Aeolian 2024

AEOLIAN 2024

The Magazine of Georgia Southwestern State University for Alumni and Friends

Meet the President

GSW Welcomes Dr. Johnston

Carrying the Torch

The Truitt Family

Serving with Purpose

Director Chris Hosey and other GSW Alumni Lead the Way in GBI

Awe. That was my first feeling as I drove onto campus as the new president in June – reverence for the incredible history and legacy dating back to 1906, admiration for the sustained commitment to excellence and student success, and excitement for the opportunities in front of us to make even bigger and broader impacts. I am honored to join the Georgia Southwestern family!

During the Presidential Plaza Dedication Ceremony in 2017, President Jimmy Carter said, “I’m very proud of the progress that continues to be made here at my favorite college.” Together, we share a special responsibility to keep those wheels of progress turning, to accelerate the momentum that’s been building, and to make sure we are the favorite college for many more to come.

This edition of the Aeolian is full of great accomplishments and special tributes. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I have. I look forward to meeting you soon, if I haven’t already. Take care!

Dr. Michelle R. Johnston President

AEOLIAN 2024

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

Chelsea Collins

Sydney Scott ’17

Rachel Price

Photography

Sydney Scott ’17

David Parks Photography ’14

Chris Fenn ’78

Keith Michlig

Angela Smith Woodie Williams

Georgia Bureau of Investigation

Layout & Graphic Design

Sydney Scott ’17

Printer Burman Printing

President

Michelle R. Johnston, 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

Krystal Morris ’22

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 Holtzclaw ’18

photo by Woodie Williams: GBI Director Chris Hosey stands outside

CAMPUS UPDATES

COLLEGE OF ARTS & SCIENCES

Organized

10th Annual Empty Bowls

Faculty and students in the Department of Visual Arts, along with Harvest of Hope Food Pantry and local restaurants, came together in November 2023 for the 10th annual Empty Bowls event. The goal each year is to feed the hungry by selling hand-crafted ceramic bowls and delicious soup. The majority of the proceeds collected benefitted Harvest of Hope, while the remainder went towards GSW visual arts students’ attendance to a national conference in Richmond, Va. and a visit to the Smithsonian Museum in Washington, D.C. in March 2024.

New Science Building Planned

Georgia Southwestern received $1.6 million in design funding for fiscal year 2025 from the state of Georgia in preparation for the construction of a new science building. After an architect is selected, the next step in the project will require gaining state funding for the construction of the building, which will begin in fiscal year 2026. The new science building will be located next to the Rosalynn Carter Health and Human Sciences Complex and would replace the Science Building and the Joseph C. Roney Building. No plans have been made for these existing buildings.

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS & COMPUTING

Hosted

Hurricane Pitch Competition

GSW hosted its second annual Hurricane Pitch competition in April. Easton Cummings of Hoboken and Sylvester, Ga., took home the grand prize of $7,500, which she will use to get her jewelry business off the ground. Winning the People’s Choice Award was Solomon Motley of McDonough, Ga., who received $3,000 towards starting his streetwear business. Kendal Stokes of Columbus, Ga., was the third finalist. The event was funded by the GSW Foundation and organized by Associate Professor of Marketing Suzanne Conner, Ph.D.

ABET Accreditation Earned

GSW's bachelor’s degree in Computer Science has been accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, the global accreditor of programs in applied and natural science, computing, engineering and engineering technology. ABET accreditation assures that programs meet the standards to produce graduates ready to enter critical technical fields that are leading the way in innovation and emerging technologies. COBAC's faculty have worked tirelessly to develop and refine a cutting-edge curriculum in computer science.

UPDATES

COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

Two Special Olympics Held

The College of Education hosted the Area 11 Special Olympics in Fall 2023 and Spring 2024, bringing together nearly 200 athletes from local schools and community programs. Special education teacher candidates organized the events, allowing them the opportunity to apply their training and enhance their ability to support students with disabilities in our area. The athletes thrived as they honed their athletic skills through a wide range of engaging activities, all while being cheered on by GSW student-athletes, coaches, and members from various student organizations.

Paraprofessional Programs Now Online

Middle Grades and Special Education programs are now available online for paraprofessionals, in addition to the existing Elementary Education offering, providing flexible pathways for career advancement. These programs are designed to equip paraprofessionals with the skills and knowledge needed to support diverse student populations effectively. The online format offers convenience and allows for collaboration and networking opportunities with peers and GSW faculty, enriching the educational experience and fostering professional growth.

COLLEGE

OF NURSING & HEALTH SCIENCES ASN Cohort Graduates

After a 22-year hiatus, GSW’s Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program was revived in Fall 2022 to help combat the ongoing nursing shortage, with financial support from the Phoebe Putney Health System and Magnolia Manor. The first cohort of 32 students who began in May 2023 graduated in August 2024. Program staff are confident that the ASN graduate employment rate will be 100% within six months of their graduation. The second cohort of 65 students began ASN classes in May 2024 and is expected to graduate in August 2025.

Outstanding Scholar Recognized

Josie Battaglia, a nursing major from Dawson, Ga., was named GSW's 2024 Outstanding Scholar, the University’s highest academic honor. She was recognized by Chancellor Sonny Perdue on Academic Recognition Day at the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia in Atlanta. Battaglia has made GSW’s honors list every semester since she began classes in Fall 2019. She has maintained a 3.95 GPA, putting her among the top of her class. In Fall 2023, she was accepted into Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing.

Voted Best Place to Work

For three consecutive years, GSW was voted the "Best Place to Work" in the Americus Times-Recorder’s Best of Sumter Readers’ Choice Awards. GSW employs approximately 375 full-and part-time staff, and remains one of Americus’ largest employers, alongside Sumter County Schools, Phoebe Sumter, and Magnolia Manor. This recognition reflects the University’s commitment to fostering a supportive and enriching work environment that resonates with both employees and the broader community.

Griffin Bell Construction Underway

Demolition of the Griffin Bell Conference Center commenced in April 2024. This marked the first step in the construction of the new, privately-funded building, which will serve as a regional hub for conferences and events as well as a catalyst for economic development in Sumter County with a makerspace for local entrepreneurs. Construction is expected to be completed in Spring 2025. Naming opportunities are available throughout the venue. Contact the GSW Foundation for more information.

New Fight Song Released

During Homecoming Week 2023, GSW debuted its new fight song. Composed by Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences Mark Laughlin, DMA, the song will be played at athletic games and other campus events to boost Hurricane Pride. New students learn the song and chant at Thunder Camp and New Student Orientation. The song is available to listen online at gsw.edu/traditions. This is the first time GSW has had a fight song since its football era in the 1980s.

Greek Life Expands

GSW welcomed a new Greek organization in 2024. Alpha Psi Lambda is a co-ed fraternity governed by the National Association of Latino Fraternal Organizations, Inc. Their inaugural line included five students, pictured above. GSW's is the first Alpha Psi Lambda chapter in Georgia. The National Pan-Hellenic Council organizations Omega Psi Phi and Phi Beta Sigma were also reinstated this year. This brings the total number of active Greek organizations on campus to 14.

The Big Event sees over 400 GSW volunteers build home for local family

n Apr. 19, 2024, Georgia Southwestern and The Fuller Center for Housing presented a local family with the keys to their new home in a special dedication ceremony, the culmination of the Blitz Build as part of the University’s inaugural Big Event service initiative.

Approximately 420 volunteers from GSW, including faculty, staff and students, worked on the three-bedroom house for three weeks, alongside other volunteers from The Fuller Center and under the guidance of contractor Peter Salemme.

The home was built on South Hampton St. for Emmanuel Robinson, a City of Americus employee. He has been searching years for a house for himself and his three children, 11-year-old Bentley and three-year-old twins Asher and Auri.

“This is such a joy,” said Robinson at the dedication ceremony, who put in “sweat equity” hours working on his lunch breaks. “What a blessing! It’s just beautiful. I’m so grateful that [you all] took time out of your own schedule to work on a house for someone you don’t even know. I’m overjoyed. This is a dream come true.”

The project honored GSW alumni Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter, who were heavily involved in Millard and Linda Fuller’s housing ministries and community service in general.

GSW plans for The Big Event to become an annual tradition centered around a large-scale community service initiative, fostering unity between the campus and local community.

“This experience has been amazing,” said Alex Espitia, then-president of GSW’s Student Government Association and member of the President Jimmy Carter Leadership Program. “The building of this home exemplifies the power of collective action. It’s a symbol of hope, solidarity and the unwavering belief in the potential of every individual to create a positive change. It’s about service. It’s about leadership. It’s about personal growth. It’s our turn to give back to the community that gives so much to us, and this is one of the best ways we can do that.”

Meet GSW's 12th President Dr. Michelle R. Johnston Takes the Helm

Georgia Southwestern welcomes Dr. Michelle R. Johnston, the University’s first female president, who began her tenure on June 1. Johnston’s first few months have been filled with introductions and exploration as she immerses herself in the campus and Americus community.

A Wealth of Experience

Johnston brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to GSW with over 30 years in higher education, serving in administration and as a faculty member. Before joining GSW, she served as President of the College of Coastal Georgia and previously led the University of Rio Grande and Rio Grande Community College in Ohio.

Johnston holds a bachelor’s degree in piano performance from the University of Alabama, a master’s degree in piano performance from Louisiana State University, a Ph.D. in educational leadership from Mississippi State University and a post-doctorate in marketing and management from the University of Florida. “It was a whirlwind tour of the SEC,” she jokes.

Getting to Know Dr. Johnston

Johnston joins the Americus community, along with her “soulmate and best friend,” Gene Pierce. She has two daughters – Rae who is a doctoral student at Georgia Tech, and Abi who researches and manages a lab at the University of Alabama. “We are blessed with an amazing family. Their love and support as we’ve moved to Georgia Southwestern has been incredible.”

In their free time, they enjoy traveling, gardening and fishing. “We love to be out on the water with a fishing

pole in hand. It’s so relaxing!” Johnston’s background in music, as a performer and teacher, remains a passion in her life. “I don’t have a lot of time to practice these days, but I love to attend concerts and church services and perform when I can.”

Finding A Supportive Community

They have found a warm welcome in Americus and are excited to call this home. “Gene and I grew up in small towns, and we love communities where families and friends have deep connections. The Americus community has wrapped their arms around us and helped us get settled in every way. The enthusiasm locally and from the many GSW alumni and friends who have reached out to voice their support demonstrates that this University is really, really special.”

Building on GSW’s Momentum

Johnston acknowledges GSW's existing strengths, and is committed to building on this momentum, ensuring student success and expanding the University’s reach.

“We have so much momentum,” she told guests at her welcome reception in July. Johnston went on to reference a long list of GSW’s accolades that everyone should be proud of: talented students, faculty, staff, and alumni; stellar academic programs and impressive student engagement efforts; a beautiful campus with historic buildings and state-of-the art facilities; strong community partnerships; and a winning athletic program on and off the field.

Johnston said, “I'm listening, and I'm learning. Together, we have a very important responsibility to

take care of this institution, to make a difference in students’ lives, and to have an impact in this region and beyond. We have to constantly raise the bar.”

A Passion for People

Johnston emphasizes the importance of relationships and finding a strong sense of purpose on campus. "Throughout my years in higher education, people and relationships have always been the number one focus. I have a ‘people first, mission always’ commitment. I’ve found that there are so many likeminded people here.”

Johnston has been focused on meeting the people who care so passionately about GSW. “I want to know their connections to GSW and what continues to draw them here or to keep them engaged – whether that’s a student, employee, alum, donor or community member.”

