A New LegAcy BegiNs:
When the seats in the Joseph E. Kennedy Auditorium filled on an evening in late May, it wasn’t just another end of the year ceremony. It was a celebration of a journey, a tribute to resilience, and the beginning of a new chapter for Ogeechee Technical College.
The inaugural Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) Pinning Ceremony marked a historic milestone for the college. For the first time, graduates from OTC’s newly established ASN program stepped forward to be honored, each one representing a triumph of perseverance and purpose.
From the opening invocation by graduate Joshua Richardson, to the closing candlelight tradition, the evening reflected the emotional depth of the occasion. OTC Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Anthony Berrios welcomed guests with words of pride and encouragement. Marie Burdett, Chief Nursing Officer at East Georgia Regional Medical Center, delivered the keynote address, highlighting the significance of this moment not only for the students but for the entire healthcare community.
Graduate William Williams shared a moving student address, recounting the shared challenges and accomplishments that brought his class to this moment. “We didn’t just study together,” he said. “We grew, struggled, supported each other, and succeeded together.”
The journey began in January 2024, when OTC officially launched its ASN program. This was made possible by a $1.5 million endowment from the George W. Strickland Jr. Foundation, the largest donation in the college’s history. The investment opened the door to a new generation of nurses, starting with an inaugural class of 24 students.
Stephanie Lindamood, MSN, AGACNP-BC, one of the program’s lead instructors, reflected on the dedication of this first cohort. “This journey provided us with students that have shown true effort, resilience, hard work, and determination,” she said. “It has been exciting to watch the program unfold and create jobs to help close the gap in our national nursing shortage.”
Marking a Milestone for Future Healthcare Heroes
She also credited the students’ families, the college’s leadership, and clinical partners for making the program’s success possible. “We are grateful to all of the students that made this moment possible, their families and support systems, our outstanding clinical partners, and our leadership team at OTC.”
Courtney Reed, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, echoed those sentiments. She noted the many roles the students balanced throughout the program. “Many are moms, full-time employees, and caregivers. Each one wears many hats outside of school. Seeing them succeed has been incredibly rewarding. They are the future of our local healthcare, and we are proud they chose OTC.”
For graduate Shelby Volkert, the program brought more than professional opportunity. It changed her life. “I came into the nursing program at Ogeechee Technical College hoping for a better future, but I found so much more,” she said. “I found strength I didn’t know I had, purpose in every lesson, and the most incredible teachers and mentors who believed in me even when I doubted myself. This program helped me become the role model my child deserves.”
The ceremony concluded with the lighting of candles by the 2025 nursing cohort and the recitation of the Nightingale Pledge, led by graduate Candice Kent. Volkert offered the final remarks, closing the event with the same grace and gratitude that had defined the evening.
As the new graduates move forward, the significance of their achievement resonates across the college and community. The future of healthcare in the region has new champions, and their journey began at Ogeechee Tech.
“I found strength I didn’t know I had, purpose in every lesson, and the most incredible teachers and mentors who believed in me even when I doubted myself.”
alUMnI awarD wInners
The Alumni Association of Ogeechee Technical College annually presents Outstanding Alumni Awards in two categories, Distinguished and Outstanding. The awards, in addition to recognizing alumni who have succeeded in their chosen profession, highlight the level of accomplishment which can be attained through technical education, and more specifically, with a degree, diploma, or certificate from Ogeechee Tech. Countless graduates of OTC serve the needs of individuals, not only in Bulloch, Evans, and Screven Counties, but make an impact across the state of Georgia, the United States, and beyond. Let’s congratulate this year’s winners!
MylIssa gregory RadiologicTechnology ~2011
Mylissa Gregory, Staff Hospitalist at Optim Medical Center – Screven, was named Ogeechee Technical College’s 2025 Distinguished Alumni Award winner during the second annual We Are OTC celebration held April 3 at The Market at Visit Statesboro.
A 2011 graduate of OTC’s Radiologic Technology program, Gregory has built a successful career in healthcare. She holds a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies and is a licensed and registered physician assistant in Georgia, with multiple certifications from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
During her remarks, Gregory held back tears as she reflected on her journey and the support she found at OTC. “I knew from my very first conversation with Matt Dunn that OTC was for me,” she said. “He helped me navigate a busy schedule so I could pursue my dreams in healthcare.”
In addition to her clinical work, Gregory mentors students in Radiology and Physician Assistant programs and, alongside her husband, has pledged to fund two scholarships at OTC—helping open doors for the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Terry laMonTe BusinessManagement~2018
Local barber and entrepreneur Terry Lamonte was named Ogeechee Technical College’s 2025 Outstanding Alumni Award winner during the second annual We Are OTC celebration held April 3 at The Market at Visit Statesboro.
Lamonte, a 2018 graduate of the Business Management program, has built a reputation as a successful master barber, business owner, and community advocate. After earning his associate degree from OTC, he became a certified Master Barber and went on to establish Heavenly Pleasures Barber Shop, a fixture in the local community.
“I’m incredibly honored to win this alumni award,” Lamonte said. “Ogeechee Tech is an incredible place to get an education. I always felt supported, whether it was from the faculty, staff, or administration.”
Lamonte’s impact goes far beyond the barber chair. He founded a barber academy to train and inspire the next generation of barbers and regularly gives back through community outreach by organizing food drives, participating in Toys for Tots, and speaking at local events to motivate and mentor youth.
His work continues to reflect the values of leadership, service, and success that OTC aims to instill in all graduates.
Accounting
Adult Education
Agribusiness
Air Conditioning Technology
Automotive Technology
Business Management
Business Technology
Commercial Truck Driving
Computer Information Systems
Construction
Cosmetology
Criminal Justice
Culinary Arts
Cybersecurity
Dental Assisting
Diesel Technology
Early Childhood Care & Education
Electrical & Industrial Systems
Esthetician
Film & Television Production
Fish & Wildlife Management
Funeral Service Education
General Education
Georgia Film Academy
Health Information Management
Logistics Management
Manufacturing Engineering
Medical Assisting
Natural & Health Sciences
Nursing
Paramedicine Technology
Radiologic Technology
Sonography
Technical Studies
Veterinary Technology
Welding & Joining Technology
