Alumni in the News

Samantha Brasher Godsy

a V-State alumna, is the new director at the Horseshoe Bend Regional Library in Dadeville, Alabama, which serves residents of Coosa, Elmore, Lee, and Tallapoosa counties and supports the programs and services of 10 member libraries.

Godsy has been involved with libraries for nearly two decades. She started volunteering at her hometown library when she was 12 years old. She has worked at the Gardendale-Martha Moore Public Library and the Auburn Public Library, both in Alabama.

 Godsy earned a Master of Library and Information Science at VSU in 2021.  Read More.  

Heather Harp

a V-State alumna, is the new principal at Whitesburg Elementary School in Whitesburg, Georgia.

Harp began her teaching career in 2009 and has served the last nine years in various roles in the Glynn County School System. She was teacher of the year in Glynn County in 2019-2020. She has been an assistant principal at Glynn Middle School since 2022. She will join Carroll County Schools for the 2024-2025 school year.

Harp earned an Education Specialist in Teacher Leadership at VSU in 2018.  Read More. 

Diantha Ellis

a V-State alumna, is the 2024 recipient of Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College’s W. Bruce and Rosalyn Ray Donaldson Award for Teaching Excellence. This award publicly recognizes superior instruction and exemplary service to the college. One faculty member is selected by a committee of faculty and students each year.

Ellis is a professor in ABAC’s Stafford School of Business, where she teaches courses in economics and business law.

Ellis earned a Master of Business Administration at VSU in 2003. Read More. 

Elias Mathes

a V-State alumnus, is the new chief executive officer of the Tallahassee Downtown Improvement Authority in Tallahassee, Florida.

Mathes has partnered with the Downtown Improvement Authority off and on over the last decade. He has served as project manager on several developments and was a partner in a few businesses, and he was instrumental in helping launch the city’s Downtown Concert Series. He enjoys consulting with cities nationwide on community and economic development issues. 

Mathes earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at VSU in 2010.  Read More. 

Dr. Wendi Tostenson

a V-State alumna, is the new president of Volunteer State Community College in Gallatin, Tennessee.

Tostenson has served as vice chancellor of education and student services at Louisiana Delta Community College since 2021; she joined the Monroe, Louisiana-based school in 2019 as executive director of workforce and economic development. Before that she held various administrative roles at Southern Regional Technical College in Moultrie, Georgia, where she continues to serve as an adjunct online instructor of American government, a role she has enjoyed since 2007.

Tostenson earned a Doctor of Public Administration at VSU in 2018.  Read More. 

Katresa Gardner

a V-State alumna, was recently elected chair of the Medical Library Association’s LGBTQIA+ Caucus. She serves as the public services librarian for Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) South Georgia, a role she has held since July 2019. She previously worked for the Sarasota County Library System in Florida and the library administration at Georgia Military College.

Gardner created the “Skin of Color Resource Guide” for PCOM students and faculty to address the significant underrepresentation of skin color in medical education. It’s helping the future doctors study how various medical conditions appear on people of different skin colors, which will help prevent any medical misdiagnoses in the future.  

Gardner earned a Bachelor of Arts in Technical Studies in 2000 and a Master of Library and Information Sciences at VSU in 2015.  Read More

Hilda Edgerton-Miles

a V-State alumna, is the new principal at Brooks County Middle School in Quitman, Georgia, effective during the 2024-2025 academic year. She currently serves as assistant principal at Quitman Elementary School, a role she has held for five years.

Edgerton-Miles has more than 20 years of experience in education. She began her teaching career with Valdosta City Schools. She taught at Valdosta Middle School, Valdosta Early College Academy, and J.L. Newbern Middle School; she served as an academic coach at Valdosta Middle School and as assistant principal at W.G. Nunn Elementary School.

Edgerton-Miles earned a Bachelor of Science in Education in Middle Grades Education (Grades 4-8) at VSU in 2003. Read More. 

Dr. Dallas LeDuff

a V-State alumnus, is the new superintendent for Barrow County Schools in Winder, Georgia.

LeDuff began his teaching career in 2005 at Berkmar High School in Gwinnett County, where he worked as a special education teacher and case manager. He transitioned to South Forsyth High School three years later, where he held various roles, including graduation coach, administrator assistant, virtual education coordinator, special education teacher, and case manager. In 2013 he joined Oconee County Schools, where he served as associate superintendent, interim principal, director of student services, and assistant principal.

A two-time VSU graduate, LeDuff earned a Doctor of Education in Leadership in 2021 and an Education Specialist in Educational Leadership in 2013.  Read More. 

Gena Brodie Robbins

a V-State alumna, was recently named director of galleries at Brenau University in Gainesville, Georgia. She will oversee the university’s five exhibition spaces and world-class collection of more than 3,500 works from internationally and nationally renowned artists and local talent. In addition to artist talks that typically accompany exhibits, she plans to use her experience as an educator to provide workshops that encourage a deeper understanding and appreciation of the wide range of styles of art.

As an artist, her mixed media works investigate the idea of persona and ephemeral states of existence through the application of bold, aggressive strokes of color, spray paint, and the washing out and bringing back of essential imagery. She has exhibited in China, France, and the United States.

Robbins earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art Education from VSU in 1995. Read More

 Shannon Yerkic

a V-State alumnus, was recently named to C-Suite Spotlight’s Top 25 C-Suite Executives of Miami for 2022.  

Yerkic serves as chief executive officer for TruMantra Education Group, a family of schools that offer programs in massage therapy and lymphedema management. He has worked extensively in both the international and domestic markets and has held executive and corporate management roles and accreditation chair positions in higher education, healthcare, wellness, and business sectors.

Yerkic earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from VSU in 2006. Read More

Elacsha Madison

a V-State alumna, was recently named one of 10 recipients of the American Library Association’s 2023 I Love My Librarian Award. This annual award invites library users to recognize the accomplishments of exceptional public, school, college, or university librarians.

Madison is the interim innovation and digital learning manager at the Evanston Public Library in Evanston, Illinois. She works to bring innovative STEAM programs and resources to marginalized communities. This includes everything from building technology to do-it-yourself cosmetics to community gardening. She brings library offerings to schools and parks and finds unique ways to put books in homes throughout her area.

Madison earned a Master of Library and Information Science from VSU in 2022. Read More

 

Anna Hardin

a V-State alumna, was recently named head coach of the women’s soccer program at Eastern Mennonite University in Harrisonburg, Virginia. She previously served five seasons as assistant coach at Union University in Jackson, Tennessee and two seasons as assistant coach at Oxford College of Emory University in Oxford, Georgia.

Hardin earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art Education from VSU in 2015. As a student-athlete, she played goalkeeper for the Blazers and helped lead VSU’s inaugural women’s soccer team to the 2011 Gulf South Conference National Championship final. Read More

 

Jeff Roesler

a V-State alumnus, was recently promoted to inspector with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. He will provide supervisory and administrative oversight to several investigative division work units around the state, including the Atlanta Regional Investigative Office and the Human Exploitation and Trafficking Unit.

Roesler has been with the GBI for 25 years. He began his career as a special agent assigned to regional investigative offices in Douglas and Athens. He has also served as a child abuse specialist and crime scene specialist, led the Georgia Information Sharing and Analysis Center, and provided counterterrorism and threat services for high-profile events. In 2020 he was selected to develop and lead the GBI’s efforts in combatting human trafficking in Georgia. 

Roesler earned a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from VSU in 1996. Read More

 Brian Holt

a V-State alumnus, recently joined Colony Financial Advisors, a financial advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services LLC, as a financial advisor.

Holt has 12 years of wealth management experience, most recently serving as a financial advisor at Wells Fargo Advisors. Prior to this, he spent nearly a decade managing the finances of his family business.

Holt earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from VSU in 1999.

 

Rebecca Bichel

a V-State alumna, was recently named dean of libraries and information resources at the University of Dakota, effective April 17. Until then she will continue to serve as dean of libraries at the University of Texas at Arlington, a role she has held since 2012.

Bichel has 25 years of experience as an academic librarian. She previously served as associate dean for public services with Florida State University libraries from 2015 to 2012 and was also a librarian at Pennsylvania State University and Sam Houston State University.  She has a passion for creating transformative learning and growth experiences for students and colleagues.

Bichel earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Economics from VSU in 1991. Read More

 

Larry Hanson

a V-State alumnus, was recently named to Georgia Trend’s 100 Most Influential Georgians for 2023. This is his sixth consecutive appearance on the annual listing of people who are having a significant, positive impact on the Peach State.

Hanson serves as executive director and chief executive officer of the Georgia Municipal Association. Georgia Trend also recognized him in the Economic Development category of the magazine’s first edition of Georgia 500 in late 2022.

Hanson earned a Bachelor of General Studies from VSU in 1995. Read More

 

Kaleb Nobles

a V-State alumnus, was recently named head coach of the University of West Florida Argos.

Nobles has spent the past two seasons at Clemson University where he oversaw offensive player development under head coach Dabo Swinney. He assisted with the quarterbacks and wide receivers, all game preparation and planning, and various other game day duties.

As a student-athlete, Nobles spent four seasons at Valdosta State University from 2012 to 2015, appearing in 23 games with six starts as a freshman and sophomore. He threw for 2,009 yards and 19 touchdowns as a Blazer. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Healthcare Administration from VSU in 2015. Read More

 

Tevin Williams

a V-State alumnus, will become director of community and external affairs for U.S. Representative-elect Dan Goldman of New York in January. He currently works as a legislative aide and constituent liaison for New York Senator Brad Hoylman, as well as a part-time lifeguard and swim instructor for YMCA of Greater New York.

