Aeolian 2023

AEOLIAN 2023

The Magazine of Georgia Southwestern State University for Alumni and Friends

"Winning is not a sometime thing; it’s an all the time thing. You don’t win once in a while…you don’t do things right once in a while…you do them right all the time. Winning is a habit. Unfortunately, so is losing." - Vince

Lombardi

The words “winning” and “losing” may stand out in this quote, but “[doing] things right all the time” is what should get your attention.

With tremendous effort and support from students, faculty, staff and friends of the University, Georgia Southwestern is doing things right. As a result, we have seen a lot of success in the last year, particularly in athletics, with three Peach Belt Conference Championships in Spring 2023 – a first in program history for each. That success reflects well on the entire campus. It exemplifies what is being done right in the classroom and in the community every semester.

This past year, over 100 students presented research in their chosen fields at the Undergraduate Research Symposium and 36 student entrepreneurs submitted business plans as part of the first Hurricane Pitch competition. Our nursing graduates pass the NCLEX exam at nearly 100 percent every year. GSW student-athletes completed more community service hours than any NCAA Division II program in the nation. And our students are employed throughout our region providing assistance and hospitality to patrons every day.

This issue of the Aeolian—hitting mailboxes a little earlier this year— highlights much of the good work done by our faculty, staff and students and ways in which your financial support has facilitated GSW student success. We hope you enjoy!

Neal Weaver President

m What’s in the Cup? podcast

AEOLIAN 2023

The Aeolian is published by the Department of University Relations at Georgia Southwestern State University.

GSW is a member of the University System of Georgia and an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity institution.

The name Aeolian is derived from Aeolus, who was appointed by the mythological god Zeus to be the keeper of the winds – both to calm and to arouse them. He was the King of the Aeolian Islands. Continuing its mission begun in 1906, GSW serves traditional and non-traditional students across the state, the nation and the world.

Editors

Chelsea Collins

Sydney Scott ’17

Contributing Authors

Erin Andrews ’10, ’22

Rebekah McLeod

Chelsea Collins

Sydney Scott ’17

Photography

Shannan Blanchard

Sydney Scott ’17

David Parks Photography ’14

Chris Fenn ’78

Angela Smith

Layout & Graphic Design

Sydney Scott ’17

Printer

Burman Printing President

Neal Weaver, Ph.D.

AVP for Advancement & GSW Foundation Executive Director

Stephen Snyder ’04, ’10

Director of Marketing and Communications

Chelsea Collins

Multimedia Coordinator

Sydney Scott ’17

Web Content Strategist

Hailey Henderson

Alumni Engagement Specialist

Angela Smith

Annual Giving Specialist

Kim Comer ’90, ’10

Development Officer

Hunter Peak

Foundation Accountant

Tracy Taylor ’12, ’18

Advancement Services & Operations Manager

Kearston Roland ’18

Cover collage by Sydney Scott ’17 with photos by Chris Fenn ’78 : Golfer Chase McLain, baseball player Garrett Bradley and basketball player Jojo Williams all celebrated conference championships this year, each of which has contributed to GSW's evolving championship culture. See pg. 12 for full story.

Forty years ago, the Hurricanes' played their first intercollegiate football season in 1983. The 1986-87 team is pictured here.

CAMPUS UPDATES

College of Arts and Sciences NEW CHEMISTRY TRACKS

College of Business and Computing HURRICANE PITCH

The Department of Chemistry, Geology, and Physics now offers two new interdisciplinary concentrations starting Fall 2023. The forensics concentration, offered in conjunction with GSW’s online criminal justice program, prepares students to understand the basics of criminal justice and evidence. The biochemistry concentration, in conjunction with the Department of Biology, provides an in-depth background in human biochemistry while maintaining a strong foundation in all areas of chemistry.

HUMANITIES SYMPOSIUM

GSW hosted its first-ever Hurricane Pitch Competition in April for entrepreneurial students with dreams of starting their own small businesses. Kameisha Smith of Albany, Ga., an online pre-marketing major with an entrepreneurship certificate, took home the grand prize of $7,500, which she will use to get her small business off the ground. Winning the $3,000 People’s Choice Award was Jacquelyn Levay ’23 of Tampa, Fla., a management major with an entrepreneurship certificate.

MBA GROWTH

The 2nd Annual Humanities Symposium in November 2022 featured student presentations, discussions, and panels surrounding topics across the humanities, including history, English, and visual arts. Over 30 students participated by presenting original research. Organized by Associate Professor of History Dr. Susan Bragg, the event also featured keynote speaker Sam Mahone, who was an activist in the Americus Movement as a member of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee and serves as chairman of the AmericusSumter County Movement Remembered Committee.

GSW's Master of Business Administration (MBA) program has continued to build on its strong foundation and commitment to excellence in education at an affordable price. The accredited program is competitive nationally and attracts students from coast to coast as well as across the globe. Current GSW undergraduate students are also now eligible to enroll in MBA courses through the accelerated Double Canes Program. As a result, the MBA student population has been steadily increasing, with 175.8% growth from 2019 to 2022 with 171 students and well over 200 for Fall 2023.

UPDATES

College of Education

ESOL ENDORSEMENT

The College of Education now offers a new online postbaccalaureate English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) endorsement for certified teachers. The program, consisting of three online courses, provides Pre-K through 12th grade teachers with the knowledge and skills necessary to meet the needs of their students and prepares teachers to respond to the increasing number of English language learners in classrooms. Two ESOL courses are taken in the summer and one in the fall.

OUTSTANDING SCHOLAR

College of Nursing and Health Sciences ASN PROGRAM

After a 22-year hiatus, GSW’s Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program was revived to help combat the nursing shortage. This allows students to complete a degree and apply for RN licensure in a shorter period of time than a baccalaureate program. The program surpassed its goal, admitting 52 students to the first cohort. Current ASN students range in age from 18 to 52, with 52% being non-traditional students by age and 46% of ASN students are minority status by race or ethnicity.

HEALTH SCIENCES PROGRAMS

Charles Doswell, III, a special education graduate from Blakely, Ga., was named GSW's 2023 Outstanding Scholar, the University’s highest academic honor. Doswell graduated with a 4.0 GPA, which put him among the top of his class. The Outstanding Scholars, recognized by the University System of Georgia, represent the system’s highest scholastic ideals and are selected by each individual institution. These students have a high GPA, strive for excellence and have the ability to share knowledge in various areas of expertise. Doswell graduated summa cum laude.

The School of Health Sciences launched two new stand-alone exercise science programs in Fall 2023, in addition to the existing bachelor’s degree in exercise science, based on feedback from the regional workforce. The Exercise Physiology Endorsement is a 9 credit-hour program, while the Exercise Science Certificate is an 18 credit-hour program. Both expand the offerings and possible career paths for either aspiring or practicing exercise physiologists, exercise specialists, physical therapy assistants, rehabilitation technicians, and fitness/ wellness trainers.

LIBRARY RENOVATION NEW PROVOST

Jill Drake, Ed.D., was named GSW's provost and vice president for Academic Affairs (VPAA) after serving as interim for just over a month, beginning her full-time duties on July 1, 2023. She has 23 years of experience in higher education and is an accomplished academic, having published eight books and held a tenured, full professor rank in education. Drake previously served as the associate vice president for Academic Affairs at the University of West Georgia in Carrollton.

The Fiscal Year 2024 state budget, signed by Gov. Kemp in May 2023, included $5 million to renovate the James Earl Carter Library. The project will reestablish the Library as a destination for all students to study and access resources. Plans include updates to the HVAC system, electrical, bathrooms and furniture, as well as an open floor plan for the first floor. The Library has not undergone an extensive renovation since its construction in 1971.

RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM

SPECIAL OLYMPICS

GSW hosted its 5th Annual Undergraduate Research Symposium on April 28, 2023. The event featured student research on topics such as politics, history, marketing, psychology, biology and issues in nursing. With more than double the participation as last year's event, a total of 89 students took part in the Symposium: 16 presented their research in an oral presentation, 70 displayed their work on posters, and three served as moderators for the oral presentations. First through third place and Provost's Choice accolades were awarded.

For the first time in three years, GSW welcomed over 60 athletes from Sumter County Schools, Dooly County Schools, Furlow Charter School and The Opal Project for the Area 11 Special Olympics. Special education teacher candidates in the College of Education organized the event as an opportunity to learn how to support students with disabilities in our area. The athletes, ranging in age from 5 to 62, had the opportunity to compete in activities that were led and cheered on by GSW student-athletes, coaches and members from student organizations.

Save the Date!

5th Annual Day of Giving

Thursday, September 21

GSW’s fifth annual Day of Giving is an opportunity for Hurricanes around the world to join together and show support for Georgia Southwestern. This year’s focus is on scholarships and increasing our overall number of donors to 400. Additionally, we are challenging donors from each of the 50 states (and beyond) to light up their state and Turn the Map Gold. Visit gsw.edu/DayOfGiving to learn how you can participate.

Homecoming Week & Family Weekend

Monday, October 9 - Saturday, October 14

Celebrate GSW and revisit campus this fall. Former Hurricane football players, cheerleaders and band members are invited to attend a special reunion and recognition on Saturday, October 14, which also coincides with Family Weekend.

For details, visit gsw.edu/Homecoming.

TEDxGeorgiaSouthwesternU

Friday, October 20

GSW’s second annual TEDxGeorgiaSouthwesternU will feature eight dynamic speakers who will share their personal stories of “Leaving Your Mark” - this year’s theme - and will participate in an exclusive, in-person panel following the main event. VIP ($100) and general admission ($25) tickets are on sale now. Follow along at gsw.edu/TEDx for more details.

Make an impact for GSW students.

Propel: GSW’s Campaign for Scholarships is well on its way to meeting the $1 million goal for scholarship funding. This fundraising effort will provide incoming and continuing students more scholarship opportunities to obtain an affordable and quality education without years of debt. The campaign will conclude at the second annual Gold Force Gala on January 27, 2024. Make a gift today to propel our students forward so they can make their mark on the world.

Leave

as of August 8, 2023

For more information, contact the GSW Foundation at (229) 931-2014, visit gsw.edu/Propel, or make your gift via mail using the envelope attached in this magazine.

GSW BY THE NUMBERS

GSW Foundation Scholarship Funds 2022-23

Nearly 70 percent of GSW students receive some form of financial assistance from the state of Georgia, federal grants, or private scholarships. The numbers listed below reflect funding from GSW Foundation scholarships.

$1,119,003.42 in scholarships distributed to students

796 scholarships distributed

640 students received scholarships

139 scholarships available

92 endowed scholarships

Top Events

Raising Funds for Scholarships

Propel: GSW’s Campaign for Scholarships

Day of Giving Gold Force Gala

Homecoming 5K and Fun Run

606 scholarship donations

*83% increase over the last 5 years

334 scholarship donors

*68% increase over the last 5 years

Total scholarship funds distributed

*22% increase over the last 5 years

6 Scholarships Newly In Use: Magnolia Manor Employee Recognition Endowed Scholarship

Americus & Sumter County Hospital Authority Endowed Scholarship

Fort Family Scholarship

Horne-Starlin Family Scholarship

Victoria Ondo Burnfin Endowed Scholarship

Dr. Kenneth Wurtz Biology Scholarship

142 first-generation students awarded scholarships

Presidential Challenge Coins allow graduates to thank those who made an impact

At the start of their freshmen year, GSW students receive a silver Challenge Coin from President Weaver to signify the start of their college journey. Upon finishing their degree, students are asked to give their silver coin to someone who had an impact on their life while at GSW, and they receive a gold coin at Graduation in its place. This tradition, which began in Fall 2018, has taken root and made an impact on more than just the students. Watch the heartwarming videos at gsw.edu/Coins.

Deep Patel ’23 gave his coin to his parents for their support, including four years worth of homemade vegetarian meals made by his mom.

Kaitlyn Evans ’23 gave her coin to Doug Moses ’97 after a chance meeting in a drive-through line led to an internship at his accounting firm.

