare well for the rigor of college, and activities like raiders, wrestling, and football helped instill the confidence Luke needed. MAJ Todd Van Dine’s influence on Luke was especially meaningful. The GMC Prep Raiders Coach was pivotal in helping Luke get healthy and thrive on and off the Raiders course.

Kelli and Boyce’s daughter, Lauren, is a rising senior at GMC Prep and has benefited from the many leadership and extracurricular opportunities GMC provides its students. Lauren is active in the fine arts department, especially the theatre program and One Act. She is captain of the cheerleading team, plays golf for GMC Prep, and was Battalion Commander her 8th grade year. She has been chosen to serve as the High School Battalion Commander for the upcoming school year.

Lauren is a driven student and has set a future goal to attend medical school. “We have no doubt she is prepared to go wherever she needs to go,” Kelli shared. Kelli and Boyce are confident in Lauren’s ability to excel after she graduates from GMC Prep thanks to the character-based education GMC provides.

The Rutherfords have seen Luke and Lauren flourish through GMC’s fine arts and raiders programs, and because of that, the family financially supports those programs to continue to help other students. “GMC has offered such valuable extracurricular activities for our kids. Luke and Lauren have built specific athletic and artistic skills but also learned other vital lessons like teamwork, stamina, and patience,” Kelli said.

“Not many schools can offer the structure, discipline, honor and respect that GMC does. Because of that, we want more students to come to GMC and for the school to succeed well into the future. That is why we give back to the school. I feel like we need character and honor instilled in

instilling

our young people. The more

excel- lence

students who have this GMC experience, the better

America will be."

Today, we ask for your support of this movement of generosity. Your gift, no matter the amount, will have a huge, immediate and lasting impact. Your commitment will allow us to stay focused on our core mission of developing the intellect and elevating the character of our students.

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developing

leader- ship

2LT Maria Figueroa Think of successful leaders in the world and you’ll notice many things they all have in common – confidence, expertise and training, strong leadership and character. 2LT Maria Figueroa knew that in order to excel in the military she needed those qualities, and she set out on a journey to develop them in herself.

2LT Figueroa hails from Tacoma, Washington. She was a part of an ROTC program at a fouryear-college in her home state when she realized a change was needed in order for her to reach

her goals. With an aspiration to become a Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO), Maria realized she required more experience and training. Through researching ROTC programs at other schools, she was intrigued by the Army’s Early Commissioning Program and the opportunities that would be offered to her through it.

“While researching the Early Commissioning Program, Georgia Military College quickly popped up on my radar.

I had always wanted to live in the south. I also thought being immersed in a military college would give me the preparation I really needed, so I knew GMC would be a perfect fit,” noted 2LT Figueroa.

So her GMC journey began, and she has excelled in every opportunity awarded to her. As a plebe, Maria was promoted to Sergeant First Class and was subsequently named Plebe Trainer coming out of her Plebe Quarter. This past year, she served as the S1 for ROTC and was also the S1 on the Regimental Staff for the Corps of Cadets. Maria participated in Color Guard and served as Company Commander as well.

“Maria is a remarkable young woman. I was extremely impressed by her determination to succeed, commitment to excellence, and her positive can-do attitude. During her time at GMC, she demonstrated unparalleled dedication to serve our nation and her exceptional leadership abilities, setting her apart from her peers. She consistently excelled on any given task in her journey to earn a commission as 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Army,” shared LTC Robel Ramirez, Deputy Commandant for the GMC Corps of Cadets.

Maria’s journey to becoming a confident leader is one that inspires.

Much patience was required of her as she decided to leave her school in Washington state and move across the country to attend GMC, but her determination and grit has paid off.

“My whole experience at GMC was transformative. I was a different person

before coming to GMC. I have already completed 5 years in the military, but prior to attending GMC, I hadn’t had the leadership experiences that I was offered at GMC. I am very grateful for the mentoring I received from the cadre. I didn’t have family close by and I turned to the ROTC cadre to help me when I needed them. My family always tells me they are proud of how much I have grown. Some days were hard, but that is what I came to GMC for,” she stated.

While Maria certainly developed her leadership abilities in the Corps, she also developed true confidence in herself.

“Before coming to GMC, I doubted myself and my abilities to be a leader. I’m so proud of the leadership skills I developed throughout my time in the Corps, thanks to the mentoring offered to me. Now when I look back, I ask, how could I have ever doubted myself?”

Maria recently completed her time in the GMC Corps of Cadets and commissioned on May 19th, 2021, as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army. She is now finishing up her bachelor’s degree in International Studies in Oklahoma, where she will be for the next two years. 2LT Figueroa was one of the four cadets who were selected for active duty, so she will be going into active duty upon completion of her degree. She plans on branching aviation and will work towards achieving that goal over the next three years.

We believe that your support will be a tribute to the positive impact GMC has made to many people’s lives. Most importantly, it is a testament to the belief that affordable, accessible, quality education is a critical element of thriving communities.

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NewsBriefs

PREPARATORY SCHOOL

K-2 Grades Added for Fall 2021

Eagle Scout Honors

GMC Preparatory School will reinstate kindergarten, 1st, and 2nd grades to the existing elementary program for school year 2021-22. Two kindergarten classrooms will be in the Annex, and all 1st through 5th classrooms will be in Jenkins Hall. GMC Prep’s commitment to developing the intellect and elevating the character of the students they serve remains steadfast. We look forward to the opportunity to welcome students in the primary grades to our GMC Prep School Family.

Prep School eighth-grader Danica Resha became a member of the inaugural class of female Eagle Scouts in the Boy Scouts of America. She earned the highest rank for the Scouts, making her one of only a handful of females in Georgia to do so.

Danica joined the Boy Scouts of America in Danica Resha with February 2019 after the Scouts began admitting Eagle Scout project females to the 110-year-old organization. At the same time, she was also a participant in the GMC Prep School High Adventure Leadership Program, an enrichment class that often partnered with Boy Scouts Troop 87 in Milledgeville and enabled her to work toward earning merit badges.

“I love a good challenge and participating in new activities,” Danica said.

“As soon as I joined Scouts, I set a goal for myself of becoming a member of the inaugural female class of Eagle Scouts. Since that day, I’ve worked hard to make that dream a reality. I can’t begin to describe all the emotions I felt when I was told I’d passed my Eagle board of review.”

For her Eagle Scout project, Danica built a flag-retirement fire pit for the Morris-Little American Legion Post 6. In October, her project was submitted to the National Executive Board of the Boy Scouts of America for completion.

“I was participating in my first flag retirement ceremony at the American Legion and I noticed the flags did not have a special retirement area,” Danica said. “I thought it was important to show my appreciation and respect for our flag by building a special area to hold flag retirement ceremonies.”

A November ceremony held in the Goldstein Center recognized Danica and six other students who earned Eagle Scout rank in the past two years.

BRIGHT IDEAS GRANT Prep School elementary art teacher and GMC alumna Andrea Sammons recently received a 2020 Tri-County EMC Bright Ideas Education Grant in the amount of $1,302.03.

The funds will go towards purchasing books about other countries and cultures to inspire Andrea Sammons Prep students’ artwork. “Our elementary students absolutely love going to art, and they are so motivated by the enthusiasm

and energy Andrea brings to her classes,” GMC Prep School principal Pam Grant said. “Taking BRIGHT IDEAS GRANTS the initiative to apply for the Tri-County EMC Bright Ideas Education Grant is indicative of the type of actions Sammons consistently displays as she always puts her students learning in the visual arts as her number one priority.”

Sammons was one of 24 teachers in Baldwin, Jasper, Jones, and Putnam counties from the pre-K through high school level to receive a 2020 Tri-County EMC Bright Ideas Grant. $1,500 WIN UP TO CLASSROOM! R tion for a FOR YOU Grant Applica

Ideas tive Submit a Bright$1,500 for an innova chance to win classroom project private school d public or 12 in Baldwin, Jones, Georgia certifie grades Pre-Kand Wilkinson teachers in Twiggs Putnam, Jasper, to apply. qualify es Counti on innovation, be judged based t involvement Projects will g objectives, studen goals, learnin and budget

DEADLINE: by Midnight October 15 ms right-ideas.c APPLY: tyemc.com/b www.tri-coun

Jody Hice 10th District Congressional Art Contest

Danica Resha (8th grade), Ty Lightner (11th grade), Landon Smith (9th grade), Jacob Sanford (9th grade), Colby Sanford (12th grade), Hudson Caldwell (12th grade), Andrew Westberry (12th grade) In May, GMC held another ceremony to recognize and honor additional Prep students who earned the highest rank of Eagle Scout in the Scouts of America. Some of those students recognized were members of GMC Prep's High Adventure Leadership Program.

Also in attendance at the ceremony were members of the GMC family who have earned the Rank of Eagle Scout with Scouts of America, which included administrators, staff, and members of the 142nd Corps of Cadets.

for high school students was held in April. Nine GMC Prep students were selected to enter the competion, and awarded a certificate of congressional recognition: Shawn Boyce, 8th; Jillian Rourke, 9th; Wyatt Baugh 10th; Hannah Frazier, 12th; Olivia Hood, 12th; Levi Wooden, 12th; Jacob Steele, 12th; Madison Watson, 12th; and Bryanna Whidby, 12th.

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Carter Bowes (9th grade), Tyler Loerzel (9th grade), Carson Smith (12th grade), Mason Seymour (12th grade), Joseph McMillan (12th grade), Nicholas McHan (12th grade)

NewsBriefs

PREPARATORY SCHOOL

PREP SPRING ART SHOWS The elementary art classes made a huge reveal of all the creative projects they did this year at the Spring Art show, held in Jenkins Hall and the Annex. Projects included food themes, collagraphs, watercolor, sculptures, paper collages of food, Chef drawings, pottery food sculptures, cardboard frames with clay portraits, Greek vases, Styrofoam prints, and more.

The middle and high school art classes had art displayed in the Chamber, and the theme was Art Connects Us. The students did many self-portraits, still life

Isabella Zabala

NEW DRONE CLASS FOR PREP STUDENTS

drawings, linoleum carvings, empty clay bowls, Youth Art Month flag designs, rose windows, symmetrical name designs, and many more projects to show how we are all connected.

Isabella Zabala won Best in the Show for her work of art: Resilience. Other first place winners were: Cameron Duke, Sophia Wood, Abigail Johnson, Raylea Batchelor, Morgan Hill, Kathleen Augustine, Ellie Westmorland, Ava Kate Martin, Joyce Chow, Alie Branan, Emily Gates, Kaylee Bell, Kyla Reddick, Taylor Housworth, Millie Chapman, Carson Smith, Emily Jackson, Madison Watson, Olivia Hood, Jackson Miller, Blake Griffin, Wyatt Baugh, Bryanna Whidby, Hiya Patel, and Dasia Harris.

GMC Prep School started an exciting new class this school year that taught students the basics of flying drones. Prep School teacher, Major Michael Lerzo teaches the class to students in grades 9-12th.

Students in the class learn 3D mapping using drones, the basics of photography, how to edit photos and much more. They are able to use the beautiful campus of GMC, and downtown Milledgeville as their practice subjects. Students even program flight paths throughout campus to capture over 1,000 images and compiled them into a 3D model of the campus.

The class takes to the skies again this fall and is preparing for a new group of students to learn this innovative technology. The Prep School is very thankful to the Bulldog Club for funding the equipment needed for this class and for investing in the future of our students.

Holiday Card Contest Prep School visual arts director, Paige Barlow, worked with her students to create beautiful renderings of GMC at Christmas.

This was the first year GMC used student artwork for the holiday card that is shared with donors and alumni. Grades 3-12 participated, with competitions within

elementary, middle and high school students. The remarkable talent of these students was evident to the judges.

Brian Renko from Allied Arts joined Beegee Baugh and GMC President LtGen William B. Caldwell IV in November to judge GMC Prep School’s Christmas art contest.

The art was printed on cards, and will showcase the students' work in a longlasting and memorable way.

Congratulations to the three overall winners: Isabella Zaballa (high school), Ella Purser (middle school), and Ethan Barker (elementary school).

Contest art chosen: (left) Isabella Zabala, 11th grade (center) Ella Purser, 7th grade (right) Ethan Barker, 4th grade

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NewsBriefs

PREPARATORY SCHOOL

PAM GRANT TRANSITIONS TO ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT ROLE before advancing to Assistant Pam Grant has transitioned Principal in 2005 and Principal to the position of GMC in 2015. She will remain with Prep School Assistant GMC Prep School serving as Superintendent, Assistant Superintendent reporting to GMC for the 2021-2022 President and academic year, a time of Prep School expansion when the Prep Superintendent, School will add kindergarten Lieutenant General (Ret) through second grade.

William B. Caldwell IV. Under Grant’s tenure as “Pam has been with us principal, GMC Prep School has Pam Grant since the beginning of her maintained students’ AP scores professional career and has that exceed state and global pass rates, helped grow the Prep School exponentially. had record levels of student Dual Having her expertise in a new way next Enrollment participation, recorded a 100% year will only help us to provide the best graduation rate for more than a decade, possible educational experience for our won multiyear consecutive state students,” said Caldwell. championships in sports and the Grant has been with GMC Prep School performing arts, initiated and has grown since 1986, starting as an English teacher

the number of “Class Of” endowed scholarships funded by current students to support future students, had more than $9 million in college scholarship funds awarded to graduates from 2015 to 2019, added the Visual Arts program, and added kindergarten through fifth grade.

“I am extremely honored to be moving to the role of Assistant Superintendent and to still be able to contribute to the Prep School in a whole new way,” said Grant.

“Having the opportunity to be a part of the last piece of our expansion as we add grades K-2 later this year is something very special and dear to me, and I could not be more excited about the future of the Prep School.”

2021 PREP SCHOOL GRADUATION GMC's Prep School graduation was held on May 28th, and 77 Prep students walked across the steps of the Old Capitol Building to receive their diplomas. Ethan Tolletino was the Valedictorian, and

12th year in a row 96% of graduating 15% of class plans to 80% of graduating Graduating seniors GMC Prep School class accepted to a serve our counry in class participated were members of 11 graduated 100% of college or university uniform in the military in GMC's Dual State Championship our senior class - 60 schools total Enrollment program teams with 6 graduates across the country holding at least one individual State Title

Ethan Tolletino Valedictorian

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T HE CADENCE

Dalton Loyd, the Salutatorian for the Class of 2021.

Despite a global pandemic and an academic year unlike any other, this class accomplished great things and finished with a successful year.