In his free time, Williams serves as board president for Team New York Aquatics, a Masters level nonprofit organization that fosters aquatic sports among the LGBTQ+ community and their allies, and as a member of the Parrish Pastoral Council for St. Charles Borromeo Church. He is also relearning how to play the oboe and trumpet (because someday he may have an opportunity to join an orchestra). 

Williams earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Mass Media from VSU in 2015.  Read More

 

Amanda Neff Funches

a V-State alumna, was recently named vice president for Finance and Business at Middle Georgia State University.

Funches joined the university in 2004 as a part-time accountant for the University Foundation. Since then, she has served as budget analyst, manager, and director; executive director and later assistant vice president of Budget and Auxiliary Services; and, most recently, interim vice president for Finance and Business.

Funches earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from VSU in 2004. Read More

 

Jason Seacrist

a V-State alumnus, was recently named special agent in charge of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation’s Region 4 field office in Douglas. He previously served as the region’s assistant special agent in charge.

Seacrist is a veteran of the United States Navy. In his new role, he will be responsible for supervising the staff assigned to this regional field office that conducts criminal investigations within an 11-county area of operations.

Seacrist earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from VSU in 2005. Read More

 

Dalton Pierce

a V-State alumnus, was recently named city manager in York, South Carolina. He has years of experience working with various municipalities, including his most recent role as town administrator for Blacksburg, South Carolina, where he helped to develop a strategic operating plan, a comprehensive land-use plan, and an infrastructure assessment and evaluation.

Piece earned a Master of Public Administration from VSU in 2020. He is currently pursuing a Doctor of Public Administration. Read More

 

Johnnie Marshall Jr.

a V-State alumnus, was recently featured in District Administration’s Leadership Series. 

Marshall has gone from student observer to transformational leader, from standing at the helm of his own classroom to standing on the front lines of a national conversation about effective leadership and education reform. He spent five years in the classroom at Valdosta Early College Academy (VECA) from 2010 to 2015. Highlights of his career include the VECA Teacher of the Year Award in 2013 and the Apple Distinguished Educator Award in 2015, being named VECA assistant principal in 2015, the James L. and Dorothy H. Dewar College of Education and Human Services Distinguished Alumnus Award and Milken Educator Award in 2019, and being named principal of VECA in 2020.

Marshall earned a Bachelor of Science in Education in Middle Grades Education in 2010, a Master of Education in Middle Grades Education in 2013, and a Doctor of Education in Leadership in 2018, all from VSU. Read More

 

Dr. Jermaine Whirl

a V-State alumnus, was recently appointed to the Board of Directors of Queensborough National Bank and Trust Co., a 120-year-old bank with 27 locations throughout Georgia. He currently serves as president of Augusta Technical College in Augusta, Georgia. He was named to Georgia Trend’s inaugural Georgia 500, a list of the state’s most influential leaders, in 2022.

Since his appointment at Augusta Tech in 2020, Whirl has established a new health science campus, a new automotive regional training facility, and six academic schools. He also rebranded the college, enrolled the largest freshman class in the last three academic years, and secured the college’s first million-dollar gift.

Whirl earned a Doctor of Education in Leadership in 2015 from VSU. Read More

 

Laurel Sphar

a V-State alumna, was recently named manager of the St. Marys Library in St. Marys, Georgia. She previously worked in youth services at the library and has also worked as a library director in Nassau County, Florida.

Sphar hopes to modernize the St. Marys facility and expand programming to attract more teenagers and adults to the library. She believes libraries are living, breathing organisms that are constantly evolving to meet the needs of the public. She says public interactions are the best part of her job and library cards offer people access to a world of opportunity beyond simply borrowing a book.

Sphar earned a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice in 2008 and a Master of Library and Information Science in 2018 from VSU. Read More

 

Jay Torbert

a V-State alumnus, stands at the helm of Southeastern Bank, the second oldest active bank in Georgia. It was founded in 1888.

Torbert served as chief financial officer of Southeastern Bank from 2011 to 2022. He assumed the role of president and chief executive officer on July 1. He says the bank continues to be successful because of its exceptional customer service, longstanding traditions, strong community ties, and unwavering commitment to support small businesses, aka the economic engine of a local economy.

Torbert is a certified public accountant. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from VSU in 1994. Read More

 

Darrell Hill

a V-State alumnus, was recently named Wiregrass Georgia Technical College’s 2023 Adult Education Teacher of the Year. Sponsored by the Technical College System of Georgia, this award recognizes and honors instructors who make significant contributions to adult learners seeking to complete their high school equivalency degrees.

Hill has taught for five years, the last three with Wiregrass Georgia Technical College’s Adult Education program. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology in 2015 and a Master of Science in Biology in 2022 from VSU. Read More 

 

Sheryl Stalvey

a V-State alumna, was recently named 2022-2023 Teacher of the Year for the Colquitt County School System. She teaches English and language arts to sixth-grade students at Willie J. Williams Middle School in Moultrie, Georgia. She has taught for 39 years, the last 30 of those in Georgia.

Stalvey earned a Master of Education in Middle Grades Education (Grades 4-8) in 2004 from VSU. Read More

 

Cynthia Wilson

a V-State alumna, was recently named director of operations for The New Flat Rate, a menu-pricing system for service contractors like plumbers, electricians, and heating and air technicians. She specializes in fundraising, membership development, and project management and has previously worked with membership-based nonprofits in addition to social services.

Wilson earned a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership in 2014 and a Master of Public Administration in 2016 from VSU. Read More

 

James Savage

a V-State alumnus, was recently recognized during 2022 Clergy Appreciation Month.

Savage has served as pastor at Cross Point Church in Dickson, Tennessee, for three years. His lives by the mantra, “Prayer is not the only thing we do, but it’s always the first thing we do.” Those who serve alongside him describe him as hopeful and positive, one of the kindest people they know, and gifted with the ability to explain the Bible to others.

Savage earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Mass Media from VSU in 2011. Read More

 

Elizabeth Salien

a V-State alumna, was recently named administrative director of clinical nurse resources at South Georgia Medical Center.

Salien’s previous experience includes more than 18 years at Memorial University Medical Center in Savannah, Georgia, where she spent the majority of her time in patient safety, quality, and risk management. She has extensive knowledge in quality and regulatory requirements and values building relationships with patients, families, and team members.

Salien earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from VSU in 2004. Read More

 

Dr. Emmett Griswold

a V-State alumnus, was recently appointed president of Albany Technical College.

Griswold has more than 20 years of experience in higher education. He began his career as an instructor at Albany Technical College in 2004 and has served the institution in a variety of roles, including chairman of the Department of Criminal Justice, dean of Academic Affairs, vice president of Academic Affairs, executive vice president, and interim president. 

Griswold earned a Doctor of Education in Adult and Career Education from VSU in 2015. Read More

 

Misty Porter

a V-State alumna, was recently appointed to the Florida Rehabilitation Council for the Blind by Governor Ron DeSantis. She currently serves as a parent liaison at the Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind in St. Augustine, Florida. She previously served as a service coordinator at Northeastern Early Steps, an early intervention service provided by the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Florida College of Medicine in Jacksonville.

The Florida Rehabilitation Council for the Blind reviews, analyzes, and advises on the policy decisions of the Florida Division of Blind Services to ensure meaningful access to and use of vocational rehabilitation and independent living programs for Floridians who are blind or visually impaired.

Porter earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Anthropology from VSU in 2006. Read More

 

Pamela Johnson-Spurlock

a V-State alumna, was recently named director of Whiting Library in Chester, Vermont, effective mid-December 2022. She has served as librarian at the small town’s Green Mountain Union High School since 2017.

Johnson-Spurlock earned a Master of Library and Information Science from VSU in 2015. Read More

 

Mark Hodges

a V-State alumnus, was recently named director of imaging at South Georgia Medical Center. He has more than 20 years of experience in medical imaging, and in this new role he will oversee all technical and administrative aspects of inpatient and outpatient services. He is a member of American Healthcare Radiology Administrators and American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.

Hodges earned a Bachelor of Applied Science in Technical Studies from VSU in 2008. Read More

 

Valica Sampson

a V-State alumna, was recently named interim principal of J.L. Newbern Middle School in Valdosta. She has worked for Valdosta City Schools for nearly 19 years, beginning as a special education teacher at J.L. Newbern Middle School. She has also served as assistant principal of Valdosta Middle School and assistant director of the school system’s program for exceptional children.

Sampson earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing in 1992 and a Master of Arts in Teaching in Special Education in 2010, both from VSU. Read More

 

Robbie Hooker

a V-State alumnus, was recently named superintendent of Clarke County Schools in Athens, Georgia. He has nearly 30 years of experience in the field of education as a classroom teacher, assistant principal, principal, assistant superintendent, and superintendent. His work has earned him numerous accolades, including Teacher of the Year and Georgia High School Principal of the Year.\

Hooker earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology in 1988 and a Master of Education in Special Education in 1989, both from VSU. Read More

 

Kimberly Barnes

a V-State alumna, was recently named clinical manager for VocoVision, a company that supports and collaborates with telepractice teachers and clinicians who provide speech-language pathology services to students in kindergarten through 12^th grade.

Barnes will oversee and support delivery of speech-language pathology telepractice services for schools across the United States. She has spent the past 14 years working in public schools and private practice, providing in-person and virtual services and developing individualized education plans for students with various types of communication disorders.

Barnes earned a Bachelor of Science in Education in Communication Disorders in 2006 and a Master of Education in Communication Disorders in 2008, both from VSU. Read More

 

Ashley Sergiadis

a #VState alumna, recently earned East Tennessee State University’s 2022 Distinguished Faculty Award in Service.