A Focus on Student Success

Johnston’s focus on student success is evident. “I like to carry a diploma cover around with me on campus,” she explains. “It serves as a reminder that this is what we’re here for – to see students succeed and walk across that graduation stage.”

Johnston also carries a mantra with her everywhere she goes. She believes we accomplish our mission through an “every student, every time” approach. Her success with this mentality is evidenced through a proven track record of fostering and growing student enrollment and achievement.

“I've learned quickly that excellence is very important here. We are challenging our students and ourselves to continuously improve and to set high expectations."

A Commitment to Collaboration

Johnston has a history of expanding community partnerships

at previous institutions, and she looks forward to doing that at GSW as well. Over the course of the summer, Johnston has met with community leaders, government officials and GSW’s biggest supporters – alumni, donors, faculty and staff, and even student leaders. She has participated in key community events, learning what Americus has a passion for.

Johnston reaffirmed GSW’s commitment to collaboration, expressing her readiness to partner with the community, local businesses, nonprofits and government bodies to continue driving positive change both on campus and in the community. By fostering these connections and enhancing partnerships, Johnston is dedicated to elevating GSW’s mission and broadening the institution's impact.

Embracing the Hurricane Spirit

Johnston isn't just settling into the academic side of GSW life; she's also eager to embrace the electric atmosphere of GSW Athletics. A lifelong sports fan, her passion was ignited by her father, who would take her to college games as a young girl. “Those memories hold a special place in my heart.” And now she's ready to channel that same enthusiasm into supporting GSW's very own Hurricanes. Expect to see Johnston at the games, proudly sporting blue and gold.

• • •

Johnston's dedication to student success, along with her collaborative spirit for community partnerships, position Georgia Southwestern for a bright future. Under her leadership, the University is poised to continue its upward trajectory to make an even greater impact on the lives of its students and this region. s

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

At the start of their freshman year, GSW students receive a silver Challenge Coin 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 2018, has taken root and made an impact on more than just the students. Watch the heartwarming videos at gsw.edu/Coins

Senior Administrative Assistant Lynn Bailey for being a friend, mentor and role model.

Director of Field & Clinical Experiences Amber Ward ʼ12, ʼ16, ʼ23 gave her coin to mentor and dean of the College of Education Dr. Rachel Abbott.

Lauren Shephard ʼ23 gave her coin to First-Year Experience staff Dr. David Jenkins and Courtney Ellis for their support and encouragement.

Miranda Brannon ʼ24 gave her coin to

Kyira Dawson ʼ24 gave her coin to Admissions Specialist Ladeidra Smalley for her guidance and for being her "second mom" on campus.

Madi Jones ʼ24 and Gia Carter ʼ24 gave their coins to Rebecca Miller, lecturer in the College of Education, for her guidance and being an inspiration.

Jordan Walden ʼ23 gave her coin to her mentor Sam Merritt, who took her under his wing during her internship with the District Attorney's office.

Christina Wynn ’24 gave her coin to Jessica Woodard after completing her student teaching in her class at GSW's Pre-K.

Lakia Johnson ʼ23 gave her coin to Dr. Glenn Robins, professor in the Department of History and Political Science, for never doubting her.

Elise Griffin ʼ24, who lost her mom to cancer a week before graduation, gave her coin to Lecturer of Special Education Allison Tarrer.

Nai'Ree Isaacs ’24 gave her coin to Lecturer of Nursing Carrie Bachhofer for always putting her students first and offering support.

Isabel Alcantar ʼ24 and Elizabeth Taliafero ʼ24 gave their coins to GSW retiree Lynda Lee Purvis for her mentorship in the Carter Leadership Program.

Alyssa McGuffie ʼ23 gave her coin to Brandy Pfeiffer for her support, both academic and emotional, throughout her time in the nursing program.

2023-2024 Faculty and Staff Awards

FACULTY AND STAFF EXCELLENCE AWARDS

Staff Excellence in Customer Service and Personal Interaction Award

Keith Michlig

Staff Excellence in Achievement and Performance

Jenn Smith

Faculty Excellence in Scholarship Award

Dr. Anish Dave

Faculty Excellence in Advising Award

Dr. Benjamin Meador

Faculty Excellence in Service Award

Dr. John LeJeune

Faculty Excellence and Commitment to Teaching Award

Keaton Wynn

STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION AWARDS

Oris Bryant Staff Member of the Year

Courtney Harmon

Faculty Member of the Year

Kay Sassi

Dr. Sandra Daniel retires after

36 years of dedication

Dr. Sandra Daniel, Ph.D., retired on January 1, 2024, after a distinguished 36-year career at GSW, where she served as dean of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences. During her tenure, Dr. Daniel significantly expanded GSW’s nursing program by increasing enrollment, introducing a Spring admission for BSN students, developing several graduate programs, reviving the Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program, earning program accreditations, and strengthening partnerships with healthcare providers. She helped establish the Guaranteed Acceptance Program, attracting top high school seniors.

PROFESSOR OF THE YEAR

Dr. Jim Aller, professor of human resources, was voted Professor of the Year by graduating seniors. The award was presented by the GSW Alumni Association.

RETIREMENTS

Dr. Sandra Daniel Dean, College of Nursing and Health Sciences

Dr. Charles Huffman

Professor and Chair, Department of Psychology and Sociology

Ru Story-Huffman Dean, James Earl Carter Library

Beau Palmer

Lecturer, Department of Music, Communication and Media Arts

Kay Sassi

Senior Lecturer, Department of English and Modern Languages

Under her leadership, GSW’s School of Nursing earned numerous accolades, including being named the #1 Nursing School in Georgia by nurse.org in 2019 and 2022. Reflecting on her career, Dr. Daniel said, “My aspiration has been to make a meaningful impact by delivering high-quality programs that prepare our students for successful careers in nursing. GSW has always demonstrated excellence, and I know I leave the program in good hands.”

A two-time GSW alumna, Dr. Daniel earned her Associate (’74) and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (’76) at GSW, followed by a Master’s of Science in Nursing, Doctorate, and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. She was named one of GSW’s 2024 Outstanding Alumni receiving the Canes Community Champion award. Daniel plans to enjoy spending time with her husband Arthur (Skeeter), her two sons, Davis and Logan, and her grandchildren.

Dr. Jim Aller receives a plaque from Alumni Engagement Specialist Angela Smith at the annual Faculty and Staff Awards Ceremony on May 1, 2024.

Athletics

The women’s basketball program earned back-to-back Peach Belt Conference regular season and tournament titles and advanced to the Elite Eight for the first time in program history following a record-breaking campaign led by then-head coach Hana Haden. The Lady Hurricanes closed out their run with the highest ranking in the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association coaches poll in program history at #6! The historic season came to an end after a back-and-forth battle against the eventual National Champions, Minnesota State.

The Hurricanes racked up several individual honors at the end of baseball season. Rijnaldo Euson (left) was named PBC Pitcher of the Year, marking the fifth consecutive season GSW has brought home the league's top pitching honor. Catcher Kalvin Alexander (right) won a 2024 American Baseball Coaches Association/Rawlings Gold Glove Award for the NCAA Division II. He is GSW's second Golden Glove winner in the last two years. Both Euson and Alexander also made the PBC All-Conference Team alongside Cory Lee, Brant Deerman,and Nick McCollum.

In June 2024, Emma Johansen was named head softball coach. She came to GSW from Cameron University in Lawton, Okla., where she led the NCAA Division II Aggies softball program as head coach the past two seasons. Prior to her time at Cameron, Johansen spent four seasons as an assistant coach at the University of West Florida. She has also been on the coaching staff at Alabama State University, Auburn University and the Swedish National Team.

Missy Tiber was named head women's basketball coach in April 2024. She came to GSW from the University of North Alabama, where she led the women's basketball program at the NCAA Division I level for five seasons. Over 11 seasons at North Alabama, Tiber compiled an overall record of 172147 and led the program through the Division I transition.

During their 2023-24 season, GSW's golf team won three events and reached No. 3 in the country during the season. The Hurricanes qualified for their fifth consecutive regional appearance. Senior Payne Sells had two Top 5 finishes, including a tournament win at the 84-player Argonaut Invitational in April. He also played in the U.S. Amateur in August.

In March 2024, Jacob Crawford was named head women's soccer coach. He comes to Americus after serving the 2023-24 season as the interim head women's soccer coach at the University of West Georgia, where he led the Wolves to a 6-5-2 conference record and tournament appearance. Crawford also served six seasons at South Georgia State College, compiling 48 wins and the program's first and second region championships in 2021 and 2022.

GSW led all NCAA Division II institutions in documented community service hours generated during the 2023-24 academic year according to the NCAA TeamWorks competition reported by Helper Helper. It's the second time in four years the Hurricanes have finished atop the national standings. Projects included GSW's Big Event: Blitz Build, the Special Olympics, local food drives, a partnership with Magnolia Manor, reading in local schools, gardening at the Phoebe Healthy Garden and participating in the local Night to Shine in conjunction with the Tim Tebow Foundation.

Georgia Southwestern won its second consecutive Peach Belt Conference Presidents' Academic Award in May 2024. This is the fourth time GSW has won this award, which recognizes excellence in academics across all of an institution's student-athletes. At the same event, GSW also earned the LeeAnn Noble Make-A-Wish Most Improved Award for its fundraising efforts during the 2023-24 school year. The Hurricanes increased their giving by 107% from 2022-23 as part of a larger initiative across the NCAA Division II that raised over $6.8 million for Make-A-Wish.

Serving with Purpose

Director Chris Hosey and other GSW Alumni Lead the Way in GBI

For Chris Hosey (’87), the call to serve and protect Georgia runs deep. As the Director of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, his unwavering dedication to the state's safety and its people is evident in the way he talks about his decorated 37-year career with the Bureau. Hosey’s commitment is not just a professional duty but a personal mission rooted in his lifelong passion for justice, community service and public safety.

This devotion is a testament to his upbringing, influenced by his parents and cultivated during his time at Georgia Southwestern State University as a sociology major. Hosey, a native of Coweta County, Ga., credits his parents for raising him to “help people” and “always do the right thing,” which shaped his desire to enter a career pathway in law enforcement.

Although it was a baseball career that brought Hosey to GSW, his desire to study criminal justice faced an initial challenge since the program was not offered at the time. "My advisor, Dr. David Smith, played a crucial role in shaping my academic path,” Hosey shares. “With his guidance, I tailored my courses to encompass more than just criminal justice, focusing on areas like social behavior. Dr. Smith cared about his students and wanted to see us strive for a profession."

Hosey quickly adapted by delving into political science, which offered him relevant knowledge

and skills. "This approach significantly impacted my academic journey and fostered a well-rounded experience," he says. In addition to academics, Hosey put his all into baseball.

"Despite the initial academic hurdles while juggling baseball and other extracurricular activities, I found it fulfilling to be part of the college community," Hosey says. "Overall, my college experience at GSW was both rewarding and impactful, allowing me to gain diverse perspectives and skills beyond my initial focus on criminal justice."

During a GSW job fair, Hosey considered the NCIS but knew he wanted to stay in Georgia and avoid being confined to one area. After speaking with Americus GBI agents Jim Covington and Don Robertson, Hosey realized the GBI offered the same professionalism as the FBI and other federal agencies, with the advantage of staying local while still investigating crimes. "That's how I decided on the GBI,” Hosey explains. “I was ready to pay my dues to get where I wanted to be.”

Shortly after graduating from GSW in 1987, Hosey joined the GBI’s Local Violators Squad as an undercover narcotics agent eager to get his foot in the door. Since then, Hosey has held every sworn supervisor rank in the Bureau’s investigative division, working across the state in various capacities.