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A Year of Triumph

NewsBriefs

PREPARATORY SCHOOL

Dr. Steve Greer Named New Prep School Principal cross-cultural enrichment both Dr. Steve Greer has abroad and in Milledgeville been selected for the between cadets at GMC top administrative Prep School and the position and Royal Hospital School, assumed duties as an independent coed the new GMC Prep school in Suffolk, School Principal.

England. He also served “We’re thrilled to as Prep School wrestling have Dr. Greer as head coach for four years. the new Principal for A retired Army Command GMC Prep School,” said Dr. Steve Greer Sgt. Maj., Dr. Greer has President of Georgia continued his lifetime of Military College, Lieutenant service at GMC Prep School making a General, USA (Ret.), William B. difference in the lives of others. Building Caldwell IV. “He and his family have on the momentum of GMC’s strategic been members of our GMC team for plan set during Grant’s tenure, and with five years, and both of his children an emphasis on student success, Greer graduated from our Prep School. We says in the upcoming year his focus will know Dr. Greer will continue to do great be leading the effort to put a special things for GMC Prep, spearheading new emphasis on a STEAM (Science, programs and opportunities for our Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) students, while continuing to ‘develop curriculum for the K-12 program and will the intellect and elevate the character’ seek STEAM certification. He also says for all.” the Prep School will build upon its Dr. Greer has been with GMC Prep diverse student body and will continue School for five years, serving as Vice to foster a climate of inclusion and Principal for the past two years, respect for all students, faculty, staff, previously serving as Associate Principal and families. for three years. During his time at GMC Greer says GMC Prep School will Prep, Greer has been instrumental in continue to provide a high-quality revamping the Prep School’s discipline educational and character development system to ensure policies are in writing, experience for every student and will consistent, and standards-based. Greer maintain the school’s rich traditions was also instrumental in spearheading and standards of excellence for the United Kingdom International which GMC Prep School is known.

Exchange program that has provided

ALLEN SIMMONS NAMED NEW ASSOCIATE PRINCIPAL LTC Allen Simmons will be serving as a new Associate Principal beginning with the 2021-2022 school year. He will oversee our elementary school program, K-5.

LTC Allen Simmons Allen has done an amazing job juggling his duties teaching history while fully supporting all of our athletic and extra-curricular activities.

We are excited to see his talents at work on the Administrative team and looking forward to all that he will bring to our students, staff, and faculty in his new role.

He has two daughters who attend GMC Prep: Madi Grace (8th grade) and Darci (4th grade). His wife, Amber, is the owner of the Hairbar in downtown Milledgeville.

unique experiences and promoted

ANNUAL HUNT & AUCTION PROVIDES PREP SCHOLARSHIPS 2021 Bill Craig Memorial Pheasant/Quail Hunt and Auction GMC Leadership, Alumni & Friends gathered to remember Bill Craig’s GMC Legacy during the 2021 Continental Pheasant Hunt & Auction on Saturday, February 27, 2021, at Burnt Pine Plantation

in Newborn, Georgia. Proceeds from this annual event benefit the William R. Craig Prep School Scholarship, which provides

assistance to prep school students in need each year. Next year's event will be February 26, 2022.

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APPOINTMENTS AND SIGNINGS

PREP SCHOOL

GMC PREP NAVAL ACADEMY APPOINTMENT

GMC Prep School senior Ethan Tolentino has received an appointment to the United States Naval Academy (USNA). He’s only the second GMC Prep School student to do so. Tolentino visited the Naval Academy for a STEM camp there the summer before his freshman year at GMC Prep School.

Attending a camp far from home wasn’t something Tolentino looked forward to, but once arriving at the USNA campus, he had a change of heart. He says after that summer, his goal has been to one day return to the Naval Academy as a midshipman in the class of 2025. Tolentino served as the Battalion Commander, leading his peers at morning formation, parades, and throughout the school year on campus. At the Naval Academy, he plans to study Computer Science and make a career in the Navy as a Software Engineer. Tolentino will begin his journey at the U.S. Naval Academy this summer.

Congressman Jody Hice and Ethan Tolentino

RECORD BREAKING NUMBER PLAN TO SERVE THEIR NATION Of GMC's 77 Prep School seniors, 12 have made plans to serve in the armed forces, making this the largest group of a graduating

class to do so at GMC Prep School. It is evident that these individuals have taken Duty-Honor-Country to heart, and will continue

to make GMC Prep School proud as they serve their nation.

Hudson Caldwell

Gavin Cantrell

Emily Jackson

Jackson Miller

Colby Sanford

Jacob Steele

3-Year Army ROTC Scholarship University of Alabama

3-Year Army ROTC Scholarship University of North Georgia

3-Year Army ROTC Scholarship University of Alabama

3-Year Army ROTC Scholarship Auburn University

4-Year Army ROTC Scholarship University of Georgia

3-Year Army ROTC Scholarship University of Alabama

SIGNINGS FOR ATHLETIC SCHOLARSHIPS

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De'Ashia Stephens

DeAndria Stephens

Makenna Talcott

Emma Lewis

Signed an ROTC Scholarship and will run track for The Citadel

Signed to play basketball for Southern Union State Community College

Signed to play softball for Midway University

Signed to play golf for Georgia Military College Athletics

A Year of Triumph

AWARDS AND ACHIEVEMENTS

PREP SCHOOL

GMC PREP LITERARY TEAM CAPTURES 6TH CONSECUTIVE STATE CHAMPIONSHIP

State Champions - 6 Years in a Row!

The GMC Prep Literary Team won the GHSA Team State Championship over 122 other competing schools in the Public division for Class A. As the hosts for both the public and private competitions, GMC welcomed over 400 people on our campus for the day-long event.

Our team members really stood out from the crowd as they competed in their individual events, which led to earning points toward the overall State Title.

The winners from this year’s state competition are: Isaaiah Wilson - State Champion Boys Solo Cole Rogers - State Champion Domestic Speaking Gus Nobles and Wyatt Baugh - State Champions in Duo Acting Emerson Ivey - State Runner Up Girls Solo Gus Nobles, Wyatt Baugh, Isaaiah Wilson, and Preston Raburn - State Runner Up Boys Quartet Logan Mitchem, Gabby Sowell, and Abigail Johnson - State Runner Up Girls Trio Alexis Waldroup - State Runner Up Humorous Acting Josey Maddox - 3rd Place Dramatic Acting Logan Mitchem - 3rd Place Personal Essay Nikki Cumba - 4th Place Argumentative Essay

2020-21 STAR STUDENT AND STAR TEACHER development.

Senior Justin Wallace was named the The STAR (Student-Teacher Prep School 2020-2021 STAR Student Achievement Recognition) statewide and Baldwin County system-wide program is overseen and administered winner. Justin selected math teacher, by the Professional Association of Alisha Rochon, to be his STAR Teacher.

Georgia Educators Foundation, or PAGE. The STAR Student has the highest For more than thirty years, the local score on a sponsor for single SAT test the program date in their has been the graduating class Milledgevilleand is in the Baldwin top 10% or Top County 10 students of Chamber of their class based Commerce. on GPA. The Justin STAR Teacher will continue is the teacher to be a who the STAR Bulldog and Student feels attend the has made the University of most significant Georgia in contribution to the fall. their academic Justin Wallace and Alisha Rochon

Distinguished Order of the Servant Leader Awards Twenty three Prep School students are recognized for demonstrating character as they volunteered over 100 hours to serve others during a 12-month period.

Through their time and talent, they earned the Distinguished Order of the Servant Leader Award for the 20202021 school year.

Riley Barsby Emma Brown Kyle Clemons Joshua Craddock Allie Deason Michael Dickey Lyra Domingue Shelby Griffin Olivia Hood Madison Kennedy Anna Grace Koehler Tyler Lightner Tabitha MacCartee Krish Patel Saiya Patel Maddox Raburn Danica Resha Franklin Rogers James Ross Colby Sanford Jacob Sanford Annabelle Warren Kamryn Willis

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10th 8th 7th 7th 6th 9th 10th 11th 12th 10th 10th 11th 9th 12th 8th 8th 8th 12th 10th 12th 9th 12th 10th

T H E C A D EN CE

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ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

PREP SCHOOL ALUMNI

he TSmith Brothers

Discipline and perseverance guided three GMC alums to success

For the Smith family, GMC is a family affair.

Throughout the years, GMC has been home to three brothers – David Smith (Prep 2002, JC 2008), Ryyan Smith (Prep 2007), and Laughlin Smith (Prep 2015).

The Smith family has experienced many changes over time, like three years living overseas in Japan, to both David and Ryyan’s military deployments. Despite the immense changes the Smiths have faced, GMC Prep and GMC Junior College served as special anchors the family has kept coming back to.

Janet and her husband Mark, both military Veterans themselves, knew they wanted each of their boys to experience the structure and rigor of a military education. They were confident GMC would push their three sons along and would encourage them to do their very best. The family lived on a

third-generation family farm in Sparta, so their days attending GMC were marked by early morning wakeup calls and long commutes to get to school on time.

David, Ryyan, and Laughlin each played on the football team, and Laughlin played in the marching band as well. Morning Formation served as a powerful sentiment for the Smith family. “Formation in the morning was just so beautiful – what a way to start the day. I believe any child can succeed by starting their day off right. We still incorporate part of the Cadet prayer into our family prayer. It has been that impactful for us,” shared Janet. The Smith family’s commitment to excellence, their support of each other, and the GMC experience has certainly shaped David, Ryyan, and Laughlin.

“FORMATION IN THE MORNING WAS JUST SO BEAUTIFUL – WHAT A WAY TO START THE DAY. I BELIEVE ANY CHILD CAN SUCCEED BY STARTING THEIR DAY OFF RIGHT. WE STILL INCORPORATE PART OF THE CADET PRAYER INTO OUR FAMILY PRAYER. IT HAS BEEN THAT IMPACTFUL FOR US.”

-- JANET SMITH

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A Year of Triumph

Mark and Janet Smith, David, Laughlin and Ryyan

David Smith (HS'02, JC'08)

Ryyan Smith (HS'07)

Laughlin Smith (HS'15)

GMC Preparatory School Served in Army - Iraq GMC Junior College Georgia College & State University Masters in Accounting Price Waterhouse Cooper, NY, NY ______________________

GMC Preparatory School Served in Army - Iraq GMC Junior College Georgia College & State University Georgia Tech - BS, Computer Science Square Corp., Software Engineer, Atlanta ______________________

GMC Preparatory School Kennesaw State College University of Georgia - Terry College of Business BBA, Banking and Corporate FInance PrimeRevenue, Atlanta Associate, Financial Solutions & Partnerships ______________________

David, the oldest of the Smith brothers, enlisted in the Army after graduating from GMC Prep and deployed twice to Iraq. “At GMC I learned that duty, honor, country, and respect were not just words, but would influence the choices I’d make in my life.

I used these principles to serve in the Army and fight a war in Iraq. Demonstrating these principles have made it easier to build strong relationships socially and professionally with family, friends and colleagues,” said David. Upon returning from his deployments, David used his GI Bill to attend GMC Junior College, where he earned his associate degree. He then attended Georgia College and State University, where he earned his bachelor’s and master’s in accounting. David works at Price Waterhouse Cooper in New York City, preparing taxes for private equity and hedge funds. He has set his sights on being an entrepreneur in the future, just like his grandfather.

Ryyan attended GMC Prep for 6th, 7th, and 8th grade, and then moved with his family to Japan where his parents worked for three years as Department of Defense school teachers. Ryyan returned to GMC to complete his senior year at GMC Prep.

“A big component to success in life is being able to struggle through adversity and being patient when working towards a goal. Between the parades, formations, and bullring, GMC really helped instill that in me,” noted Ryyan. Like his older brother, Ryyan also enlisted in the Army out of high school and deployed to Iraq.

Upon his return, Ryyan attended GMC Junior College for one year, and then transferred to Georgia College and State University, where he attended Georgia Tech through dual enrollment. He then transferred to Georgia Tech and graduated with honors with a bachelor’s degree in software engineering. Ryyan has been leading a successful career at Square for the past two years. Both he and his wife Avery (Auburn ’12) are building a small business. They hope to invest their time in the future to help young African Americans navigate student loans and build businesses.

Laughlin, the youngest of the Smith brothers, attended GMC Prep 6th through 12th grade and graduated in 2015. He attended Kennesaw State for one year and then transferred to the University of Georgia, earning a degree in finance at the Terry School of Business. Laughlin graduated from UGA in 2020 and now works at PrimeRevenue in Atlanta. “GMC showed me how to have grit. The JROTC instructors and teachers (shout-out to Dr. Brown, MAJ McElheny, MAJ Gebel and MAJ Harbor) knew I wanted to be successful and gave me the tools and lessons to do so. When I did the cutover from high school to college, it took me almost five years to complete my degree because I didn’t start getting internships until the beginning of my senior year. To prove that I was ready for my professional career, I completed four internships. The company I work for today actually rejected me for an internship the first time I applied, but through perseverance, it resulted in me taking on two internships and a full-time role. Now in my life as a professional, I use the lessons I learned from GMC to provide the best solutions and experience to our clients and partners,” he shared. Laughlin is an associate on the Funding TEAM at PrimeRevenue. He has a goal to start a financial technology company of his own, promoting financial wellness in lower household income areas.

“AT GMC I LEARNED THAT DUTY, HONOR, COUNTRY, AND RESPECT WERE NOT JUST WORDS, BUT WOULD INFLUENCE THE CHOICES I’D MAKE IN MY LIFE. I USED THESE PRINCIPLES TO SERVE IN THE ARMY AND FIGHT A WAR IN IRAQ."

-- DAVID SMITH (JC'10)

These three GMC alums and brothers are all unique individuals of their own, but it is clear that the GMC values and ideals of “duty, honor, country” and “character above all” have served them well as they lead their lives as successful professionals wishing to make an impact on the world.

To learn more about the Smith family, please visit Janet’s website at https://janetpaigesmith.com/.

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NewsBriefs

JUNIOR COLLEGE

New Academic Programs The GMC leadership, faculty and staff regularly review data and perform analysis to enhance current courses and develop new program offerings for students. Enrollment growth has been driven by expanded degree programs. The 2020-21 academic year introduced new Associate of Applied Science and Bachelor of Applied Science degrees: •

AAS in Allied Health

•

AAS in Technical Studies

•

BAS in Healthcare Management

•

BAS in Homeland Security and Emergency Management

These degree programs have opened new doors for students to pursue more opportunities in their careers.

WARNER ROBINS

ETHICS BOWL GMC hosted the Annual GMC Ethics Bowl Competition. BG Rock Donahue and his team, along with Dr. Jim Brady, served as hosts at the Fayetteville Campus and provided the oversight and direction for the event. Every GMC campus had a team participate in this year’s competition.