Emily McClure ’23 gave her coin to athletic trainers Marissa and Stone Collins for their support personally, academically and athletically.

Carrie Harris ’23 gave her coin to Dr. Leisa Easom for always believing in her and providing motivating words that pushed her to keep going.

Chase Harper ’23 gave his coin to Dr. Joseph Comeau for being an amazing advisor and friend, helping Chase to navigate school and also life.

Leigh Swords ’23 gave her coin to Dr. Paula Bryant who inspired, motivated and advised Leigh through her MSN and always had an open door policy.

Kristin Stokes ’22 gave her coin to Zach Ward ’17, ’18, ’19 who taught and mentored her through her M.Ed., first year of teaching and having a newborn.

Tiwanna Bryant ’23 gave her coin to Dr. Debaleena Ghosh for being the “best professor" she’s ever had and “making the biggest impact” on her.

Nathan Gibson ’22 gave his coin to Chelsea Collins, who he interned with for a year and who showed him that marketing was his true passion.

2022-2023 Faculty and Staff Awards

FACULTY AND STAFF RECOGNITION FOR YEARS OF SERVICE:

5 YEARS

Maurice Barron

Dr. Laura Boren

Connie Hammack ʼ99

Joni Hammond

Trevor Jennings

Nicki Levering

Josh McDonald ʼ06

Brittany McKenzie ʼ15

Andrea Pinckard

Dr. Jesse Russell

Sydney Scott ʼ17

Dr. Thelma Sexton

Jenn Smith

Dr. Neal Weaver

10 YEARS

Daniel Allegood

Dr. Robert Bennett

Darcy Donaldson

Dr. Michael Moir

Dr. Michele Ragsdale ʼ90, ʼ94, ʼ97

James Scott

15 YEARS

Dr. Carol Bishop

Angie Christmas ʼ12

RETIREMENTS

Polly Conger ʼ91

Grants/Travel Accountant, Office of Accounting Services

Mary Cooper

Central Stores Supervisor, Office of Materials Management

Beth Morris

Buyer, Office of Purchasing

Whitney Ford ʼ10, ʼ22

Dr. Kailash Ghimire

Dr. Charles Huffman

Dr. Cecilia Maldonado

Keith Michlig

Dr. Dongwen Qi

Dr. Rebecca Short ʼ04, ʼ06

Dr. Rhonda Slocumb ʼ91, ʼ08

Morris Smith

Ru Story-Huffman

20 YEARS

Jennifer Dickens

April Dodson

Dr. Elizabeth Gurnack

Dr. Stephanie Harvey

Darlene McAfee

Charles Wells

25 YEARS

Kay Bell

Dr. Gary Fisk

Dr. David Jenkins ʼ00, ʼ07

Bob Slenker ʼ04, ʼ06

45 YEARS

Deborah Standridge

Dr. Cecilia Maldonado

Associate Professor, College of Business and Computing

Michelle Underwood ʼ99, ʼ11

Director, Office of Purchasing

2023 PROFESSOR OF THE YEAR

Dr. Robert Bennett, professor of management, was voted Professor of the Year by graduating seniors. The award was presented by the GSW Alumni Association.

FACULTY AND STAFF EXCELLENCE AWARDS

2023 Staff Excellence in Customer Service and Personal Interaction Award

Michael Lewis

2023 Staff Excellence in Achievement and Performance

Anthony Lasiter ʼ10, ʼ22

2023 Faculty Excellence in Scholarship Award

Dr. Mohammad Dehzooei

2023 Faculty Excellence in Advising Award

Dr. Jim Aller

2023 Faculty Excellence in Service Award

Dr. Nellie Iordanova

2023 Faculty Excellence and Commitment to Teaching Award

Dr. Susan Bragg

STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION AWARDS

Oris Bryant Staff Member of the Year

Dominique Smith

Faculty Member of the Year

Dr. Nellie Iordanova

Laughlin named Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences

Mark Laughlin, D.M.A., was named dean of the College of Arts and Sciences in March 2023 after serving as interim dean since July 2022. As a member of the GSW faculty since August 2008, Laughlin previously served as a professor of music and chair of the Department of Music, Communication, and Emerging Media.

Dr. Robert Bennett receives a plaque from Alumni Engagement Specialist Angela Smith at the annual Faculty and Staff Awards Ceremony on May 4, 2023.

The Lady Canes had a record-breaking season in 2022-23. They closed out the regular season with a 24-6 overall record and as Peach Belt Conference (PBC) regular season champions. The team also won the PBC Tournament and advanced to the NCAA Tournament Sweet 16. Guard Ava Jones was named MVP of the PBC Tournament and was also named to the All-Southeast Region Team by the DII Conference Commissioners Association. Head Coach Justin Payne was named the 2022-23 Peach Belt Conference Women's Basketball Coach of the Year.

GSW won the 2022-23 Peach Belt Presidents' Academic Award at the league's annual awards dinner in May 2023. The award recognizes excellence in academics concerning all of an institution's student-athletes. The Hurricanes had an average GPA of 3.01 for the academic year while the undergraduate student body had a 2.75 average GPA. That is a ratio of 1.0945, which is the highest in the conference this year. This is the third Presidents' Academic Award for GSW, with the first coming in 2008 and the second in 2018.

Junior infielder and pitcher Zoe Willis earned several recognitions for her 2022-23 season performance. She was named NCAA Division II National Player of the Year by both the National Fastpitch Coaches Association and Southeast Region Player of the Year by the Conference Commissioner's Association. Willis was also named the DII Honda Athlete of the Year finalist for softball, one of 11 finalists for the prestigious national award.

Josh McDonald ’06 was named the 2023 Peach Belt Conference Baseball Coach of the Year. McDonald led the Hurricanes to a 22-8 conference record as the program captured its first PBC regular season and tournament championships, made its first NCAA Tournament appearance, and broke several other program records.

Nicki Levering, associate director of athletics for studentathlete development, senior women's administrator, and head softball coach, was selected to participate in the 202324 NCAA Pathway Program, a yearlong initiative designed to prepare senior-level athletics administrators for the next career step as directors of athletics or conference commissioners.

In their 2022-23 season, the golf team won two events, were PBC Champions, and finished the season ranked in the Top 10. The team returned to the NCAA National Championships for the third season in a row, where they finished 12th. Chase McLain tied for 11th, Eric Fogel tied for 18th. McLain and Nicolas Escobar received All-American honors from the Golf Coaches Association of America.

GSW's baseball team broke numerous program records and had their best NCAA-era season in 2023. With a 22-8 conference record, the Hurricanes finished first in the regular season, won the PBC Tournament, and made an appearance in the NCAA DII Southeast Regional. Several players were recognized by the American Baseball Coaches Association and Rawlings for their outstanding seasons, including first baseman Paul Hegeman, who won a Gold Glove Award, and pitchers Nick McCollum and Rijnaldo Euson, who were both named to the DII All-Region First Team.

In April 2023, GSW hired Hana Haden as its new head women's basketball coach. She led the women's basketball program at Moberly Area Community College in Moberly, Mo. for five seasons, where she accumulated an overall record of 118-36 and a Region 16 record of 47-15. This past year, MACC finished with a record of 29-4 and advanced to the second round of the national tournament. Haden has been named to the Women's Basketball Coaches Association Thirty Under 30 list four times in her career and was named the embRACEus Women's Coach of the Year in 2022 and 2021.

SEIZING VICTORY A Championship Culture Unleashed

Fueling the Fire of Success

It is a time of unparalleled excitement and electrifying energy at Georgia Southwestern State University. Over the past five years, the landscape of GSW has been transformed into a powerhouse of triumphant victories, unyielding determination and an unquenchable thirst for greatness—both in and out of the classroom. The Hurricanes are leading the charge towards a new era of championship glory!

Conquering New Heights

The 2022-23 academic year witnessed an exhilarating ascent of GSW Athletics that surpassed expectations and shattered many previous records. Not one, not two, but three Peach Belt Conference (PBC) championships—the first in GSW's history—were secured by the golf, baseball and women’s basketball teams. These victories have brought immense pride to the University and sent school spirit surging through every corner of the campus community.

The Drive to Succeed

The GSW men's golf team has battled their way to three consecutive appearances in the NCAA Division II National Championship. Glory was almost within their grasp in 2021, as they missed the national title by a mere stroke. Their most recent PBC championship win is

By Erin Andrews ’10, ’22

proof of their ability to compete at the highest level.

"The Hurricanes' victory in the PBC Championship is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the team," stated Mike Leeder, director of GSW Athletics, expressing his excitement. "They have set a new standard for GSW golf."

Senior Chase McLain and junior Nicolas Escobar were recognized as PING All-American, adding to the team's success this last season. Under the guidance of Head Coach Darcy Donaldson—the 2020 and 2021 NCAA DII Southeast Region Coach of the Year—the golf team's meteoric rise has become a hallmark of excellence, setting the bar for GSW's future golfing legends.

This tremendous success resonates with President Neal Weaver's belief that GSW gives individuals the opportunity to compete on any level, as is the case for former GSW All-American Vincent Norrman, who captured his first PGA Tour victory in the 2023 Barbasol Championship.

The Diamonds of Triumph

The GSW baseball team scripted an unforgettable chapter during the 2022-23 season with 30+ wins, leaving a lasting mark on the program's narrative with a flourish of unprecedented achievements. In a heart-stopping showdown, the Hurricanes clinched the

program’s first-ever PBC Regular Season Championship, securing a coveted spot in the NCAA Southeast Regional Tournament.

Led by Head Coach Josh McDonald—2023

PBC Baseball Coach of the Year—the team's accomplishments were further emphasized by numerous player accolades. Four players earned spots on the 2023 All-PBC teams. Nick McCollum was named the 2023 PBC Baseball Pitcher of the Year. McCollum and teammate Rijnaldo Euson made the prestigious American Baseball Coaches Association and Rawlings

NCAA DII All-Region First Team, and first baseman Paul Hegeman earned a Golden Glove Award, another first for GSW. The team’s relentless pursuit of excellence and historic achievements earned them a well-deserved ranking in the Collegiate Baseball NCAA DII Poll.

A Slam Dunk of Success

The success of the GSW’s women's basketball team set the campus ablaze on the path to victory. In a groundbreaking triumph, the team secured their firstever PBC Championship victory. With the momentous win, the team secured their bid to the NCAA Tournament, where they reached the Sweet 16.

Ava Jones, the PBC Tournament’s Most Valuable Player, played a vital role in the Lady Canes' success, leading the team with double-digit scoring. Jones was recognized by the NCAA DII Conference Commissioners Association and earned a spot on the All-Southeast Region Women's Basketball Second Team. Jones and teammate Kayla Langley were also named to the Southeast Regional All-Tournament Team.

The Lady Hurricanes have ignited a championship culture and, with each victory, rallied the GSW campus and community-at-large, creating dedicated new fans along the way.

Line Drive to Victory

Earning multiple All-Conference selections and producing the first PBC Player of the Year in program history, GSW softball added its own brilliance that reflected a level of ferocity that left opponents trembling. The team had a record-breaking 39 overall wins, the highest number of PBC wins in a season (19) and a staggering home record of 22-1.

Marching into the PBC Tournament as the #3 seed, the team left no doubt they were a force to be reckoned with. As they celebrated their first postseason victory since 2019, they set their sights on a future that held nothing but triumphs.

Second baseman and pitcher Zoe Willis shined bright on the softball diamond with numerous honors and distinctions which rewarded her talent on and off the field. She led the NCAA DII in home runs and slugging percentage and was recognized as the DII Conference Commissioners Association Southeast Region Player of the Year, Ron Lenz Player of the Year and PBC Player of the year—the first for the GSW softball program—sealing her legacy in the GSW softball history books.

Willis's accolades extend beyond regional borders. On the national stage, she was heralded as the TUCCI and National Fastpitch Coaches Association

NCAA DII Player of the Year and was the softball finalist for THE Collegiate Women in Sports Awards DII Athlete of the Year presented by Honda.