In 2001, he was promoted to Assistant Special

Agent in Charge of a multi-jurisdictional drug task force and played a pivotal role in establishing the GBI’s first Regional Drug Enforcement Office (RDEO). From 20082012, he served as Special Agent in Charge at both the Region 5 Statesboro Office and at Savannah RDEO. By 2012, he had advanced to Inspector overseeing drug operations, various general investigative offices and the GBI Training Unit.

In addition to his field experience, Hosey furthered his education by attending the Georgia Law Enforcement Command College through Columbus State University, a program tailored for law enforcement executives, where he earned a master’s in public administration. He is also a graduate of the 247th session of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Va.

Hosey’s path to his current role included a series of increasingly responsible appointments in recent years. In 2020, former GBI Director Vic Reynolds appointed him as Director for the Investigative Division, followed by his promotion to Assistant Director by former GBI Director Michael Register in 2022. Hosey was ultimately appointed Director by Governor Brian Kemp in August 2023. He now oversees the more than 975 employees and manages a budget of $162.5 million.

Georgia is currently facing growing gang violence, officer-involved shootings, human trafficking, child exploitation and corruption. Hosey explains “Violence in general; crimes against persons is our largest challenge and keeps us the busiest in the Investigative Division. That includes homicide, sexual assaults, child molestations, deaths and officer involved shootings.”

Under Hosey’s leadership in his first year and with the support of Governor Kemp, the GBI created the West Georgia Gang Task Force in Columbus to address gang violence and criminal activity; expanded the Gang Task Force to include Macon-Bibb County; reinstated Certified Criminal Profilers to enhance criminal investigations; began to focus on unsolved murders and homicides through the newly created Cold Case Unit; and graduated several students from its Leadership Academy and two from the bureau’s Forensic Pathology program.

While he cannot a pick a favorite position he’s held over the years, Hosey says being Director has certainly been rewarding and interesting. “As Director, there is a much larger playing field that I look at each and every day. It's not just the Investigative Division. There is the Crime Lab, the Medical Examiner's Office, the Georgia Crime Information Center, finance and human resources,” Hosey says. “I have great people in all of these areas who handle all the day-to-day business. I try to get them the resources they need. I’m here to support them.”

One of Hosey’s favorite aspects of his work is the ability to solve a problem with a team and bring resolution to situations and to affected families. It makes the job worthwhile for him.

Each of these initiatives requires the prioritization of the greater good over personal gain, a quality that Hosey recognizes in leaders across the GBI. “There's one thing I try to do when I get up every morning and that's ensure that I don't let [the GBI] down. I want to see the entire agency succeed,” Hosey says. “Whatever I do, I do it for the good of the agency and for the people of this state. They depend on us.”

For the new GBI agents Hosey teaches in his Officer Survival class, he has one recommendation: “Find purpose.”

“If you’re looking to clock in at 8 a.m., clock out by 5 p.m. and check boxes in between, you’re in the wrong place. It becomes a career when you look for purpose,” Hosey says. “I want [our agents and employees] to understand the GBI’s mission is to serve the people of this state. That’s why they call it public service. It’s having that kind of outlook that helps you stay. It’s helped me stay this long.”

Hosey also credits his wife, Powell, of 35 years for supporting him and encouraging him every

step of the way. They currently reside in Thomaston and have two daughters, Mary Beth and Julianne.

His successful, fulfilling career has been fueled by passion and a strong work ethic. He plans to retire from the profession he loves, but only “when the good Lord tells me it’s time.” His humility and dedication are truly inspiring, transforming his work into something far more than just a job.

Hosey's journey exemplifies the profound impact a GSW education can have on one’s career and life. His influence extends to other GSW alumni within the GBI, whose leadership further demonstrates the University’s lasting impact on law enforcement professionals.

• • •

Among these leaders is Special Agent in Charge Joe Chesnut (’94, ’96) of the GBI Region 3 Field Office in Americus. A native of Lumpkin, Chesnut earned a bachelor’s in political science and master’s in business administration from GSW. He credits his political science curriculum and favorite instructor, Kent Sole, with laying the foundation for his 27-year career in the GBI. “These classes required reading and understanding the Constitution along with the political structure,” Chesnut says. “Research papers improved my writing skills, reading comprehension and critical thinking. Debates enhanced my ability to take a position on a subject and defend it.”

Before transferring to Americus in 2020, Agent Chesnut established the Southwestern Regional Drug Enforcement Office in Albany, and served as the Special Agent in Charge of the West Metro Regional Drug

Enforcement Office in Atlanta for 10 years. He is also a graduate of the 251st session of the FBI National Academy.

Reflecting on his career, Chesnut finds the development of his employees to be the most rewarding aspect. “Currently, there are 20 GBI supervisors who have worked directly for me in some capacity. I hope I have instilled some leadership qualities in these employees that led to their success.”

He and his wife, Robyn (‘04), a GSW Foundation board member, are actively involved in GSW alumni activities such as the Gold Force Gala and events hosted by the Kappa Sigma Fraternity, to which he owes lifelong friendships.

• • •

Bryan Smith (‘98) of Albany, who served with Agent Chesnut as Assistant Special Agent in Charge in the Region 3 Office in Americus, was recently named the Crime Scene Specialist leading the GBI’s newly formed Crime Scene Program. Agent Smith graduated with a bachelor’s in psychology from GSW before beginning his 20-plus-year career with the GBI. He graduated from National Forensics Academy in 2007 and is certified as a Crime Scene Technician and Crime Scene Analyst.

•

Another GSW alum paving the way is Catherine Jordan (’03) of Ellaville who was recently promoted to Manager of the GBI’s Central Regional Crime Lab in Dry Branch, after serving as

Assistant Manager since January 2024. Jordan earned her bachelor’s in chemistry from GSW and went on to receive another bachelor’s in chemical engineering from Georgia Tech. Her journey within the GBI started as a trainee in the Firearms & Toolmarks section at GBI Headquarters in 2005, and then she moved on to the GBI’s Western Regional Crime Lab in 2007.

• • •

Special Agent in Charge Bill Bodrey (’95) of Unadilla is training the next generation of agents as the Director of Training at the GBI Training Unit in Forsyth. Agent Bodrey graduated from GSW with a bachelor’s in psychology before earning a master’s in public safety administration and graduate in the 281st session of the FBI National Academy. He started his 28-year career with the GBI as a narcotics agent and worked his way through the ranks. Agent Bodrey credits GSW’s English department and his psychology professors, Dr. Michael Urda and Dr. William Dragoin, for the success he’s seen throughout his career. He shared, “I took several public speaking classes which have proven to be very helpful to me in my current job responsibilities where public speaking is needed.”

• • •

John Seay (’70) worked for the GBI for 28 years, with a total of 40 years in law enforcement before

retiring as Thomson Police Chief in 2019. Seay credits GSW and his political science professors, Kent Sole and Dr. Ruth Roland, for his fulfilling law enforcement career. “Without my college degree, I could not have gone to work with the [GBI].” He also owes his marriage of 50-plus years to his alma mater. •

Chris Hosey embodies the three core elements of the GSW Experience: people, purpose and profession. With the support of mentors like Dr. Smith during his college years, Hosey found his purpose in law enforcement—a purpose he now shares with fellow GBI agents. His journey from student to leader exemplifies how GSW’s values have shaped his path to leadership and service.

Although these GSW graduates followed different academic paths, their journeys led to a shared commitment to public service. Today, GSW offers a variety of relevant courses for aspiring law enforcement professionals, including an online criminal justice program, sociology, political science and a new chemistry concentration in forensics. These programs equip students with the knowledge and skills essential for success, addressing critical needs like the shortage of forensic pathologists.

GSW has a long history of cultivating influential leaders, as shown by the achievements of its distinguished alumni. From humble beginnings, Chris Hosey has joined the ranks of these remarkable leaders, contributing to the lasting impact GSW alumni have had on our state, nation and across the world. Thank you for your service. 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 ?

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

This past year has been exceptional for GSW, and I am so proud to be a triple Cane! We surpassed enrollment records, saw significant success in our athletic programs, and added exciting new degree programs to meet employers' needs.

We bid farewell to President Weaver, whose tenure was marked by building momentum and energy felt throughout campus, and reached numerous milestones. On June 1, we were thrilled to welcome our new president, Dr. Michelle Johnston, who will build upon this foundation and help us continue our upward trajectory of success.

Our alumni board has worked diligently to develop opportunities to connect alumni with the GSW community, students, and one another. As a result, our alumni are more engaged than ever. We have fostered relationships through multiple events and activities on and off campus and love seeing multi-generational friendships develop through our travel program. We were thrilled to increase the number of Alumni Legacy scholarships from 13 awarded in 2023 to 17 in 2024, a testament to the contributions of our alums.

We continue to look for ways to connect with you and are thrilled about the upcoming Homecoming weekend on October 25-26 and other activities throughout the year.

Please stay tuned to the Hurricane Connector newsletter and our GSW Alumni Association Facebook page for more exciting updates and opportunities to get involved.

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

Alumni Association Board of Directors

Andrea Ingram ’91, ’94, ’15

President

Ryan Garnto ’13

Vice President

Cheryl Fletcher ’93

Treasurer

Amy Benton ’90

Past President

Ervin Anderson ’93

Mark Blalock ’95, ’03

Billy Bolton ’13

Tim Brooks ’17

Sonja Duggar ’79

Luke Ellis ’08

Royce Hackett ’01

Jonathan Hobbs ’17

Renee Mays ’89, ’92, ’93

Sonia McKenzie ’89, ’91

Robert Moss ’76

Jimmy Peel ’80

Lamar Radford ’00

Jessica Reese ’19, ’21

Harvey Smith ’83

Sedrick Swan ’09

Katherine Tondee ’14

Robyn Woods ’09

Angela Smith, Staff Alumni Engagement Specialist

Pictured are (front row L to R) Cheryl Fletcher, Andrea Ingram, (second row) Mark Blalock, Robyn Woods, Jessica Reese, Royce Hackett, (third row) Angela Smith, Tim Brooks, Amy Benton, Luke Ellis, (fourth row) Billy Bolton, Harvey Smith, Sonia McKenzie, Jimmy Peel, Ryan Garnto, Lamar Radford, (fifth row) Robert Moss. Not pictured are Ervin Anderson, Sonja Duggar, Jonathan Hobbs, Renee Mays, Sedrick Swan, and Katherine Tondee.

Second annual Gold Force Gala supports Propel scholarship campaign

The Propel campaign for scholarships concluded at GSW's second annual Gold Force Gala on Saturday, Jan. 27. The final total of $1,250,053 was announced to the 300 guests in attendance at the black-tie fundraiser.

The campaign announcement was made by thenPresident Dr. Neal Weaver and was marked with a balloon drop to commemorate the significant occasion.

A total of 631 donors made contributions to Propel, which launched in September 2022.

During the campaign, nine new scholarships were created and six scholarship endowments matured.

The sold-out evening featured a cocktail social and silent auction that raised an additional $7,500 for scholarships, recognition of the distinguished 2024 Outstanding Alumni Award winners, and live music to bring the evening to a memorable close.

The third annual Gold Force Gala is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 1, 2025.

2024 Outstanding Alumni Awards

These awards honor the distinguished personal accomplishments and professional achievements of GSW alumni.