After a very competitive championship round, team Warner Robins was named the overall winner of the Competition. Both Ethics Bowl Championship Round teams, Warner Robins & Milledgeville (1), will compete virtually at the 9th Annual Two-Year College Ethics Bowl National Qualifier Competition at Santa Fe College (TX), on November 20-21.

FAYETTEVILLE

GMC ATLANTA METRO REGION FAYETTEVILLE CAMPUS BUSINESS DEGREE NIGHT SCHOOL This past Spring, a new initiative was launched at the Fayetteville campus opening more opportunities for students. Leveraging GMC’s remote learning classroom technology, the Fayetteville campus developed the GMC Atlanta Metro Region Business Degree Night School (BDNS) program. This program was designed specifically with working students in mind. Maximizing the use of synchronous and live online learning mode of delivery, GMC Fayetteville campus offers classes during evenings and weekends, supporting students who need flexible schedules to complete their programs.

GMC’s accelerated term system provides new BDNS students the

opportunity to earn a GMC Business or Business related Associate Degree in as little as 18 months. While the BDNS classes are coordinated and hosted via the GMC Fayetteville campus, both new and current students attending any GMC campus in the state of Georgia are eligible to begin participating during any one of the five academic terms offered at GMC. Additionally, GMC is currently seeking opportunities to partner with local school districts, career academies, as well as local businesses to afford their students or employees with an affordable and flexible opportunity to further their education and contributions within their current companies, and their respective communities.

Offering hope and opportunity is at the heart of our mission.

Initiatives, like the Business Degree Night School program, drive at what we do best.

FAYETTEVILLE

Retirement for Assistant Director/Dean of Students In April, GMC-Fayetteville hosted an outdoor retirement ceremony for Lieutenant Colonel Pam McKenzie-Rundle (US Army, Ret), outgoing Asst. Director/Dean of Students with over 13 years of distinguished selfless service to GMC in the Atlanta Metro Region. Pam served at both the Fairburn and Fayetteville campuses.

President Caldwell provided to Pam a congratulatory letter listing Pam's professional accomplishments. They are listed below: • Fairburn Assistant Director/Dean of Students & Chair, Departments of Criminal Justice • Fairburn Character Educator of the Year (2008) and Educator of the Year (2014) • Junior College Character Educator of the Year (2009) • GMC Vulcan Award for Teaching Excellence (2014) • GMC Saber Award (2018) • Professor Emeritus Designation (2018) • Fayetteville Assistant Director/Dean of Students (2019-2021)

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A Year of Triumph

BG Scott Donahue, USA (Ret) and LTC Pam McKenzie-Rundle, US Army (Ret)

NewsBriefs

JUNIOR COLLEGE

GMC SETS NEW RECORD WITH LARGEST NUMBER OF COLLEGE GRADUATES IN SCHOOL HISTORY Georgia Military College is proud to announce that the institution has set a new record this year, with the largest number of College graduates in school history. GMC awarded (conferred) college degrees to 1,992 students this year.

It is incredible to see what each of our 14 college campuses has accomplished this year. We are grateful to have been able to celebrate all of our Class of 2021 graduates with in-person ceremonies across Georgia over the past few weeks.

Despite a global pandemic, GMC was open fully to students the entire school year, offering in-seat classes across the state. Through GMC's Five Step Program, campuses were able to provide safe learning environments so that students were able to continue working toward earning their degree and fulfilling their dreams.

We look forward to see what this new group of GMC Alumni will accomplish in the future.

Congratulations to the Class of 2021!

Renowned Speakers Address Graduates at Commencement Ceremonies GMC celebrated graduates from across the state as they embark on a new chapter in life with an Associate or Bachelor of

Applied Science degree. To prepare them for this new journey, GMC graduates were encouraged and inspired by some

Major General John R. Evans Jr. The Honorable GMC ROTC Henry "Wayne" Howard Commissioning Ceremony Milledgeville Campus May 19, 2021 May 21, 2021

Senator Michael Rhett Global Online College May 28, 2021

Mr. Bob Mackey Madison Campus May 28, 2021

Representative Carl Gilliard Milledgeville Campus May 21, 2021

Dr. Stephen Barber Columbus Campus June 4, 2021

Mrs. Leah Clark Sandersville Campus May 21, 2021

Ms. Myrna Ballard Valdosta Campus June 4, 2021

of the top leaders in various fields at their commencement ceremonies. Below are the speakers for GMC’s campuses:

COL Shaw S. Pick Augusta Campus May 22, 2021

Mayor Phil Best Dublin, Eastman, and Warner Robins Campuses June 12, 2021 SUMMER 2021

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Michelle Taylor Willis Fairburn, Fayetteville, Stone Mountain, and Zebulon Campuses June 12, 2021 T H E C AD EN CE

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NewsBriefs

JUNIOR COLLEGE

COLUMBUS

Caldwell Memorial Golf Tournament The inaugural LTG William B. Caldwell III Memorial Golf Tournament was held on May 6th, in honor of the father of President Caldwell, a local golfing legend and esteemed military and community leader.

The tournament was held at the Country Club of Columbus with a full field of golfers. The Silver Wings jumped in prior to the event, with a Black Hawk helicopter landing on the golf course.

The event was a success with all proceeds establishing a scholarship in his name to benefit students at the GMC-Columbus campus.

LTG WILLIAM B. CALDWELL, III MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT

Georgia Miltary College-Augusta University Bridge Program Augusta University’s College of Education and Georgia Military College are committed to the establishment of an educational partnership to better serve currently enrolled and future students at both institutions by facilitating the transfer of graduates from GMC’s Elementary and Middle Grades Education associate degree programs to AU’s bachelor-level teacher education programs.

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A Year of Triumph

Any GMC student who graduates from Georgia Military College with an Associate of Arts or Science in Elementary or Middle Grades Education degree is eligible for admission into Augusta University’s College of Education provided that the student has met the following requirements.

The Bridge Program will streamline the process for Elementary and Middle Grades Education graduates from GMC to the AU

College of Education, where they enter as juniors.

Making the transfer process easier for GMC students means increasing the number of highly qualified teachers in state school systems for the future.

AlumniAffinity

JUNIOR COLLEGE

WARNER ROBINS

At the heart of Georgia Military College is its students, faculty, In order for GMC to survive and thrive, we need to impact and and staff, but another group is especially important to each of our change our students’ lives, and one way we like to do that is through campus’ success – our alumni! our alumni. We would love even more alums to give back to new The Warner Robins Campus of GMC values their alumni students who come through our doors here in Warner Robins and to immensely and has made incredible strides to engage their former the school in general,” shared Cody Gunderson, Registrar at students and connect with them years after they leave campus.

GMC-Warner Robins.

Over the past few years, GMC-Warner Robins has created and The Alumni Relations Committee loves staying in touch with cultivated an Alumni Relations Committee, filled with faculty and former students as it reminds them of the impact of their jobs. staff who are dedicated to connecting with alumni. This committee, “Many alumni have even come back to work at GMC. Every time I spearheaded by Academic Dean Alice Smith, meets visit someone in the hospital, I run into a nurse who on a monthly basis to brainstorm ideas and plan went to GMC. I think we have a very far reach as a ALUMNI new ways to connect with former GMC community college,” noted Debra Dent, students.

English Professor at GMC-Warner Robins.

“Strong alumni affinity is so The committee is working diligently important to our community. Our to stay in touch with alumni for many students go on to become local reasons, but also because they value business leaders, so we want to GMC alumni’s input on how to connect with them and help improve the student experience. them on their journeys as much “We want alumni to voice as possible. We are passionate concerns and give insight on what about investing in our students we can do to improve for our new and community, and we love to students. We love getting alumni’s partner with our alumni to thoughts on how we as a school can accomplish both goals,” shared help students learn better and how to Alice Smith. equip them for success in the future. As In order to stay in touch with an alum myself I want to share what GMC Warner Robins alumni, the committee gave to me. I want to improve what we can do started a GMC Warner Robins Alumni to be a beacon of education and hope for a The lifeblood of a college Facebook page. Here they keep up with better future for students,” commented Cody alumni via social media and highlight one Gunderson. is the people who come alum each quarter. They are also intentional Although the COVID-19 pandemic through it... in inviting alumni to come back to the temporarily paused GMC-Warner Robin’s Warner Robins campus. GMC-Warner efforts to host in-person events for alumni, Robins hosts a big fall festival each year where they invite alums and they have plans to host many more events to connect with alumni in their families to attend. They also host college and career fairs for the near future, like larger on-campus events and a family fun night current students and invite past alumni to attend to share about their to engage alumni and their families as well. careers and workplaces. To keep alumni up to date with campus To stay up-to-date on all of the amazing things happening at news, the committee also started reaching out via email and text to GMC-Warner Robins, follow them on Facebook at https://www. share about campus events. They hosted a special event just for facebook.com/gmcwarnerrobins. If you would like to support the young alumni in 2019 at a local restaurant, Just Tap’d.

Warner Robins Campus and provide support for student “The lifeblood of a college is the people who come through it. scholarships, please visit: give.gmc.edu.

"

"

WARNER ROBINS

GMC Partners with the 638th Supply Chain Management Group at RAFB In March, GMC’s Warner Robins campus and the 638th Supply Chain Management Group located at Robins Air Force Base signed a Memorandum of Understanding providing internship opportunities for GMC-Warner Robins students. The agreement formally recognizes that GMC and the 638th

Supply Chain Management Group at RAFB are committed to the establishment of a partnership for the purpose of enhancing Robins Supply Chain Management workforce with skilled team members while simultaneously helping students reach their educational and career goals.

This partnership will provide training

and employ top quality students while earning their Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) Degree in Supply Chain Management and Logistics at GMC. That opportunity could lead to full-time employment at Robins Air Force Base upon graduation.

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ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

Justin McNeill

No two days for GMC Alumnus Justin McNeill (JC 2010) look alike.

As a winemaker and part-owner of his family owned and operated vineyard and winery, Chateau Meichtry, he embraces the unknown of each day with enthusiasm.

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“I love the challenge of winemaking. For a lot of aspects, we are trying to control mother nature to prevent anything bad happening to the grapes.

Georgia is still a young state in wine-history postprohibition. There are so many different variables that must go right for us to succeed,” shared Justin.

Over the past few years, Justin and his family have focused on cultivating their property, located in North Georgia wine country, at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Winemaking was something Justin’s parents had often talked about venturing into, and they approached him to see if he had an interest in getting involved. The McNeill family purchased a plot of land in 2010, put in the first block of vines in 2013, and opened the Chateau Meichtry tasting room in 2015. Chateau Meichtry is a labor of love, and a family affair. Justin, his sister, and both of his parents work at the winery and vineyard.

When he decided to pursue winemaking as a career, Justin was employed in the non-profit sector, working with troubled youth. He had recently graduated from Georgia College and State University and was ready to embark on the next step in his journey.

The bright future in front of Justin was made A Year of Triumph

possible in part due to his experience at the GMCMilledgeville Campus. “I often tell people I finally ‘grew up’ at GMC. My first semester I was commuting from Lake Oconee and had a full-time job, so I withdrew from many classes to focus on working and ended up on academic probation. After my second semester, I decided to shift my priorities and focus on academics and move to Milledgeville. I was able to raise my GPA up to above a 3.0. After that rough start, I had a great experience. I really enjoyed the fact that class sizes were small at GMC and my professors could really engage with us students,” he noted.

Justin’s GMC education taught him some vital skills- how to think critically and how to research.

“That is a skill that I continue to use almost every day.

Not having an enology degree means that a big portion of my continuing education comes from finding the answers to my questions about winemaking in research papers done at larger universities,” he shared. Thanks to the skills he learned at GMC and through valuable mentorship from other winemakers, Justin is able to stay on top of his field.

Justin and his family have their sights set on more growth over the next few years. They would like to grow their distribution and see the brand in more

JUNIOR COLLEGE ALUMNI

places, in addition to continue growing the vineyard. Even with his busy schedule at the vineyard, Justin has found the time to give back to Georgia Military College. Chateau Meichtry recently partnered with GMC to offer a virtual wine tasting donor experience. Participants were shipped four 375 mL bottles of Chateau Meichtry wine and two Riedel GMC wine glasses for the wine tasting. Justin guided the online group through the tasting of each wine via Zoom.

Donated funds were directed to the GMC Endowed Scholarship of the donor’s choosing.

This unique donor event came about when Justin met Edwin Amerman ( JC 1990), who was recently named President of the GMC Alumni Association. Edwin was visiting the Chateau Meichtry tasting room, and he and Justin quickly realized they both were GMC alumni, so they decided to do something to benefit their alma mater.

“I give back to GMC to make sure that current and future students have the same

opportunity I had. GMC Alumni and friends provide so much assistance to students through scholarship money. I am the prime example of someone who came out of high school and didn’t have the best GPA. GMC took me on and helped turn my life around,” shared Justin.

Justin is a true GMC success story, one that will inspire our students for years to come. Justin shared this wisdom: “Having flexibility is so important to true success in life. We have to let things unfold while trying to make the right choices along the way. A college education is super important. GMC gave me more than just a degree. I grew up and started to take academics seriously thanks to my time at GMC. Just because you are focusing on one thing in life doesn’t mean you will end up there. You may find other opportunities to take you down a different road, one that is more incredible than you ever thought possible.”

“I GIVE BACK TO GMC TO MAKE SURE THAT CURRENT AND FUTURE STUDENTS HAVE THE SAME OPPORTUNITY I HAD." -- JUSTIN MCNEILL (JC'10)

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NewsBriefs

CORPS OF CADETS

LARGEST CLASS FOR SERVICE ACADEMY PREP PROGRAM The GMC Corps of Cadets welcomed the largest class to date to its Service Academy Preparatory Program in August 2020. – the U.S. Naval Academy and the U.S. Air Force Academy – along with a record number of 45 Academy Scholars. The two new service academies joined the U.S. Military Academy and U.S. Coast Guard Academy preparatory programs already established and successful at the GMCMilledgeville campus.

“We know the quality of education. We know the training and leadership and all the ideals at GMC meld so well with what we accomplish at the Naval Academy,” USNA Foundation Chairman of the Athletic and Scholarship Program and retired Navy Rear Admiral, Thomas Lynch, says.

In addition to having the largest number of Academy Scholars in the history of GMC, the Corps of Cadets ended the 2019-2020 academic year with a record number of 42 out of 45 Scholars who received an appointment from one or more of the five Service Academies, which includes Zachary Steiner, the first-ever GMC self-prep cadet—or any GMC cadet— to be accepted to the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy.