Willis is an ideal example of a student-athlete succeeding on and off the field. Her 4.0 GPA reflects academic prowess and a commitment to her dream of becoming an orthopedic surgeon.

Molding Strong Minds and Bodies

GSW also celebrates victories inside the classroom with a commitment to academic excellence. GSW studentathletes achieved an impressive cumulative 3.14 GPA. These stellar achievements were recognized with the prestigious 2022-23 Peach Belt Conference Presidents' Academic Award, an accolade that speaks volumes to GSW Athletics' unwavering dedication to the pursuit of knowledge.

The essence of GSW Athletics goes beyond grades and championships. It's about making a lasting impact on the world. GSW student-athletes have demonstrated their commitment to community service, ranking #1 in the 2021-22 NCAA Helper Helper Challenge. Category 5, a new campus initiative, will reach the local K-12 students educating on 5 dimensions of well-being to make a lasting impact by promoting holistic development and well-being.

Building a Solid Foundation

Thanks to the unwavering support of private donors, corporate sponsors and the GSW Foundation, GSW Athletics has ignited a fire of success that burns brighter than ever. State-of-the-art facilities and strategic branding have set the stage for an extraordinary transformation that fuels the passion of players and the entire GSW community. Signature fundraisers like Canes 360, the President's Golf Classic and the legendary Hail Storm have attracted record numbers, ensuring sustained financial support for the program.

Facility enhancements aim to create an unparalleled experience for studentathletes and sports enthusiasts alike. The construction of the $1.2 million Baseball and Softball Indoor Training Facility, Canes 360 Hospitality Suite, Athletics Weight Room, Basketball Film Room, Recruiting Room and more lead to a competitive edge on the field and court. Beyond athletics, the University

remains devoted to academic excellence and fostering a holistic student experience. This is evidenced by the $3.4 million renovation of Canes Central, the $3.5 million renovation of Florrie Chappell Gymnasium, the upcoming $5 million renovation of the James Earl Carter Library and the $6.4 million future renovation of the Griffin Bell Golf and Conference Center.

Through private donations and state funding, GSW has invested more than $25 million over the last five years to enhance campus facilities and infrastructure. The power of this collaboration and the vibrance of the GSW community has unleashed a revolution of excellence.

Fostering Quality Talent

Attracting exceptional talent is crucial in pursuing athletic excellence and academic distinction at GSW. The infusion of talented student-athletes and accomplished professionals enhances the institution's quality and enriches the overall campus experience. Creating genuine connections, embracing shared values and providing opportunities for growth are vital aspects to this endeavor.

Dr. Jill Drake, GSW’s newly-appointed provost and vice president for academic affairs, shared that the size of the University offered her a unique opportunity to form personal connections and make a lasting, positive difference in the lives of others. “It was a genuine commitment to a community that shared my passion for education and dedication to uplifting others."

The appointment of Women's Basketball Head Coach Hana Haden demonstrates the institution's commitment to excellence. Haden's track record and dedication to nurturing young athletes aligns perfectly with creating a championship culture. Reflecting on her decision to join GSW, Haden remarked, "The vision our leadership has for this University, along with the investment they have made in athletics, makes GSW

a place where students can thrive as people, have a tremendous collegiate experience, as well as outstanding playing careers."

GSW is also nurturing its own talent and developing leaders from within. Several GSW alumni and longtime faculty and staff members now fill important positions on campus, including those of associate vice presidents, deans and directors.

Georgia Southwestern is positioned for growth and success, reflecting the University's dedication to empowering students to thrive in all aspects of their lives. GSW is a place where outstanding talent can flourish, making a profound impact on the world around them.

Academic Excellence Fuels a Championship Culture

The pursuit of academic excellence is the driving force behind the institution's winning culture. This commitment to fostering a dynamic and vibrant learning environment has resulted in numerous accolades and left students, faculty and staff inspired to achieve greater heights.

GSW’s first-ever Hurricane Pitch Competition drew in 36 aspiring student entrepreneurs with business plans to turn their innovative ideas into reality. Additionally, over 100 students presented research at the annual Undergraduate Research Symposium. This emphasis on research enhances students' academic experience and prepares them for successful careers and postgraduate studies. Such experiential learning opportunities have become an integral part of GSW's educational approach, empowering students to explore and apply their knowledge beyond the classroom.

GSW's championship culture extends beyond athletics and academics to encompass other notable achievements. The University's recognition as the Best Place to Work in Sumter County for two consecutive years (2021 and 2022)

speaks volumes about the supportive and thriving work environment cultivated by the institution. This positive atmosphere directly translates to a more engaged and motivated faculty and staff, whose commitment to excellence is reflected in their outstanding contributions to academia and beyond.

GSW's dedication to academic excellence serves as the cornerstone of its championship culture. By continually fostering a learning environment that celebrates achievement, innovation, and growth, GSW creates leaders and changemakers who make a positive impact in the workforce and their communities.

Embracing Greatness

As the embers of success continue to burn bright, Georgia Southwestern stands at the helm of greatness. This revolution of champions has sparked a blaze that will never be extinguished, exceeds the boundaries of the field and inspires generations to come.

From the courts to the fields, from the classrooms to the community, Georgia Southwestern has forever altered the course of its history, leaving a memorable mark on the hearts and minds of all who come to know it.

So, let the flames of victory burn brighter, let the hurricanes of triumph surge higher and let the spirit of GSW soar beyond the realms of possibility. Together, as one united force, we shall embrace greatness and etch a legacy of success that shall stand the test of time. As Hurricanes march towards the future, every day is a new chapter in this epic journey—a journey that shall see Georgia Southwestern State University rise to the pinnacle of glory, and beyond. s

Choose a graduate degree that fits your budget and your schedule.

GSW’s accredited graduate programs are among the most affordable in the state and are flexible enough to fit your busy schedule.

Master of Business Administration

• Business Administration ?

• Executive Business Administration s

Education Specialist

• Elementary Education s

• Middle Grades Education s

• Teacher Leadership s

Master of Education

• Elementary Education s

• Middle Grades Language Arts s

• Middle Grades Mathematics s

• Special Education s

Master of Science in Nursing

• Nursing Education ?

• Leadership ?

• Informatics ?

• Family Nurse Practitioner ?

Master of Science

• Computer Science ?

Graduate Certificate

• Nursing Education ?

• Healthcare Informatics ?

• Computer Information Systems ?

? Available 100% online s Hybrid online with some on-campus instruction

Learn more and apply at gsw.edu/Graduate

Hello Canes Nation! The GSW Alumni Association is gearing up for another exciting year, expanding on the extraordinary firsts experienced over the last 12 months. For the first time, Homecoming was hosted in the fall during soccer season. Attendance was outstanding, deeming the change a success. This year, we plan to add to the Homecoming festivities with a reunion of former football players, band members and cheerleaders. The Alumni Association also spearheaded the inaugural Gold Force Gala, recognizing outstanding alumni and raising thousands of dollars to support student scholarships. Most exciting is the ongoing success of GSW Athletics, with three Peach Belt Conference championships for the first time in women’s basketball, men’s golf and baseball. Additionally, GSW hosted the Hurricane Pitch competition for student entrepreneurs for the first time.

Like a hurricane, GSW continues to break barriers and rise to new heights. Student enrollment is breaking records, campus facilities such as the Griffin Bell Golf and Conference Center and the James Earl Carter Library are receiving multimillion-dollar renovations, and students are receiving national accolades for their contributions inside and outside the classroom.

When you cross the stage on your graduation day, you become a GSW alum, joining the ranks of others who crossed before you. You have begun your legacy and will be forever connected, near or far, to your GSW family. I encourage you to stay engaged with your alma mater, nurture the friendships made while at GSW, and participate in alumni events. Consider investing in students by providing financial support for scholarships, helping enrich the college experience by offering jobs or internships, or simply giving up your time and sharing your knowledge.

Don't hesitate to contact any of our board members or the Office of Alumni Affairs to get involved, participate in our activities, or assist committees with upcoming alumni events. We love connecting with our alumni, so take advantage of all the opportunities and benefits we have to offer!

Alumni Association

Board of Directors

Andrea Ingram ’91, ’94, ’15 President

Cheryl Fletcher ’93 Treasurer

Ervin Anderson ’93

Beau Barrett ’14

Mark Blalock ’95, ’03

Billy Bolton ’13

Tim Brooks ’17

Pam Carswell ’78

Ryan Garnto ’13 Vice President

Amy Benton ’90 Past President

Marcus Johnson, Jr. ’08

Tracy Law ’99

Renee Mays ’89, ’92, ’93

Robert Moss ’76

Jimmy Peel ’80

Lamar Radford ’00

Pictured are (front row L to R) Kathleen Lang-Tucker, Cheryl Fletcher, Andrea Ingram, Pam Carswell, and Sedrick Swan (second row) Renee Mays, Amy Benton, and Ryan Garnto, (third row) Sonja Duggar, Katherine Tondee, Jessica Reese, Lamar Radford, Angela Smith, and Tim Brooks, (fourth row) Robert Moss, Beau Barrett, Jimmy Peel, Luke Ellis, Royce Hackett, and Mark Blalock, (fifth row) Ervin Anderson, Billy Bolton, Tracy Law, and Jonathan Hobbs.

Sonja Duggar ’79

Luke Ellis ’08

Royce Hackett ’01

Jonathan Hobbs ’17

Jessica Reese ’19, ’21

Sedrick Swan ’09

Katherine Tondee ’14

Alejandro Espitia

Ex-Officio, SGA President

Andrea Ingram ’91, ’94, ’15 President, GSW Alumni Association

Inaugural Gold Force Gala raises funds for scholarships

Georgia Southwestern hosted the inaugural Gold Force Gala on Saturday, January 21, 2023 in the Storm Dome with over 230 guests present to help raise money for student scholarships as part of the ongoing Propel campaign. The sold-out event began with a cocktail reception and silent auction followed by dinner, the Outstanding Alumni Awards ceremony and live music. The second annual Gold Force Gala is scheduled for January 27, 2024.

Outstanding Alumni Awards

One of the main events at the Gold Force Gala was the recognition of Georgia Southwestern's 2023 Outstanding Alumni Award winners. These awards, which were developed to honor the distinguished personal accomplishments and professional achievements of GSW alumni, are given based on nominations from fellow community members. This year's GSW Athletics Hall of Fame inductee was also recognized during the ceremony.

Leon Holloway ’73

2023 Aeolian Award

After earning his degree in political science in 1973, Holloway went on to become a premier florist and caterer known across the state and beyond. In 1977, Holloway purchased Gatewood’s Flower Shop from his aunt Bette Duke, and he remains owner-operator to-date. He is a member of and has served in key roles with the Southwest Georgia Florist Association and the Georgia State Florist Association. In 1975, he and his cousin, Jane Slappey Kelly, formed Cousins Catering. Holloway also served on the decorating committee at the White House for President Jimmy Carter’s inauguration in 1977 and for the opening of the Carter Center in Atlanta in 1982.

Holloway has been a member of the Andersonville Guild and served on its board of directors since its inception; is on the Board of Trustees for the Phoebe Sumter Foundation, where he is a member of the Wheatley Society; and is on the Board of Trustees for the GSW Foundation, where he is a Patron and member of the President’s Circle.

The Turner Family

2023 Family Legacy Award recipients

Terrell Turner brought his teaching skills to GSW in 1967 as an instructor of mathematics. His presence, along with that of his wife, the late Janie Turner ’74, was the catalyst that would sow the seeds for future generations of Hurricanes, both kin and colleague. In 1974, Terrell, the patriarch dubbed “Grandaddy” of the Turner family, and his department cohorts created the University’s annual High School Mathematics Tournament which is the longest running math competition in Georgia to-date. Janie, Terrell’s wife of nearly 70 years and “Granny,” also made her mark as a member of the first class to graduate from GSW’s Master of Education program in 1974.