Sergiadis serves as digital scholarship librarian and assistant professor for East Tennessee State University’s Charles C. Sherrod Library. She has been instrumental in launching two major initiatives that help reduce the cost of textbooks and other course materials — the Open and Affordable Course Materials Awards Program in collaboration with the Center for Teaching Excellence and the Sherrod Library’s E-Textbook Reserves Program.

Sergiadis earned a Master of Library and Information Science from VSU in 2016. Read More

 

Chris Moore

a #VState alumnus, retired from the United States Navy with the rank of captain after 24 years and three months of service. He completed three tours as a commanding officer with the Explosive Ordinance Disposal Mobile Unit 10, the Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center in Panama City, Florida, and the Naval Operational Support Center in Atlanta, Georgia.

Moore currently works as senior program manager for General Dynamics Information Technology in Panama City. The company’s chief customer is the Naval Surface Warfare Center. He serves as chairman of the Bay County Chamber of Commerce’s Military Affairs Committee.

Moore earned a Master of Public Administration from VSU in 1999. Read More

 

Kellie Henry

a #VState alumna and flutist, was recently named executive director of the Youth Orchestra of Greater Columbus in Columbus, Georgia. She also works as a flute instructor at Crews Middle School in Lawrenceville, Georgia, and teaches private flute, piccolo, and fife lessons, both in person and online.

Henry knew she wanted to play flute after experiencing Sergei Prokofiev’s “Peter and the Wolf,” a symphonic fairy tale for children, at the age of 6. She currently performs second flute with the Asheville Symphony in North Carolina and third flute / piccolo with the Albany Symphony Orchestra.

Henry earned a Bachelor of Music in Music Performance from VSU in 2017. Read More

 

Dr. Alan Kramer

a V-State alumnus, was recently named assistant vice president for student affairs and dean of students at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Tifton, Georgia. He joined the ABAC faculty in 1993 as head coach of the Golden Fillies tennis team and instructor of physical education and went on to serve the institution of higher education as assistant dean of students and director of athletics. In early 2022 he added women’s and men’s cross country to the ABAC intercollegiate sports lineup.

Kramer earned a Doctor of Education in Leadership from VSU in 2019. Read More

 

Sean Edgar

a V-State alumnus, was recently named director of safety for Colquitt County Schools in Moultrie, Georgia. He has more than 30 years of experience in law enforcement with the Colquitt County Sheriff’s Office and Georgia State Patrol, and since 1998, as a special agent with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. In his new role he will be responsible for all programs and functions affecting the safety, security, and emergency preparedness of the school system’s campuses, facilities, students, staff, and guests.

Edgar earned a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from VSU in 1990. Read More

 

Kim Harney

a V-State alumna, was recently elected to the office of national guard of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Auxiliary. She is a life member of James R. “Bob” Currieo Auxiliary 9972 in Sierra Vista, Arizona, and has served the organization in a variety of roles. She is also a life member of the VFW National Home for Children and the Military Order of the Cootie Auxiliary.

Harney earned a Bachelor of Science in Education and a Master of Education, both in Special Education, from VSU in 2005. She is a retired special education teacher, and during her career, she received Teacher of the Year and District Special Project of the Year awards. Read More

 

Adam Anderson and Sarah Yawn

V-State alumni, recently joined the faculty of Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Tifton, Georgia, as a lecturer of mathematics and an instructional service librarian, respectively.

Anderson earned a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics in 2018 and a Master of Education in Adult and Career Education in 2020, both from VSU.

Yawn earned a Bachelor of Arts in History in 2016 and a Master of Library and Information Science in 2020, both from VSU. Read More

 

Julie Dumas

a V-State alumna, was recently named vice president of quality and patient safety at Archbold in Thomasville. She joined the health system in 2005. She has more than 15 years of healthcare experience, including direct patient care as a critical care nurse. She most recently served as director of hospital accreditation for Archbold.

Dumas earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology in 2001 and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2006, both from VSU. Read More

 

Sarah Skinner

a V-State alumna was recently named director of the Bridgman Public Library in Bridgman, Michigan. She most recently served as adult services team leader for the Niles District Library in Niles, Michigan, where she has held several positions over the past six years. She is experienced in creating programs, developing collections, and computing.

Skinner earned a Master of Library and Information Science from VSU in 2020. Read More

Kathalina Thorpe

a V-State alumna, is working to build sets using sustainable and green strategies while pursuing a graduate degree at Kent State University in Kent, Ohio. She has been an advocate for green research and improving waste reduction within the theatre for several years, including as a student with VSU Theatre and Dance.

Thorpe's efforts to determine how effective earthworms are at breaking down costume scraps earned her the nickname Worm Girl at the 2020 Georgia Undergraduate Research Conference. During COVID-19 she joined a faculty-student team from VSU’s campus-based Costume Shop and created The Mask Force. Together they used their skills and abilities to serve others during the pandemic.

Thorpe earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Arts from VSU in 2021. Read More

 

Kery Lynn Reinkemyer Webb

a V-State alumna, was recently re-elected to the National Council of Zeta Tau Alpha, one of the nation’s largest women’s fraternal groups. She is a retired teacher who currently serves her community as a member of various nonprofit boards in the Athens, Georgia, area.

Webb earned a Bachelor of Science in Education in Early Childhood Education in 1993 from VSU, where she was a member of the Eta Iota chapter of Zeta Tau Alpha. She is married to her college sweetheart, Whitney Lawrence Webb, a V-State alumnus and general surgeon. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from VSU in 1992. Read More

 

Dr. Joseph Hayes

a V-State alumnus, serves as medical director for South Georgia Medical Center's new SGMC Internal Medicine. SGMC Internal Medicine is part of the hospital's graduate medical education program in partnership with Mercer University School of Medicine. Medical providers practicing at this site are physicians completing their internal medicine residency at SGMC.

 Hayes will oversee patient care and clinical skills development in the primary care setting for current and future resident physicians. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from VSU in 2014. Read More

 

Brian Collins

a V-State alumnus, recently created DryPocket Apparel, a company that manufactures pocket board shorts, swim trunks, and dry bags using specially designed polyurethane pockets that close quickly, automatically, and securely, keeping water out and personal gear inside where it is dry. He was tired of losing phones and other stuff while kayaking, and he wanted to be able to help his parents retire.

Collins earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Anthropology from VSU in 2012. Read More

 

Avery Berry

a V-State alumna, was recently named president of the Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce in Louisville, Georgia. In this role she will work with the Jefferson County Development Authority to support and attract local businesses and increase the number of area jobs and tax base. She will also develop programs designed to increase community engagement and support small businesses.

Berry earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Communication from VSU in 2019. Read More

 

Diantha Virginia Ellis

a V-State alumna, was recently named the 2022 recipient of the W. Bruce and Rosalyn Ray Donaldson Excellence in Advising Award at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College. She serves as an associate professor of business in the Stafford School of Business at ABAC and has been advising students since 2008. She was administered the Attorney's Oath of Admission to the State Bar of Georgia earlier this year.

Ellis earned a Master of Business Administration in 2003 earlier this year. Read More

 

Michael Smith

a V-State alumnus, was recently named vice president of Appalachian Development Corporation. He will be working with banks, lenders, credit unions, and small businesses throughout South Carolina providing the Small Business Association 504 Loans Program.

Smith has been in banking in the Charleston area since 2007 and was most recently with First Federal Bank as a SBA business development officer. He serves as a board member and membership director for the Rotary Club of Charleston and is also involved with the Mount Pleasant Sertoma Club, Charleston Chamber of Commerce, and Mount Pleasant Chamber of Commerce.

Smith earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting in 1984. Read More

 

Chuck Marshburn

a V-State alumnus, was recently named chief information officer and HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996) security officer at South Georgia Medical Center. In this new role he will oversee clinical informatics, enterprise information technology, and information services. He has been with SGMC for nearly 25 years. He previously served as director of information services.

Marshburn earned a Master of Business Administration from VSU in 2017. Read More

 

Phyllis Leblanc Peoples

a V-State alumna, was recently named the 2022 commencement speaker for Fletcher Technical Community College in Schriever, Terrebonne Parish, Louisiana.

Peoples has worked in healthcare administration for more than 27 years and serves as president and chief executive officer for Terrebonne General Health System, immediate past chair of the Louisiana Hospital Association Board of Trustees — she was chair from July 2019 to July 2021 — and a member of the LHA’s Trust Funds Board and the American College of Healthcare Executives.

Peoples earned a Master of Science in Nursing from VSU in 1992. Read More

 

Benita David

a V-State alumna and director of Healthcare Administration at AdventHealth University, recently rallied her colleagues to help teach chemistry, honors chemistry, and environmental science classes at Forest Lake Academy. She said her daughters, who attend the private high school in Apopka, Florida, let her know their usual teachers were on leave and they were struggling to succeed in those specialized classes without expert instruction.

 

Two AdventHealth University professors and two graduate students volunteered to help David. They oversaw instruction for six high school classes a day while also maintaining their normal university course load.   

 

David earned a Master of Business Administration from VSU in 2003. Read More

 

Amanda Miller

a V-State alumna, recently joined the staff of Urology Associates of Archbold in Thomasville, Georgia, as a certified physician assistant.

 

As a student at VSU, Miller played intramural volleyball and flag football, worked as a personal trainer at Sculpt 24 Fitness and as a medical assistant with Dr. Ben Hogan's family practice and sports medicine office, and served as a hospice volunteer. She conducted research on the molecular genetics of Aedes, a genus of mosquitoes originally found in tropical and subtropical zones but now found on nearly every continent, and was recognized for having the highest grade point average in her sorority, the Kappa Beta Chapter of Phi Mu.