“We’ve got great representation now at four of the five academies,” says GMC Corps of Cadets Operations Officer, LTC Duane Clayton, who expects those numbers to grow in the future.

The GMC Corps of Cadets Service Academy Preparatory Program is an affiliated prep school that prepares candidates in the academics, physical training, character development, and leadership skills needed for them to succeed at any of the military service academies.

Instead of the typical 12 to 15 quarter hours required per term, Academy Scholars take between 18 and 24 quarter hours per term

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at GMC in a rigorous program of study that is heavily focused in mathematics and science. They also endure a daily schedule of physical training and spend hours each term helping others through community service.

142nd Corps of Cadets Dining-In The 142nd Corps of Cadets Dining-In provided the opportunity for cadets to dine and interact with GMC senior leadership, faculty, staff, and other guests within a formal social setting, while also having a bit of fun.

The annual tradition was held in February 2021 at The Kidd Center. The guest speaker for the event was Georgia Army National Guard Commanding General, BG Richard 'Dwayne' Wilson.

Apart from BG Wilson and several members of his staff, guests for the event were restricted this year due to COVID-19 precautions to only Corps of Cadets and GMCMilledgeville campus, faculty, and staff.

NewsBriefs

CORPS OF CADETS

APPOINTMENTS AND SIGNINGS US AIR FORCE ACADEMY APPOINTMENTS

Congressman Jody Hice participated in Service Academy Appointment signings in April for two of GMC's Scholars. Cadets Jack Calhoun and Heath McDonald earned appointments to the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

They've spent the last year working hard to earn their appointments and prepare for the rigor of Academy life. Calhoun, of Monroe, is a 2020 graduate of Walnut Grove High School, and McDonald, of Bogart, is a 2020 graduate of North Oconee High School. Both are recipients of the Falcon Foundation Scholarship, which provides funding to College or Preparatory Schools for motivated young people seeking admission to USAFA. The young men became commissioned officers in the United States Armed Forces and entered their respective academies in June.

CORPS OF CADETS

2020-2021 Academy Scholars Who Received an Appointment: U.S. Coast Guard Academy Cadet Tabitha Aime Cadet Grace Beardsley Cadet Joanna Chow Cadet Caitlyn Coates Cadet Micaela DeGennaro Cadet James Eichelberger Cadet Kira Garcia Cadet Stone Grant Cadet Brian Hernandez Cadet Dayna Johnson Cadet Veronica Krystofik Cadet Phillip Liang Cadet Sydney de la Marquez Cadet Gabriel Niles Cadet Haley Reynolds Cadet Katharine Rott Cadet Maalik Song Cadet Lucas Tabit Cadet Helena Wilson

U.S. Military Academy Cadet Jack Calhoun

Cadet Christian Bault Cadet David Blair Cadet Michaela Capicotto Cadet Declan Cooper Cadet Gariel Ester Cadet Christopher Orta Cadet Colin Prichett

Cadet Heath McDonald

U.S. Naval Academy Cadet Elise Chaffin Cadet Emma Martinsen Cadet Tristram Moore Cadet Tara Thompson

U.S. Air Force Academy

RADM Kelly provides appointments to USCGA GMC Scholars — In March, the Superintendent of the USCGA, Rear Admiral William G. Kelly, and his team visited the GMC-Milledgeville Campus. The GMC Corps of Cadets had 16 U.S. Coast Guard Scholars and Self-Prep Cadets earn appointments to the U.S. Coast Guard Academy. Rear Admiral Kelly and his team met with these Scholars and presented a number of the cadets with appointments.

Cadet Trinity Benware Cadet Tristen Burton Cadet Jack Calhoun Cadet Madisen Campbell Cadet Cassidy Rosa Cadet Felicia Early Cadet Makayla Ingle Cadet Michaela Kovalsky Cadet Heath McDonald Cadet Emily Spurling

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NewsBriefs Corps of Cadets Drill Team In March, the Corp of Cadets Drill Team had their first event of the year since COVID-19.

The Drill Team performed for assisted living residents at The Fellowship Home at Meriwether. The Drill Team brought a lot of smiles as residents witnessed the color guard exhibition and drill movements.

First Cadet Women's Glee Club The Corps of Cadets is proud to add another "First".

Moona Yu, Chair of the Fine Arts Department held auditions in January and selected a talented group of young women. They performed in a spring concert.

CHARACTER AND LEADER DEVELOPMENT TRAINING GMC began the inaugural Character and Leader Development Training program for the GMC Corps of Cadets for the 2020-2021 school year. The Cadets have a break in between quarters, and Corps leadership decided to keep them on campus so that they could dive deep into teaching them how to be successful leaders.

The Cadets were able to engage with GMC Senior Leaders on the topics of character and leadership what it takes to be men and women of character, establishing principles and priorities to guide them through challenges they’ll face in life, what it’s like to get your hands dirty and lead from the front, and how to take initiative in everything they do. Each of these lectures were of great value for the Cadets, hearing advice from those with different life experiences.

The Cadets also took classes with our Cadre on Servant Leadership, the Essence of Leadership, and had the chance to share their views on what leadership means to them. The Cadets had a fun day while at the leadership reaction course, the obstacle course, and the rappel tower, all located on the GMCMilledgeville campus.

Commissioning Ceremony for GMC's Early Commissioning Program Cadets In May, GMC commissioned 37 ECP cadets as second lieutenants in the U.S. Army. The Commissioning ceremony was held in our Goldstein Center for Performing Arts, with over 300 family and friends that came from all across the country to be on campus for this special event. The guest speaker was Major General John R.

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Evans Jr., Commanding General for the U.S. Army Cadet Command, Fort Knox, Kentucky. He imparted wisdom to the new 2LT's from his long military career. GMC is proud of their decision to serve our nation.

NewsBriefs

CORPS OF CADETS

Corps Change of Command

New Regimental Commander Jabriel Bennett

Distinguished Order of the Servant Leader Awards

In May, C/COL Quarterrio Baker relinquished command of the 142nd Corps of Cadets to C/COL Jabriel Bennett who took command of the regiment just after the Memorial Day Parade on the bricks of Baugh Barracks.

COL (Ret) Steve Pitt was the senior officer who oversaw t he change of command. The ceremony was well planned and well attended with about 40 guests present.

Seven from our Corps of Cadets are recognized for demonstrating character as they volunteered over 100 hours to serve others during a 12-month period. Through their time and talent, they earned the Distinguished Order of the Servant Leader Award for the 2020-2021 school year.

Michael Bentley Jykyrriaunna Clayton William Comer Dane Doyle Jose Gonzalez Ryan Johnson Jeffrey Pennington

Corps of Cadets Rafting Trip The Corps of Cadets courageously took on the white water of the Nantahala River, in Bryson, NC during a weekend in April. The frigid water temperature was the only thing that caused fear with this group.

Matriculation Ceremony for Service Academy Prep Cadets

ary College Georgia Milit Cadets Corps of

Service Academy Prep

The Academy Scholar Matriculation welcome Ceremony was on May invocation 13, with 42 of the 45 comments Scholars completing the arks president’s rem rigorous program of tes tion of certifica enta pres study, physical fitness, and cadet life at GMC. er gmc alma mat The academics and reception physical training these scholars had to undergo to complete the program was difficult, but these cadets focused daily to ensure completion of the program.

The scholars will tell you that they are well prepared for their chosen academy and we expect they will excel there.

MATR ICUL ATIO

Y N CERE MON

May 13, 2021

Craig Port wood Engagement

Director of Alumni

and Community

Luke Reve rend David Corps of Cadets

GMC Chaplain Major

Barbara Johnson Retirement —

Barbara Johnson and COL Steve Pitt

for the

n Pitt, USA (Ret) Colo nel Steve of Cadets Commandant

B. Caldw ell IV, LtGe n Willi am

The GMC Corps of Cadets honored longtime employee Barbara Johnson last week with a retirement ceremony and reception celebrating her 20 years of devoted service to GMC and to the Corps.

Barbara was presented with a letter of thanks from GMC President William Caldwell, a sabre, a framed GMC flag, and a framed photo of the 142nd Corps standing in formation outside Baugh Barracks.

USA (Ret)

USA (Ret) B. Caldw ell IV, LtGe n Willi am es, USN (Ret) CAPT Mike Holm Faculty and CAO; Dean of t

GMC Senior Vice Presiden

GMC Cadet Glee Club

g

r - Old Capitol Buildin

Legislative Chambe

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performing Arts 2 0 2 0 - 2 0 2 1

GMC JC Fine Arts

"A Quarantine Cabaret" - live stream Oct. 29, 2020

GMC Prep School High School Theatre

Young Frankenstein (One Act Play) Feb. 10-12, 2021

P E R F O R M A N C E S

GMC Prep School Middle School Theatre

"Descendants the Musical" Jan. 28-30, 2021

Junior College Fine Arts Theatre

Sense and Sensibility Mar. 26-27, 2021

GMC Corps of Cadets

Men's and Women's Glee Club Concert May 13, 2021

GMC Prep School High School Theatre

Broadway in the Dark May 14, 2021

GMC Prep School Band Concert

"At the Movies" May 17, 2021

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To find out more about upcoming performances or to purchase tickets, go to:

gmctickets.booktix.com

Georgia Military College

U P C O M I N G

P E R F O R M A N C E S

PERFORMING ARTS SOCIETY 2021 series

Sat., November 20 7:00 p.m.

Ticket cost: $20 Purchase tickets online (beginning Aug. 1):

GMCTickets.online

or call the GMC Office of Institutional Development:

478-387-4709

GEORGIA MILITARY COLLEGE

G O L DST E I N C E N T E R FO R T H E P E R FO R M I N G ARTS 325 S O UT H E L B E RT ST, M I L L E D G E V I L L E

H O L I D AY C O N C E R T

An internationally-acclaimed, concert handbell choir from Raleigh, N.C. VOCTAVE HAS PERFORMED ACROSS THE GLOBE, AND HAS RANKED IN THE TOP 25 ON BILLBOARD MAGAZINE’S CHARTS.

Georgia Military College

TICKET COST: $20

PERFORMING ARTS SOCIETY 2022 series

Purchase tickets online (beginning Sept. 1):

GMCTICKETS.ONLINE

or call the GMC Office of Institutional Development:

478-387-4709

THURSDAY MARCH 31, 2022 7:00 P.M.

GEORGIA MILITARY COLLEGE

G O L DST E I N C E N T E R FO R T H E P E R FO R M I N G ARTS 325 S O UT H E L B E RT ST, M I L L E D G E V I L L E

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Military Heritage Weekend GEORGIA MILITARY COLLEGE

G

eorgia Military College celebrated its first Military Heritage Weekend, honoring GMC alumni military men and women that serve our country.

The Military Honors Parade took place on April 16, and GMC inducted its first three members to the Hall of Heroes, paying tribute to an alumnus of the GMC Corps of Cadets who has demonstrated extraordinary service to our nation while bringing honor to GMC. This is the highest recognition for an alumnus of the Corps of Cadets, and members from each family were at the Military Honors Parade to accept the honor on behalf of their GMC alumnus.

The inaugural Hall of Heroes inductees are: Lieutenant General Max W. Noah, Prep School Class of 1948 Former GMC President/President Emeritus Major General William P. Acker, Junior College Class of 1950 and Lieutenant Colonel William L. Turner, Prep School Class of 1933, Junior College Class of 1934 We can never repay these gentlemen for their service, but we will forever be grateful and their legacies will always live on at Georgia Military College.

Military Heritage Weekend continued as GMC hosted the 19th Grand Tattoo, its first since 2019 due to the pandemic. The Grand Tattoo is a program steeped with history and tradition involving the Prep School, Junior College, and Corps of Cadets, providing entertainment to friends and donors of GMC. Our GMC Family had looked forward to this – our first key event on campus to welcome back guests who have not been on campus in over a year. The outdoor event was the largest Grand Tattoo in the school's history, with over 160 guests. This event maintained a safe environment for all in attendance. It was evident that everyone was eager to come back together safely with the loosening of COVID restrictions.

During the event, guests heard singing performances from the GMC JC Glee Club, the GMC Prep School Region Champion Girl’s Trio and Men’s Quartet, as well as the third, fourth, and fifth grade singers.

During the Grand Tattoo, COL (Ret.) Tom Torrance, President of the Georgia Military College Alumni Association, made a special presentation to honor GMC President, Lieutenant General (Ret.) William B. Caldwell IV. COL Torrance bestowed on him the title of “Honorary Alumnus.” This forever makes LtGen Caldwell an alumnus of Georgia ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Military College with all of the rights and privileges given to all GMC alumni.

2021 INDUCTEES LtGen Caldwell’s dedicated leadership of Georgia Military College is an inspiration to us all. While he may not have attended GMC himself, we are certain of his deep connection to GMC and the values of “Duty, Honor, Country” and “Character Above All” that he holds so dear.

During his tenure as President of LIEUTENANT MAJOR GENERAa LL LIEUTENANT GMC we have seen the addition of GENERA a L WILLIAM P. ACKER COLONEL Prep School Elementary Grades K-5, MAX x W. NOAH L. TURNER Junior College Class of 1950 WILLIAM L. restoration of Jenkins Hall and the Prep School Class of 1948 Former GMC President Prep School Class of 1933 addition of the Prep Annex, and the Junior College Class of 1934 and President Emeritus establishment of the Bachelor of

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Applied Science degree. GMC has established partnerships with the US Naval Academy and the US Air Force Academy as a Preparatory School, and has opened Fayetteville, Dublin, Eastman and Zebulon campuses. GMC has constructed the Center for Ethics and Servant Leadership and has added Men’s & Women’s Soccer and Rifle Team to the JC athletic program.

The valuation of the GMC Foundation has grown by 250%, and GMC has been recognized nationally as a predominantly black institution at the junior college level.

LtGen Caldwell will always be a part of the GMC legacy and we are very proud to officially welcome him as a member of the GMC Alumni family.

LtGen (Ret.) William B. Caldwell IV named Honorary Alumnus

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The Grand Tattoo is always a special event, honoring our service men and women.

In addition to music from The John Mohr MacKintosh Pipes and Drums, the special performances from our elementary students, singing “God Bless America” and “This Land is Your Land,” as well as

performances from our high school students was so inspiring. It was great to have our GMC Prep students involved in this event.

The ceremony concluded with the formal retirement of the Nation’s Colors by a fourteen-member flag detail.

A reception followed in the Atrium.