The couple’s three children and a couple of their spouses also boast GSW alumni status: Dr. Jim Turner ’83, Dr. Bobby Turner ’79 and his wife Lisa Turner ’80, Cheryl (Turner) Fletcher ’82, ’91 and her husband Mike Fletcher ’78 are all Hurricanes. Mike and Cheryl’s two children Michael Fletcher ’08 and Maggie (Fletcher) Moore ’12, ’20 received degrees from GSW as well. Cheryl serves as a member of the Alumni Association Board of Directors. They invest their gifts, talents and treasures and have created both a GSW bloodline three generations strong and an impressive academic lineage that invokes Hurricane pride which is sure to impact the next generation.

Qaijuan Willis ’15

2023 Young Alumnus of the Year

Willis, who earned his BBA in management in 2015, has quickly made a name for himself in the Americus community at only 30 years old. He has served as program coordinator for the City of Americus and was promoted to Director in 2019. In this role, Willis has taken the Main Street Program to a new level and has brought the downtown vacancy rate to below 10%. He works tirelessly to push for the necessary improvements that are creating a vibrant downtown. Under his leadership, the program has maintained an upward trajectory; the most recent community impact report reflects over $1.2 million in total public and private investment and can boast nearly 700 jobs in the downtown district alone.

Willis is also a passionate community advocate. He is a youth pastor and a member of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee at Furlow Charter School. He serves on the Georgia Downtown Association Board of Directors, is a member of Rotary Club of Americus and is chairman of the Board of Directors for the Sumter County Chamber of Commerce.

Amy Benton ’90

2023 Leewynn Finklea Award recipient

In addition to serving as the 2021-23 president of the Alumni Association Board of Directors, Benton has a long resume with the Rotary Club of Peachtree City, including Rookie and Rotarian of the Year, and will serve as its next president. She earned a BS in biology in 1990 and received a teacher certification in grades 7-12 science, teaching 28 years of high school science in three states. She has won numerous awards in both teaching and in competitive cheer, serving as a coach for 23 years.

She has served faithfully on the Alumni Association Board for eight years and has led the charge for nearly two years as president, unifying the board and fostering an environment of service to the University. She met her husband Jeff ’92, ’96 at GSW and has a family full of GSW alumni. She and her husband, who are both members of GSW’s President’s Circle of donors, can often be found at Kappa Sigma events or hosting reunions and events at their own home.

Barry Blount ’78

2023

Canes Community Champion

A lifetime resident of Americus and 1978 GSW graduate, Blount was the recipient of the first-ever Canes Community Champion Award. A 44year veteran of the banking industry, he has served customers at SB&T Bank, People’s Community Bank and Citizens Bank of Americus. He may argue his most important constituents were those he served as mayor of Americus during his 16 years in office. During his tenure as mayor, Blount was a champion for GSW and higher education, helping lead both GSW and South Georgia Technical College in the “Two Great Choices – One Great Community” campaign.

Now a life trustee for the GSW Foundation, Blount has served as treasurer, secretary, vice chair and chairman. Additionally, he has served as chairman of the Sumter County Chamber of Commerce and the Sumter County Development Authority. In 2008, he received the Aeolian Award for his distinguished service to GSW and achievement within his own career.

Hugh Yaughn ’72

2023 Visionary Award recipient

Yaughn may be retired, but he is working harder now than ever for foster children, at-risk youth and families in need in the Bulloch County community. A 1972 education graduate, he played baseball for GSW and was member of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity. With a background in education and a desire to coach, Yaughn spent years doing both and was named 2001 Tattnall County Teacher of the Year.

Now in retirement and despite an auto-immune health challenge, he works tirelessly to serve needs in the Statesboro community with Fostering Bulloch, a Christian-based organization started by his son Chris that supports children in crisis situations. As part of that organization, Yaughn has been part of projects like Hope Chest, a 1,500 square foot emergency clothing closet that serves over 2,000 children annually, and 7th Mile Farm, a planned 30-acre outdoor recreation facility that will serve foster children and at-risk youth.

Brennon Sewell ’74

2023 Hall of Fame inductee

Sewell earned his Bachelor of Science in business administration with an accounting option in 1974. He served as the head coach for GSW Tennis from fall 1995 until his retirement in 2022. Throughout his 27 years of service to GSW, Coach Sewell put competitive programs on the court for both men’s and women’s tennis. He coached 20 National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) All-Americans, six NAIA Academic All Americans and players who held 13 individual national rankings. He was named Conference Coach of the Year four times and in 2001, he led the Hurricane men’s tennis team to a NAIA National Runner-Up finish.

Individually, Sewell has been ranked in the top 10 in the state of Georgia for players aged 35-45 and was a past Georgia State Men’s Singles Champion. He was also a winner in the Father/Son Doubles Championships.

Over 20 of Sewell's former GSW players accepted the award on his behalf, as he was unable to attend.

Nominations are now open for 2024

Nominate GSW alumni who have distinguished themselves as community leaders, innovators, and civic-minded individuals at gsw.edu/AlumniAwards

s Aeolian Award: This award is chosen based on outstanding lifetime achievement as a distinguished alumni and community leader.

s Visionary Award: This award is given to an entrepreneur/innovator for significant contributions to the advancement of a business or enterprise.

s Young Alumni of the Year: This award is given to an emerging leader making waves in their field as a positive role model and reflection on the University.

s Family Legacy Award: This award recognizes a family with a multi-generational tradition of attending GSW and continued interest in and support of GSW.

s Leewynn J. Finklea Award: Named in honor of our first alumni director, this award recognizes outstanding alumni service to GSW.

Alumni in the news

Eric Holland ’00, ’03 was named superintendent of Rome City Schools in Rome, Ga. by the Board of Education. Holland has been an educator for 23 years and previously served as principal of Rome High School and of Marietta High School in Marietta, Ga. (Donalsonville News)

Frank Posey ’82 was named senior vice president and the new city president for the Cordele, Ga. and Vienna, Ga. markets at South Georgia Banking Company. (Cordele Dispatch)

Jennifer (Martinez) Walls ’15, head softball coach at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Tifton, Ga., was named the 2022 Georgia Collegiate Athletic Association Coach of the Year. (Albany Herald)

Jeremy Ellenberg ’14, film teacher and theatre coach at Dublin High School in Dublin, Ga., was named 2022 Beginning Teacher of the Year by the Georgia Association for Career and Technical Education. (WGXA)

Lisa (Smith) Perry ’96 was profiled as the owner and director of the Advocates for Autism Resource Center in Dawson, Ga. (Albany Herald)

Dean Burke ’77 resigned his state senate seat to become chief medical officer at the Department of Community Health, which manages public health programs and state health benefit plans. Burke, a retired obstetrics and gynecology physician, was first elected to the state senate in 2013. (Atlanta Journal-Constitution)

Quentin Fulks ’12 was profiled for his work as Sen. Raphael Warnock’s campaign chief. (AP News)

Anthony Aikens ’98, ’00 was named superintendent of Crawford County Schools in Roberta, Ga. (WGXA)

Andrea Dozier ’04, Albany State University’s interim Chair and Associate Professor in the Department of Nursing, was selected for the University System of Georgia's Executive Leadership Institute, a six-month program designed to develop high-performing and high-potential leaders across the USG. (Albany Herald)

Natasha Walden ’95, who retired from the U.S. Army after 20 years with the rank of first sergeant, was included in Marquis Who's Who for her service to veterans as outreach director of The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Endeavors, a nationwide system of mental health clinics. (24-7pressrelease.com)

Anna (Zaldivar) Paller ’15 was recognized as one of the Atlanta JournalConstitution's 10 Nurse Excellence Award winners. A registered nurse in Marietta, Ga., Paller helped a 16-yearold girl who called the hospital looking for someone to talk her out of harming herself. Paller reassured the girl, gained her trust, and got her to the hospital, where Paller met her with a hug and praise for reaching out for help. (Atlanta Journal-Constitution)

Michelle (Sealy) McGowan ’89, ’93 was promoted to Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs at South Georgia Technical College's campus in Cordele, Ga. (Cordele Dispatch)

Jay Jones ’12 was named principal of Houston County High School in Perry, Ga. (Middle Georgia CEO)

Patricia Starck ’59 was honored at the United Nations in May 2023 by the Nurses With Global Impact for her work producing the documentary Caring Corrupted: The Killing Nurses of the Third Reich. The film is required viewing for freshmen nursing students at several universities, including the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston, Tex., where Starck is Dean Emerita. (Nurses With Global Impact)

Justin Neal ’17 was named general manager of Theatre Albany in Albany, Ga., a position that was vacant for the previous five years. (Albany Herald)

Charles Plant ’74, a veteran photographer who spent 30 years as President Jimmy Carter's go-to photographer in Georgia, developed a documentary to preserve some of his photos and memories with the Carters over the years. (WALB)

Chris Hosey ’87 was appointed director of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation by Gov. Brian Kemp. He has been with the GBI since 1987 and previously served as a narcotics agent, investigator, deputy directory of investigations, and, most recently, assistant director. (Atlanta Journal-Constitution)

Wes Shiver ’03 was named head baseball coach at Lee County High School in Leesburg, Ga. (WALB)

Maggie Davidson ’13 was named director of Moultrie-Colquitt County Parks and Recreation after having been with the recreation authority since Jan. 2019 as its associate director and serving as interim director twice. (Moultrie Observer)

Craig Dowdy ’04 was promoted to East Atlanta President for United Community Bank in Atlanta, Ga. (Equipment Finance Advisor)

Lisa Harrell ’12 was named vice president of academic affairs at Albany Technical College in Albany, Ga. She has been at Albany Tech since 2012, previously serving as the department chair and an instructor for the hotel, restaurant and tourism management program. (Albany Herald)

Alicia (Morgan) Ledbetter ’14 was named executive director of the One Sumter Economic Development Foundation in Americus, Ga. by the Board of Directors. (Albany Herald)

Patrice Little ’07 was profiled by Minority Nurse for her accomplishments and career in nursing. She is a senior policy advisor for the Future of Nursing: Campaign for Action, an initiative of AARP Foundation. Little has also advocated for the nursing workforce on Capitol Hill, has worked as a content producer for GPB, and is CEO of NP Student, a digital lifestyle and educational resource for nurse practitioner students. (Minority Nurse)

Grace (Hatcher) Adkins ’75 retired on her 95th birthday after teaching for 70 years at Westwood Schools in Camilla, Ga. and Deerfield Academy in Albany, Ga. (Simplemost)

Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Ann Pittman Cook

By Rebekah McLeod

Atage102,AnnPittmanCookwastheoldestlivingalumatthetimeofthis interviewinSeptember2022,whenwehadtheprivilegeofsittingdownwith herinherhomeinCordele,Ga.,toaskheraboutherlife,herfamilyandher timeasanaward-winningathleteincollege.Mrs.CookgraduatedfromGeorgia SouthwesternCollegein1939.Sheandherhusband,Kenneth,hadtwosons,five grandchildrenandninegreatgrandchildren,withatotalofninefamilymembers overthreegenerationswhoeithergraduatedfromorarecurrentlyenrolledat GSW.Sadly,Mrs.Cook affectionatelyknownasMematoherfamily passed awayonMay31,2023priortothe Aeolian’s release.Herlegacyoffaith,kindness anddedicationtofamilywillcontinuetoimpactallthosewhoknewandlovedher.

“Ann Cook made the world a better place and had fun doing it,” said Lee Guerry, Mrs. Cook’s friend and the former associate pastor at Cordele

First United Methodist Church, in a letter read at her funeral. Ann was a devoted, lifelong member of the Methodist Church, and it was where she first met her husband, Kenneth, whose father was the pastor at First United Methodist in Americus, Ga. Ann and Kenneth met at the church’s youth program when Ann was 17, but they did not begin dating until after Ann finished college in 1939.