 

Miller earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a Minor in Chemistry from VSU in 2019. She was the President's Award for Academic Excellence recipient for the College of Science and Mathematics during the university's 227th commencement. Read More

 

Cassie Furlow

a V-State alumna, recently published "Ivy the Innovator" in hardcover, paperback, and NOOK book. According to the publisher, Christian Faith Publishing, Furlow's book presents a heartfelt message to young readers in hopes of helping nurture the next generation of problem solvers and innovators. It's the story of a special little girl with a hidden talent.

Furlow earned a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction in Accomplished Teaching from VSU in 2013. She teaches third graders at Marietta Center for Advanced Academics in Marietta, Georgia. Read More

 

Dr. Daniel Gordon

a V-State alumnus, was recently named Georgia Primary Care Physician of the Year by the Georgia Primary Care Association. He said he loves the variety of his work and finds joy in helping his patients become healthier and happier.

Growing up in Hartwell, Georgia, Gordon always knew he wanted to be a primary care physician in a rural community. He currently works at MedLink Georgia’s primary care clinic in his hometown and also provides inpatient care at St. Mary’s Sacred Heart Hospital in Lavonia. He enjoys serving as an educator for nurse practitioners and medical students, and in 2016 he received the Excellence in Graduate Medical Education Award from the American Academy of Family Physicians. Gordon earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from VSU in 2007. Read More

Nichelle Hayes

a V-State alumna, was recently elected president of the Black Caucus of the American Library Association. She said she will look to increase the number of Black librarians in the field.

Earlier this year Hayes was named interim chief executive officer of the Indianapolis Public Library in Indiana. She has been with the library system since 2015, most notably serving as the manager of the Center for Black Literature and Culture. She has served as president of the Indiana Black Librarians Network and was nationally recognized as a Library Journal Mover & Shaker in 2021. As a genealogist her work focuses on African ancestry.

Hayes earned a Bachelor of General Studies in 1995 and a Master of Public Administration in 1998, both from VSU. Read More

 

Christopher Wilson

a V-State alumnus, was recently recognized by the Thomasville Times-Enterprise for his gift for bringing humor and heart to his classroom. He has taught world history at Thomas County Central High School for the past 23 years. His students describe him as creative, entertaining, respectful, encouraging, caring, and inspiring. He plans to continue teaching for at least another seven years, possibly more. Wilson earned a Bachelor of Science in Education in Secondary Education in 1994 and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership in 2004, both from VSU. Read More

Monique Harmon

a V-State alumna, was recently named associate director for equity compliance and deputy Title IX coordinator for the Division of Inclusion and Equity at Clemson University. She formerly held leadership positions at Eastern Illinois University, Middle Tennessee State University, Valdosta State University, Fluor-BWXT, and the Waffle House corporate office. She most recently worked for Shawnee State University in Portsmouth, Ohio, where she held various positions and managed all programs related to discrimination and harassment. Harmon earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science in 2006, a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in 2009, and a Master of Public Administration in 2011, all from VSU. Read More

Ethan Mitchell

a V-State alumnus recently joined The Blackshear Times as a general assignment reporter.

As a student at VSU, Mitchell was a member of the Honors Student Association and fiction editor for the Odradek Literary Journal, an annual publication that seeks to give students from diverse backgrounds a voice through poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, and art. He also served as co-student director for the South Georgia Film Festival, where he screened submissions, spread awareness, recruited volunteers, checked festival attendees in and out of events, recorded voice-over work for radio advertisements, and more. He enjoys the arts and often attends or performs in Waycross Area Community Theater productions. Mitchell earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Mass Media from VSU in May 2022. Read More

Brandie Dame

a V-State alumna, was recently named director of the City of Valdosta’s Main Street Program. She previously served as the first Main Street director for the City of Adel, where her principal accomplishment was establishing Downtown Adel as a “classic” Main Street community. Dame earned a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership from VSU in 2021. Read More

 

Liz Rozier

a V-State alumna, was recently featured in an informational webcast titled “Go the Extra Mile: How Mileage Data from Connected Vehicles Takes Rating to the Next Level.” She is the director for auto insurance solutions at LexisNexis Risk Solutions and responsible for auto product development, specifically in the vehicle-centric solution space, through strategic market intelligence, value proposition development, and market positioning. She has a decade of combined property and casualty experience in agent and vendor roles and in both commercial and auto lines of business. Rozier earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Speech Communication from VSU in 2009. Read More

 

Ansley Panizzi

a V-State alumna, was recently named executive director of the South Georgia Medical Center-affiliated and South Georgia Health Alliance LLC-owned Langdale Place in Valdosta, Georgia. She has 24 years of experience at the senior living facility, including her most recent role as assistant director of the facility for more than 15 years. Panizzi earned a Bachelor of Science in Administrative Services in 1998 and a Master of Public Administration 2003, both from VSU. Read More

 

Camille Ann Brewer

a V-State alumna, was recently appointed director of the San Jose Museum of Quilts & Textiles in San Jose, California. She will shape the museum’s vision and strategic direction and guide its overall operations, including exhibitions and programs, collections, donor relations, and community engagement. She has served as curator of contemporary art for The Georgia Washington University Museum and The Textile Museum in Washington D.C., as executive director for the Black Metropolis Research Consortium at the University of Chicago, and on grant panels for the National Endowment for the Arts. She is an accomplished speaker and author. Brewer earned a Master of Library and Information Sciences from VSU in 2010. Read More

 

Nichelle Hayes

a V-State alumna, was recently named interim chief executive officer of the Indianapolis Public Library in Indiana. She has been with the library system since 2015, most notably serving as the manager of the Center for Black Literature and Culture. She has served as president of the Indiana Black Librarians Network and was nationally recognized as a Library Journal Mover & Shaker in 2021. She currently serves as president-elect of the Black Caucus of the American Library Association and as a genealogist with a focus on African ancestry. Hayes earned a Bachelor of General Studies in 1995 and a Master of Public Administration in 1998, both from VSU. Read More

 

William Nash

a V-State alumnus, recently joined the South Georgia Medical Center team as a doctor at SGMC Family Medicine Nashville-McPherson in Nashville, Georgia. He is local to the Berrien County community and has been practicing medicine since 1995. He specializes in the treatment of common medical conditions, including hypertension and arthritis. He also serves as an Emergency Department physician at SGMC’s Berrien campus. Nash earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from VSU in 1983. Read More

 

Iris Nancibeth Shealy

a V-State alumna, was recently named interim director of the Emergency Department at South Georgia Medical Center. She worked as a buyer for a department store but decided to join the healthcare field after finding herself in New York City on Sept. 11, 2001. She has been with SGMC for 16 years. She is an accredited camellia judge and a member of several camellia societies, and she shows camellias competitively. Shealy earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology in 1985 and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2005. Read More

 

Andrew Vickers

a #VState alumnus, is the new executive director of the Franklin County Library System. He has worked in public libraries for the past 12 years, including the Coastal Plain Regional Library System in Fitzgerald, Georgia. Vickers earned a Master of Library and Information Science in 2012. Read More

 

Michael Brian Donaldson

a #VState alumnus, was recently named deputy chief of the contracting office at Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division. He has management responsibility for a team of more than 110 contracting specialists, contracting officers, cost analysts, policy analysts, and other contracting professionals. Donaldson earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in 1997. Read More

 

Martell Shavers

a #VState alumnus, currently serves as the assistant director of special education academic programs at Georgia Cyber Academy. His contributions to the field of special education are well noted, and as one of a few African American males in leadership and in the special education field, his expertise and commitment to advocate for special education services and supports make him a valuable teammate and voice within the special education community. Shavers earned a Master of Arts in Teaching in Special Education in 2014. Read More

 

Dr. Philip Brown

a #VState alumnus, was recently named the sole finalist for the position of superintendent of Jackson County Schools in Georgia. He has 19 years of public education experience as a teacher, coach, assistant principal, and principal while working for school systems in Oconee County, Echols County, and Camden County. He currently serves as principal of North Oconee High School. Brown earned Bachelor of Science in Education in Middle Grades Education (Math and Science) in 2003, a Master of Education in Instructional Technology in 2005, and an Education Specialist in Educational Leadership in 2006. Read More

 

Michael Williams

a V-State alumnus, was recently named vice president for economic development at Wiregrass Georgia Technical College. He began his education career as a teacher at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College. He has held several positions at Wiregrass, including instructor, department chair, assistant dean, and dean. Williams earned a Master of Arts in English in 2003. Read More

 

Hilary Willis

a V-State alumna, was recently named director of annual giving at South Georgia Medical Center, where she will oversee annual giving events and campaigns, marketing and communications, and various giving programs for the SGMC Foundation. She most recently served as assistant director of annual giving for the VSU Foundation. Willis earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Speech Communication in 2013 and a Master of Public Administration in 2016. Read More

 

 

Mary VanLandingham

a V-State alumna, is one of two artists featured in "A Farm Story," a new exhibition in The Gallery of Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College's Georgia Museum of Agriculture. The exhibit runs through April 30. Guests will have an opportunity to meet the artists from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on April 2. VanLandingham earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art in 2018. Read More

 

Stephanie Sanders

a V-State alumna, was recently named a Top 10 teacher in the Houston County School District, where she has taught for more than 23 years. Sanders earned a Bachelor of Science in Education with a major in Early Childhood Education in 1997. Read More

 