60s reunion

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35-year reunion - Class of 1984

HONORING THE LEADERSHIP OF THE GMC ALUMNI A S S O C I AT I O N A N D G M C F O U N D AT I O N B O A R D O F T R U S T E E S

COL Tom Torrance, USA (Ret.), President GMC Alumni Association (2017 - 2021) The family of GMC Prep School alumnus, retired Army Colonel Tom Torrance, has lived and farmed in Baldwin County since the early 1800s. GMC has been a part of the family’s history since at least the 1930s. Tom, his father, uncle, sister, and two brothers are among the estimated 30-plus family members who have graduated from the GMC Prep School or Junior College. It seems only fitting that Tom volunteered to serve as the President of the GMC Alumni Association several years ago.

‘Opera cum fidelitate.’ To serve with fidelity. You will find this motto emblazoned on the GMC Corps unit crest, and if you were to search for a person who lives this motto, there you will find COL Tom Torrance, USA (Ret.). We have been truly blessed to have Tom serve as the President of the Georgia Military College Alumni Association.

In his role as president, Tom led the Alumni Aåssociation through a revision of the alumni by-laws and re-energized the Association membership by engaging a broad spectrum of GMC Alumni in support of the mission and vision of the school. With his oversight, the Association focus on the College Corps of Cadets has been elevated, which in turn has led to unprecedented alumni support for the Corps. Tom was instrumental in the development of the Corps of Cadets Hall of Heroes and he serves as co-chair for the “Be The One” comprehensive campaign for GMC.

George Hogan, Board of Trustees Chair, COL Tom Torrance, USA (Ret.), Ellen Torrance and LtGen William B. Caldwell IV, USA (Ret.)

What’s more, Torrance, with the support of numerous other family members, established the Torrance Family Scholarship that provides financial assistance to a Prep School student.

As Torrance steps down as Georgia Military College Alumni Association president, he fully intends to remain active at GMC and to continue to support his beloved alma mater and the Corps of Cadets.

Mr. Dudley Rowe, Chairman of the GMC Foundation Board of Trustees (2011 - 2021) Mr. Dudley Rowe’s relationship with GMC began many years ago after he and his wife Jenny moved to America from England. Dudley’s prominence in the minerals and chemicals field quickly caught the eye of Georgia Military College leadership and he was invited to learn more about the school. It was the beginning of a wonderful friendship when he agreed to become a member of the GMC Foundation in 1993. Throughout the years, Rowe and his wife developed a deep love for GMC, and all it had to offer to the community.

Dudley has been an integral part of the Georgia Military College Foundation for 28 years, helping to support the school’s mission through many different Foundation capacities. His volunteer work has included the Advisory Committee, Trustee at large, Finance Committee, Development Committee and 2nd Vice Chairman.

Dudley’s most notable role has been to serve as Chairman of the GMC Foundation Board of Trustees, a position he has held since 2011.

Under his leadership as Chairman and in partnership with GMC, the Foundation’s total assets have grown by nearly 250%, from $11.5 million to nearly $40 million! Further, the Foundation is in alignment with the school’s pillar of Investing in the Future of GMC, with 44 members from across the U.S., all dedicated to the success every GMC student.

During the difficulty and uncertainty of the pandemic, Dudley acted immediately, guiding the Foundation to make a significant contribution to student scholarships to allow students to continue their education during challenging times.

Rowe has been instrumental in organizing a grants program for the Foundation and providing invaluable leadership at the strategic level.

He and his wife, Jenny, have established the Wright Rowe Band Endowment to benefit prep school students to show their tremendous appreciation of the education that GMC provides. Because of his significant accomplishments while Chairman, the GMC Foundation Board has appointed him Chairman Emeritus, a status he will assume beginning July 1st. As an Honorary Alumnus, and grandfather to two GMC Prep School students, Alex Bradley, Class of 2017 and Sammie Bradley, Class of 2020, Rowe is a valued friend and partner of GMC.

George Hogan, Board of Trustees Chair, Mr. Dudley Rowe, Jenny Rowe and LtGen William B. Caldwell IV, USA (Ret.)

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Distinguished Alumnus Award

Alumni Achievement Award

MR. RANDY NEW

LTC (RET) LAWRENCE "LJ" BAKER

The Distinguished Alumnus Award is given to an alumnus of GMC who has distinguished him/ herself in their profession in an outstanding manner, and in so doing has brought honor upon themselves and to GMC. This award is presented for service to humanity and dedication, which have fostered the ideals of GMC.

The Alumni Achievement Award is given to an alumnus who by deed or action, reflects and recog-nizes the importance of their education at GMC and exemplifies its Core Values of “Duty, Honor, Country” in their personal and professional lives.This Alumnus’ interest and loyalty are evident to GMC through their contributions of time, talents and/or philanthropic support to one or more programs benefitting GMC and/or the GMCAA.

Randy New HS 1971, JC 1973

Alumni Awards 2020 honoring award recipients

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Randy New’s service to GMC exemplifies “Duty, Honor, Country” and “Character Above All” at the highest level. Mr. New is a proud alumnus of GMC, graduating from the GMC Prep School in 1971 and the Junior College in 1973. He was also commissioned with the GMC Corps of Cadets as a 2LT in the U.S. Army. He served on the GMC Foundation and then as a representative of District 2 on the GMC Board of Trustees from 1992 to 2020 and was Board Chairman from 1998 to 2020.

Mr. New holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Economics from Georgia College. He is the co-owner of Bayne’s Army Store, managing partner in VBRN Investments, and a partner in the Old Capitol Gun Club and BNS Properties.

The astounding growth of GMC during his many years of leadership has been a testament to Mr. New’s steadfast commitment. The Prep School added 4th and 5th grade in 2018 and then 3rd grade in 2019 with enrollment increasing from 417 students in the 1998-1999 school year to 751 students in the 2019-2020 school year. Enrollment at the Junior College increased as well, from 12,438 students in the 2014-2015 academic year to 16,351 students in the 2019-2020 academic year, this due to the addition of several campuses in Stone Mountain, Fayetteville, Dublin, Eastman, Albany, and Zebulon, as well as the GMC Global Online Campus. Several campuses also saw improvements by being relocated and/or opening new buildings. GMC Junior College added in 2015 its first-ever Bachelor of Applied Science degree program with a total of 108 program graduates by July 2020. GMC received the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges 10-year accreditation two times both in 2007 and 2017 without any follow-up recommendations during Mr. New’s tenure.

Many major facility projects were completed at GMC as well under Mr. New’s leadership. The Old Capitol Building restoration was completed in 2000. Craig Field was constructed in 2003 and Ruark Athletic Complex, Couch Field and Horace Ray Field House in 2005. Boylan Hall was also constructed in 2005 and Baugh Barracks the following year. Usery Hall opened in 2010. In 2014, the KIDD Health and Wellness Center and the Indoor Training Facility for baseball, softball and golf were constructed. The renovation of the Cordell Event Center also took place that year. In 2017, the Center for Ethics and Servant Leadership was built. Then, in 2019, the Prep School Annex was constructed and Jenkins Hall renovated. Mr. New’s mark on this institution is evident in the abundance of institution-wide accomplishments that were made during his tenure and will continue indefinitely.

Mr. New and his wife are life-long residents of Milledgeville.

He and Cynthia, both graduates of GMC Prep School, met at the historic campus. Their daughter, Diana graduated from the Prep School in ’00 and son Corey from the Prep School in ’02 and the Junior College in ’04. They have four grandsons.

A Year of Triumph

LJ Baker JC 1991

LTC Baker began his illustrious military career in Milledgeville, Georgia when he was commissioned in the Infantry through the Early Commissioning Program at Georgia Military College in 1991. He then earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice from Fort Valley State University in 1994.

LTC Baker served in multiple leadership assignments early on in his career, including three company commands. Following his command tours, LTC Baker served as the Assistant Operations Officer of the 3rd Battlefield Coordination Detachment at Osan Air Base and then, as an OPFOR Planner for the Battle Command Training Program. Next, he was selected for assignment as the XO of the Combined Arms Center’s Special Troops Battalion at Ft. Leavenworth, Kansas, and then as an Operations Officer at the Center for Army Lessons Learned.

LTC Baker next served an assignment with Central Command (CENTCOM) where he deployed as a Ground Plans Officer in the Combined Air Operations Center, Doha, Qatar from 2007 to 2008, and shortly after deployed to Iraq as Brigade XO with 4th Brigade, 1st Infantry Division in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Upon returning to Ft. Leavenworth, he received the distinction of being selected to command the 2-54th Infantry Battalion, 198th Infantry Brigade at Ft. Benning, Georgia. Following an exceptional two years of command, LTC Baker returned to Fort Riley, Kansas where, as the Deputy Brigade Commander of 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, he deployed to Kuwait in Support of Operation Spartan Shield. He was later selected to deploy forward to Northern Iraq where he established a Joint Headquarters and served as the Chief of Staff in support of Operations against ISIS militants. LTC Baker then returned to Ft. Riley to serve as the Team Lead of the Plans, Analysis, and Integration Office for the U.S. Army Garrison. After culminating a career of excellence spanning over 23 years of active service, LTC Baker retired from the Army and now serves as the Director of Human Resources and External Relations at Geary Community Hospital in Junction City, Kansas.

LJ’s pride in his alma mater is evident in his continued investment of time, talent and treasure in current students.

He served as a former member of the Alumni Association Board of Directors and is currently on the GMC Foundation Board of Trustees. He and his wife, CJ, have created the Old Capital Guard Drill Team Commanders Endowment. As former Commander of the Old Capital Guard Drill team, LJ especially values supporting current members of the team. He also gives back through speaking engagements, as well as the mentoring of GMC cadets. His commitment to GMC and the Corps of Cadets is immeasurable.

LJ and his wife, Clarinda “CJ,” reside in Junction City, Kansas. The Bakers are fervent believers in the positive impacts afforded through life-long education and are very proud of their four young adults, Shatracie, Sonjay, and twins Malika and Nashia.

GMC celebrated its 2020 Alumni Award winners with a breakfast during Military Heritage Weekend. The seven GMC alumni are representative of the fine character and countless acts of excellence displayed by the alumni and friends of GMC. They were honored during Virtual Alumni

Weekend in October, 2020, since the in-person celebration was cancelled due to the pandemic. In April, GMC celebrated and honored these award-winners in person.

Honorary Alumna Award

Emerging Young Alumni Leader Award

MRS. KARIN BRANDT SMITH

MR. KESHAWN HARRIS

GMC Service Award

The Honorary Alumna Award is awarded to individuals who are not alumni of Georgia Military College, but who have provided special or exceptional service to the school or to its Alumni Association, and who, by virtue of their service, are worthy of the designation of GMC Alumnus and all that the designation entails.

The Emerging Young Alumni Leader Award is given to an alumnus of GMC who has graduated within the past 10 years, is no more than 35 years of age, and has accomplished one or more of the following: Has demonstrated continuous support of the Alumni Association and GMC through contributions of time and/or gifts; Has made outstanding contributions to a chosen profession; Has achieved in such a way that has brought great honor to the individual and the College; Has demonstrated service and a commitment to the community; Has fostered the ideals, goals and values of GMC.

The GMC Service Award is designated for alumni or friends of GMC who have rendered special service to the school, or any of its ancillary organizations. All nominees should show evidence of service and loyalty to GMC and their community organizations and activities. This award is the highest recognition and greatest expression of appreciation extended to an individual by the GMCAA, given for outstanding service and volunteerism.

Karin Brandt Smith

GMC is woven into the very fabric of the lives of Mrs. Smith and her family. She is the wife, sister, daughter-inlaw, mother-in-law, and grandmother to GMC graduates, and most importantly, the mother of three GMC graduates.

Her story began far from Milledgeville. She was born in the Netherlands and, because her father worked for a Dutch Shipping Company, she lived all over the world, including Hong Kong and England for boarding school. As a teenager, Karin met her husband, Nathaniel, while he was touring Europe with his family. They stayed in touch, and six years later, while she was in London for her senior year of nursing school, Nathanial came to visit. They later married and moved to his hometown of Milledgeville in 1964 where he taught at GMC and managed the family businesses.

Karin owns and operates Sew K Designs and is the heart that goes into the uniform fitting and customizing for GMC Prep and the Corps of Cadets. For over 30 years, Karin has been the primary tailor and custom embroiderer for GMC Uniforms and has also designed and produced other GMC specific clothing and items as well. This all began when as a GMC mom, she would do the alterations for her own sons. Her friends asked her to do the alterations for their children’s uniforms, and her business was born.

In 1988, Karin officially opened Sew K Designs. At one point, she set up her machines in the GMC book store and worked from there. Her favorite part was getting to know the Cadets over the years. The impact she made on them is evident in the many who still stop by to say hello long after they have graduated. Karin also takes great pride in extending her services to the uniforms of the State Patrol as well as four deployed military units. It is the people she meets during the process that makes her work so meaningful.

Volunteer work is deeply important to Karin. Her dedication to her community is evident in the 20 years she diligently committed to the Civic Woman’s Club, of which she was President twice, Tenth District President, State Arts Department Chairman, and awarded the Georgia State Club Woman of the Year. Karin was President of the Town and Country Garden Club for two years. Karin is also a supporter of GMC Performing Arts and the expansion of the Prep School.

One of Karin’s favorite memories is a moment years ago when she looked up and noticed her husband and three sons walking down the sidewalk, unknowingly and naturally falling into cadence. GMC is a part of who they are, and this image embodies that. The values that GMC instills and that Karin values - respect, leadership, and self-confidence - are reflected in her children and grandchildren and every GMC cadet who walks through our gates.

KeShawn Harris HS 2013

KeShawn comes from a family of proud GMC Alumni. His mother and father graduated from the Prep School in 1994 and his sister just recently in 2020. KeShawn graduated from the Prep School in 2013 and went on to Georgia Southern where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Relations. After this, he attended George Washington University where he earned a Master’s Degree in Political Management. While attending GMC Prep, KeShawn realized that he wanted his life and career to reflect GMC’s core values of “duty, honor, and country” and his passion for service was ignited. As stated by KeShawn, “GMC is a sacred place where I developed intellectually and also elevated my character to become a better citizen who can work to alter systems that offer a seat to all at the table and to carry that throughout the community.”

KeShawn’s career and volunteer work are intertwined and seamless, all with the common goal of making a difference in the community and improving the lives of others. While at Georgia Southern, KeShawn served on Georgia Southern SGA and worked to make the meetings accessible to all students, creating specific avenues for hearing impaired students, as well as passing a resolution directing the University to begin researching how to form a resource center to support equality for LGBTQ students.

He is a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. where he is the Political Action Chair, serves on the Voteless People is a Hopeless People Committee and mentors young men through the Go to High School and Go to College national program. He worked as a field director for the Georgia NAACP where he strived to educate and register to vote disadvantaged Georgians and served as the campaign manager for the current Georgia NAACP President James Woodall. KeShawn is also a member of the Georgia Millennial Council.