While at GSW, Ann played on the All-Star Speedball team during her freshman year (1937-38) and the All-Star Basketball team during her sophomore year (1938-39). When asked about her years as an athlete, Ann said, “Those were my serious years…I won the high jump! There’s a picture in my album of me running the hundred yard dash…”

Kenneth attended GSW for a short time in 1942 until he joined the military. Ann recounted the story with her natural exuberance and an uncanny memory for details at age 102:

"We married in 1941; Ken [Jr.] was born in 1943. The draft board in Americus told Kenneth they would not draft him until Ken was born. About a month

Above: Ann's family attend her funeral in May 2023. Top right: Ann and Kenneth, Sr. in Atlanta on his first day back stateside after World War II. Middle right: Ann at her home in Cordele. Bottom right: Kenneth, Sr. (standing) and Joe (seated) in Joe's office at the family electrical company.

Left: Ann reminisces about her time at GSW. Middle: Ann is pictured here during her in the 1939 Gale, her sophomore year at GSW. Right: Ann crosses the finish line at a 1939 race.

before he knew he would be drafted, Kenneth enlisted in the Navy. He left when Ken was about three months old and served on a [patrol torpedo] boat in the South Pacific. We didn’t see him again until the end of the war in 1947. I wrote to him every day. There's a picture of me and Kenneth walking down the street in Atlanta; I couldn’t drive, so my brother, Dale, took me to Atlanta to meet Kenneth after he was released from the Navy."

Ann and Kenneth had two sons, Kenneth, Jr. ʼ63 and Joe ʼ69, both of whom became GSW alumni and successful businessmen. Kenneth, Jr. worked in sales for Metropolitan Life Insurance in Albany, Ga., and Joe became CEO and owner of the business his father started, Cook Industrial Electric Company. Ann tells the story of how she and Kenneth moved to Cordele in 1963 with little money and the hope of building a business:

"I was ready to go until the actual move date came. Joe was 17 at the time and he was very shy; I was shy back then too, if you can believe it! [laughter] Kenneth asked me to give him a year in Cordele, and if we didn’t adjust he would move us back to Americus. But in that year, Cordele became home. We redid that building, which had been a cotton warehouse. I had never worked before, but I did work for ten years helping Kenneth get established. He worked real hard; he wanted to amount to something, and he made a success of that business. But then when his health was bad, he turned the business over to Joe, and Joe has done a wonderful job."

Joe and his wife, Diane, have two children. Kenneth, Jr. and his wife, Rachael — a 1967 GSW graduate — have three children, Cary, Rebecca, and Kenneth “Ross,” who carried on both his mother and grandmother’s legacy and graduated from GSW in 2001.

Ann’s grandson, Cary, and his wife, Julie, have four children, three of whom have attended or are currently attending GSW as well: Ellie ’19 who inherited her great-grandmother’s athletic ability and played softball while at GSW; Hannah ’23 who, as a member of the President Jimmy Carter Leadership Program, was involved on campus like her great-grandmother; and John, a pre-accounting major with a wicked sense of humor, just like Ann. David, their fourth son, has plans to take over the family electrical business in Cordele.

As grandson Cary noted in her eulogy, Ann was funny, loving, kind, meticulous, intelligent and witty. “She lived her life with a smile, a quick wit and a listening ear.”

“Mema was really proud of her time at GSW. She fondly remembered her time at Southwestern and, the week before she passed, talked about playing basketball, the high jump record she set, [breaking] her own record,” Cary recalled.

“You know,” Ann told Cary, “I had really long legs.”

In the 84 years since Ann was a student, Georgia Southwestern has undergone dramatic growth. On this, Ann can attest: “The campus is entirely different now. It was just the main building and a gym when I was there. I lived on Hancock Drive, and we all walked to GSW every day. We walked back home at noontime and then back after dinner — we called lunch 'dinner' back then — and thought nothing of it.”

Times have certainly changed, but the values that Ann held dear—friendship, laughter and family—continue to resonate with those who have benefited from knowing her. She couldn’t contain her pride when reminiscing on the role GSW has played in so much of her family’s life: “Georgia Southwestern is a first-class college. You’re proud to say you’re a part of it.”s

ALUMNI EVENTS 2024

Homecoming & Family Weekend

ft. Football, Cheer & Band Reunion

October 9-14, 2023

Celebrate GSW and revisit campus this fall. Former Hurricane football players, cheerleaders and band members are invited to attend a special reunion and recognition on Saturday, October 14. For details, visit gsw.edu/Homecoming

Irish Splendor

October 24-31, 2024

Explore Dublin, the Rock of Cashel, Blarney Castle, the Dingle Peninsula and the majestic Irish coast. The $3,049 per person (double rate) pricing* includes 8 days/7 nights and nine meals. This includes a $400 discount per person for bookings made before April 24, 2024.

Greece Island Hopper

April 25 - May 5, 2025

Tour historic sites including the Acropolis in Athens and the excavation site of Akrotiri. Enjoy island living on Mykonos and Santorini. The $5,049 per person (double rate) pricing* includes 11 days/10 nights and 14 meals.

Gold Force Gala

January 27, 2024

This black tie fundraiser for student scholarships includes dinner, a silent auction, live band and dancing, and will honor our 2024 outstanding alumni. Sponsorships and tickets are available at gsw.edu/GoldForceGala.

Alumni Reunions

NPHC Greek Reunion

February 9-11, 2024

GSW Baseball & Softball Reunion

April 12-13, 2024

Iceland's Magical Northern Lights

Fall 2025

Chase the Northern Lights as you drift along on an evening starlit cruise and explore Iceland's natural wonders. Dates and pricing* coming soon.

*Pricing for all international trips includes air fare, hotels, ground transportation, tours, and a set number of meals.

For more information about upcoming alumni events and trips, visit gsw.edu/Alumni or contact Angela Smith, Alumni Affairs Specialist, at 229-928-1373 or at angela.smith@gsw.edu.

Nearly 40 explore Italy on GSW Alumni Association trip to

Tuscany and Rome

38 alumni and friends traveled to Tuscany in March 2023. The group, ranging in age from 21 to 77, explored the rolling hills of Tuscany over their seven-night stay in the famous resort and spa town Montecatini Terme. Highlights of the trip included a Tuscan cooking class and visits to Florence, Lucca, Pisa, San Gimignano and an excursion to Cinque Terre in the Italian Riviera. Twelve also traveled early on an four-day extension to Rome.

ALUMNI scene

SGA Presidents Reunion

Nine former Student Government Association presidents visited campus and were recognized by the current SGA members at the Blue & Gold Week basketball games on Feb. 18, 2023.

New Year's in Costa Rica

Nine alumni and friends rang in 2023 in Costa Rica, with tour highlights including the tropical wildlife, the food and the culture.

River Dragons in Columbus

Sigma Chi Beach Trip

In May 2023, 1970s and 1980s Sigma Chi alumni and spouses gathered for their 8th annual beach trip.

Alumni enjoyed dinner at Smoke Bourbon & BBQ before watching the River Dragons take on the Port Huron Howlers in Feb. 2023

NPHC Reunion

Over 300 NPHC alumni gathered on campus Feb. 10-12, 2023. The weekend included a banquet honoring charter members of each organization, a tailgate prior to Hurricanes basketball games, an alumni stroll off and a brunch.

Baseball & Softball Alumni Weekend

Baseball and softball alumni gathered on campus Mar. 24-26 for games, the new softball locker room ribbon cutting and a salute to 50 years of Title IX by recognizing Lou Chase and the 1979 GSW softball team, the first to compete in college play at GSW.

Atlanta Braves at Truist Park

Over 60 alumni and friends enjoyed the private rooftop cabanas before cheering on the Braves on Jun. 10, 2023.

IN MEMORIAM |

Annie Mae (Barber) Rolt, ’36 Thomasville, GA

Bertie Maxine (Hancock) Lincoln, ’37 Centralia, MO

Ann Pittman Cook, ’39 Cordele, GA

Lois Ann (Jackson) Colvin, ’41 Sandy Springs, GA

Tim Furlow Gatewood, ’42

Americus, GA

Grace (Carswell) Bell, ’43 Macon, GA

Sybil (Horne) Crawford, ’43 Jacksonville, GA

Robert P. Bright, Jr., ’47 Cordele, GA

Daniel E. Rhyne ’47 Americus, GA

Louis Bridges, ’48 Americus, GA

William J. Freeman, ’48 Jacksonville, FL

Joyce (White) Easterlin, ’49 Americus, GA

Sara Frances (Horne) Harrington, ’49 Homewood, IL

Wardlow Augustus Johnson, ’49 Macon, GA

Mittie Carter (Wallace) Sellars, ’49 Ellaville, GA

Bobby H. Strange, Sr., ’49 Americus, GA

Bert (Lewis) Beisel, ’50 Americus, GA

Earnest Earl Gammage, ’50 Americus, GA

Sara Lou (Anderson) Stevenson, ’50 Americus, GA

Ruth (Marshall) Thomas, ’51 Albany, GA

Sylvester McCorkle, ’52

Buena Vista, GA

Gloria (Callahan) Robinson, ’52 Atlanta, GA

Joseph Earl Slappey, Sr., ’52 Marietta, GA

Florence (Bridges) Thompson, ’52

Fort Walton Beach, FL

Cecil S. Hanner, ’54

Columbus, GA

Bruce Edwin Hatcher, ’55

Jacksonville, FL

Johnnie Myrle (Maddox) Hatcher, ’55

Jacksonville, FL

Nancy Jane Kuykendall, ’55

Billie Bruce Jones, Jr., ’57

Albany, GA

Franklin H. Hardin, ’58 Americus, GA

Frances (Dillard) Chappell, ’59 Americus, GA

Jack Lester Kennedy, ’59 Register, GA

Jewel (Beauchamp) Torbert, ’59 Smithville, GA

James Lee White, ’59 Ochlocknee, GA

Frederick N. Dorminy, ’60 Thomasville, GA

William Douglas Grubbs, ’60 Savannah, GA

Amelia Patton Cohen, ’61 Americus, GA

Joyce (Cheek) Dunmon, ’61 Americus, GA

Mary Eloise Green, ’61 Leesburg, GA

Susan (Gleaton) Thompson, ’61 Coleman, GA

John Gordon Barksdale III, ’62 Madison, GA

Herman Fletcher, ’62 Newnan, GA

Gaye Nell (Peavy) Gibbs, ’62 Dexter, GA

Ann (Nettles) Downer, ’63 Dawson, GA

Mabel (Smith) Keene, ’68 Oglethorpe, GA

Jean (Baxter) Parker, ’68 Marietta, GA

William Scott Wheeless, ’68 Thomaston, GA

John Arthur Albritton, ’69 Cobb, GA

Sandra Jo (Mathews) Greene, ’69 Americus, GA

Robert J. Powell, ’69 Cordele, GA

Willie Clyde Raybon, ’69 Americus, GA

Randy Deryl Tucker, ’69 Spring Hill, TN

Thomas Duane Wichman, ’69 Savannah, GA

Sandra (Hodge) Farnsworth, ’70, ’75 Americus, GA

Richard Bryce Folger, ’70 Lilburn, GA

Ed Thomas Fulford, ’70

Albany, GA

Anthony Noble Lancaster, ’70 Oakwood, GA

Samuel David Mason, ’70 Americus, GA

Mary (Williams) Middlebrooks, ’70 Anderson, SC

Ronald A. Reed, ’70 Pinehurst, GA

Norris D. Steavens, ’70 Albany, GA

Larry L. Underwood, ’70 Americus, GA

Johnnie (Teate) Williams, ’70, ’80 Americus, GA

Mary Meng (Askew) Hayes, ’71 Vienna, GA

Neil Bowen McGahee, ’71 Pinehurst, GA

Thaddeus Jefferson Wallis, II, ’71 Americus, GA

Joseph Wayne Wilson, ’71 West Point, GA

Marijane (Johnson) Woodward, ’71 Americus, GA

Royce B. Inlow, ’72 Albany, GA

Robert Allen Maddox, ’72 Cordele, GA

John Timothy "Tim" Matthews, ’73 Weston, GA

James Ernest Medlin, ’73 Montezuma, GA

Donald Lee Easom, ’73 Vienna, GA

Ronald Duain Newsome, ’73 Dublin, GA

Douglas Nelson Stanford, ’73 Cordele, GA

Helen Virginia (Owens) Blomeyer, ’74 Buena Vista, GA

Gwendolyn (King) Butler, ’74 Americus, GA

Opal (Rogers) Cannon, ’74 Albany, GA

Freddie Tom Abernathy, ’75

Albany, GA

Gerry Scott Busby, ’75 Unadilla, GA

Howard W. Andrews, ’76 Cuthbert, GA

Cheryl Anne (Swinney) Couturier, ’76 Savannah, GA

Sarah F. (Morgan) Pride, ’76, ’79 Americus, GA

William Arthur Adair, ’77

Albany, GA

Jeffrey P. Couturier, ’77 Savannah, GA

John Benson Dorsey, ’77 Americus, GA

Rhonda C. (McInvale) Sanders, ’78 Cordele, GA

Jennifer "Jenny" Barfield, ’79 Macon, GA

Annie Lucille (Murphy) Lynch, ’79, ’90 Albany, GA

Marian C. (Chandler) Bowen, ’80 Vienna, GA

Andy David Dykes, ’80 Reynolds, GA

J. Brennon Sewell, ’74

Nov. 23, 1947 - Mar. 13, 2023

Sewell retired from GSW after 27 years as Head Coach for men’s and women’s tennis teams in June 2022. At GSW, he earned Wilson’s Men’s NAIA National Coach of the Year and was Conference Coach of the Year four times. He was inducted into the GSW Athletics Hall of Fame in 2023. Sewell earned his bachelor's degree at GSW after serving a tour of duty in Vietnam.