Sandra Daniel ’74, ’76 Canes Community Champion

Eshonda Blue ’98, ’99 Visionary Award

Kelsie Deiter ’06, ’07 Young

Nominations are now open for 2025

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

s Aeolian Award: Chosen based on outstanding lifetime achievement as a distinguished alumni and community leader

s Family Legacy Award: Recognizes a family with a multi-generational tradition of attending GSW and continued interest in and support of the University

s Leewynn J. Finklea Award: Named in honor of our first alumni director, recognizes outstanding alumni service to GSW (chosen by the GSW Alumni Association)

s Visionary Award: Given to an entrepreneur/ innovator for significant contributions to the advancement of a business or enterprise

s Young Alumni of the Year: Given to an emerging leader making waves in their field as a positive role model and reflection on GSW

s Canes Community Champion: Recognizes someone with a fervent record of collaboration with and advocacy for GSW (chosen by the GSW President)

Rick Whaley ’89 Aeolian Award

The Smith Family Family Legacy Award

Will Peterson ’00, ’04 Leewynn Finklea Award

Alumnus of the Year

Ervin Anderson ’93 Hall of Fame inductee

Alumni in the news

Tomekia Reed ’04 has been named head women's basketball coach at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. In her prior role as head coach at Jackson State University, she was named Southwestern Athletic Conference Coach of the Year three times between 2020 and 2024. (ESPN)

Jennifer Turnbull ’17 was named director of human resources and employee relations for the Colquitt County Board of Education in Moultrie, Ga. (The Moultrie Observer)

Brian Roberts ’23 was promoted to relationship manager for Southwest Georgia Farm Credit’s Dawson, Ga. branch. (The Albany Herald)

Donna (Watson) Fouts ’04, ’07 was recognized as Teacher of the Year for the ThomastonUpson School System in Thomaston, Ga. (The Upson Beacon)

Chandra Nelson ’11 published a children's book titled "Sherry and the Sheep." (PR.com)

Thomas Carden ’92 was a Regents’ Hall of Fame Award recipient for 2023. Nominated by GSW, Maj. Gen. Carden was chosen by the University System of Georgia Foundation for the prestigious award. He is the fourth GSW alum to join the Regents' Hall of Fame. (Georgia CEO)

Katie (Stalvey) Beavers ’21 was promoted to senior accountant in healthcare at Draffin Tucker. (Albany CEO)

Randy Thompson ’90 was named director of campus and community engagement at Middle Georgia State University in Cochran, Ga. (Middle Georgia CEO)

Rebecca Talbot ’22 was named vice president of marketing for Malco Products, a tool production company in Annadale, Minn. In this role, she will oversee Malco’s marketing strategy and efforts to increase brand and market position in order to achieve organizational goals. (Mechanical Business)

Christy Dryden ’14 was named assistant director of student information and instructional technology by the Colquitt County Board of Education in Moultrie, Ga.

(The Moultrie Observer)

Jaqueline Lewis Williams ’17 was named director of admissions at Gordon State College in Barnesville, Ga. She has served several higher education institutions in Georgia, including UGA's Terry College of Business.

(Griffin Daily News)

Noble Coley ’10 was named head coach for the Jones County Greyhounds in Gray, Ga. (The Jones County News)

Tylen Pepito ’21 was named financial aid technician at South Georgia Technical College in Americus, Ga. (The Americus Times-Recorder)

Ellen Foy ’79 was named Teacher of the Year at Upson-Lee Primary School in Thomaston, Ga.

(The Upson Beacon)

Arthur Wilson ’17 was featured as one of 10 contestants on Season 4 of Netflix's glassblowing series "Blown Away." He competed in challenges across four episodes before he was eliminated. The series was filmed in Canada. (Americus Times-Recorder)

Kameron Causey ’02 was named director of Albany State University's campus in Cordele, Ga. (The Albany Herald)

Lisa Perry ’96 is the owner of Advocates for Autism Resource Center in Dawson, Ga., which hosted a summer swim camp in June 2024. (The Albany Herald)

Scott Justus ’96 was named Middle School Director at Lakeview Academy in Gainesville, Ga. (Access WDUN)

Susie Sanders ’98 published a devotional titled "Sermonette: What Type of Christian Are You? Pick a Letter or Letters (A-Z)!” (PR.com)

Michael Coley ’22 was one of two Alumni of the Year recognized by the Technical College System of Georgia. (Americus-Times Recorder)

Steve Theus ’94 was named superintendent for Little River Canyon National Preserve and Russell Cave National Monument in Alabama. He has 31 years of experience in the National Parks Service and began his career at the Jimmy Carter and Andersonville National Historic Sites. (Times-Journal)

Carly Hall ’21 was promoted to associate II in healthcare at Draffin Tucker's Albany, Ga. office. (Albany CEO)

Steve Yates ’92 was named property management specialist for the Lakeview District in Lakeview, Ore. by the Bureau of Land Management. (Herald and News)

Ansley Duffey ’24 joined Draffin Tucker as staff accountant at their Albany, Ga. office. (Albany CEO)

Shaunna Morrison ’11 won the 2023 Mineralogical Society of America Award for her ground-breaking work in mineralogy. She has pioneered the application of powerful data analytical and visualization methods to understanding complex mineral systems through deep time. (American Mineralogist)

Karen (Brown) Robertson ’96 was promoted to human resources director for the City of Madison, Ga. (The Morgan County Citizen)

Quentin Fulks ’12 is the principal deputy campaign manager for Kamala Harris' 2024 presidential campaign. He has conducted interviews with national media outlets on behalf of Harris and is leading the campaign's advertising program and paid media team.

(The Washington Post)

Stay up-to-date with alumni news, get early access to alumni events and participate in exclusive giveaways with The Hurricane Connector, our monthly email newsletter for GSW alumni!

at gsw.edu/AlumniUpdate

On a mild spring evening in April 2024, members of Georgia Southwestern’s NPHC community gathered for Omega Psi Phi’s Neophyte Presentation. This was the first time in five years that new members had joined the fraternity, so the excitement was palpable in Centennial Plaza.

For the Truitt family, that excitement was intermingled with grief. Charles and Floria Truitt, both GSW alumni, sat in the audience. Their youngest son Brenton was one of the five new members, an ace just like his father and brother before him. The only one missing was Brandon.

Brandon, the Truitt’s eldest son passed away in 2022 after a brief illness. Although his passing left a hole in the Truitt family, it also brought into focus the importance of what Brandon loved: family, brotherhood, and community.

• • •

Charles Truitt came to GSW in fall 1987 as a transfer student. He had heard great things about Hurricane athletics and was slated to play running back just before GSW’s football team was cut.

He stayed active in campus life, joining Omega Psi Phi in 1988. The fraternity had just been chartered at GSW the year before, joining the expanding Greek life community on campus.

“Greek life played a major role in my college experience,” Charles said. “The brothers and the lasting friendships I made will always be something I cherish to the end.”

Charles earned his bachelor’s degree in education in 1990 and a master’s degree in 1995.

Charles’ wife Floria attended GSW as a non-traditional student, earning her bachelor’s degree in special education in 2006. Still, she was involved on campus.

“I was a member of SCEC, Student Council for Exceptional Children, where we helped special needs students with extra school supplies and tools needed for them to perform in the classroom,” Floria recalled.

Over nearly 20 years, Floria has worked in special education at Americus-Sumter High in Americus, Macon County High in Montezuma, and Albany High in Albany. She is currently the lead contact teacher for exceptional children at Westover High in Albany.

Charles has also built a 33-year career in education as a longtime football coach in the region. He has coached at Americus-Sumter High, Monroe High in Albany, and Tiftarea Academy in Tifton. After a brief retirement, he now serves as the assistant principal, athletic director and head football coach at RandolphClay High in Cuthbert.

The Truitts’ commitment to education and connections to GSW led their eldest son Brandon to campus in 2014 as a physical education major. He quickly became involved in campus life and joined Omega Psi Phi in 2015.

“When he was on campus, and I would go visit, almost everyone knew Brandon,” Charles said.

This was no surprise to his family. Brandon was always trying to get the family together for any and every event. Making memories with the people he loved most was important to him.

Left to right: These photos follow the Truitt family from the 1980s when Charles joined Omega Psi Phi to Brandon's time at GSW in the 2010s and Brenton joining the fraternity in 2024. Bottom row, second from left: The Truitt family, left to right, are Brandon, Floria, Brenton, and Charles.

“Talking about a son following in his father’s footsteps – that was Brandon,” Charles said. “He wanted to pledge, and he wanted to be a teacher and football coach.”

Brandon attended GSW until 2017. He went on to start a business that hosted sports camps for children ages 15 and under. He also coached for several local youth teams. He was passionate about sports and the impact athletics could have on children’s lives.

“As a parent, you always hope that your children see something you did positively and want to follow in that direction,” Charles said. “When I think about it now, I burst with joy. Sometimes I get emotional just thinking about it.”

Brenton, the youngest Truitt, joined his brother at GSW in 2016.

“My brother Brandon was a big part of why I ended up at GSW,” Brenton said. “He allowed me to see that this is a prestigious school, and continuing the legacy of my parents was very important to us.”

The brothers had always been close. Even after both had left GSW, they lived in an apartment together.

“We moved them both back home when Brandon got sick,” Floria said.

Brandon passed away in January 2022.

“It seems like a part of my heart was ripped out,” Floria said. “I miss Brandon so much. There isn’t a day that goes by that I do not think about him.”

“We are still coping and will always be trying to cope,” Charles said. “I try to get through the day just thinking how proud he made me.”

Brandon’s loss was deeply felt, not only by each member of his family, but by the brothers of Omega Psi Phi and the larger GSW community. He had been a fixture at campus events, even after he left GSW. He could always be found with his Omega brothers around

the grill at the annual Homecoming Tailgate.

“My brother was a kind, loving and compassionate person,” Brenton said. “He always cared more about the well-being of others than himself. He always wanted to see the best from anyone he was around.”

“I feel like a part of me has left this earth, and it doesn’t feel the same without him here,” Brenton said.

Brandon was more than just a big brother. He had always been Brenton’s biggest supporter.

“It really motivated me to get back in school, because that was something he was encouraging me to do before he passed,” said Brenton.

Brenton reenrolled at GSW in Fall 2022. He has since made the Dean’s List and Academic Achievement List.

“It was very difficult to focus on college sometimes with my brother being gone, but having a strong support system from my family allowed me to excel in honor of my brother,” Brenton said. “I want to continue our family legacy here by being a great leader and impacting GSW in a positive way.”

The Neophyte Presentation closed with the Omega brothers welcoming their new members with cheers, handshakes and hugs in a sea of purple and camo. In the middle of the celebration, Charles and Brenton hugged each other tightly. Charles was wearing a memorial t-shirt featuring photos of Brandon. He was there in spirit.

“Joining Omega Psi Phi has always been a lifelong goal that me and Brandon shared,” Brenton said. Both have always looked up to the Omega men in their lives.

“My dad and Brandon are two of my biggest role models and continuing the legacy that they built at Georgia Southwestern was all I wanted to do,” Brenton said. “It’s still surreal and bittersweet because I’m excited that I finally did it, but I really wish my brother was here to experience it with me.” s

ALUMNI EVENTS

Homecoming & Family Weekend

featuring Nursing Reunion

October 21-26, 2024

Celebrate GSW and revisit campus this fall. Nursing alumni are invited to attend a special brunch reunion on Friday, Oct. 25. For details, visit gsw.edu/Homecoming.

Gold Force Gala

February 1, 2025

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 will be available at gsw.edu/GoldForceGala

Alumni Reunions

NPHC Greek Reunion

February 28 - March 2, 2025

GSW Baseball & Softball Reunion

March 28-30, 2025

New York City

February 12-16, 2025

Experience the best of the Big Apple and two Broadway shows, including Hamilton. The $2,449 per person (double rate) pricing* includes 5 days and 5 meals.