KeShawn now resides in Washington D.C. where he has worked for Howard University, and as Ward 4 Mayoral Liaison in the Executive Office of Washington D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser.

He is now the External Affairs Manager with CareFirst Blue Cross/ Blue Shield. He is a member of the Black Graduate Student Association at George Washington University where he serves as the Vice President of marketing and is actively involved in community clean up. Though no longer a resident of Milledgeville, KeShawn visits when he can and helps to mentor upcoming youth leaders in the community. As one of his foundations, GMC elevated community service as a way of life and instilled in KeShawn how to stand for a cause and in turn, encourage the youth of his community to stand for what they believe.

MR. RUSS WALDEN

Russ Walden HS 1959

Mr. Walden attended GMC Prep School graduating in 1959. Upon completing his Bachelor of Industrial Engineering and Senior ROTC at Georgia Tech, Mr. Walden was commissioned a 2nd Lt. at graduation and was assigned to Black Hills Army Depot where he worked in Post Engineers.

During the two years there, he supervised the construction of a disposal facility for cyanogen chloride and mustard 500 and 1000-pound bombs. The bomb casings were saved and refilled with high explosives for use in Vietnam. He was awarded the Army Commendation Medal for his work.

Upon completing two and half years in the Army and achieving the rank of 1st Lt., Mr. Walden joined Eli Lilly and Company, where he worked for 30 years. He served in a variety of positions and completed his career as International Systems Manager. After retiring from Lilly, he joined Executive Service Corps (ESC) as a volunteer business consultant where he worked with non-profits and small businesses.

While there, he developed strategic planning and board development models that became key products in helping these groups. After completing the volunteer work with ESC, he established his own consulting practice, Planning Concepts, which specialized in helping non-profit organizations.

Since returning to Milledgeville in 2002, Russell has been involved in several community and volunteer activities.

He currently serves on the board of the GMC Foundation, Central State Hospital Redevelopment Authority, and the Old Capital Heritage Center, and previously served on the boards of the Milledgeville Christian Counseling Center and Georgia College and State University Foundation. He is also an officer in Sons of the American Revolution. He and his wife, Anne, are Meals on Wheels volunteers and active members of Milledgeville First United Methodist Church where he has served in several areas. Russ selflessly gives back to his community with competence and dedication and without need of recognition.

Mr. Walden credits his time at GMC to developing the work ethic, discipline and desire to achieve that formed the foundation for his success. He learned that to be a good leader, one also has to be a good listener and follower. These ideals of character and achievement have always been a part of the very core of who Russ is and are a true reflection of his time at GMC and the foundation he received at home. Russ’s father, Major Herschel Walden was a renowned member of the GMC faculty and the head of the mathematics department for 30 years. Russ and his wife established the Major Herschel Walden Endowed Scholarship Fund in his honor.

Mr. Walden and his wife, Anne reside in Milledgeville.

They have two sons, David Walden and Chris Walden, and seven grandchildren.

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Community Service Award

Military Service Award

The Community Service Award is given to GMC Alumni who, through leadership, inspiration, teamwork, or hard work in the spirit of volunteerism or in their professed activities, have taken the lessons of GMC’s Character Education beyond the classroom and whose actions are characterized by a history of exemplary service resulting in unquestionable improvements within their community.

The Military Service Award is given to an alumnus who participated in the Corps of Cadets-Active Duty, Reserve, Guard or Veteran (honorable discharge required) and a member in good standing of the GMCAA at the time they are nominated for the award. The recipient is selected for rendering unusual and conspicuous service in an act of humanity, heroic effort/action in battle, or service to the city, state, or nation, and in doing so has brought honor and distinction to GMC and its Corps of Cadets.

MR. CLIFF LEONARD

Cliff Leonard JC 1965 Cliff Leonard began his life of service as a member of the Georgia Military College Corps of Cadets in 1964. He left in 1965 and went on to join the U.S. Marine Corps in 1966. He served in the 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion in Vietnam and retired at the rank of Lance Corporal in 1968. Mr. Leonard then attended Florida State University, earning both a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology and a Master of Science degree in School Psychology. He worked for the Hollywood Police Department, then the Florida Department of Health as a Counselor for delinquent minors, and next as a school psychologist for the Duval County School System. After he retired from his career as a real estate investor, Cliff devoted his time to serving others with his gift of sculpting.

Cliff is the embodiment of selfless love and dedication. For the past 12 years, Cliff has unwaveringly devoted countless hours and vast amounts of energy to sculpting life-size busts of fallen Marines and Navy Corpsmen from Florida killed in action in the Middle East and of fellow 3rd Recon Company members killed in Vietnam. Thus far, he has sculpted and memorialized almost 50 Marines and Navy Corpsmen, including several of his brothers killed in Vietnam. He does all of this as a gift, free of charge, as a heartfelt thank you to each family. Through tears, dedication, and duty, he shapes the clay, bringing honor and remembrance with each face that he sculpts. He feels it is his call to duty to honor the dedication and sacrifice of each of these fine men and women. His strong passion and commitment to this cause is undoubtedly evident in the hours he pours into each memorial sculpture.

His respect and gratitude for fellow veterans is evident in just the simple, yet profound act of thanking every veteran who crosses his path. It was at GMC that he learned to take care of family, biological family, but also GMC family and military family.

“You stick by those who have stuck by you. It is different than simply being on a team. It’s being on the same squad, same platoon, same company, the same battalion that’s only found at Military Colleges like GMC.” Cliff is a member of the Semper Fidelis Society supporting the military community in Jacksonville, Florida, as well as a lifetime member of the Montford Point Marines, which supports and honors the first black American in the Marine Corps.

Of all the lessons learned at GMC, what resonated most for Cliff is the drive to take control of his life, to not just be a participant in life, but to actively engage. In helping those around him and giving back wherever he sees a need, Cliff is certainly living out this commitment to its fullest.

Cliff and his wife, Linda reside in Jacksonville, Florida and have a daughter, a son, and two grandchildren.

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COL (RET) THOMAS HANLEY

Thomas Hanley JC 1990

COL Thomas Hanley graduated from Georgia Military College in 1990 and was commissioned Second Lieutenant.

He held primary leadership assignments at every rank from 2LT to COL, and served 30 years commissioned service as an Infantryman to achieve the Order of Saint Maurice. He participated in Operation Desert Shield, Operation Crested River, Operation Noble Eagle, and Operation Enduring Freedom and served in the Army Staff, U.S. Southern Command, U.S. Central Command, National Guard Bureau, Training and Doctrine Command, Joint Readiness Training Center, and the U.S. Army Infantry School. His primary troop leading experience was with the Georgia Army National Guard‘s 48th Infantry Brigade as a company grade officer. He then commanded at the Colonel level as a combat advisor under the Combined Joint Task Force 82 of the 82nd Airborne Division. He earned the Combat Infantrymen Badge with the 10th Mountain Division and was a member of the inceptual organization that would become “Task Force Phoenix” as a designer and planner. COL Hanley was responsible for coordinating the establishment of the Georgia National Guard state partnership with Argentina, while serving at U.S. Southern Command as Senior National Guard Advisor. He was a principle member of the U.S. Central Command Staff who planned the drawdown of forces in Afghanistan in 20132014. COL Hanley finished his career at the Joint Readiness Training Center preparing ARNG Brigades for Combat operations, while on jump status. Airborne All the Way! COL Hanley’s extensive awards and decorations include: the Bronze Star, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Service Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, Army Campaign Medal, Humanitarian Service Ribbon, Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal, Army Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, Army Staff Identification Badge, and the Army Parachutist Badge.

COL Hanley has had an exemplary military career and credits GMC as being the foundation for that. “Since 18 years old, the work ethic, leadership, mental toughness, and drive to achieve started right here in Milledgeville. This pace never changed for the next 30 years,“ he stated. One of the many lessons instilled in him from his time at GMC is the importance of the bonds formed with his classmates, brothers and sisters, “family” for life. Faith in the brotherhood is the guiding principle that, to this day, keeps him focused on purpose and relationships to accomplish team goals.

This and the “unbridled enthusiasm and military energy that made you try hard, compete, help a buddy, and achieve” contributed to the successes he has enjoyed. He is also one of the founding members of the Opera Cum Fidelitate Endowed Scholarship.

COL Hanley and his wife, Damaris reside in Kissimmee, Florida. They have four children, Chelsea and Kaitlyn Hanley and Joseph and Gianna Celeste.

SHARE YOUR NEWS We want to keep your classmates up to date, so send us your announcements and high resolution photos, identifying all people pictured. Class notes may be edited for length and clarity, and may be published in any medium.

Please provide your class year(s), degree(s), address, phone number and email.

EMAIL: alumni@gmc.edu

MAIL: The Cadence Magazine Office of Institutional Development 201 E. Greene St., Milledgeville, GA 31061

Register for:

A LU M N I W E E K E N D 2 0 2 1 !

n i a g A

together .

RECONNECT WITH GMC ALUMNI & FRIENDS!

OCTOBER 22-23, 2021

ALUMNI WEEKEND!

Alumni Golf Tournament Alumni Parade Drill Team Performance Knockout Drill Welcome Home Tailgate Bull Ring Tavern Homecoming Prep Football Game Class Reunions

Full Weekend Pass: Super Early Bird - $79 (before Aug. 15) Early Bird - $89 (before Sept. 15) Regular - $99 One Day Pass Only: Super Early Bird - $50 (before Aug. 15) Early Bird - $60 (before Sept. 15) Regular - $70 Alumni Golf Tournament:

ROBINSON MEMORIAL RUN

$75 (Friday, Oct.22) not included in rates above 26th Will Robinson Memorial Run Campus Tours JC Football Game Bull Ring Tavern Class Reunions Alumni Awards Ceremony & Dinner Make reservations now!*

Hampton Inn 478-451-0050 LaQuinta Inn & Suites 478-454-9000 Holiday Inn Express 478-295-1144 *not included in registration fee

To register online and view more info, use your smartphone camera to scan this code.

It’s easy to register online!

alumni.gmc.edu/event/alumni-weekend-2021 If you would like a registration form mailed to you, please call:

478-387-0230 or email: alumni@gmc.edu

Mention GMC Alumni Weekend to reserve your room.

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New Track and Field Complex In May, GMC hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for our new Track and Field Complex. After years of planning, we are moving forward to build the complex. It will be located at the lower football practice field near Baugh Barracks. This track will provide an on-campus training facility that will greatly benefit our Prep School students, our Junior College Corps of Cadets, and Athletic Programs.

Our Prep program has had tremendous success in the history of our track program

with many individual championships each year and placements including this year’s state track meet. Additionally, all GMC Prep track athletes that competed in the State Championship had personal records in each of their events.

The new Complex will add to the existing practice field: an 8-lane 400-meter track, shotput area, discus area, two long jump and triple jump runways, pole vault, and high jump. We are grateful for the addition of this track and field complex for our students at

GMC, as well as the opportunity to host Regional and Sectional track meets, bringing in others from across the state of Georgia to Milledgeville for these events.

Our College Corps of Cadets will also finally have a location to run in the early morning hours in a lighted and safe enviroment to conduct physical training.

The new Track and Field Complex will provide new opportunities for our students and the GMC Family.

Mr. Ken Vance, Vice Chair, GMC Board of Trustees; Mary Parham-Copelan, Mayor of Milledgeville, LTC Allen Simmons, GMC Prep Associate Principal, Mr. George Hogan Sr., Chairman, GMC Board of Trustees;

Mr. Rob Manchester, GMC Athletic Director; Mr. Rader Sellers, President, Sellers Construction Company; LtGen William B. Caldwell IV, USA (Ret), President, GMC; COL Steve Pitt, USA (Ret) Commandant of Cadets; COL Nelson Kraft, USA (Ret), Regional Director, GMC Milledgeville campus;

Ms. Pam Grant, Assistant Superintendent, GMC Prep School

NEW

K C A R T AND FIELD

COMPLEX

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RIBBON CUTTING SEPT. 23, 2021 GMC LOWER PRACTICE FIELDS E. Washington Street

RSVP: GMCEVENTS@GMC.EDU or 478-387-4709 Parking: Parnell Ruark Athletic Complex and gravel parking along Lincoln St.

NEW

TRACK AND FIELD

COMPLEX

Georgia Military Veterans Hall of Fame Inductee Major General Peter J. Boylan, Jr. (USA, Ret.), 20th President of Georgia Military College, was inducted into the Class of 2020 Georgia Military Veterans’ Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame honors the men and women of Georgia who have served in the Uniformed Services of the United States and those who continue to serve our country today.

As a Company Commander in Vietnam in three separate combat engagements, then Captain Boylan’s courage, even when wounded and while under unrelenting enemy fire, caused his men to courageously respond to his undaunted bravery and the subsequent defeat of numerically superior forces. After the military, he became the 20th President of Georgia Military College in 1992, contributing to GMC’s prestige and growth. MG Boylan always emphasized the GMC motto of “Character Above All.” Major General Boylan’s combat awards include the Combat Infantryman Badge, Purple Heart, two Bronze Star Medals for Valor and the Silver Star.

In addition to his induction into the Georgia Military Veterans’ Hall of Fame, MG Boylan has also written a book, “Chits in My Bucket: Why Virtue Matters.” This book covers MG Boylan’s life and the many lessons he has learned of why virtue, character, and perseverance truly matter.

The book highlights the importance of preparing

oneself for adversity in life. He shares that with each moment of perseverance and preparation, you earn a “chit” to put in “your bucket”, which gives you strength and wisdom.

“In combat, in war, when the stake of the nation or the nation’s viability is at stake, it is the quality of the nation and the quality of its soldiers, the character that wins, much more so than the armament…It is the character of the soldiers and the leaders that carries the nation to success,” shared MG Boylan in an interview with The Union-Recorder.

MG Peter J. Boylan Jr., USA (Ret.) and Kathy Boylan

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CampusNews

GMC Plants Unity Tree in Memory of WWI Soldiers

25TH ANNIVERSARY FOR WILL ROBINSON MEMORIAL RUN

25

th

In October, GMC held an event to honor the memory of World War I soldiers from Milledgeville and Baldwin County who passed away during the war by the planting of a Unity Tree. The location is near GMC’s South Gate, adjacent to Patton Hall.

Prior to this special event, there were two segregated WWI memorials in Milledgeville – one at Shiloh Baptist Church and the other in front of the old Baldwin County Courthouse. GMC’s intent with the planting of the Unity Tree is to desegregate the names of those who made the ultimate sacrifice during WWI and to memorialize them together in one place.