Hollis Elbert Cherry, ’81 Valdosta, GA

Robbie L. Ray, ’83

Vienna, GA

Sherry (Settles) Middleton, ’86 Blakely, GA

Kevin Douglas Wille, ’86 Americus, GA

Linda Pheil Johnson, ’91 Cordele, GA

Russell Dean Mathis, ’91 Albany, GA

Bonita Fran (Batey) Pullin, ’92 Cordele, GA

Dian (Hufstetler) Tomlin, ’96 Dawson, GA

Robbie L. Ray, ’98 Vienna, GA

Byron Clark Jakes, ’00 Columbus GA

Katrina Latrice (Workman) Jakes, ’02 Columbus, GA

Lori (McGlamory) Hoffman, ’03 Americus, GA

Antoinette Charise Jenkins, ’14 Albany, GA

Amy Michelle (Nelson) Conner, ’19 Fayetteville, GA

Margaret (Hunt) Brown Kill Devil Hills, NC

Shirley Elaine Claxton Swainsboro, GA

Martha (Driskell) Hawkins Port Orange, FL

Betty (Hawkes) Todd Americus, GA

1950s

1958

Sidney Brown is a retired professor and administrator from the University of Georgia and is living in Statham, Ga.

1970s

1972

Mary (Wade) Hosley is a retired registered nurse living in Columbus, Ga.

1977

Calvin McWilliams lives in Columbus, Ga.

1980s

1981

William H. Pate currently lives in Valdosta, Ga.

1982

Bonnie Yvette Jones is a retired information technology manager for the State of Georgia and current adjunct instructor for Georgia Piedmont Technical College. In addition to her BBA from GSW, she holds an MS in administration from Central Michigan University. She lives in Conyers, Ga. with her husband, Donald, Sr., and son, Donald, Jr. (DJ).

1986

Barbara (Smith) Godwin taught 35 years in the Grady County School System before retiring.

1989

Julie Higgins retired from Sumter EMC after 33 years.

1990s

1992

David Roach was named chief strategic projects officer for Flowers Foods, Inc. in Thomasville, Ga.

1995

Shakira Rice is the director of community Engagement for Clayton County Schools in Jonesboro, Ga. She was a speaker in an 11Alive program focusing on Atlanta's Black youth and safety, mentorship and resources.

1998

Anntoinette Briley wrote "Welcome To...," an inspirational phrase book. She is currently a licensed professional counselor, national certified counselor in mental health and a juvenile sexual offender counselor. She maintains a private practice and volunteers at the YMCA of Columbus, Ga. and Child Advocacy Center of LaGrange, Ga.

Shelisa Henley is an educational psychologist living in Warner Robins, Ga.

1999

Turner Floyd was named principal of Early County Middle School in Blakely, Ga., where he and his wife Brandy (Smith) Floyd ʼ99 currently live.

Lisa Sullivan is a crisis responder with the Department of Veteran Affairs in Albany, Ga. She earned a Master of Social Work in 2022.

2000s 2000

Jessique Kelly is married with two children and living in her home country of Aruba, where she is a pulmonary function technician.

2004

Ashleigh (Spence) Butler serves as the Marion County Middle High School marketing teacher. She was a 2023 Gold Apple recipient and coach for several winning Georgia Movie Academy teams, including the 2023 State First Place team for Grades 6-8 and the 2022 State First Place teams for Grades 6-8 and 9-12.

Waliek Copeland released his first children's book, "Lewis and His Three Wishes," in Nov. 2022.

Mike Enfinger retired from South Georgia Technical College in Americus, Ga. as an industrial electrical and air conditioning technology instructor after 30 years.

2008

Jacqueline Horsley of Preston, Ga. was hired as an accounting technician for South Georgia Technical College's Americus campus. She and husband, Alfred, have two daughters, Chelsea and Tamika, and two grandchildren, Zoe and DJ.

Christopher Webb serves as vice president for strategy and analytics of The Honey Pot Company. He graduated with dual BBAs in marketing and management and has

earned an MBA from the University of Georgia. He now resides in Naples, Fla.

2009

Jake Fountain is currently an assistant professor of mycotoxicology and postharvest pathology at the University of Georgia's College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences in Griffin, Ga. Fountain received his M.Sc. from Louisiana State University in 2013 and his Ph.D. from UGA in 2017.

2010s 2012

David Bradshaw currently lives in Irvine, Calif.

Stephanie (Brooks) Schriefer is a human resource associate for Belk department stores and a training coordinator at the Marine Corps Logistics Base in Albany, Ga.

2015

Kelli (Morrow) Ward was named Rookie Referee of the Year for Georgia High School Association basketball. She is an 8th grade science teacher at Georgia Military College Preparatory School in Milledgeville, Ga. Ward is a breast cancer survivor and founder of the Survivor On Purpose, LLC clothing brand, which helps inspire and encourage all breast cancer survivors.

2016

Jason Maxwell is a system administrator for Capital City Bank in Tallahassee, Fla. He earned his BS in information technology at GSW.

2017

Carrie (Turner) Bachhofer is currently working as a nursing lecturer in GSW's School of Nursing and as a part-time RN at the Phoebe Sumter Medical Center oncology clinic. She worked for five years in emergency room nursing with a specialty in pediatric emergency. Bachhofer earned her MSN at GSW in 2020 and was named Georgia Association of Nursing Students (GANS) Advisor of the Year at the GANS convention in Oct. 2022. She and husband Michael have two children, Maelynn and Greyson.

Shawn Burnette was named coordinator of student activities at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Tifton, Ga. He earned his BA in history with teaching certification in 2017.

Kristina Money works in case management and earned her master's degree in forensic psychology. She lives in Americus, Ga.

William Searcy is an actor and graphic designer living in Albany, Ga. with husband Jack Zumwalt.

2018

Jonathan Hobbs graduated with his D.Sc. in information technology from Middle Georgia State University in May 2023. He is an assistant professor in GSW's College of Business and Computing.

Cortney King is the STOP school violence project director with United Way SWGA in Albany, Ga.

2019

Alexia Chambers is a finance analyst in Acworth, Ga. She also earned her MBA from GSW in 2023.

2020s

2020

Haley Exum works in information technology in Tallahassee, Fla.

Destany Ware is a research associate at Augusta University's Medical College of Georgia Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine studying Alzheimer's. She is a graduate of the University of Georgia with an MS in epidemiological public health and was chosen as the College's national ambassador for the This Is Public Health association.

2021

Kamryn Owens joined Thomas & Hutton as a project administrator.

2022

Brandon Blue serves as a success coach and retention specialist for Chattahoochee Community College. He and wife Lauren (Sawyer) Blue ʼ22 live in Columbus, Ga. with daughter Anna Jo'el. Lauren is a family support specialist with Healthy Families Columbus.

Haley (Strickland) McGuire of Leesburg, Fla. married Bryce McGuire ʼ20 on May 25, 2023.

2023

Mark Ingrassia is a talent acquisition manager living in Alpharetta, Ga.

FUTURE HURRICANES

Several proud GSW alumni welcomed little Canes this past year! Send us a photo of your Future Hurricane to be featured in next year's magazine by submitting a class note at gsw.edu/AlumniUpdate

1. Zachary Royal ’07 and Rebecca (Stephens) Royal ’10, ’11 welcomed Emilia Lee on Jan. 13, 2023. She joins big brother Elijah.

2.

been diagnosed with Williams Syndrome,

2023.

Jon Arthur ’21 and Lily (Ingle) Arthur ’21 welcomed Margot Sloane on Mar. 22, 2023.

3. Drew Flanders ’20 and Kate (Arnold) Flanders ’20, who met on campus just two days after freshman Move-In Day, welcomed Riley Andrew in May

4. Savanna (Hufstetler) Hamilton ’20, ’22 and her husband, Daniel, welcomed Wesley on Oct. 27 2022. He joins big brother Dean.

5. Chandler Wright ’22 and Katie (Carver) Wright ’22 welcomed Austin Shiloh on Jun. 6, 2023.

6. Savana (Arwood) Jones ’22 and her husband, Braxton, welcomed Ella James on Apr. 29, 2023. Baby Ella underwent open heart surgery at three days old and has since

a rare genetic disorder.

7. Tyler Small and Aubrey (Tinklepaugh) Small ’12 welcomed Lydia Grace on Aug. 3, 2022.

8. Emily (Abell) Waters ’18 and her husband, Levi, welcomed Dawson on Jul. 13, 2023.

2022 GIVING

s President’s Circle

($1,000 +)

Abbott Laboratories

Margaret & Sam Adams

Advent Business Interiors

Vivian & Newton Allen

Christine & James Aller

Allstate Construction

Americus Civitan Club

Sigma Chi Alumni, Americus

Americus Times-Recorder

Debra & Ervin Anderson

Michelle & Ben Andrews

Jane & Ricky Arnold

Troy Athon

Andrew Austin

Deborah & Dwight Bales

George Banketas

Abby & Richard Baringer

Amy & Jeff Benton

Jan & William Bird

Carol & Joe Bishop

Susan & Allan Bonagura

Laura Boren

Shay & William Bradshaw

Christie Bryant

Joyce Buchanan

Jean & James Buchanan

Everett Byrd

Calhoun Landscaping

Regena & Charles

Callaway

The Canterbury Kitchen

Joyce & Douglas Carreker

Center for Educational Adventure

Century 21 Americus

Realty

Bennieta & William Chappell

Lou Chase

Chattahoochee Turf

Products

Gaynor & Mike Cheokas

Katherine & William

Chester

Citizens Bank of Americus

Dana & Tommy Clark

Marilyn & William

Cleveland

Janice Cliett

Clinic Drug Store

Coca-Cola Bottling Co.