Demarcus Marshall

a V-State alumnus, was recently reappointed to serve on the ACCG Insurance Group Self-Insurance Workers’ Compensation Fund Board of Trustees. He represents District 4 on the Lowndes County Board of Commissioners and is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps and the United States Army. He works for the City of Valdosta as the public works superintendent and teaches in VSU’s Department of Political Science. Marshall earned a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy in 2004 and a Master of Public Administration in 2005. Read More

 

 

Ivie Wright

Wright, a V-State alumna, recently joined the Albany office of Draffin & Tucker LLP as an associate I. She assists in the health care practice. Wright earned a Master of Accountancy in 2021. Read More

 

 

Matthew Mitchell

a V-State alumnus, recently joined the Albany office of Draffin & Tucker LLP as an associate I. He serves corporate and individual clients in the commercial practice. Mitchell earned a Master of Accountancy in 2021. Read More

 

Sandra Gonzalez

 a V-State alumna, was recently promoted to associate II in the Atlanta office of Draffin & Tucker LLP. She primarily focuses on audits in the health care practice. Gonzalez earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting in 2020. Read More 

 

Rayetta Volley

a V-State alumna, was recently named Sumter County, Georgia, administrator. She has worked with the Sumter County Board of Commissioners since December 2002. In that time, she has served as administrative assistant, assistant county clerk, county clerk, records manager, general operations administrator, and interim county administrator. Volley earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science in 2002. Read More

 

Rex Dorsey

 a V-State alumnus, was recently named mortgage loan officer and assistant vice president of CBC (Commercial Banking Company) Bank. He has more than six years of experience in lending, is an active member of Park Avenue United Methodist Church of Valdosta, and volunteers with Special Olympics of Georgia. Dorsey earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management in 2007. Read More

 

Leslie Sloan

a V-State alumna, recently joined the Jacksonville, Florida, office of Kelley Kronenberg Attorneys at Law and will assist in handling matters related to first party property insurance defense. Prior to joining the firm, she was an attorney at a national full-service firm where she focused her practice on premises liability, personal injury, and general liability matters. Sloan earned a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice in 2005. Read More

 

Jason R. Coody

United States Attorney General Merrick Garland recently tapped Jason R. Coody, a V-State alumnus, to serve as U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. He worked as a patrol officer and detective for the Valdosta Police Department before pursuing his law degree. Coody earned a Bachelor of Arts in History in 1996. Read More 

 

Rebecca Oakley

a V-State alumna, was recently named principal of Centerville Elementary School in Centerville, Georgia, effective June 1, 2022. She has served as assistant principal for instruction at Northside Elementary School in Houston County since 2016 and previously taught at Feagin Hill Middle School, Warner Robins Middle School, and Mossy Creek Middle School. She was named Houston County District Teacher of the Year in 2011. She earned a Master of Education in Middle Grades Education in 2013 and an Education Specialist in Educational Leadership in 2018. Read More

 

Will Moore

a V-State alumnus, was recently named market president for Ameris Bank in Valdosta. He has more than a decade of industry experience and previously served as the senior lending officer at Guardian Bank. He is a member of the Rotary Club of Valdosta, Leadership Lowndes Class of 2018, and the Down Syndrome Association of South Georgia, and he serves as treasurer of the Georgia Sheriffs' Boys Ranch in Hahira. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Economics in 2004. Read More

 

Timothy "Tim" Strawther

a V-State alumnus, was recently appointed to the Texas Military Preparedness Commission by Gov. Greg Abbott. He is the lead executive for San Antonio at Lockheed Martin Corporation and a member of the Air Force Association, the United States Air Force Academy Association of Graduates, and Rotary International. He serves on the Board of Directors of I Care San Antonio and The Dee Howard Foundation. He is an honorary commander of the 12th Flying Training Wing and the 433rd Airlift Wing. He served in the United States Air Force from 1983 to 2009. He earned a Master of Public Administration in 1992. Read More

 

 Guy McBride Dabbs

a V-State alumnus, recently joined Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd's Charleston, South Carolina, office as special counsel. His clients range from individuals and local companies to larger corporations operating around the world. His practice focuses on transactional matters, including commercial real estate and corporate matters. He was recognized as a 2022 Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch for Corporate Law and was named to Charleston Business Magazine’s 2021 “Legal Elite of the Lowcountry” for Commercial Real Estate. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Economics in 2007. Read More

 

Arthur Barham

a V-State alumnus, recently celebrated 50 years of service to Miller Hardware Company. He has worked for three generations of the family owned and operated company that has served the people and communities of South Georgia and North Florida since 1908. He hopes to continue working for a few more years because he enjoys training new staff members, serving as a resource for his fellow employees, and helping customers. Barham began working at Miller Hardware Company when he moved from Early County to Lowndes County to attend Valdosta State. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management from VSU in 1975. Read More

 

Travis Cummings

a V-State alumnus, was recently appointed to the Florida Commission on Ethics by Gov. Ron DeSantis. Cummings, who served eight years in the Florida House of Representatives, is vice president of benefits for The Bailey Group. He is also a former chairman of the Clay County Commission and a former mayor of Orange Park. Cummings earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from VSU in 1994. Read More

 

Sara Elisabeth (Hall) Barron

a V-State alumna, recently won the Houzz Pro 3D Kitchen Design Contest. She has nearly 10 years of experience designing kitchens, bathrooms, and whole homes. Barron earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design from VSU in 2011. Read More

 

Dr. David "Butch" Mosely

The Georgia Department of Education’s new office to support rural schools and districts will now be known as the Dr. David “Butch” Mosely Office of Rural Education and Innovation. Mosley, a V-State alumnus, earned an Education Specialist in Educational Administration / Supervision from VSU in 1982. He dedicated his life to serving Georgia’s students as a coach, teacher, administrator, and superintendent. He died in early October. In August we announced that Dr. Bronwyn Ragan-Martin, a VSU alumna, will lead this new office, serving as a cabinet-level voice for the needs of rural Georgia in K-12 education policy. Read More

 

Dr. William C. Morgan

a V-State alumnus, recently published "The Deacon's Guide," which explores the role of the deacon in the church and with the pastor. The publication is based on his personal experiences as a deacon and as a pastor, as well as research and biblical passages that apply to church leadership. Morgan earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Speech Communication from VSU in 1985, followed by a Master of Public Administration in 1989. Read More

 

Tiffany Kirkpatrick

a V-State alumna, was recently named community services manager for the City of Gladstone, Oregon. In this new role, she will provide unique programs and activities designed to attract a diverse and multifaceted community-wide audience to the city. She earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Speech Communication from VSU in 2001. Read More

 

Julie Hunt

a V-State alumna, was recently appointed to the Board of Economic Development by Georgia Gov. Brian P. Kemp. She is the president of J.H. Services Inc. and an entrepreneur with experience in the restaurant, advertising, and real estate industries. She previously served as a schoolteacher and a member of the University System of Georgia Board of Regents, Georgia Ports Authority, Commission for the Privatization of State Government, and Georgia Economic Development Authority. In 2018 she earned Leadership Georgia’s J.W. Fanning Award. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education from VSU in 1963. Read More

 

Andy Gibbs

a three-time V-State alumnus, recently appeared in the fifth grade edition of Make Mathematics Count, GA! This special video series, produced by the Georgia Department of Education, is designed to support parents with understanding the expectations of teaching and learning mathematics. Gibbs teaches STEM Connections at Valdosta Middle School and represents the residents of District 6 on the Valdosta City Council. He founded Miracle League of Valdosta and also serves as its director. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing in 2001, a Master of Arts in Teaching in Middle Grades Education in 2011, and an Education Specialist in Educational Leadership in 2017, all from VSU.

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Catherine Jean

Catherine Jean (Stout) Carver, a V-State alumna, was recently promoted to director of the Assurance Services Department at Thomas Howell Ferguson P.A. CPAs, a professional accounting, assurance, tax, and governmental consulting services firm headquartered in Tallahassee, Florida. Stout joined the firm in January 2015 and works in the Tampa, Florida, office. She is a certified public accountant, a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants, and has more than six years of experience in public accounting, providing assurance and accounting services. She earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from VSU in 2014.

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Christopher Smith

Christopher Smith, a V-State alumnus, was recently named executive director of enrollment management and new student engagement at Kansas State University Salina. He joined the school in 2017 as executive director of enrollment management, marketing, and financial aid. During that time, he implemented a consultative approach that led to four years of growth in new freshmen and three years of campus housing being at capacity. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at VSU in 1998. READ MORE

 

Dr. Bronwyn Ragan-Martin

Dr. Bronwyn Ragan-Martin, a V-State alumna, will lead the Georgia Department of Education's new Office of Rural Education and Innovation starting in October. In this role, she will serve as a cabinet-level voice for the needs of rural Georgia in K-12 education policy.

The Office of Rural Education and Innovation will be established using Georgia’s ARP-ESSER federal stimulus funds and will work to address educational needs in rural Georgia, including connectivity, teacher retention and recruitment, resources and funding, and educator development. The office will establish state and community partnerships to channel resources and identify funding opportunities within the agency to support rural areas of the state.

Ragan-Martin is a Georgia educational leader with more than 31 years of experience. She has most recently served as Superintendent of the Early County School System and president of the Georgia School Superintendents Association. She earned a Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from VSU in 2006. READ MORE

Dr. Branville Bard Jr.

Dr. Branville Bard Jr., a V-State alumnus, has been named Johns Hopkins University's new vice president for public safety. He will oversee security operations for all Johns Hopkins University and Johns Hopkins Medicine campuses and facilities worldwide, with the exception of the Applied Physics Laboratory.