Those honored include: Pvt. Eli Adams, Pvt. Augustus Austin, Pvt. Robert A. Bass, William A. Beck, Pvt. Edward Q. Brown, Pvt. Frank P. Brown, Pvt. Wesley Denson, Lt. de Bignon Vaughn Fleming, Pvt. Briscoe Ford, Pvt. Solf Giles, Pvt. Samuel Hanks, Sgt. Paul Anders Henry, Pvt. Thomas Howard Huff, Pvt. Ad King, Pvt. Furman F. Lee, Pvt. James Franklin Little, Seaman Herbert Tillman Lockey, Pvt. Isaac Newton Maxwell, Pvt. William Singleton Morris, Pvt. Timothy Reynolds, Pvt. Robert Lee Roberson, Pvt. Johnnie Robinson, Pvt. Beta Simmons, Pvt. Alex Threat, Pvt. Clark Tyler, Capt. Morris Vinson, Pvt. Willie Warren, Wagoner Robert White, Pvt. Joseph Woodson Wood, Pvt. Walker Wright, and Pvt. John Young.

CHOSEN****

Thank you for being all paws All Paws In! in

Thank you to all who generously gave to give.gmc.edu the 2021 All Paws In Campaign, our 24-hour day of giving.

When we all join together and give a little, a big impact can be made. We surpassed last year's giving total as well. Thank you for supporting our current and future students across our college campuses, the GMC Corps of Cadets, the Global Online College and GMC Prep School.

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GMC and the Baldwin Sheriff Georgia hosted the 25th Annual Will Robinson Memorial Run in May. Year after year this run is a great community event to remember and honor the life and legacy of GMC anniversary 47 Alumnus, and Baldwin County WILL ROBINSON MEMORIAL RUN Sheriff’s Deputy, Will Robinson, a 1987 GMC Prep School graduate, and a Baldwin County Sheriff’s Deputy who was tragically killed in the line of duty 1995.

The race to honor Will is usually held in conjunction with Alumni Weekend, but since that event was held virtually in October, the GMC and BCSO team chose to hold the race in person, being the 25th year milestone. For 25 years, those that knew and loved Will have gathered to honor his legacy at this memorial run.

Proceeds from this event go to the William E. Robinson, IV Memorial Scholarship Fund at GMC, assisting students of law enforcement families, and the C.H.A.M.P.S. Program in Baldwin County, teaching our 5th-graders to say “NO!” to drugs and safety guidelines for today’s world.

The 26th annual Memorial Run will be held on October 23, 2021, during Alumni Weekend.

GUESTS AND SPEAKERS

CampusNews

PASS IN REVIEW Students, faculty and staff at Georgia Military College have been fortunate to meet and learn from the many distinguished guests during the 2020-2021 academic year.

They served an important role sharing words of wisdom with cadets, distinguished guests, and at parades.

Dr. Mike Holmes

ACADEMIC HONORS March 19, 2021

The Honorable Elizabeth Camp (JC'99) MOTHER’S DAY May 7, 2021

Maj Gen Alex G. Grynkewich (HS'89) MEMORIAL DAY May14, 2021

LEADERSHIP ENGAGEMENT SERIES SPEAKERS

RADM Eric C. Jones The Georgia Military College Corps of Cadets Leader Engagement Series features alumni who selflessly return to their alma mater to share personal experiences and professional wisdom to support the Corps’ current cadets.

GMC alumni Leader Engagement Series speakers and their speech topics during the 2020-2021 academic year included: LTC (Ret) Charles "Buck" Bennett (JC'85) Compliance and Enforcement Manager for the DNR Coastal Resources Division Sept. 9, 2020 - "Getting Your Education No Matter How Difficult" Bazel Baz Author and Founder and CEO of the Association for the Recovery of Children (ARC) Oct. 2, 2020 - "Life Skills That Must be Internalized" 2LT William Wiegand (JC'19) Young alum Oct. 28, 2020 - "What to Expect at Your Next School" LTC (Ret) Ed Devos – Retired Army/Author Nov. 11, 2020 -- "Leadership in Military and Life Skills" De’Aisha Stephens

COL (Ret) Charles Sikes (HS'65), (JC'67) Retired Army/ National Guard Nov. 18, 2021 -- "Staying the Course No Matter How Difficult" Ken Vance – GMC Board of Trustees Vice Chairman Jan. 15, 2021 - Shared his thoughts about Martin Luther King Edwin Amerman – (JC/Corps ’90) Duck Creek Technologies, VP of Sales; GMC Alumni Association President Feb. 10, 2021 - “Learn, Lead, Legacy" COL (Ret) Thomas Hanley (JC'90) Mar. 5, 2021 - "Experiences in Military/Appreciating GMC" Charles "CT" Trumbo (JC/Corps ’07) Agricultural Specialist, UGA Mar. 10, 2021 - “Life After GMC and Why it Matters” RADM Eric C. Jones – Commander of the Coast Guard 10th District headquartered in Miami, Florida Mar. 17, 2021 -- Coast Guard Mission LTC Jerry E. Landrum - GMC Professor of Military Science April 21, 2021 -- "The Importance of Continuing Education"

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PREP SCHOOL

ATHLETICS

CHAMPIONSHIPS AND SCHOLARSHIPS

National Championship Title!

PREP RAIDERS EXCEL AT NATIONAL COMPETITION

Walker Bloodworth won the Army JROTC's national Ultimate Raider competition in February. He is GMC's first male and the youngest cadet to accomplish this title. The Ultimate Raider challenge is a two-mile course that includes a cross country run with a 35-pound rucksack, a low crawl, and scaling an 8-foot wall. Bloodworth's time was 11:26—a minute and a half better than any other athlete. "Walker has that ability to push through mentally and physically" said GMC Raider head coach MAJ Todd Van Dine.

Additionally, GMC Prep mixed team earned second place in the all-service competition and two other GMC teams finished in fifth place.

PREP RIFLE TEAM WINS STATE CHAMPIONSHIP

The GMC Prep Rifle Team won the GHSA Team State Championship in the Public division for Class A. Coached by LTC David Lewis, this team gave their all and won state for all classifications in Georgia.This state championship is the first for a GMC rifle team. (L-R) Kelsey Carpenter, Madison Kennedy,

Walker Bloodworth won the male Ultimate Raider competition at the US Army JROTC Raider Nationals

Two State Championship Titles!

Stella Glover, Colin Haskins, and Caterina Knapp

INDIVIDUAL RIFLE STATE CHAMPION WINNER

Colin Haskins was 1st overall in the state and Madison Kennedy was 4th overall. This individual win was a first for GMC's Prep Rifle Team.

Two State Championship Titles!

PREP SENIOR WINS BACK-TO-BACK STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS, BREAKS SCHOOL RECORD, PLACES AT NATIONALS De’Aisha Stephens has had many outstanding athletic accomplishments during her years at GMC. GHSA State Champion two years in a row (2019 & 2021) in the 800-meter, breaking the school record in the 800-meter, 2021 State Champion in the long jump and 2nd in the Nationals as The Ultimate Raider. De’Ashia is the first Prep School athlete, in GMC's history, to sign with The Citadel, where she will run track.

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PREP SCHOOL

ATHLETICS

PREP BOYS SOCCER TEAM WINS STATE CHAMPIONSHIP On May 14 the GMC Prep Bulldogs Boys Soccer Team defended their 2019 state championship after COVID-19 cut their 2020 season short.

GMC defeated ACE Charter of Macon 2-0 during a thrilling overtime.

Senior Krish Patel had 10 saves and both overtime goals were scored

by Ethan Tolentino who set a school record with 25 goals for the season.

Tolentino told 13WMAZ, "I remember watching my brother play here when I was in elementary school and I always thought maybe one day I'll make it to the state championship; maybe score a couple goals in the state championship so it really is a dream. It's so surreal," said Tolentino.

The Bulldogs senior class tied a school record for wins with a 56-11 career record.

Congratulations to team coaches Bobby Jaworski and LTC Scott Seagraves, who led the boys to win the GHSA State Championship for the second consecutive year!

Back-to-Back State Championship Titles!

Prep Seniors Score 50th Soccer Goals Two GMC Prep School seniors reached a soccer career milestone in March. Both Ethan Tolentino and Logan Mitchem scored their 50th goals at GMC Prep School soccer games in March.

“We are so proud of Ethan and Logan,” said GMC Prep Athletic Director, Allen Simmons. “They are both great athletes, but they put in a lot of work to be great.

Hitting 50 goals is a huge accomplishment, and it’s a bittersweet way to end their soccer careers at GMC Prep School.”

GMC Baseball team celebrates a successful play

Ethan Tolentino

Logan Mitchem

GMC Prep Softball player, Makenna Talcott, waits for a fly ball

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JUNIOR COLLEGE

ATHLETICS

Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Bert Williams retires For 23 years, Bert Williams served as athletic director and head football coach at GMC. Over the course of his tenure here, he created a legacy that the GMC Family will never forget. We celebrated Bert’s retirement in November, 2020.

Bert began his career at GMC Junior College in 1997 as an offensive coordinator and assistant head coach for the Bulldogs. Since being named GMC head football coach and athletic director in 2000, he accumulated a record of 156-58 and led the program to have one of the country’s highest win percentages in NJCAA football.

The Bulldog Walk for Coach Williams' family (L-R): Parker, Bert, Cathy, and Zach

He led the Bulldogs to ten NJCAA bowl games, a national championship in 2001, national championship game appearances in 2002 and 2013, and was named National Coach of the Year in 2001 (NJCFCA), 2002 (AFM/Schutt), and 2013 when he was named National Coach of the Year by both the AFCA and the NJCAA. Bert was inducted into the NJCAA Football Hall of Fame in 2010, one of only a handful of active NJCAA football coaches to be so honored. He has also served as NJCAA Football Coaches Association president and ACCFCA president.

As athletic director, Bert led the growth of the Athletics Department from one to nine successful athletic programs. He’s responsible for the addition of men's and women's soccer, coed rifle, men's and women's cross-country, men's and women’s golf, and softball.

All of the GMC programs have developed to a position of consistent, high-level success, and have each won multiple conference championships and competed in national championship tournaments. The GMC rifle team has three NRA ROTC Division National Championships to its credit, while the GMC men’s golf program has earned three NJCAA National Championships.

Bert’s leadership and impact have also been felt off the field.

He oversaw and supervised athletics facilities improvements across the GMC-Milledgeville campus. Bert and his wife, Cathy, also established the Bert and Cathy Williams Athletic Endowed Scholarship Fund, providing financial assistance to student-athletes participating in a GMC Junior College Athletics program.

To say Bert has left an impact on this institution would be an understatement. He is a true testament to what leadership looks like and embodies the GMC motto, “Character Above All.”

RECORD NUMBER OF JC FOOTBALL PLAYERS COMMIT ON NATIONAL SIGNING DAY The Georgia Military College Junior College football program enjoyed a winning National Signing Day 2021, finishing with a record number of 63 players signing national letters of intent to play for the Bulldogs. The GMC 2021 signing class includes 42 high school players from Georgia, who chose to stay in their home state to further their academic and athletic careers.

Thanks to the successful National Signing Day, the GMC Bulldogs football program was able to fill a number of needed positions on the team, especially up front on the offensive and defensive lines. “You win games up front,” said GMC head football coach and Athletic Director, Rob Manchester, “and we made sure that we addressed our needs of getting great size and height.” This is the first season with Manchester at the helm of the Bulldogs football and athletic programs, replacing longtime head football coach and Athletic Director, Bert Williams, who retired in November.

“I cannot express how appreciative I am of the tireless effort our four-man coaching staff – Taylor Burks, Ross Robinson, Reggie Rhodes, and Parker Williams – put into this recruiting class. They pulled off an amazing task and deserve all of the credit for bringing in so many families and prospects to the GMC-Milledgeville campus,” Manchester said.

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JUNIOR COLLEGE

ATHLETICS

GMC JC Men’s Golf Take Second at NJCAA National Championship The GMC Men's Golf Team fired the lowest team round of the tournament and the lowest individual round, but came up one shot short of winning their second straight National Championship. All five starters earned All-American status, led by Austin Quillian, who shot a four-day total of 296, finishing 4th.

The GMC Men's Golf team is no stranger to success. They have won three previous National Championships and looked primed to defend their 2019 championship. Austin Quillian, Peter Thayer, Dylan Humphries, Lurner Benton, and Noah Hankins posted excellent scores most of the season.

Along with the second-place trophy, the Bulldogs came home with more hardware.

All five Bulldogs earned Coach Van Horn with GMC JC Men's Golf Team All-American status by finishing in the Top 18, setting an NJCAA DIII Our Men's Golf team has delivered time and time again in 13 record. Austin Quillian (4th), Peter Thayer (5th) earned 1st team NJCAA Championships appearances; the Bulldogs have finished honors, Dylan Humphries (7th) and Lurner Benton (8th) earned in the Top 5 seven times with three Championships. GMC has two 2nd team honors, and Noah Hankins (16th) earned Honorable individual champions and a total of 14 All-Americans.

Mention. The sixth man Austin Mills also had a stellar tournament and finished T-26th.

Rob Manchester Named GMC Athletic Director The Bulldogs’ 2013 defense Georgia Military Colwas instrumental in their lege recently announced reaching the NJCAA National Coach Rob Manchester Championship title game. as the new Athletic DiManchester has mentored rector and Head Football countless student-athletes to Coach for GMC. Manthe next level, with over 100 chester says he is looking earning NCAA D1 scholarships, forward to providing new 17 defensive players have opportunities to Georgia achieved All-American status, athletes at GMC. and seven have ascended to The new A.D. is no the NFL. stranger to GMC. He Manchester “We are absolutely thrilled that started as a Defensive Rob Manchester has accepted our offer Backs Coach for the football team in 2003, to serve as our Junior College Athletic under the direction of Coach Bert Williams.

Director and Head Football Coach,” said After four seasons, he was named the GMC President, Lieutenant General William Defensive Coordinator and became the AsB. Caldwell, IV, U.S. Army (Ret). “His love of sistant Head Coach in 2011. In 13 seasons GMC, our Junior College athletic program, as the Defensive Coordinator, Manchester’s and especially our student-athletes, makes defenses have been ranked statistically as him an exceptional choice to move our one of the best in the country on a yearly athletic program forward. His excitement basis.

in bringing hope and opportunity to young student- athletes made our decision very easy in selecting Rob. We are always thrilled to promote from within our institution when a professional’s talent is so clear – and this was certainly the case with Rob. We are equally excited for his wonderful family, Michelle and their two daughters Emmie and Ellary.”