Holland & Belgium River Cruise

Spring 2026

Savor springtime in Holland and Belgium with a 7-night cruise that features blooming tulip fields and iconic windmills during this 9-day trip. Includes 20 meals.

Christmas Markets in Austria & Germany

Fall 2026

Experience the holiday spirit over 8 days in Austria and Germany, where the tradition of the Christkindlesmarkt began over 600 years ago. Includes 10 meals.

*Pricing for all 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.

Alumni & friends explore Portugal

Nearly 40 alumni and friends traveled to Portugal in April 2024. The group explored Portugal's shoreline with stops at the capital Lisbon, the cliffs of Algarve, and the Portuguese Riviera. Travelers enjoyed the wines of the Alentejo region and traditional Portuguese cuisine during the 9-day trip. Notable stops also included UNESCO World Heritage Sites and Cabo do Roca, the western most point of continental Europe.

Alumni Association takes Alaskan cruise

In June 2024, 33 alumni and friends enjoyed a 7-night Alaskan cruise. The full 12-day trip also included stops at Denali National Park, Glacier Bay, Juneau, Anchorage and Fairbanks. Several travelers also took to the skies with a local pilot to see the Misty Fjord National Monument, a 2.1 million acre park.

Check out upcoming international trips hosted by the GSW Alumni Association at gsw.edu/AlumniTravel All GSW alumni and friends are invited!

ALUMNI scene

GSW Night at Truist Park

GSW alumni and friends took to the ballpark on Jun. 15, 2024 for the Alumni Association's annual GSW Night at Truist Park. Nearly 70 were in attendance to watch the Braves beat the Tampa Bay Rays 9-2 in a game riddled with homers.

National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) Reunion on Campus

Over 200 NPHC alumni gathered on campus Feb. 9-11, 2024. The weekend included a banquet honoring past chapter presidents, a tailgate and an alumni stroll off.

Homecoming 2023 and Sparky Sprint

Homecoming Weekend was jam packed with alumni events. The Alumni Association hosted the Sparky Sprint in memory of the late Sparky Reeves, hosted a tent at the Tailgate, and recognized former Hurricane football players, cheerleaders, and band members.

River Dragons Hockey in Columbus Canes After Hours at Fall Line

Alumni enjoyed dinner at Smoke Bourbon & BBQ before watching the River Dragons take on the Delaware Thunder in Feb. 2023.

Macon area alumni gathered in Nov. 2023 for fellowship and refreshments at Fall Line Brewery.

Save the Date!

6th Annual Day of Giving

Thursday, September 19

GSW’s sixth 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 participation and hitting 500 donors on the Day of Giving. Additionally, we are aiming to receive a gift from each of the 50 states to Turn the Map Gold for the second year in a row.

Those in the Americus area can also visit any of the 23 local restaurants and retailers who are generously donating a portion of their proceeds to GSW on September 19.

The focus funds for this year are Promise Scholarships, the Southwestern Annual Fund, General Athletics, the President Jimmy Carter Leadership Program and the ongoing construction of GSW's Griffin Bell Golf and Conference Center.

Visit gsw.edu/DayOfGiving to learn how you can participate.

Homecoming Week & Family Weekend

Monday, October 21Saturday, October 26

Celebrate GSW and revisit campus this fall! Students will participate in activities throughout the week before we welcome alumni, families and community members on the weekend.

A special Nursing Reunion on Friday, October 25 will welcome nursing alumni and faculty for a brunch beginning at 11 a.m. and a tour of our state-of-the-art simulation labs. RSVPs are required.

Families are encouraged to visit their current GSW students on campus and participate in Family Weekend activities on Friday and Saturday.

Homecoming Week & Family Weekend will culminate in the annual Homecoming Tailgate and soccer game at Hurricane Stadium. Bring your tents, chairs and favorite tailgate eats to cheer on the Hurricanes!

Visit gsw.edu/Homecoming for more details & sign-ups.

Several proud GSW alumni welcomed little Canes born July 2023 to July 2024! 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. Hope (Teasley) Bateman ’16 and husband Nathan welcomed their first child, Jackson Thomas, on Sep. 16, 2023. Hope is a Pre-K teacher at Sumter County Primary School in Americus, Ga. She earned her master's in early childhood education with an endorsement in leadership from Kennesaw State University. She and her family live in Americus, Ga.

2. Morgan (Mullin) Smith ’23, former GSW softball player, and husband Chad welcomed son Wesson Reed in March 2024. Morgan teaches fourth and fifth grades at coach middle and high school softball at Furlow Charter School in Americus, Ga. She is working to complete her master's in education at GSW.

3. Brianna Woodall ’21 and husband Cody welcomed their first child, Lainee Mac, in October 2023. Brianna teaches high school English and recently completed a master's in English from the University of West Georgia. She and her family live in Buena Vista, Ga.

4. Jason Griffeth ’12 and wife Kathryn had a son, Finn Rocky, on Sep. 19, 2023. Finn joins half-brother Ethan (9). Jason is a teacher at John H. Heard Elementary School in Macon, Ga.

5. Jodie Kretzer ’16 and wife Katie welcomed their fourth child Rudy on March 19, 2024. Rudy joins brothers Kase (7) and Nash (5) and sister Ila Kate (2).

Young

30,

and husband

7. Bryce ’20 and Haley ’22 (Strickland) McGuire welcomed daughter Wrenley Todd on Feb. 6, 2024.

8. Christopher and Katherine (Dieckmann) Tondee, class of 2014, welcomed their first daughter Charlotte Hill on April 10, 2024. Charlotte joins proud big brothers Walker (4) and Harrison (2).

9. Brandon and Lauren Blue, class of 2022, added a little boy, Elias, to their family on June 14, 2024. Elias joins big sister Anna.

10. Addie (Bell) Hart ’15, ’18 and husband Coye had a son John-Thomas in Sep. 2023. He joins 3-year-old twin sisters Ada Jane and Audrey. Addie is a special education teacher at Schley County Middle/High School in Ellavilla, Ga. She and her family live in Americus, Ga.

11. Stacie (Smith) Byrd ’12 and husband James welcomed third child Anna Lane on Feb. 17, 2024.

12.Hannah Driver ’19, ’21 and her late husband Bryce welcomed twins Jace (left) and Adalynn (right) in February 2024.

6. Kali (Davenport)

’21

Christopher welcomed Charlie Roselyn on Oct.

2023. Charlie joins older brother Corbin Jay (3).

CLASS NOTES |

1950s

1959

Emory Eugene Giddens served four years as a full Lieutenant with the US Navy and retired from the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission after 46 years. He resides in Maryland with wife Libby. They have three grandchildren.

1970s

1972

Donald Cook is a retired administration faculty member at Florida State University. He currently resides in Perry, Fla.

1974

Russell "Rusty" Barton retired from IBM after a 35-year career with the company. He resides in Rockingham, Va.

1980s

1980

Pamela (Marchant) Dowdy is a K-12 music teacher. She lives in Americus, Ga. with her husband Tom.

1982

Michael Eugene Hutchinson, DME, has been included in Marquis Who's Who.

1990s

1995

Juliane Cody Johnson joined Phoebe Primary Care & Sports Medicine in Americus, Ga. as a board-certified nurse practitioner. She holds an

associate and bachelor’s in nursing from GSW and her master's degree from Troy University.

1997

Danielle "Dani" Peterson Hall was named treasurer of the Georgia Athletic Trainers' Association for 2024-26.

1998

Lawrence Jay Carpenter is a partner at Invision Technologies and serves as vice president of sales and business development. He resides at Lake Blackshear, Ga. with his wife Morgan and their family.

Danielle (Sweet) Jones is the 2023 recipient of the National Association for the Education of Homeless Children and Youth Sandra Neese Lifetime Achievement Award.

Patrick Peacock screened his latest short film, “The Seeker,” in the South Georgia Film Festival in Valdosta, Ga. The film also garnered notice in the Southern Short Awards and the Spotlight Film Awards. A part-time instructor in GSW’s Department of Music, Communication, and Emerging Media, he is now developing the script for his next feature film.

2000s

2000

Dave Wills has served as executive director for Association County Commission of Georgia

since 2017 and was named to 2023 Georgia's Most Influential Leaders list by Georgia Trend Magazine.

Diantha Virginia Ellis graduated with honors with her master's in law from Emory University in 2020. Ellis also holds a law degree from Mercer University Walter F. George School of Law; a certificate in advanced legal writing, research and drafting for distinguished accomplishment in Mercer Law's nationally recognized Legal Writing Program; a master's in business with additional graduate certification in Economics and Accounting from Valdosta State University; a bachelor's from GSW; and an associate from ABAC.

2002

Laurice (Allen) Brown serves as an ESOL teacher, parent liaison, math interventionist, and PBIS coach at Cooper-Carver Elementary School in Dawson, Ga. She was named the 2022-23 Teacher of the Year. In addition to her bachelor's from GSW, she holds a master’s in management and administration of education programs, an specialist in curriculum instruction of management programs, and an ESOL certification. She resides in Dawson, Ga. with her family.

Kameron McKinley Causey was named director of Albany State University’s Cordele, Ga. satellite campus offering classes towards bachelor of science degrees,

associate of science degrees, and certificates. She is a licensed physical therapist with 20 years of experience in the healthcare field. She earned a bachelor's in psychology from GSW, a doctorate in physical therapy from the University of St. Augustine, and a second doctorate in adult and career education from Valdosta State University.

2003

John Wilson has returned to Georgia Southwestern as director of library services. He is married to GSW alumna Gena Wilson '06 and together they have two sons.

2006

Aimee Bagwell retired from Warner Robins Middle School after 30 years of teaching.

2007

Rebecca L. English was recognized as the April 2023 National Teacher of the Month by Open Up Education.

2009

Christie Umpleby was named the Teacher of the Year at Sallas Mahone Elementary School in Valdosta, Ga. She also earned degrees from GSW in 2020 and 2021.

Ronald Daniels is a consumer protection trial lawyer and managing partner at Daniels Law LLC. He serves as the 76th president of the Young Lawyers Division for the State Bar of Georgia. Since 2014, he

has also served as special assistant attorney general for the Department of Child Support Services in the Oconee Judicial District. Daniels received his bachelor's from GSW before earning his J.D. from Mercer University's Walter F. George School of Law.

2010s

2010

Rebecca (Stephens) Royal is a fourth grade teacher at Schley County Elementary School in Ellaville, Ga. She has a bachelor's and master's in education from GSW and also holds a specialist in curriculum and instruction. She is married to GSW alumnus Zachary Royal ’07 and they have two children, Elijah Lynard and Emilia Lee.

2012

Brittany W. Burk and her dance studio, Brittany's Dance Academy, won a 2023 Best of Georgia Award based on customer votes. She founded the studio in 2011.

Kadeem Williams joined South Georgia Technical College as a student affairs assistant. He has a bachelor's in psychology from GSW and over three years of experience in higher education. He is married to Shalisha Williams, accommodations and access assistant at GSW, and they have two children, Ryleigh and Kadeem, Jr.

2013

Brittny Wright-McGrady was named high school coordinator at South Georgia Technical College.

Jephry Milloy worked on the crew of the new limited series from National Geographic/Disney

“Genius: MLK/X.” He is a freelance camera operator, set lighting technician, and content creator in the TV, film and commercial industry. He holds a bachelor's in dramatic arts from GSW and resides in the Metro Atlanta area.

2016

Lauren Powers was named Cross Creek Elementary School's 2024-25 Teacher of the Year. She teaches fourth grade reading, writing and language arts and has taught at Cross Creek Elementary since 2010. In addition to general education, she has taught special education in resource, inclusion and early intervention program settings.