Jane & Larry Comer Foundation

Sandra & John Coombs

Cooper Lighting Solutions

Timothy Cranford

Joe Daniel

Sandra & Arthur Daniel

Marie & Jimmy Davis

Mary Kathryn & Rick Davis

Kelsie & Cam Deiter

Susan & George

Dieckmann

Draw Products

Ashli & Joshua Drew

Hellen & Walter Driggers

Leila & James Dudley

Catherine & Terrence

Duncan

Charles Eames

Mary Elizabeth & Will

Easterlin

Eaton Corporation

Elisabeth & Thomas Elder

Enterprise Holdings Foundation

First State Bank of Americus

Charles Fitch

Angela & Rob Fletcher

Cheryl & Mike Fletcher

Flint Energies Foundation

Mary & Walt Foegelle

Darrell Ford

Lisa & Allen Fort

Tamlin Fortner

Merrit & Ryan Garnto

Gatewood's Flower Shop

Georgia Power Foundation

Georgia United Methodist Foundation

Carol & Tom Giddens

Sandra & Harold Gillis

Ginger Starlin Agency

Sue Musselwhite Gorski

Jane & Adam Graft

Lauren & Dan Grahl

Kay Dee & David Green

Melinda & Royce Hackett

Lindsay & Jeff Hall

Ann & Bill Harris

Gaye & John Hayes

Anne & Dan Helms

Hewitt Charitable Giving

Lana & Len Hicks

Leon Holloway

Catherine & Lee Holman

Thomas Holman

Reba & Sam Hunter

Innovative Senior Solutions

David Jenkins

Johnson Controls Security

Bill Johnston

Christine & Wally Joiner

Junior Service League of Americus

K & S Transportation

Kappa Kappa Chapter of Kappa Sigma Fraternity

Alumni Foundation

Sandra & Billy King

Sharon & Cody King

Janet & Hulme Kinnebrew

Thomas M. & Irene

B. Kirbo Charitable Foundation

Charlotte & Harry Kitchen

Kayla Langley

Annie & Walter Lanter

Lisa & Tracy Law

Jodie & Mike Leeder

Teresa MacCartney

Magnolia Manor, Inc.

Elaine & Brian Mallett

Mary Marshall

Mattie Marshall Foundation

Martin A. McDonald State

Farm

Laura & Barry McConatha

Christi & Josh McDonald

Dianne & Edison

McDonald

Paula & Marty McDonald

Susan & Benny McLendon

Charles Mix Memorial Fund

Jennifer & Billy Mix

Jan & Larry Moore

Yolanda & Doug Moses

Jamey Mullin

Susan & Roger Myers

Marjorie Ann & Jerry

Newman

Mark Pace

David Parker

Roy Parker Family Foundation

Parker's Heating & Air Conditioning

Brett Payne

Ravae & Justin Payne

Peach State Depression

Glass Club

Anne & George Peagler

Marianne & Jimmy Peel

Brook & William Peterson

Tammye Pettyjohn Jones

Alice & Benny Phillips

Phoebe Sumter Medical

Center

Ann & Clifford Pierce

Lisa & Lee Pinnell

JoAnn & Ed Pope

Brenda & Bobby Potter

Susan & Allen Potter

Richard Price

Candice & Michael Pruett

Spence Pryor

Lynda Lee & Frank Purvis

Beth Ragan

Michele & Mike Ragsdale

Shirley & Richard Reese

Candy & Lou Riccardi

Glenn Robins

Rotary Club of Americus

Liz & Joe Ruf

Jim and Judy Rylander

Foundation

Karen & Randy Sanders

Kristi & Daniel Sanders

Sharon & John Sanders

Katha & Michael Scott

Megan & Jonathan Scott

Leonard Sendek

Gay & Bill Sheppard

Simplex Nails

Angela & Rene Smith

Charlie and Eugenia Smith

Foundation

Libba & Michael Smith

Pam & Herschel Smith

Suzanne Smith & Brett

Lloyd

Brandy & Steven Snell

Leah & Stephen Snyder

Southern Company Foundation

Southland Academy Foundation

Jesse Storr

Amber & John Stovall

Jane & Rolan Sumner

Sumter Electric

Membership Corporation

Sumter Historic Trust

Synovus Financial

Krystal & James Terry

Thirteenth Colony

Distillery

Dianna & John Thomas

Russell Thomas Jr.

Mildred & Hap Tietjen

Betty Tillery

Tina & Mark Todd

Mary & Dan Torbert

Shay & George Torbert

TSG Resolute

TSYS

Marianne & Alf Tuggle

Terrell Turner

Alex & Wesley Turner

Carla & Ty Turner

University System of Georgia Foundation

Tonya & Neal Vickers

Douglas Vines

Judy & Jody Wade

MaryLen & Carson Walker

Walmart Foundation

Astrid & Carlyle Walton

Betty Anne & Eddie Ward

Augusta Howard Warren Fund

Lettie Watford

Elaine & Butch Watts

Kristi & Neal Weaver

Diane & Bill Weldon

Michelle & Scott

Westbrook

Janet & Michael Weston

Kelley & Rick Whaley

Jean & Wes Wheeler

Liz Wilson

Frances Wood Wilson Foundation

Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of Georgia

Wolf Creek Plantation

Mandy & Ryan Young

s Southwestern Society ($500 - $999 )

Rachel Abbott

Americus Police

Benevolence Fund

Kathy & Alan Anderson

Arrow Exterminators, Inc.

Karen & Gregory Austin

Carolyn & David Barlow

Pat Barnard

Kathy & Greg Barnetson

Marc Besso

Mark Bowen

Kristen & Tim Brooks

Brown Processing Inc.

Robert Bunch

Carter's Fried Chicken

Ann Cofer

*Every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of these giving records for the 2022 calendar year. We apologize if any names are omitted or listed in error.

Chelsea & Logan Collins

Larry Cooley

Kristin & Les Cromer

Richard Culpepper

Chad Davis

Dina Deason

Sonja & Kevin Duggar

Michelle Dykes

Kerry Edwards

Amy & Marty Edwards

Diane & Douglas Filer

Jim Fleming

Flint Equipment Co.

Fredrick Ford

Fraternal Order of Police

Raffle Account

Friends of Downtown

Americus

Destiny Garrett

Gatewood, Skipper & Rambo, P.C.

Linnie & Randy Gilliam

Kimberly Gramling

Pamela & Mark Grimes

Cherilyn & Buddy Guth

Rene & Boyd Hagerson

Dawn Hart

Cara & Darryl Hawkins

Paul Hegeman

Industry Visuals

Lee Johnson

Nancy & Randy Jones

Ann & Eddie Landers

Louis A. Riccardi D.D.S.,

P.C.; N. Alex Riccardi

D.M.D

Jimmy Lunsford

Cecilia Maldonado

Elizabeth & James

McDonel

Mark Minick

Jake Mobley

William Morgan

Kelvin Moses

Christopher Mukes

Susie & Rufus Payne

Connie & Junior Peeples

Dusty Peppers

Jeryl Pinnell

Rebecca & Charles Pryor

R & S Sports, Inc.

Cindy & Thomas Rachels

Emmy & Blake Reid

Brenda & Dick Robbins

Allison & Rocky

Roquemore

Diane Ryan

Seafood Center, Inc.

Mike Self

Susan & William Seth

Wesley Shiver

Jane & Don Sibler

Barbara & Dennis Smith

Steven-Kaye II, Inc.

Jennifer & Jay Stevens

Hayley & Cody Stripling

Steven Sumner

Sumter Partners, LLC

Julie & David Suppes

Beverly & Milton Sutherlin

Tamarack Foods, LLC

John Tankersley

Francie & Mark Taylor

Lionel Thomas

Harrison Timberlake

Mandy Timmons

Kathleen & Dave Tucker

U.S. Screen Printing and Signs, LLC

Jeff Van Coney

Watts Family Charitable

Fund

Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.

Whaley Realty, Inc.

Mary Anne & Freddy

Whitacre

Wes Wicker

Ashley & Greg Williams

Windsor Hotel

James Wolfe

s Tower Club

($250 - $499 )

Adkins Rental Holdings, LLC

Scott Adkins

AECI

Karin & Aubrey Allen

Vicente Amaya

Riley Anderson

Juan Anderson

Ashley & Taylor Austin

Larry Bachle

Sherrell Bailey

Martha & Jim Bailey

Lynn Bailey

Mikela Barlow

Ashley & Justin

Beauchamp

Beck, Owen & Murray

Attorneys at Law

Kathleen & Robert Bolton

Booger Bottom

Chris & Hary Bottka

Mimi & John Bridge

John Brooks

Vanna Brown

Allen Brown

Diane & Charles Cagle

Tabatha & Wesley

Cameron

Brian Campbell

Chambliss, Sheppard, Roland & Associates, LLP

Colony Bank

Suzanne Conner

Carla Cook

Dianne & Donald Cook

Signe & Aaron Coombs

Santita Coon

Debra & James Craig

Adam Crawford

Danielle & Eric Crawford

Dottie Cummings

Faye & Jim Curry

Bryan Davis

DBA Roundball Round-Up Decorating Unlimited

Darcy Donaldson

Diane Dottorey

Gene Dunmon

Edward Jones - Mark Hayes

Edward Jones - Roland

Hancock, III

Luke Ellis

Joan & Allen Erkhart

Denise & Brad Etter

Ugo Ezema

Farmers Seed & Feed

Lynda & John Fields

Randy Fulford

G & C Thurmond Enterprises, LLC

Marilyn Ganter

George's Men's Wear

Georgia Power

Kenneth Gillam

Linda & Dave Glatz

Kris Goff

Catherine Goodwin

J. Michael Greene, P.C.

Shannon GreeneSpanolios

Patti & Jimbo Griffith

Desiree & Allen Grimsley

Linda Grimsley

Gisele & John Gunderman

Joanna & Larry Gurchiek

Gyro City Mediterranean

Grill

Connie & Mike Hammack

Courtney Harmon

Jerry Hillhouse

Jonathan Hobbs

Haley & Landon Hobgood

Hyvonda & Steve Holmes

Brenda & Ted Horton

Theresa & Courtney

Houston

Donna & Ron Hudson

Ramona & Slade Hunt

Kevin Jackson

Phil Jennings

Jessica S. Brown DMD, LLC

Susan & David Johnson

Terri & Jeff Joiner

William Kell

Carol & Kyle Kennon

Barbara & Stephen Kieran

Daniel Kimball

Jamie Kinsley

L & L Real Estate

L&S Construction, Inc.

La Hacienda of Americus

Lacy Paint & Body Shop, Inc.

Lanier Capital

Management, Inc.

Diane & Wade Law

Nicki Levering

Deborah & Dennis

Levering

Judy Lloyd

Brittany & Brett LutherJones

David Luvin

Page & Daniel Lynn

Julieann & Jeff Mamatas

Mane Focus, Inc.

Nicole & Pat McCarthy

Carley & Justin McDonald

Mollie McGowan

Ashley & Jason McGuire

Brittany & Matthew

McKenzie

Mark McKoy

Minick Interiors, Inc.

Sallie & Danny Minick

Holly & Jason Mitchell

Mike Monduy

Monroe's Hotdogs

Lou Ann Moord

Kathryn & Brent Moore

Michael Morgan

Virginia & Joseph

Mortillaro

Toni & Brent Mueller

Deidre & Daniel Nelson

North Florida Notifier, LLC

Lynn & James Norton

Betsy Olson

Sharon & Eddie Owens

Brannon Parks

Eloise Paschal

Paul Carter Insurance Agency

Samuel Peavy

Sheila & Carlos Phillips

Mavis Phillips

Andrea & Keith Pinckard

Donald Pinette

Beverly Pressley

Protective FORCES, Inc.

Madison Ragan

Wilma Ragan-Martin

Becky & David Ragsdale

Nick Ray

Allene & Sparky Reeves

Lindsey Roberts

Missy & Jamie Roland

Pam & Rick Ross

Mandy & Alex Saratsiotis

Dimitris Saratsiotis

Shelia & Rodney Saunders

Delaine Savoy

Scott's Jewelry

Jane & Joey Sellers

Luanne & JB Sewell

Shannon & Dane Shepard

Shiver Lumber Company

Susan & Joseph Slappey

Debra Sloan

Rhonda Slocumb

Emily & Justin Smith

Nancy & Wilkie Smith

Jontu Solomon

Stay Better Vacation

Greg Stock

Sumter Broadcasting Company

Sumter County Chamber of Commerce

Melanie & John Sutton

Synovus Bank

John Taylor

Teresa & Keith Teasley

The Maze

Darrin Theriault

Traci & Rusty Tondee

Katie & Josh Tondee

Total Truth Restoration

Ministries

Irina Toteva

Tree Toppers of Georgia, Inc.