Bard is currently police commissioner of Cambridge, Massachusetts, where he established the department’s family and social justice section to address the needs of vulnerable members of the community who are better served through a social justice approach. He brought in the department’s first child psychologist to connect Cambridge youth and their families with mental health services and its first recovery coach to help address challenges presented by the opioid epidemic. He launched a department-wide effort to proactively monitor data on police-citizen interactions for indications of possible racial profiling or biased policing and to make that information available through near real-time updates to a public dashboard.

Before joining the Cambridge department, Bard ascended through the ranks of the police department in his native Philadelphia, culminating in the leadership of the city’s largest police district, where he oversaw both reductions in crime and improvements in police-community relations. He was subsequently recruited to serve as chief of police and director of public safety for the Philadelphia Housing Authority Police Department, the fourth largest such agency in the nation.

Bard earned a Master of Science in Criminal Justice from VSU in 2013 and a Doctor of Public Administration in 2014.  READ MORE

Chad Studstill

Chase Studstill, a #VState alumnus, was recently appointed district attorney of the Alapaha Judicial Circuit (Atkinson, Berrien, Clinch, Cook, and Lanier counties in Georgia) by Gov. Brian Kemp. He has most recently served as a public defender in the Tift Judicial Circuit Public Defender’s Office. Studstill earned a Bachelor of Arts in History from VSU in 2013. READ MORE

Thomas W. Huyck

Thomas W. Huyck, a #VState alumnus, was recently named vice president of legal and general counsel for Spectrum Health Lakeland. He previously served as chief legal officer for Appalachian Regional Healthcare System in Boone, North Carolina, and was a partner with James-Bates-Brannan-Groover LLP in Macon, Georgia. Huyck earned a Master of Public Administration from VSU in 1993. READ MORE

Lori Trouille

Lori Trouille, a #VState alumna, was recently named diagnostic breast navigator at South Georgia Medical Center. She is an advanced nurse practitioner who has been with SGMC for 21 years, and in her new role, she will serve as a consistent care coordinator assessing the healthcare barriers and the physical, psychological, and social needs of breast cancer patients. Trouille earned a Master of Science in Nursing from VSU in 2010. READ MORE

Kristi Gonzales

Kristi Gonzales, a #VState alumna, was recently named principal of Cox Elementary School in Moultrie, Georgia, by the Colquitt County Board of Education, effective July 1, 2021. She previously served the Colquitt County School System from 2011 to 2017 and most recently served as assistant principal of North Brooks Elementary School in Morven, Georgia. Gonzales earned a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction in Accomplished Teaching from VSU in 2013 and an Education Specialist in Teacher Leadership from VSU in 2016. READ MORE

Tamara A. Seymour

Tamara A. Seymour, a #VState alumna, was recently appointed to the Kintara Therapeutics Inc. Board of Directors. She is a corporate finance veteran with three decades of experience in the biotech and life sciences industries. She has served as chief financial officer in both public and venture-backed private companies at all stages of development, and her experience includes leading finance, investor relations, managed care and reimbursement, human resources, administration, and information technology. Seymour earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from VSU in 1979. READ MORE

Olabamiji Yemi

Olabamiji Yemi Tubi, a #VState alumnus, was recently featured on Africa.com. He was born in Nigeria and studied graphic design at VSU before settling in the United Kingdom. He said, "Art is means life to me. Sometimes I could not stop or take a break for anything even to stop to eat when I start painting. I only stop when I am arrested by sleep because it is difficult to work if I cannot keep my eyes open." Tubi earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art from VSU in 1986. READ MORE

DeAnnia Clements

DeAnnia Clements, a #VState alumna, has been named interim president of Wiregrass Georgia Technical College. She has invested more than 20 years in the Technical College System of Georgia, including 16 years at Wiregrass. She started her career as an adjunct instructor before serving in various administrative roles — dean of professional services, dean of allied health, associate vice president of academic affairs, and vice president of academic affairs. Clements earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from VSU in 1996. READ MORE

Kim Buechler

Kim Buechler, a #VState alumna, was recently appointed interim public health officer for the Washington Ozaukee Public Health Department. She has served as business manager for the health department since 2017 and has been actively involved in the health department’s COVID-19 pandemic response. Buechler earned a Master of Public Administration from VSU in 2019. READ MORE

Natasha Berry

Natasha Berry, a #VState alumna, has been named a Top 10 finalist for 2022 Georgia Teacher of the Year. She currently teaches third grade at Sallas Mahone Elementary School and previously taught in the Colquitt County and Lowndes County school systems. Berry earned a Bachelor of Science in Education in Early Childhood Education from VSU in 2003. READ MORE

Noelani Fender

Noelani Fender, a #VState alumna, recently joined Priority Marketing in Fort Myers, Florida, as a media relations specialist. She previously worked as a features and enterprise reporter for FOX4 in Southwest Florida, as well as a bureau multimedia journalist for WCTV Eyewitness News in Tallahassee, Florida, and WALB News 10 in Albany, Georgia. Fender earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Mass Media from VSU in 2015. READ MORE

Derek Parten

Derek Parten, a #VState alumnus, has been named principal of Warren County Middle School in Warrenton, Georgia. He previously served as a teacher for 14 years, teaching students social studies and mathematics. Parten earned a Bachelor of Arts in History from VSU in 2007. READ MORE

Kevin Moore

Kevin Moore, a #VState alumnus, has been named executive director of South Georgia Medical Center’s Hospice of South Georgia in Valdosta. He also serves on the Georgia Hospice and Palliative Care Board of Directors and the Park Avenue United Methodist Church Board of Trustees. Moore earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from VSU in 2009. He is a certified hospice and palliative care nurse. READ MORE

Pamela Heidelberg

Pamela Heidelberg, a #VState alumna, has been named assistant principal of Charlie A. Gray Junior High School in Moultrie, Georgia, effective July 1, 2021. She has held various roles in the Colquitt County School System since 2005, including parent involvement coordinator, school counselor, graduation coach, and lead counselor. Heidelberg earned an Education Specialist in Educational Leadership from VSU in 2017. READ MORE

Jebb Cato

Jebb Cato, a #VState alumnus, has been named assistant principal of Doerun Elementary School in Doerun, Georgia, effective July 1, 2021. He has worked as a teacher in the Colquitt County School System since 2014. Cato earned an Education Specialist in Educational Leadership from VSU in 2017. READ MORE

Nicol Lewis

Nicol Lewis, a #VState alumna, was recently named chief information security officer at Columbus State University. She will work to ensure that all of the university’s academic and operational data is protected and made accessible within the bounds of CSU and University System of Georgia information security policies. Her 20-year career has included progressive duties in data security and cybersecurity, enterprise-wide information technology risk management and compliance, and business continuity. Lewis earned a Master of Library and Information Science from VSU in 2007. READ MORE

Ken Kiser

Ken Kiser, a #VState alumnus, was recently named healthcare provider at Southwell Primary Care in Valdosta. The new practice is located at 2922-C North Oak Street and serves adults 18 years of age and older. Kiser earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from VSU in 1982. He is a nurse practitioner who specializes in adult medicine and gerontology. READ MORE

Scotty Hattaway

Scotty Hattaway, a #VState alumnus, was recently named superintendent of Emanuel County Schools in Swainsboro, Georgia. He previously served as deputy superintendent of Floyd County Schools in Rome, Georgia. He has 27 years of experience in education as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, director of support services, deputy superintendent, and superintendent. Hattaway earned a Master of Education in Education Leadership from VSU in 2004 and an Education Specialist in Educational Leadership in 2006. READ MORE

O'tessa Pelham

O'tessa Pelham a #VState alumna, was recently named assistant principal at Cox Elementary School in Moultrie, Georgia. She joined the Colquitt County School System as a teacher at C.A. Gray Junior High from 2017 to 2021. Before that, she was a classroom teacher in the Dougherty County School System from 2011 to 2017. Pelham earned a Bachelor of Science in Education in Early Childhood Education from VSU in 2010. READ MORE

Holly B (McCarthy) Phillips

Holly B. (McCarthy) Phillips, a #VState alumna, assumed her new role as director of the Thomas County Public Library System in April and will soon oversee a nearly $1 million interior upgrade project. She previously served nine years as director of the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library System and Ellen Payne Odom Genealogical Library. Phillips earned a Bachelor of Arts in English in 2007 and Master of Library and Information Science in 2012, both from VSU. READ MORE

Mark Brooks

Mark Brooks, a #VState alumnus, has announced his retirement from South Georgia Technical College after 34 years of service. He joined the school in July 1987 as a purchasing agent / procurement officer and was promoted to administrative services director in 2007. Brooks earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from VSU in 1981. READ MORE

Robin Godwin

Robin Godwin, a #VState alumna, was recently named president of Ascension Sacred Heart Bay, formerly known as Bay Medical, in Panama City, Florida. She previously served as served as vice president of nursing at Ascension Sacred Heart Gulf in Port St. Joe, Florida, and as director of nursing at Archbold Memorial Hospital in Thomasville, Georgia, and at Mitchell County Hospital in Camilla, Georgia. Godwin earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 1997 and a Master of Science in Nursing in 2005, both from VSU. READ MORE

Tonekia L. Phairr

Tonekia L. Phairr, a #VState alumna, was recently named assistant principal of Roswell High School in Roswell, Georgia. She previously held teaching positions in Fulton County, Cobb County, and Clayton County, has served as a professional development presenter at educational workshops across the country, and has more than 15 years of administration experience, most recently as an associate administrator in charge of standardized testing with Fulton County Schools. Phairr earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science in 1999 and a Master of Public Administration in 2001, both from VSU. READ MORE