2017

John Guzzardo is currently employed as the public records administrator for the 16th Judicial Circuit of the State of Florida State Attorney’s Office.

Angela Goodwin leads operations for Scientific Games' world-renowned instant game management program, which powers performance for more than 20 lotteries globally. She joined Scientific Games in 2007 and brings 16 years of lottery instant product manufacturing

and management experience to her role of vice-president of SGEP operations. Based at the company's global headquarters in metro Atlanta, she holds a bachelor's in business management from GSW.

2018

Imani Bennett-Zackery is the marketing and communications specialist at Albany State University. She married Javaughn Zackery ʼ19 in July 2020 and earned a master's in strategic leadership development from Clayton State University in 2024.

Carlencia Jones was named 2023-2024 Teacher of the Year at Shirley Hills Elementary School in Warner Robins, Ga. She also earned degrees from GSW in 2020 and 2021.

Kasey McGovern teaches kindergarten in Coffee County and received a grant to complete her Dyslexia Endorsement. After five years as a single mom of three children, she met the love of her life in fiancé Casey Davis. She also earned degrees from GSW in 2022 and 2023.

Emily Abell Waters serves as a kindergarten teacher at Sumter County Primary School in Americus, Ga.

2020s

2020

MacKenzy L. McFarland joined Draffin & Tucker as an associate I in the healthcare industry. She

provides audit services in the Atlanta office.

2021

Camryn Thompson Lynn and husband Michael welcomed their daughter Amelia Teagan in February 2022. She is now employed as an emergency room nurse.

Rosalie Wilson was named Garrison-Pilcher Elementary School's Teacher of the Year for 2024-25.

Lily (Ingle) Arthur is seeking a master's in music. Her husband Jon '21 is working on his master’s in education and began teaching math at Southland Academy in 2023.

2022

Danielle M. Kistler, assistant professor of nursing, joined the faculty of the School of Nursing and Health Sciences at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College. She holds a master's in nursing from GSW.

Chandler Wright is the Worship and Media Pastor at Cross Point Perry in Perry, Ga.

2023

Jennifer Santich joined Draffin Tucker as a staff accountant providing tax services in their Albany, Ga. office. She earned a bachelor's in accounting from GSW.

Doris Goode ’43 Vienna, GA

Rosalynn (Smith) Carter ’46 Plains, GA

Opal (Wade) Rich ’46 Albany, GA

Marvin Richard Benson ’48 Sandy Springs, GA

Ann (Daniel) Domingos ’48 Norcross, GA

Ed Kiker Williams ’48 Cordele, GA

Christine (Mobley) Gillespie ’49 Albany, GA

Glenn Wallace "Doc" Brown ’50 Bainbridge, GA

Mariclay (Lawrence) Parks ’50 Terrell County, GA

Joan Holland Anderson ’53 Leslie, GA

Merle Worthy Sheffield ’55 Cordele, GA

Cordelia Ann (Horne) Whaley ’55 Americus, GA

Rhea Walton Worthington ’56 Cordele, GA

Henrinel "Dell" Middleton ’57 Blakely, GA

Betty Jean Worthy ’57 Whitmire, SC

Ervan Mauldin Ariail ’58 Americus, GA

Mary Janis (Dixon) Baldwin ’59 Americus, GA

James Edwin Melvin ’59 Americus, GA

Frank Orgel ’59 Opelika, AL

Anita (Fouche') Huddleston ’60 Americus, GA

Patricia Ann (Castellow) Cook ’63 Americus, GA

Wallace Lester Slater ’63 Evans, GA

Joyce (Mims) Wetherbee ’63 Albany, GA

Robert Lewis "Bobby" Rogers ’65 Preston, GA

Danny Reid Jewell ’68 Moultrie, GA

William Bates McMath ’68 Americus, GA

Sue Statham ’68 Americus, GA

Neon Earl Bass, Jr. ’69 Leslie, GA

Martha (Potter) Castleberry ’69 Americus, GA

Paul Eugene McDougald ’69 Americus, GA

John Edward Terry ’70 Leslie, GA

William Lee Finney ’71 Collierville, TN

Lilyann (Parsons) Peterman ’71 Americus, GA

Paul Harrell Barfield ’72 Cumming, GA

Janet (Ratliff) Culpepper ’72 Kannapolis, NC

Charles Bartow Grace, III ’72 Macon, GA

Kevin William Kelly ’72 Albany, GA

Keith Eric Lee ’72, ’75 Americus, GA

Glin Davis Mabry ’72 Theodore, AL

James Howard Stanford ’72 Leslie, GA

Terry Ronald "Ronnie" Watts ’72 Jackson, GA

Herschel Edward Wisham ’72 Americus, GA

Nicky Alfonso ’73 Adrian, GA

Joseph "Joey" Bateman ’73, ’75 Leesburg, GA

William Patrick Holton ’73, ’74 Lee County, GA

Rosalyn D. Whitehead Alexander ’74 TOWN

Edward Lee Aycock ’74 Loganville, GA

Robert Davis Knowles ’74 Fayetteville, GA

Benjamin Sheppard McLeod, Sr. ’74 Cordele, GA

Eloise Adams Dozier ’75 Albany, GA

Josephine Julia (Madrid) Wilder ’76 Ellaville, GA

Randy Noble Coley ’77 Hawkinsville, GA

Waylon David Davenport ’77 Richland, GA

Elizabeth Lavurn (Gamble) Mott ’77 Albany, GA

Johnny J. Eason ’77 Buena Vista, GA

Peggy (Horney) Fields ’78 Albany, GA

Shirley Jane (Tillery) Reese ’78 Americus, GA

Floyd Eugene "Gene" Yelverton ’79 Ellaville, GA

Carole (Baab) Brown ’80 Plains, GA

Cheryl (Poore) Ward ’80 Vidalia, GA

Darrell Theron Hobgood ’81 Americus, GA

Beverly Elaine (Alligood) Lavender ’81 Fitzgerald, GA

Dawn Marie (Karau) Stone ’82 Flowery Branch, GA

Patricia (Johnson) Bush ’83 Adel, GA

Deborah Lynn (Harrison) Haynes ’83 Americus, GA

Allen Douglas "Doug" Martin ’83 Lee County, GA

Martha Joan (Smith) Converse ’84 Americus, GA

William "Bill" Nelson Devane ’85 Ellaville, GA

Ellen (Pilcher) Abell ’86 Leslie, GA

Otha "Kinney" Coleman, Jr. ’87 Cordele, GA

Marsha Ingram Mitchell ’87 Cordele, GA

Richard Lee Bazemore ’88 Forsyth, GA

Janice Mae (Jordan) Eubanks ’90, ’96 Albany, GA

Linda Fox (Stied) Hodge ’90 Albany, GA

Stacy Leigh (Hammack) Jarrell ’90 Butler, GA

Steve Rayford Roach, Jr. ’90 Americus, GA

Frances (Goolsby) Davenport ’91 Ellaville, GA

Rebecca (Murphy) Flanigan ’91 Albany, GA

Mary Sabra (Spires) Truitt ’91 Thomaston, GA

Linda (Wade) Bodrey ’92, ’12 Cordele, GA

Gary Lamar "Sparky" Reeves ’71, ’79

Mar. 27, 1949 - Aug. 2, 2023

At GSW, Sparky played several intramural sports, was a member of Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, and was elected Archon of the Gamma Xi Chapter. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration and his master’s degree. Sparky had a 42-year career at South Georgia Technical College in Americus, where he served as president for 11 years. He was instrumental in launching the Two Great Choices campaign in 2008, which focused promoting higher education opportunities in Sumter County, including GSW and SGTC. Sparky received the Aeolian Award in 2016 and spearheaded the effort to endow the Gamma Xi Chapter of Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Legacy Scholarship in 2022.

Vicki (Williamson) Crew ’93 Americus, GA

Barbara Jean (Champion) Mitchell ’95 Albany, GA

Elizabeth Brooks (Peak) Nettum ’95, ’97 St. Marys, GA

Deborah Ann (Williams) Jones ’97 Americus, GA

Shirley Ann (Thomas) Brown ’00 Oglethorpe, GA

Dorinda (Nelson) Ouzts ’01 Lee County, GA

Tiffany (Gregory) Derival ’05, ’08 Powder Springs, GA

GSW hosts wreath-laying ceremony for Rosalynn Carter's funeral

One of GSW's most prestigious alumni, former First Lady Rosalynn Carter ’46, passed away in 2023. To honor Mrs. Carter’s life and legacy, a wreath-laying service was held on campus on Nov. 27, 2023.

Then-President Neal Weaver, Ph.D., and Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers CEO Jennifer Olsen, Dr.P.H., greeted the Carter family and placed two wreaths at the bronze statue of Mrs. Carter in front of Carter I of the Rosalynn Carter Health and Human Sciences Complex.

Members of the community lined campus sidewalks to pay their respects to Mrs. Carter and witness the funeral procession. The event drew media coverage and visitors from across the state and country. Several GSW faculty and students, including members of the President Jimmy Carter Leadership Program, spoke to reporters about Mrs. Carter's impact on their view of leadership.

GSW's Concert Choir performed for Mrs. Carter's private funeral service at Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, Ga.

Mrs. Carter began her leadership journey on GSW’s campus in 1945, where she served as Vice President of her class, a founding member of the Young Democrats Club and a Campus Marshal. She was a "day student," traveling back and forth from Plains to Americus every day for classes. She also participated in the Tumbling Club.

After leaving the White House, Mrs. Carter established the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers on GSW’s campus in 1987 and took her dream of supporting caregivers nationwide. The Carter Health and Human Sciences Complex and bronze statue stand as a testament to her impact on campus, in Georgia, and beyond. s

2023 GIVING

s President’s Circle

($1,000 +)