Mike Verner

Shannon & Marcus

Wainright

Brenda Gail & Daniel Wall

Christie Ward

Barbara & John Watford

Paula & Nick Weaver

Morgan & Jimmy Whaley

Rusty Whaley

Betsy & David Whitaker

Jeremy Wicker

Chan Winget

Wolf Creek Sod, Inc.

Shannon & Steve Wood

Valerie & Rusty Wynn

Stephanie Young

Danny Zarzutzki

s Century Club ($100-$249)

1800 Mexican Restaurant, Inc.

2 Dukes Bar-B-Que

Lewis Adams

Annette & Brian Adler

Advantage Sport & Fitness, Inc.

After Hours Care of Americus, Inc.

AJLC Enterprises, LLC

Tiffany Aldridge

Lester Alexander

Valarie Alexander

Alex's One 4 All

Americus Veterinary Hospital

Marianne & Shelton

Anderson

Mary & Kent Anderson

Joan Andrews

Peter Andrews

Joanne & Anthony Angelino

Appraisal Services

Alice & John Argo

Phyllis J. Arthur

Tom Ascolese

Kyle Bachle

William M. Bailey

Mike W. Bailey

Bales Financial Group Inc.

Leroy Banks

Taylor & Reagan Barksdale

Doug & Traci Barnes

Natalie & Beau Barrett

Christy & Scott Barry

Teri Beasley

Linda & Ron Bell

Tara & Robert Bennett

Carol K. Bentley

Jason Berggren

Jerrie Berry

Willie Bible

Su Ann & Mike Bird

James C. Birdsong

Mary & Al Black

Colby B. Blackburn

Connie & Kendall

Blanchard

Zoey Bock

Karl A. Bond

Louise Bonin

Ellie Bonnett

David R. Boone

Sally D. Bowman

Carol & James Boyd

Brent Bradley

Mary & Burton Bridges

Susan Bridges

Paula & Curtis Bryant

Greg Buschmeyer

Jennifer & Rodrigo

Bustamante

Bill Butler

Pearl Cadena

Joyce & John Caldwell

David B. Calhoun

Troy Campbell

Peggy & George Carson

Cary Johnson Insurance, Inc.

Ron L. Chaffin

Peggy Chandler

Virginia & Archie Chatmon

Damarcus Chenier

Julie & Matt Christian

Jennifer Christie

AJ Clark

Clovis & Raven Clark

Ginger & Charles Clark

Darius D Coleman

Walter Coleman, Jr.

Deidrea Collins

Linda & Gene Collins, III

Joseph Comeau

Kim & Brandon Comer

Committee to Re Elect

Bobby J. Guidroz

Barry D. Cook

Jamie Lynn & Gary Cook

Maggie Cooper

Mary E. Cooper

Covenant Construction, LLC

Daelyn Craig

Susan Cretchain

Crew Capital, LLC

Jerry & Henry Crisp

Janie Culbertson

Cutting Crew Hair Salon

Ann Davis

Brent L. Davis

Gary S. Davis

Leslie L. Davis

Mary & Edward Dean

Kenzie Dennis

Stephen Donalson

Dustin Miller Campaign Fund

Leisa & Rennie Easom

Easterlin Pecan Co., Inc.

Teresa & Rick Eberhardt

Frances & Ed Ellis, Sr.

Wade English

Luann & Yank Engstrom

Yanik & Carlos Espinosa

Everence

June & David Ewing

Mashalah M. Fathi

Eldotha W. Fields

Jane & Bill Finney

Rhea Flowers

Shellie Floyd

Jamie Flynn

Joanne & Richard Folger

Ford & Joseph Funeral

Home, Inc.

Tami Ford

Mary M. Franklin

Trina G. Frazier

John Fusilier

Mary & Bob Garner, III

Bonnie & Keith Gary

Karen B. Gatewood

Tara & Nathan Gibbs

Tammy Lynn Girtman

Morgan Gleason

John Godfrey

Teresa Godinez

Emily D. Godwin

Lisa Marie Gonzales

Mario Gonzalez

Jennifer W. Gordon

Robert Graham

Diane Graham

Katherine Graham

Grant's Auto, Inc.

Adonis Gray

Rhonda Lanoix Green

Greenville Turf and Tractor

Jared Gros

Denise Gross

H3 Automotive Center

Wade Halstead

Debbie & Ben Hamrick

Susan Hanks

Tina & Rick Hanley

Kelly Hansell

Jessica Harper

Jan & Tommy Harrell

John Harris

Stephanie Harvey

Sherry Harvey

Agnes & Douglas Hatch

Lauren Hawley

Linda Heisser-Jackson

Cheryl & Jimmy Helton

Rebecca Hemmer

Nancy & Jim Herron

Bonita & Tom

Hetherington

Latricia Hickman

Tracy Hodges

John Hogan

Mitch J. Holloway

Holy Ghost Catholic Church

HomeTown HealthCare

Jarrett & Joe Hooks

Melinda J. House

Geoff W. Houser

Ronald Hubbard

Ignatius T. Castille

Insurance, Inc.

Tzvetelin D. Iordanov

J G Johnson Company,

CPA, PC

Jabaley's

Rob Jackowiak

Sherri & Bobby Jenkins

Marcia & Mike Johnson

Douglas P. Johnson

Murelene & Terry Jones

Ashley D. Jones

Mary Kathryn Jones

Kendrick Jumpierre

Charlie & Daisy Justice

Brian Justice

David Kelly

Mayor R. Lee Kinnamon

Amy & Scott Kinnas

Glenda & Bill Kipp

Meda & Bill Krenson

Robert A. Langley

Leigh & Mark Laughlin

Joy Lauria-Colson

Charles Lee

Martha Lee

Linda & Billy Lewis

Lily's Southern Boutique

Little Brother's Bistro

Gail & Cecil Long

Jaimee & Shawn Loonam

LRA Constructors, Inc.

Janet Marcelin

Jill & Bernie Marino

Jennifer Matthews

Jannifer Mayo

Gay & Mike McClay

Denise & Doug McClure

Ellie & Larry McClure

Michael McCollum

Sheleyn McCollum

Catherine McCormick

Michele A. McKie

McLendon for Chief of Police

Robert McNeilly

Melinda Mediavilla

Julie Megginson

Barbara Mensel

Deborah & Roger Messer

Dan Meyers

Karen Michael

Elise & Boyce "Stick" Miller

Vivian B. Milton

William T. Mock

Martha & Gary Moore

Shay & Clint Morgan

Cindy Mortillaro

Ramona Mulleins-Foreman

Joshua Newton

Angela Nicholas

Shannon Northorp

Dan O'Brien

Ocmulgee Outdoors, Inc.

Veronica Ogbeifun

Roslyn & Jack Palmer

Blanche F. Palmer

Cheri Paradise

Yangil Park

Lynde & Emory Parker, Jr.

Jaycee Parker

Pat's Place

Emmanuel Paul

Hope Pawlowski

Dexter Payne

Lance A. Perry

Angela & Mark Phillips

Kenneth W. Phillips

Meddrick Pickens

PLH Properties, LLC

Becky Plummer

Thomas E. Poudrier

Misty A. Power

Carrie & Dale Powers

Carolyn Powers

Patricia M. Powers

Shawn Preston

Elizabeth A. Primis

Cynthia H. Pryor

Andrea Pullen

Lamar A. Radford

Meredith Raine

William W. Rambo

Shaun Ranger

RDR Rentals, Inc

Alli Reid

Haley & Jacob Revell

Fred Richmond

*Every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of these giving records for the 2022 calendar year. We apologize if any names are omitted or listed in error.

Jayme & Monty Penn

Lorna Royle

Adam Saint

David S. Sanders

Kathy L. Sawyer

Jill Schneider

Amy & Billy Shattles, Jr.

Stephanie Shepherd

Sheppard House

Rhett Simmons

Sue Sisson

Shernell Slaughter

Robert Slenker III

Cheryl & Gerald Smith

Tori & Jeff Smith

Kenneth Smith

Lee Smith

Erma Smith

Sondra L. Smith

Herman L. Snyder

Jonni & Craig Snyder

Kent & Page Sole

Hector Sosa

Sonia Sosa

Southern Land & Realty

Southern Pathology & Laboratory Services, P.C.

SRJ Architects, Inc.

Deborah A. Standridge

Jeremy M. Storr

Melissa Strayer

Kim & Tom Strong

Elaine & William Stubbs

Kristin & Matthew Suggs

Kara & Neil Suggs

Andrew B. Suggs

Lindsey K. Sutton

Cheryl Sylvester

Tailfin Marketing

Annie Tate

Manoj Thapa

Thib Inc of LA

Burton A. Thomas Kendrick Thomas

Ariane Thompson

Chris Thompson

Terry Thorpe

Toboggan Steve's

Javier Tuñón

Kay & Billy Tye

Carlotta & Maurice Ungaro

Mihajlo Veselinovic

Cheryl Vestal

Joyce & Joe Viscusi

GSW Alumni Association Lifetime Membership |

Gaile & Pat Allen

Dell & Clyde Bridges

Everett Byrd

Bill Chappell

Marie & James Davis

Kelsie & Cam Deiter

Legacy Circle |

Margaret & Sam Adams

Alice & John Argo

Tami & Barry Blount

Gail Bridges

Kathy Cade

Connie & Roger Congdon

Jane & Bill Finney

Jane & Bill Finney

Mary Foegelle

Len Hicks

Chris Hicks

Karen Holloway

Billy King

Jimmy Lunsford

Mary Marshall

Jean Moates

Larry Moore

Jerry Newman

Marianne & Jimmy Peel

W & T Rentals

Merle & Benny Wade

Lamar E. Wainright

Chris Walden

Linda Walden

Barbara & James Walls

Joyce I. Walrath

Qian Wang

Amber C. Ward

Sandra G. Wardell

Donald Warren

Ross Weaver

Webb Investment Services, LLC

Paul S. Weir

Karen Wheeler

James T. Whitaker

Rebecca White

David Whitman

William Wiemels

Carroll & Scott Wiggins

Joanne & Larry Wilkes

Sonia Wilkes

Wilkes Office Machine Company, Inc.

Karen & Carl Willis

Alton A. Wilson

Suzette & Rex Wilson

Michael Wright

Keaton Wynn

Jackie & Nubs Yaughn

Alexander Yemelyanov

Jannine M. Zeno

One full payment of $1,000 (individual) or $1,250 (jointly)

Brook & Will Peterson

Jeryl Pinnell, Jr.

Liz Ruf

Martha & George P.

Sessions

Kenny Stafford

Donors who have indicated that GSW is included in their estate plans

Sandra & Harold Gillis

Kay Dee & David Green

Kathy & Mike Greene

Gwen Hill

Linda & James Kimmons

Sharon & Cody King

Diane & Mick Kirkwood

Kitty & Wallace Mays

Fred Overby

Bev & Dianne Pankey

Sheila & Charles Parks

Marianne & Jimmy Peel

Nan Powell

Linda & George Pritchard

Glenn Robins

Patti Slaughter

Sybil & Don Smith

Ginger Starlin

Amber & John Stovall

Mildred & Hap Tietjen

David Updike

Larry Sumner

Samuel Thames (d. 2017)

Kathleen & Dave Tucker

Marianne & Alf Tuggle

Tom Upton

Kelley & Rick Whaley

Jean & Wes Wheeler

Liz Wilson

*Every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of these giving records for the 2022 calendar year. We apologize if any names are omitted or listed in error.

Students meet donors at annual event

GSW hosted its 14th Annual DonorScholar Luncheon in March 2023. This event gives students the opportunity to meet their donors who generously provide support for numerous named GSW Foundation scholarships.

Aeolian Magazine

Georgia Southwestern State University

800 GSW State University Dr. Americus, GA 31709

aeolian@gsw.edu

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