Rob, Michelle, Emmie and Ellary

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JUNIOR COLLEGE

ATHLETICS

GMC Freshman Macy Williams National Golf Competitor and Record Holder GMC Women’s Golf Team was well represented in the NJCAA Women’s Golf National Championship.

Freshman Macy Williams placed 34th in the National Championship; and is now the most decorated women's golfer in GMC history.

Macy Williams currently holds the following records: Lowest Scoring Average, Most Birdies in a round, Most Birdies in a Season, Most Top 5 finishes in a season, and Highest finish Macy Williams at the National Championship. She will be returning next season with an eye on eclipsing all of those records.

"I know I can be better and I will practice non-stop," Williams commented.

JC Softball captures NJCAA Region 17 Championship The GMC JC Softball team won the Region 17 Championship this spring and earned a spot in the NJCAA National Championships, their third National Championship appearance. This year they participated as an “All Georgia Team.” Success is familiar to the Bulldogs as they have won 3 of the last 5 Region 17 championships and finished 2nd the other two years. In the year of the unknown this team has risen above. They battled a pandemic, they lost key players to injury, and yet they kept winning and breaking records.

Head softball coach Ashley Bunn is pictured with the 2020-21 team

JC SOFTBALL TEAM ADOPTS 7-YEAR-OLD BRAIN TUMOR PATIENT

The GMC Junior College softball head coach and players were introduced via Zoom to their newest member on January 20, after becoming the adoptive team of a pediatric brain tumor patient, 7-year-old Armani, through a program run by the nonprofit organization Friends of Jaclyn Foundation.

Armani, sporting his GMC Bulldogs sweatshirt, was joined by his mother, Kim Carter, who introduced him to the GMC Junior College softball players and head coach Ashley Bunn. “Armani is someone who we believe will have a tremendous impact on our program in countless ways,” Bunn said, “and we hope that we can do as much for him as he will do for us.”

Also sitting in on the Zoom online meeting from his home in Hopewell Junction, New York, was Denis Murphy, whose family established the Friends of Jaclyn Foundation after his then 9-year-old daughter, Jaclyn, was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor. At the start of her battle with cancer, with only a 30% chance to live, Jaclyn befriended and became an honorary member of a college lacrosse team. She is now 26 years old and a college graduate.

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through Friends of Jaclyn Foundation

The mission of Friends of Jaclyn Foundation is to “improve the quality of life for children battling pediatric brain tumors and other childhood cancers.” Through its “Adopt-A-Child Program,” Friends of Jaclyn (FOJ) has had almost 1,000 children adopted by high school and college athletic teams across the country. During the Zoom meeting, Denis Murphy said that the bonds created are life-altering. He added that former athletes in the program have chosen to work in the medical field because of their interaction with the kids. Seven former FOJ athletes are currently doing research to cure pediatric cancer. “I believe the cure will come from those impacted by our programs,” Murphy said.

Armani loves everything related to hospitals, and since he has spent much of his young life in them, that is understandable.

Though impaired by multiple medical conditions, Armani is full of energy and brought the house down when he blew the team a kiss. He, his mother, Kim, and his brothers, Jamon and Jaidynn, have been part of FOJ for about six years and value the connection to the teams the program

has given to their family.

“I can’t wait to get out to one of your games and have everyone meet the team in person,” said Kim Carter, who asked for a GMC JC softball team schedule to let Armani Carter coach Bunn know which game they want to attend. “Life is hard for us, but every day is a blessing because Armani is still here.“ The softball team was excited to meet Armani. Players shared some fun facts about themselves during the Zoom meeting.

One player, Autumn Land, even plans to go into pediatric nursing after graduation.

Sophomore pitcher, Beth Eddins, said, “I am just so excited to have an opportunity to positively impact someone’s life.”

You can learn more about the Friends of Jaclyn Foundation at www.friendsofjaclyn.org.

ClassNotes

1999

GMC alumni currently serving in Hawaii

Chris DeMarco, (JC ’99), was recently promoted by the Georgia Bureau of Investigations (GBI) to Special Agent in Charge of the GBI Region 5 Field Office in Statesboro, GA. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminology from Saint Leo University and a Master of Public Safety Administration degree from Columbus State University.

He has served with the GBI since 2001 after working with the Georgia Department of Corrections for six years.

He is also a veteran of the United States Army.

LTC Michele D. Cooke, (JC'90) 9th MSC, G-3 Hawaii State Emergency Preparedness Liaison Officer

MG Reginald “Reggie” Neal (JC'89) USARPAC, DCG-NG

MAJ Matthew C. Pitts, (JC'04) 9th MSC G-35 Strategist

MAJ Jamie Walton, (JC'05) USARPAC, ACSENG Chief of Operations and Plans

2011

Congratulations to GMC Alumnus Dr. Christopher Babb (JC ‘11) on his promotion to Vice President of Institutional Research, Planning, and Effectiveness for Georgia Military College. Dr. Babb graduated in 2011 from GMC and went on to graduate from Georgia College and State University with his Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Biology and The University of Louisiana Monroe with his Doctor of Education, Curriculum and Instruction.

Ellie Thompson (HS '11) and Joey Waddell (HS '09) got engaged in January on Joey's family farm in Sparta, Georgia. The couple looks forward to celebrating their wedding on April 30, 2022. Congratulations to these two GMC Alumni on this exciting time in their lives.

2015

Rebekah Veatch Panlilio (HS '15), (JC ‘17) married Aaron Panlilio on August 8, 2020. Due to COVID restrictions, the couple was legally married on May 22, 2020 and had their formal ceremony with family and friends in August. They honeymooned in Charleston in May and did a cross country road

trip to California in August. Rebekah earned her bachelor’s degree in sociology from The University of North Georgia in 2019. She is an advocate for foster care/adoption and human trafficking after-care and hopes to use her degree to help women out of crisis situations.

Toohey, to Jack for being number one in the commissioning class and the outgoing Battallion Commander.

Watkins

2019

2017

Chase Rauhut (HS '17) recently graduated and was commissioned as a 2LT at the University of Alabama, where he was a member of the ROTC Program. Chase will attend the Infantry Basic Officer Leader Course, Airborne School, and Ranger School at Fort Benning, GA. Jack Watkins (HS '17) commissioned into the U.S. Army last month and graduated from Ohio State University as well. The sword was presented by the PMS, LTC Jack

After completing their studies and commissioning as 2nd Lieutenants from GMC, Aaron Hill, Aidan Kerchner, and Zachary St Laurent pursued their bachelor’s degrees at Syracuse University. The three received their diplomas during Syracuse’s Commencement Ceremony and the Army officers now have some time to prepare for their upcoming Basic Officer Leaders Courses. Hill will move to Ft. Rucker, AL, to become an aviation officer. Kirchener will be a signal officer and start his career at Ft. Gordon, GA, while St Laurent is headed to Ft. Benning, GA, for Infantry BOLC. Congratulations to these GMC alums and best of luck as they start their Army careers.

SGM Dean Welch, GMC ROTC Chief Military Instructor, with 2LT Aaron Hill, 2LT Aidan Kerchner, 2LT Zachary St Laurent

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“Let no one weep for me, or celebrate my funeral with mourning; for I still live, as I pass to and fro through the mouths of men.”

-- Quintus Ennius

Mr. Leo F. Griffin, III JC 1962 July 15, 2020

George B. Prosser HS 1954 October 11, 2020

William “Terry” Baggett JC 1958 Dcember 20, 2020

George Dewey Hendrix HS 1955 February 10, 2021

Larry Saba JC 1969 July 27, 2020

Roger W. Stembridge, Jr. HS 1966 October 13, 2020

George Dean Rogers HS 1956 December 20, 2020

Carter Nipper HS 1974 February 12, 2021

Travis Greene JC 2014 August 11, 2020

Carl E. Hall JC 1962 October 15, 2020

C.L. “Neil” Holloman JC 1949 December 21, 2020

Charles R. Collins HS 1971 February 15, 2021

Jack Wray HS 1954 August 16, 2020

Robert Glen Ross, Jr. HS 1962, JC 1964 October 20, 2020

Polly Echols Honorary Alumna 2019 January 4, 2021

Curt O. Hall, Jr. JC 1941 April 8, 2021

Sherrie Green Harding HS 1977 August 30, 2020

Lonnie Bales Former GMC VP for Student Affairs and Dean of Students November 7, 2020

James E. Vinson HS 1953 January 11, 2021

Armando Mendoza JC 2018 April 19, 2021

Thomas H. Banks, Sr. HS 1957 January 13, 2021

William Jordan Flury JC 1975 May 18, 2021

Ann Muhs Bertoli Former GMC Prep Faculty January 19, 2021

Cason Branan JC 2010 May 31, 2021

Larry Pate Willoughby HS 1953 January 29, 2021

Mr. Harry G. Smith, Jr. HS 1959 May 27, 2021

Harry “Mutt” Kennedy, Jr. JC 1960 September 8, 2020

James “Mike” Westerfield HS 1962, JC 1964 November 15, 2020

Josh Sheram JC 2019 September 14, 2020

John Sibley Weaver, Jr. HS 1974 November 24, 2020

James “Terry” Grimes HS 1969 September 18, 2020

Clarence “Chuck” Duke, III HS 1975 November 28, 2020

Andrew I. Schmidth Attended 1991-1992 October 9, 2020

Cristal Clark JC 2011 December 13, 2020

Armando Castillo HS 1978 February 5, 2021

If you'd like to honor, celebrate, or remember a loved one, you can do so by giving a special gift to Georgia Military College in their memory.

Any gift to the Georgia Military College Foundation may be made in memory or honor of a family member, friend, or mentor.

Your gift provides meaningful recognition while supporting GMC's mission and vision.

You may use the attached envelope, or give online at give.gmc.edu.

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GMC's devoted supporters

Mrs. Polly Echols passed away on January 4, 2021.

Georgia Military College was a part of Mrs. Echols’ family life since childhood, and loyalty to the beloved institution was instilled in her at a young age. Her father, two brothers, uncles and cousins were all GMC cadets and her mother, Mrs. Bettie Farr, was POLLY ECHOLS the GMC Latin teacher for many years. It was in the GMC canteen at age 12 that Polly first met her husband, the late Dr. George Echols, a Distinguished Alumnus of GMC, whom she later married after graduating from college.

The GMC legacy that runs deep in her family was evident in the pride and patriotism that Polly portrayed. She was one of GMC’s strongest supporters and believed wholeheartedly in the school’s philosophy of character education.

Polly and George lived in Augusta, Ga. for 30 years while raising four children and George leading a successful medical career. In 1991, Polly and George moved back to Milledgeville, where they remained active in the community for many decades. The couple returned both their talents and treasure to GMC over the years.

Polly was a founding member of the committee which established the Performing Arts Concert Series. The couple provided financial support to the college in many areas, including dedicating a GMC classroom to Polly’s mother, Mrs. Farr, and also established the Bettie Zachary Farr Scholarship.

Supporting GMC was a lifelong passion for Mrs. Echols. Her unwavering commitment has made a lasting impact on GMC that will be felt for many years to come.

Georgia Military College is deeply saddened by the passing of Carolyn Taylor Thomas. The Milledgeville native was GMC’s first female African American Board of Trustee member and served for more than 25 years.

“Carolyn Thomas is a historic figure at Georgia Military College,” said Lieutenant General, USA (Ret.), William B. Caldwell, IV., President of Georgia Military College. “We are profoundly grateful for her service to GMC, and the part she played in moving this institution forward to be more inclusive and diverse. She is an inspiration for future generations, and her legacy will forever live on here at Georgia Military College.”

CAROLYN THOMAS In 1989, the citizens of Milledgeville elected Thomas to serve on the GMC Board of Trustees, where she did so as a member, Chairperson of the Junior College Education Committee, Secretary and Treasurer, advisor to two Chairmen of the Board, and three Presidents of the College.

During her tenure, GMC was twice reaffirmed by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and expanded its outreach from fewer than 1,000 students in 1982 to more than 8,000 students in 2013. Additionally, the college was restored to exemplary financial health—and prospered. In cooperation with other trustees, GMC eliminated all deferred maintenance, added new structures, and renovated or rebuilt every building on the Milledgeville campus and leased state-of-the-art facilities to five campuses and three extension centers at the time. In 2014, Thomas was made a Georgia Military College Trustee Emeritus.

Thomas’ service to her community went beyond Georgia Military College. When Thomas graduated from Spellman College and the Clark Atlanta University School of Social Work, she took postgraduate courses at Case Western Reserve University School of Social Work as well as American Sign Language at Cleveland State University. She then went onto become a Licensed Social Worker in Ohio and worked in social services there until 1986 when she returned to her home of Milledgeville.

Thomas wasted no time getting reacquainted with her community, working tirelessly to help others. Thomas served as a member of the Boys & Girls Club, Allied Arts, Old Capitol Kiwanis Club, and Court Appointed Special Advocacy Group. She had a lifetime membership in the NAACP and SCLC, was a charter member of Georgia’s Antebellum Capital Museum, and Learning In Retirement at Georgia College. She also holds membership in the Sallie Ellis Davis Club of Federation of Colored Women’s Clubs of Georgia and AARP State Legislative Committee. Her organizational affiliations continued in the areas of care for handicapped and the elderly, parenting and partnering programs, and predatory lending.

To say Thomas served unselfishly would be an understatement. GMC is eternally grateful for her service to the GMC and Milledgeville community. She will be missed by many, but she will always be remembered as a pillar of inspiration by all.

The GMC Atlanta Metropolitan Region 2021 Commencement Ceremony conducted on June 12, 2021 was dedicated to Clayton County police officer Armando Mendoza, GMC Alumnus from the Fayetteville Campus Class of 2018, who died on April 19th, 2021 when his patrol car was hit. Armando’s parents – mother Bianca and father Robert – were honored at the Commencement Ceremony.

Armando’s celebration of life service was held at the Light of Joy Church in Riverdale, GA on April 26th, 2021. It’s been said that “the test of a first-rate work is that you finish it”; Armando Mendoza was a servant leader of character and man of strength who indeed finished his first-rate work here on earth.

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non-profit org u.s. postage paid Macon, Georgia permit no. 280

201 East Greene Street Milledgeville, GA 31061

together RECONNECT WITH GMC ALUMNI & FRIENDS!

. n i ga

A

O C TO B E R 22-23

ALUMNI WEEKEND 2021!

Register Now! alumni.gmc.edu

Class reunions!

Football games!

Campus tours!

Delicious meals!

Bull Ring Tavern!

... and more!

Any class reunions not recognized last year, will be celebrated this year!

alumni.gmc.edu