Margaret & Sam Adams

Vivian & Newton Allen

Christine & Jim Aller

Allstate Construction Group

Americus & Sumter

County Hospital Authority

Americus Civitan Club

Americus Sumter

Development Authority

Ameri-Green Environmental Recycling

Debra & Ervin Anderson

Michelle & Ben Andrews

Alice & John Argo

Jane & Ricky Arnold

Atkore Plastics Pipe Corporation

Andrew Austin

Karen & Gregory Austin

Debora & David Bales

Abby & Richard Baringer

Mikela Barlow

Trina & Davy Barlow

Amy & Jeff Benton

Jan & Bill Bird

Carol & Joe Bishop

Tami & Barry Blount

Susan & Al Bonagura

Laura Boren

Elise Boylston Memorial Foundation

Shay & Bill Bradshaw

Everett Byrd

Regena & Charles Callaway

Carter's Fried Chicken

Center for Educational Adventure

Bennieta & Bill Chappell

Lou Chase

Chattahoochee Turf Products

Gaynor & Mike Cheokas

Chick-Fil-A Americus

Citizens Bank of Americus

Dana & Tommy Clark

Janice Cliett

Coca-Cola Bottling Company

Chelsea & Logan Collins

Jane & Larry Comer Foundation

Community Foundation of South GA

Larry Cooley

Tim Cranford

Kristin & Les Cromer

Joe Daniel

Sandra & Arthur Daniel

Marie & Jimmy Davis

Mary Kathryn & Rick Davis

Kelsie & Cam Deiter

Susan & George Dieckmann

Ashli & Josh Drew

Hellen & Walter Driggers

Charles Eames

Mary Elizabeth & Will Easterlin

Eaton Corporation

Elisabeth & Thomas Elder

William Fisch

Jim Fleming

Angela & Rob Fletcher

Lisa & Allen Fort

Tamlin Fortner

Merrit & Ryan Garnto

Gatewood's Flower Shop

Georgia Power Foundation

Carol & Tom Giddens

Cynthia & Kenneth Gillam

Linnie & Randy Gilliam

Sandra & Harold Gillis

Ginger Starlin Agency

Sue Musselwhite Gorski

Lauren & Dan Grahl

Kay Dee & David Green

GSW Kappa Sigma

Fraternity Alumni Foundation

Cherilyn & Buddy Guth

Melinda & Royce Hackett

Lindsay & Jeff Hall

Ann & Bill Harris

Tiffany & Randy Harris

Gaye & John Hayes

Anne & Dan Helms

Betty Hewitt

Lana & Len Hicks

Leon Holloway

Tom Holman

Reba & Sam Hunter

Innovative Senior Solutions

David Jenkins

Lorie Johnson

Christine & Wally Joiner

Sandra & Billy King

Sharon & Cody King

Janet & Hulme Kinnebrew

Thomas & Irene Kirbo

Charitable Foundation

Charlotte & Harry Kitchen

Annie & Walter Lanter

Lisa & Tracy Law

Leatherbrook Holsteins

Jodie & Mike Leeder

Tara & Nicholas Levering

Louis Riccardi DDS &

Alex Riccardi DMD

Magnolia Manor

Elaine & Brian Mallett

Hugh Mangham

Mary Marshall

Mattie H. Marshall Foundation

Keith Martin

Martin A. McDonald

State Farm

Kitty & Wallace Mays

Laura & Barry McConatha

Christi & Josh McDonald

Dianne & Lamar McDonald

Paula & Marty McDonald

Minick Interiors

Charles L. Mix

Memorial Fund

Jan & Larry Moore

Yolanda & Doug Moses

Sonia & Brent Mueller

Malinda Mullin

Susan & Roger Myers

Marjorie Ann & Jerry

Newman

One Sumter Economic Development Foundation

Mark Pace

Lynde & Emory Parker

David Parker

Roy L. Parker Family Foundation

Parker's Heating & Air Conditioning

Peach State Depression

Glass Club

Anne & George Peagler

Marianne & Jimmy Peel

Perry Brothers Oil Company

Brook & Will Peterson

Tammye Pettyjohn-Jones

Ann & Cliff Pierce

Pineland Foundation

Jeryl Pinnell Jr.

Lisa & Lee Pinnell

JoAnn & Ed Pope

Candice & Michael Pruett

Lynda Lee & Frank Purvis

Beth Ragan

Michele & Mike Ragsdale

Richard Reese

Melissa & Calvin Rhodes

Sherrill Ridley

Glenn Robins

Marguerite Rodgers & James Timberlake

Liz & Joe Ruf

Judy & Jim Rylander

Charitable Foundation

Karen & Randy Sanders

Sharon & John Sanders

Jane & Gerald Schwartz

Katha & Michael Scott

Megan & Jonathan Scott

Trina & Ed Shattles

Gay & Bill Sheppard

Angela & Rene Smith

Donna & Harvey Smith

Eugenia & Charlie Smith

Family Foundation

Libba & Michael Smith

Pam & Herschel Smith

Suzanne Smith & Brett

Lloyd

Brandy & Steven Snell

Leah & Stephen Snyder

Patricia Starck

State Farm Companies Foundation

Jennifer & Jay Stevens

Amber & John Stovall

Sumter Electric

Membership Corporation

Synovus Financial Corporation

Krystal & Matt Terry

Dianna & John Thomas

Mildred & Hap Tietjen

Betty Tillery

Tina & Mark Todd

Mary & Daniel Torbert

Shay & George Torbert

TSG Resolute

TSYS - Total System Services

Marianne & Alf Tuggle

Alex & Wes Turner

Carla & Ty Turner

Terrell Turner

University System of

Georgia Foundation

Susan & Enrique Valdes

Tonya & Neal Vickers

Douglas Vines

Edie Vinson

Judy & Jody Wade

MaryLen & Carson Walker

Astrid & Carlyle Walton

Betty Anne & Eddie Ward

Augusta Howard Warren

Fund

Ann & Blake Watts

Kristi & Neal Weaver

Deanna & Steve Weeks

Michelle & Scott

Westbrook

Janet & Mike Weston

Kelley & Rick Whaley

Jean & Wes Wheeler

Carroll & Scott Wiggins

Christie Wilson

Frances Wood Wilson Foundation

Liz Wilson

Windsor Hotel

Wolf Creek Plantation

Winery

Ken Wurtz

Mandy & Ryan Young

Sandra Zornes & Terrell

Templin

s Southwestern Society

($500 - $999 )

Rachel Abbott

Rechelle & Scott Adkins

All Electric Company, Inc.

Albany Beauty Supply

Valarie Alexander

Kathy & Alan Anderson

Kevin Angell

Susan & Raymond

Baggarly

Taylor & Reagan Barksdale

John Bates

Martha Beggs

Kathleen & Robert Bolton

Mark Bowen

Joanna Bradford

Clyde Bridges

Kristen & Tim Brooks

Canterbury Kitchen

Central Baptist Church

Chambliss, Sheppard, Roland & Associates

Donald Compton

Janice Connor

Paul Dahlgren

Chad Davis

Jordan Dowell

Jill & Leroy Drake

*Every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of these giving records for the 2023 calendar year. We apologize if any names are omitted or listed in error.

Michelle Dykes

Kerry Edwards

EMC Engineering Services

Denise & Brad Etter

Jean & Bob Evans

Eldotha Fields

FireLine

First State Bank of Americus

Cheryl & Mike Fletcher

Friends of Downtown Americus

Patti & Jimbo Griffith

Pamela & Mark Grimes

Linda Grimsley

GSW Alpha Chi Omega

Alumni Chapter

Rene & Boyd Hagerson

Dawn Hart

Catherine & Scott Hegeman

Nancy Herron

Bishop Hubbard Industry Visuals

Jim Boyd Construction

Brian Jordon

Jeff Lottmann

Jimmy Lunsford

Julieann & Jeff Mamatas

Mauldin & Jenkins, Atlanta

Carley & Justin McDonald

Britney & Jake Mobley

Moss & Brannan

Orthodontics

NBP Engineers

Leigh & Hunter Peak

Connie & Junior Peeples

Dusty Peppers

Donald Pinette

Plantation Gallery

Susan & Allen Potter

Premium Coating Solutions

Jimmy Price

Seafood Center

Tracy & Mike Self

Wesley Shiver

Jane & Don Sibler

Barbara & Dennis Smith

Sandra & Clyde Smith

Natasha Snider

Buddy Strickland

Julie & David Suppes

Teresa & Keith Teasley

Courtney Turner

Jorge Viamonte

Lettie Watford

Whaley Realty

Jeremy Wicker

Wes Wicker

Ashley & Greg Williams

Shannon & Stephen Wood

Frank Zarzutzki

s Tower Club

($250 - $499 )

Accelerated Physical Therapy

Adkins Rental Holdings

Alfa Insurance - Kevin Brown

Americus Veterinary Hospital

Arrow Exterminators

Ashley & Taylor Austin

Austin Urethane, Inc

Carrie Bachhofer

Lynn Bailey

Sherrell Bailey

Ileana & Aurelio Barcena

Kathy & Greg Barnetson

Natalie & Beau Barrett

Tara & Rob Bennett

Shaw Blackmon

Mark Blalock

William Blinstrub

Jamie & Billy Bolton

Karl Bond

John Brooks

Allen Brown

Frances & Roy Brown

Kevin Brown

Diane & Charles Cagle

Century 21 Americus Realty

Sommer & Brad Clark

Suzanne Conner

Dianne & Don Cook

Signe & Aaron Coombs

Adam Crawford

Danielle & Eric Crawford

Richard Culpepper

Suzann & Ronnie Culpepper

Mahlon Davidson

Ann & George Davis

Brenda & Horton Davis

Irmgard & Bryan Davis

Megan & Brent Davis

Leigh & Jim Dembowski

Darcy Donaldson

Draw Products

Sonja & Kevin Duggar

James Edgemon

Luke Ellis

Joan Erkhart

Rijnaldo Euson

Farmers Seed & Feed

Lynda & John Fields

Betsy & Robert Flowers

Deborah & Jerry Fordham

Faye & Claude Frazier

Mark Gainous

Garland, Williams, & Associates

George's Men's Wear

Rebecca & John Gladden

Colby Gordon

Jennifer & Alex Gordon

Kimberly Gramling

Great River Technologies

Kathy & Mike Greene

Desiree & Allen Grimsley

Gisele & John Gunderman

Joanna & Larry Gurchiek

Harmony Pet Resort

Molly & Martin Hartsfield

Carol & John Harvard

Rebecca Hemmer

Madison HernandezChandler

Jonathan Hobbs

Landon Hobgood

Tracy Hodges

Donna & Ron Hudson

Ramona & Slade Hunt

Rob Jackowiak

Phil Jennings

Meghan Johnson

Sherri Johnson

Carolyn & Frank Joiner

Terri & Jeff Joiner

Jonathan R. Fordham, Attorney

Ashley Jones

Sara Justice

Carol & Kyle Kennon

Lake Blackshear Mason

Hughes Realty

Connie Laster

Lastique International Corporation

Leigh & Eric Laughlin

Nicki Levering

Meg & Daniel Levie

Jamie Lineberry

Jon Lloyd

Judy Lloyd

Page & Daniel Lynn

Shawn McAneny

Nicole & Pat McCarthy

Denise & Doug McClure

Leanne & Timothy

McKelvey

Brittany & Matthew

McKenzie

Michele & Grant McKie

Eva & Timothy McLean

McNair, McLemore, Middlebrooks & Co.

Julie Megginson & Sam

Peavy

Mark Mellone

MetroPower

Sallie & Danny Minick

Holly & Jason Mitchell

Michael Moir

Monroe's Hotdogs

Kathryn & Brent Moore

Michael Morgan

Cindy Mortillaro

Sai Kiran Mukkavilli

Dale Mullis

Maria & Joshua Newton

Pam & Michael Newton

Lynn & James Norton

Ivy & Matt Oliver

Oracle Elevator Holdco

Osborn Financial Group

Brannon Parks

Eloise Paschal

Pat's Place

Christopher Patterson

Pepo Food Mart Americus

Katie & David Peppers

Patricia Perles

Andrea & Keith Pinckard

Tom Plumadore

Beverly Pressley

Christopher Pritchett

Protective Forces

R & S Sports

Becky & David Ragsdale

Red Hills Outdoor

Jenny & Kevin Reeves

Brenda & Dick Robbins

Lindsey & Jeromy Roberts

Missy & Jamie Roland

Sylvia & Donnie Roland

Roman Oven

Allison & Rocky Roquemore

Randall Rose

Pam & Rick Ross

Ruth Sallinger

Dimitris Saratsiotis

Georgia & George Saratsiotis

Mandi & Alex Saratsiotis

Jane & Joey Sellers

Shannon & Dane Shepard

Rhonda & Chris Slocumb

LeAnn Snider

Shariah & Jontu Solomon

Hayley & Cody Stripling

Debbie & Darrell

Summerall

John Sutton

Leigh Swords

Allison Tarrer

John Taylor

Tamika Thomas

Chris Thompson

Mandy Timmons

Katherine & Christopher Tondee

Traci & Rusty Tondee

Tree Toppers of Georgia

Kathleen & Dave Tucker

U.S. Screen Printing & Signs

Carlotta & Maurice Ungaro

Amber Ward

Barbara & John Watford

Paula & Nick Weaver

Beth & Lewis Webb

Weeks Auction Group

Betsy & David Whitaker

Susan & Greg Wilson

Chan Winget

Kristin & John Wozniak

Jackie & Hugh Yaughn

Jill & Ross Youngdale

Sarah & Danny Zarzutzki

s Century Club ($100-$249)