Clayton Cain

Clayton Cain, a #VState alumnus, has been named to The National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 list. He is a Gwinett County, Georgia-based personal injury lawyer with Cain Injury Law. Cain earned a Bachelor of Arts in General Studies at VSU in 2010. He also earned All-America honors as a member of the Blazer baseball team. READ MORE

Amy Willis

Amy Willis, a #VState alumna, was recently named the 2021 recipient of the E. Lanier Carson Leadership Award at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Tifton, Georgia. She has worked at ABAC since 1997 and currently serves as assistant vice president of academic affairs and registrar. Willis earned a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science in 1991 and a Doctor of Education in Adult and Vocational Education in 2003 from VSU. READ MORE

Kevin Ellis

Kevin Ellis, a #VState alumnus, has been named the new director of the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library System. He got his start in libraries back in 2012 working at the Lee County Library System where he stayed until joining the Pine Mountain Regional Library System as the assistant director of public services in 2019. Ellis earned a Master of Library and Information Science from VSU in 2017. READ MORE

Dr. Joe Pennino

Dr. Joe Pennino, a #VState alumnus, has officially been sworn in as the new chief of the Roswell Fire Department in Georgia. He joins Roswell after more than 18 years with Largo Fire Rescue in Florida, where served in nearly every capacity, including deputy fire chief. Pennino earned a Doctor of Public Administration from VSU in 2020. READ MORE

Jay Torbert

Jay Torbert, a #VState alumnus, is the new president of Southeastern Bank. He joined the bank in 2011 as its chief financial officer. Torbert is a certified public accountant. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from VSU in 1994. READ MORE

Gordy Steadman

Gordy Steadman, a #VState alumnus, recently joined Terracon, a national consulting engineering firm. He will manage business development, client relations, and strategic planning for the Northeast Florida market. He has more than 30 years of experience in the construction industry. Steadman earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Speech Communication from VSU in 1983. READ MORE

Allison Grubbs

Allison Grubbs, a V-State alumna, has been named the new director of Broward County Libraries Division in Florida. She has held the position of interim director since February 2021; she originally joined the libraries in June 2019 as division assistant director. She has more than a decade of public library experience. Grubbs earned a Master of Library and Information Science from VSU in 2009.  READ MORE

Dr. Clint Cawley

Dr. Clint Cawley, an orthopedist and V-State alumnus, recently joined Southwell's Georgia Sports Medicine Practice located at 2227 U.S. Highway 41 North in Tifton, Georgia. He previously worked as the assistant team physician for the Georgia Institute of Technology baseball team and Benjamin E. Mays High School in Atlanta.

Cawley earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology at VSU in 2011.  READ MORE

Bubba Carroll

Bubba Carroll, a V-State alumnus, recently turned a family woodworking tradition into a full-time business. The Madison, Florida, native reminisced about growing up with a grandfather who handmade every single Christmas present out of wood. Carroll would spend his summers with his grandfather, who taught him how to do the same.

Carroll earned a Bachelor of Science in Education in Special Education in 2001. He taught and coached at Madison County High School before moving to Madison Academy, now Madison Creative Arts Academy. He resumed the family Christmas tradition in 2017. Three years later he and his wife bought a building for a full-time store called The Depot.  READ MORE

Felecia J. Pryor

Felecia J. Pryor, a V-State alumna, was recently appointed to the Lincoln Educational Services Corporation Board of Directors. She currently serves as executive vice president and chief human resources officer at BorgWarner Inc., where her primary focus includes executive planning and compensation; talent and leadership development; culture, engagement, and sentiment; internal communications; diversity, equity, and inclusion. She previously served more than 16 years in human resources at the Ford Motor Company.

Pryor earned a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from VSU in 1998.  READ MORE

Adam Mobley

Adam Mobley, a V-State alumnus, was recently promoted to senior in Draffin Tucker’s healthcare practice, where he works on financial statement audits and reimbursement projects for healthcare providers. He is a certified public accountant licensed to practice in the state of Georgia. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from VSU in 2018, followed by a Master of Accountancy in 2019.  READ MORE

 

Monica Quezada

Monica Quezada, a V-State alumna, was promoted to associate II in Draffin Tucker’s healthcare practice, where she focuses on auditing healthcare entities and preparing Medicare and Medicaid cost reports for hospitals. She earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from VSU in 2018, followed by a Master of Accountancy in 2020. READ MORE

Sara Taylor

Sara Taylor, a V-State alumna, was promoted to associate II in Draffin Tucker’s resource solutions practice, where she focuses on providing consulting and accounting assistance. She earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from VSU in 2017, followed by a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting in 2020. READ MORE

Susan A. Clement

Susan A. Clement, a V-State alumna, has joined the College of Nursing and Health Sciences faculty at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Tifton, Georgia. She will serve as a professor of nursing starting this fall.

Clement earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from VSU in 1996 and a Master of Science in Nursing in 2004. READ MORE

Wendy Murphy

Wendy Murphy, a V-State alumna, was recently named New Teacher of the Year by the Georgia Association for Career and Technical Education. She teaches coordinated career academic education courses at Colquitt County High School in Moultrie, Georgia, and has served the field of education for nearly two decades.

Murphy earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Anthropology from VSU in 1996. READ MORE

Loren Bass

Loren Bass, a V-State alumna, started making chili in 2013 while attending Graduate School at Valdosta State University. She turned her chili-making skills into a business known as LB's Chili Bar in 2019. When the pandemic hit in early 2020, she looked for ways to help her business survive the global health crisis by launching a line of sauces inspired by her chili flavors. She says being flexible and open to new ideas allowed her to remain in business.

Bass earned a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from VSU in 2013. READ MORE

Ben Haggerty

Ben Haggerty, a V-State alumnus, has joined The Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III P.C. in Albany, Georgia, and will focus his practice exclusively on representing people in workers' compensation and personal injury cases. He brings a unique perspective to injury cases because he previously worked as a defense attorney representing large insurance companies and corporations. He has an insider's perspective on how insurance companies fight injury claims, and he uses this to his clients' advantage. Haggerty earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from VSU in 2013. READ MORE

Gerald Thomas III

Gerald Thomas III, a V-State alumnus, has been named sports editor for both the Bryan County News in Richmond Hill, Georgia, and the Coastal Courier in Hinesville, Georgia. He previously worked as a sports stringer for The Valdosta Daily Times.

Thomas earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Mass Media from VSU in 2020. READ MORE

Tamara A. Seymour

Tamara A. Seymour, a V-State alumna, was recently appointed to the KemPharm Inc. Board of Directors. She currently serves as a board member for Artelo Biosciences Inc. and Kintara Therapeutics Inc., both publicly traded clinical-stage biopharmaceutical companies.

Seymour is a corporate finance veteran with three decades of experience in the biotech and life sciences industries. She has served as chief financial officer in both public and venture-backed private companies at all stages of development, and her experience includes leading finance, investor relations, managed care and reimbursement, human resources, administration, and information technology.

Seymour earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from VSU in 1979. READ MORE

Jennifer Speights

Jennifer Speights, a V-State alumna, was recently appointed to the Senate Study Committee on Violence Against Health Care Workers by Georgia Governor Brian Kemp. She currently serves as vice president of operations at View Point Health in Lawrenceville, Georgia. She has more than 20 years of experience in the behavioral health field, including acute care and community settings, and she specializes in program development for individuals with behavior, substance abuse, and intellectual/developmental disability disorders.

Speights earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology at VSU in 1995, as well as a Master of Education in Special Education in 1997. READ MORE

Spencer Smith

Spencer Smith, a #VState alumnus, is the new chief operating officer at Northwest Florida Community Hospital in Chipley, Florida. He previously worked as a physician assistant at Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare Southern Medical Group and as a clinician at Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare Urgent Care Center. Smith earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from VSU in 2009. READ MORE

Filemon Lopez

Filemon Lopez, a #VState alumnus, was recently named one of 24 members selected for the Cable TV Pioneers 55th Annual Induction. He retired from Comcast Corporation in 2016 as senior vice president of strategic operations; he served Comcast and its predecessor companies for 30 years. Recognized as the first Hispanic Comcast executive, he held a leading role in the company’s diversity efforts, where he focused on building relationships and growing community-based projects. Lopez earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Arts from VSU in 1981. In 2017 he was presented the Distinguished Alumnus Award for the College of the Arts. READ MORE

John Southerland

John Southerland, a #VState alumnus, recently joined the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Bay Street Realty Group Cora Bett Thomas Realty Commercial Division in Savannah, Georgia. He has appraised commercial and residential properties for the past 20 years, and he has built and/or renovated more than a dozen homes. He plans to also continue to work as a commercial real estate appraiser with DeWitt, Cook & Associates. Southerland earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from VSU in 1994. READ MORE

Angela Hobby

Angela Hobby, a #VState alumna, has been named chief communications officer for the Colquitt County School System in Moultrie, Georgia. She most recently served as vice president of enrollment management at Wiregrass Georgia Technical College. She previously served as executive director of community and college relations and director of marketing and public relations at Wiregrass. Hobby earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from VSU in 1999. READ MORE

Regina Ross

Regina Ross, a #VState alumna, is the new chief legal adviser for JEA, a Jacksonville, Florida-based community-owned electric utility company. She previously served as deputy county attorney for St. Johns County and as a judicial law clerk in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida and the Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania, and she previously worked for the U.S. Department of Defense. Ross earned a Master of Public Administration from VSU in 1997. READ MORE

Dr. Ellen Eanes Curson

Dr. Ellen Eanes Courson, a #VState alumna, has provided obstetrical and gynecological care to women in the Valdosta-Lowndes County area since 1991. She and two other physicians recently joined SGMC in establishing SGMC Women's Health, a complete women's healthcare practice. Courson earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from VSU in 1982. Two more VSU alumnae will join Courson at the new practice — Millie Taylor Jordan, a nurse practitioner who earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2011 and a Master of Science in Nursing in 2016, and Kristin Sharp Tucker, a nurse practitioner who earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2013. READ MORE

Tamara A. Seymour

Tamara A. Seymour, a #VState alumna, was recently appointed to the Artelo Biosciences Inc. Board of Directors. She is a corporate finance veteran with three decades of experience in the biotech and life sciences industries. She has served as chief financial officer in both public and venture-backed private companies at all stages of development, and her experience includes leading finance, investor relations, managed care and reimbursement, human resources, administration, and information technology. Seymour earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from VSU in 1979. READ MORE

James W. Hazel, Jr.