1800 Mexican Restaurant

2 Dukes Bar-B-Que

AAG Electric Motors & Pumps

Alexandra Abraham

Angela & Lewis Adams

Billie Addleman

After Hours Care of Americus

Tiffany Aldridge

Americus Living

Americus Main Street

Ann & Brian Amrhein

Ivan Anderson

Marianne & Shelton

Anderson

Joan Andrews

Peter Andrews

Michael Bailey

George Banketas

Emma Barcena

Keelan Barkley

Christy & Scott Barry

Casey & Kevin Beane

Teri Beasley

Helen Beddow

Kay & William Bell

Jason Berggren

Jerrie Berry

Misty Binkley

Connie & Kendall

Blanchard

Jaret Blinstrub

Gary Bolyard

Ellie Bonnett

Lee Bonnett

Beth & Brent Bradley

Jan & Joe Brannon

Ashley Brown

Lisa Brown

Heather & Dave Bruns

Leslie & Derek Brunson

Paula & Curtis Bryant

Carrie Caldwell

Joyce & John Caldwell

Angela & David Calhoun

Caroline Calvert

Clarissa Cannon

Andres Cano

Pam & Lee Carswell

Barbara & Neil Carter

Jane & Ron Chaffin

Peggy Chandler

John Chavous

Hongyu Cheng

Bill Clark

Debbie Clark

Clinic Drug Store

Joseph Comeau

Kim & Brandon Comer

Jamie Lynn & Gary Cook

Nicole & Jeremy Cooley

Santita Coon

Christy Cox

Mary Ann Cox

CSX Foundation

Peggy & Doug

Culverhouse

Cutting Crew Hair Salon

Karen & Jeff Dale

Rebecca Davis

Susan Deerman

Sandy & Ted Deiter

LH Dill

Marilyn Dotson

Jay Duke

Jessica Dunlap

Gene Dunmon

Leisa & Rennie Easom

Easterlin Pecan Co.

Edward D. Jones & Co.

Jonathan Edwards

Davidson Elie

Enfinger's Heating & Air

Yanik & Carlos Espinosa

Andrea & Brian Etter

June & David Ewing

Michael Fathi

Carla Feijoo

Yanik Fenton-Espinosa

Joe Ferrero

FirsTech Services

Tiffanie Fittes

Milt Fletcher

Teresa & Mike Flynn

Marcia Follick

Roberta & Erwin Ford

Jonathan Fordham

Donna Foster

Darcie Freddolino

Rosanna & John Fukunaga

Marilyn Ganter

Bonnie & Keith Gary

Gatewood, Skipper & Rambo

Kenneth Geiger

Georgia Power, Americus

Cheryl Gil

Tammy Girtman

Laura Gosa

Shannon Gregory

Sarah Brittany Greneker

Laurene & Mike Guthas

Gyro City Mediterranean

Grill

H3 Automotive Center

Hana Haden

Connie & Mike Hammack

John Hancock

Tina & Rick Hanley

Courtney Harmon

Jan & Tommy Harrell

Bill Harris

Iris & Jason Harrison

Kathy & Terry Hartman

Sherry Harvey

Stephanie Harvey

Agnes & Douglas Hatch

Sarah Haughton

Erin Hawkins

Jeff Hazard

Tammy & Jimmy

Heintzelman

Henry's of Bolingbroke

Victoria Hensley

Bonita & Tom

Hetherington

H-Group Dynamics

Debbie Hill

Harry Hilton

Jan Hobgood

Frank Hodges

Karen Holloway

James Holmes

Kristina Holmes

Lee & Jake Holtzclaw

Gina & David Holtzclaw

Homeside Construction

HomeTown HealthCare

Meredith & Brandon

Horne

Presley Hornsby

Mark Hubbard

Andrea Ingram

J & R Event Rentals

Jen Jackson

Anne Jacobs

Sherri & Bobby Jenkins

Maritza Jennings

Janice Jernigan

John Simmons & Sons

Douglas Johnson

Evie Johnson

Marcia & Mike Johnson

Susan & David Johnson

Kerry Jones

Tonya Jones

Nancy & Luther Judy

Junior Service League, Americus

Brian Kading

Lee Kinnamon

Glenda & Bill Kipp

Alexandra Kirby

Mona Konopka

Mariyana & Svilen Kostov

Louis Kotopka

Shannon Kowall

Meda & Bill Krenson

Larry Kuykendall

La Hacienda

Lacy Paint & Body Shop

Lang Mechanical

Aliyah Lanier

Elizabeth Layton

Charles Lee

David Lee

Kellie Lee

Martha Lee

Stacey Lepine-Fisher

Little Brothers Bistro

Gail & Cecil Long

Jaimee & Shawn Loonam

Amanda & Alex Lowe

Lowe's

Sheri & Ralph Lucado

Todd Lunneborg

Scott MacDonald

Rita & Richard Mahone

Benedict Malinao

Charles Manuel

Bronwyn & James Martin

Gail & Dudley Matthews

Gay & Mike McClay

Ellie & Larry McClure

Catherine McCormick

Lea McCormick

Sonia McKenzie

Angel Mediavilla

Natacha Merritt

Deborah & Roger Messer

Carol Miller

Elise & Stick Miller

Kathryn Miller

Leann & Matt Miller

Rebecca Miller

April Milligan

Vivian Milton

Susanna & Richard Moore

Walter Morton

Mike Mosgovoy

Ramona Mulleins-Foreman

Mary & Carlton Myers

Niki Namyslowski

Deidre & Daniel Nelson

Barry Newton

Jacqueline Nicholson

Helen & Ronnie Nix

Summer & Micah Nix

Barron Northorp

Shannon Northorp

Anna O'Quinn

Jan & Ken Oxford

Roslyn & Jack Palmer

Cheri Paradise

Yangil Park

Ashley & Seth Patterson

Jim Peavy

PeoplesSouth Bank, Americus

Shannon Perry

Jerry Peterson

Tamar Peterson

Kenneth Phillips

Joe Pinheiro

PLH Properties

Thomas Poudrier

Kristina & Wesley Powell

Carolyn & Gerald Powers

James Powers

Beth Primis

Madison Ragan

Wilma Ragan-Martin

Sonya & Chip Rankin

Nick Ray

Ronald Ray

RDR Rentals

Damodara Reddy

Alisa Redick

Allene Reeves

DeAnn Reid

Emmy & Blake Reid

Andrew Restrepo

RG2 Trucking Limited

Arthur Riddle

Mary Rigdon

Zada Rivers

Vida Roberts

Edmundo Rodriguez

Zalee Rosado

Stacey Royalty-Rose

Mike Rushing Sales

Jack Russell

S & L Services

Krista Sabbatino

Sam Service

Peter Sanderson

Kay Sassi

Shelia & Rodney Saunders

Amy Scroggs

Lynne & Larry Sechler

Thelma & Colton Sexton

SFBS

Patricia Sharpe

Lisa & Mike Shattles

Stephanie & Peter Shepherd

Sheppard House

Shiver Lumber Company

Becky & Chandler Short

Bob Slenker

Andrea Smith

Jenn Smith

Joyce Smith

Michele Smith

Nancy & Wilkie Smith

Sybil & Don Smith

Randy Sneed

Gregory Snider

Jonni & Craig Snyder

Sonia Sosa

SRJ Architects

Debbie Standridge

Tammy Steplight

Loraine Stewart

Sophie Stiplosek

Melissa Strayer

William Sullivan

Sumter Broadcasting Company

Elizabeth Sundean

Superior Contracting

Company

Carole Sutton

Lindsey Sutton

Sweet Spot Baking

Company

Manoj Thapa

Wadean & Jimmy Thaxton

The Shoe Box

Darrin Theriault

Josh Thomas

Terry Thorpe

Channon & George

Thurmond

Ellie & Cam Tompkins

Winona Trainor

Tri-State Dental

Gaile & Pat Allen

Amy & Jeff Benton

Dell & Clyde Bridges

Everett Byrd

Bill Chappell

Marie & James Davis

Kelsie & Cam Deiter

Ellen Trombley

Carla Tucker

United Health Group

Aimee Van Houten

Jamie Vincent

Angela Waddey

Cindy Wakefield

Barbara & James Walls

Qian Wang

Sandra Wardell

Shae Watkins

Elston Watson

Diane Webb

Rusty Whaley

Lorne Wheatcraft

Rebecca White

Jason Wicker

William Wiemels

Jane & Bill Finney

Mary Foegelle

Len Hicks

Chris Hicks

Karen Holloway

Billy King

Jimmy Lunsford

Margaret & Sam Adams

Kathy & Alan Anderson

Alice & John Argo

John Bates

Tami & Barry Blount

Gail Bridges

Kathy Cade

Connie & Roger Congdon

Jane Finney

Sandra & Harold Gillis

Kay Dee & David Green

Kathy & Mike Greene

Gwen Hill

Linda & James Kimmons

Mary Marshall

Jean Moates

Larry Moore

Jerry Newman

Marianne & Jimmy Peel

Brook & Will Peterson

Jeryl Pinnell, Jr.

Julie Williams

Marybeth Willis

Alton Wilson

Brenda & Kenneth Wilson

Susan & Richard Woods

Anna Wozniak

John Wozniak

Wright Electric Company

Lee Wright

full payment of $1,000

Liz Ruf

Martha & George P. Sessions

Kenny Stafford

Larry Sumner

Samuel Thames (d. 2017)

Chu Chu Wu

Keaton Wynn

Virginia Yawn

Alwen Yeung & Brian Parkinson

Sharon & Cody King

Diane & Mick Kirkwood

Kitty & Wallace Mays

Fred Overby

Dianne & Bev Pankey

Sheila & Charles Parks

Marianne & Jimmy Peel

Nan Powell

Linda & George Pritchard

Glenn Robins

Patti Slaughter

Sybil & Don Smith

Ginger Starlin

Amber & John Stovall

Kathleen & Dave Tucker

Marianne & Alf Tuggle

Tom Upton

Joyce Wagnon

Deanna & Steve Weeks

Kara & Neil Suggs

Mildred & Hap Tietjen

David Updike

Kelley & Rick Whaley

Jean & Wes Wheeler

Liz Wilson

*Every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of these giving records for the 2023 calendar year. We apologize if any names are omitted or listed in error.

GSW unveils Phoebe Simulation and Learning Center at naming ceremony

GSW held a naming ceremony for the state-of-the-art

Phoebe Simulation and Learning Center, located on the second floor of the Rosalynn Carter Health and Human Sciences Complex, on May 1, 2024. Thanks to the strong partnership and financial support from the Phoebe Putney Health System, GSW’s nursing students have the opportunity to acquire valuable skills in simulated patient environments.

Phoebe helped GSW equip its first simulation lab in 2011 when the new building was complete. Their most recent investment has allowed the reinstatement of the Associate of Science in Nursing program.

The Phoebe Simulation and Learning Center houses five labs, including the Fundamentals Skills Competency Lab, Health Assessment Lab, OB & PEDS Simulation Lab, ED/Trauma & Mental Health Simulation Lab, and the MedicalSurgical & ICU Lab, with a total of 26 simulators.

Aeolian Magazine

Georgia Southwestern State University

800 GSW State University Dr. Americus, GA 31709

aeolian@gsw.edu

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