James W. Hazel Jr., a #VState alumnus, was recently appointed presiding judge for the Oro Valley Municipal Court in Oro Valley, Arizona. He has served as presiding judge for the Apache Junction Municipal Court in Apache Junction, Arizona, since 2008. He was previously judge for the City of Mesa from 2003 to 2008, judge of the Arizona Superior Court in Gila County from 2002 to 2003, and Gila County attorney. Hazel earned a Master of Public Administration from VSU in 2005. READ MORE

Courtney Evans

Courtney Evans, a #VState alumna, was recently named a YMCA of the Palm Beaches board member. She currently serves as the director of athletics for Palm Beach Atlantic University. She is the first minority female to be appointed to the role. Evans earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Speech Communication in 2004. She was named the College of Arts Distinguished Alumna of the Year in 2019. READ MORE

Stacey Fletcher Reynolds and Kim Yarbrough

The Colquitt County Arts Center celebrated Women's History Month with The Year of the Woman, an exhibition that features works by two #VState alumnae — Stacey Fletcher Reynolds and Kim Yarbrough. This dynamic duo pushes the boundaries of mixed media in their non-objective pieces. They have been friends for more than 20 years — since meeting in the painting studio on campus. Reynolds earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art from VSU in 2000. Yarbrough earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art in 2000, a Master of Arts in Teaching in Special Education in 2010, and an Education Specialist in Special Education in 2015, all from VSU. READ MORE

Chris Guay

Chris Guay, a #VState alumnus, was recently named Whitfield County Employee of the Month. He is a detective with the Whitfield County Sheriff's Office in Dalton, Georgia, and is known for his ability to use high-tech skills to help solve crimes, his top-notch communication and leadership skills, and his advanced investigation expertise. Guay earned a Master of Science in Criminal Justice from VSU in 2013. READ MORE

Brad Roberts

Brad Roberts, a #VState alumnus, was recently named assistant principal at Okapilco Elementary School in Moultrie, Georgia. He joined the Colquitt County School System in 2009 as a teacher at Willie J. Williams Middle School. He previously served in the United States Army. Roberts earned a Master of Education in Middle Grades Math and Science in 2011 and an Education Specialist in Curriculum and Instruction in 2013 from VSU. READ MORE

Lori Jackson

Lori Jackson, a #VState alumna, was recently appointed to the Statewide Interagency Coordinating Council for Early Childhood Intervention Programs by Gov. Brian Kemp. She is a regional coordinator for Parent to Parent of Georgia, an organization that provides support to new parents of children with disabilities or special health care needs. Jackson earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from VSU in 2007. READ MORE

Lee Mobley

Lee Mobley, a VState alumnus, is responsible for the latest splash of color welcoming locals and visitors to Historic Downtown Valdosta. Located on West Florida Avenue, the mural features the city mantra — Love Where You Live — surrounded by a geometric sea of vibrant shades of red, blue, and yellow. Mobley earned a Bachelor of Science in Education in 1998 and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership in 2001, both from VSU. He is a veteran street artist and principal of Satilla Elementary School in Douglas, Georgia. READ MORE

Dr. Jamie Foster-Hill

Dr. Jamie Foster-Hill was recently named 2021 Young Professional of the Year by the Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce. Foster-Hill earned a Bachelor of Science in Education, with a major in Business Education, in 2005 and a Master of Science in Education, with a major in Business Education, in 2006, both from VSU. She is a special education lead teacher at Pine Grove Middle School and section president of the Valdosta-Lowndes Metropolitan Chapter of the National Council of Negro Women. READ MORE

Harlee Webb

Harlee Webb was recently named art education administrator for the Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts. In this full-time position, she is responsible for all classes and all art outreach for the community. Webb earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art Education from Valdosta State University in 2020. READ MORE

Dr. Michael-Angelo James

Dr. Michael-Angelo James was recently inducted into Marquis Who's Who. He currently serves as the chancellor of Emmanuel's Bible College, the bishop at Emmanuel's International Cathedral, a professor of sociology at Coastal Pines Technical College, and the mayor of the City of Waycross. James earned a Master of Education in Secondary Education from VSU in 1993. READ MORE

L. Guy Singletary

L. Guy Singletary was recently recognized as a hometown public servant by Emanuel County Live in Swainsboro, Georgia. He has served as Emanuel County administrator for the past five years. Prior to that, he served the same role in Johnson County for seven years. Singletary earned a Master of Public Administration from VSU in 2011. READ MORE

Holly Phillips

Holly B. (McCarthy) Phillips was recently named director of the Thomas County Public Library System, effective April 19. She has served as director of the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library System and Ellen Payne Odom Genealogical Library since 2012 and previously worked as the bookmobile librarian and manager of the Doerun Branch Library. She has also worked in the Dougherty County Public Library System. Phillips earned a Bachelor of Arts in English in 2007 and a Master of Library and Information Science in 2012, both from VSU. READ MORE

Dr. Joe Pennino

Dr. Joe Pennino has been named the new chief of the Roswell Fire Department in Georgia, effective June 1. He currently serves as deputy fire chief with Largo Fire Rescue in Florida, where he has served in nearly every capacity over the past 18 years. He also serves as an adjunct instructor at Liberty University, teaching fire service leadership and public administration ethics, statesmanship, and governance. Pennino earned a Doctor of Public Administration from VSU in 2020. READ MORE

Antonio Austin

Antonio Austin earned a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from VSU in 2017 and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy in History at Howard University. His goal is to work in the museum or archival setting preserving the histories of Black people within the United States. He has worked in higher education, advising fraternities and sororities in Georgia, Indiana, and North Carolina. READ MORE

Allen Baker

Allen Baker earned a Bachelor of Arts in History from VSU in 2002. He recently joined the EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants National Energy Construction Team as a senior risk consultant. He has 15 years of experience advising clients with complex risk on insurance and risk management concerns. READ MORE

Gunner Chancey

Gunner Chancey earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music from VSU in 2019. He recently joined the Colquitt County Arts Center staff as a piano and voice instructor. READ MORE

Brian Upshaw

Brian Upshaw earned a Bachelor of Music in Music Education from VSU in 1992. He has been named interim executive director / treasurer of the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina. He has been a staff member with the organization since October 2008. He taught music and was a middle school band director for several years before answering a call to vocational ministry. READ MORE

Meghan Barwick

Meghan Barwick earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Mass Media from VSU in 2011. She was recently named public information officer for Lowndes County. She previously served in marketing, media, and public relations roles at the Valdosta-Lowndes County Development Authority and South Georgia Medical Center. READ MORE

Steve Graham

Steve Graham earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from VSU in 1972. He was recently named one of four 2021 Regents Professors at Arizona State University, where he teaches students how writing develops, how to teach it effectively, and how it can be used to support reading and learning. Regents Professor is the highest faculty honor and is conferred on full professors who have made remarkable achievements that have brought them national attention and international distinction. READ MORE

Kenneth Alexander

Kenneth Alexander earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design from VSU in 2018. He was chosen to dance during the Super Bowl LV halftime show. He learned about the casting call after being laid off from his interior design job in Tampa in January. He said everything happens for a reason and now he plans to pursue his passion for dance full time. READ MORE

Dr. Jared Harris

Dr. Jared Harris, earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from VSU in 2014. He was recently featured in Colquitt Regional Medical Center's Resident Spotlight. He describes himself as a small-town boy who is thrilled to be helping alleviate medical disparities in rural South Georgia. He is fluent in American Sign Language and looks forward to removing language barriers that often make it difficult for Deaf individuals to get adequate care. READ MORE

Joshua  Pridgen

Joshua Pridgen earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from VSU in 2006. He was recently named associate director of the Veterans Health System for North Florida and South Georgia by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs. He is responsible for executive-level oversight of primary care services and outpatient clinics in the health system. READ MORE

Jazmin Thomas

Jazmin Thomas earned a Master of Public Administration from VSU in 2020. She was recently named downtown manager for the City of Perry, Georgia. READ MORE

David Barringer

David Barringer earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing at VSU in 2008. He is the new business development manager at ATEQ and Cobra Aviation Inc. He has 19 years of experience as an aircraft avionics technician with the United States Air Force, Raytheon, and L3 Communications, as well as six years of aviation battery experience while working for Saft America and Marathon Norco Aerospace. READ MORE

Dr. Nontalie Morrow

Dr. Nontalie Morrow earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from VSU in 2011. She has been named associate director of faculty and staff initiatives in the Office of Institutional Diversity at the University of Georgia. READ MORE

Lonnie Roberts

Lonnie Roberts earned a Master of Library and Information Science from VSU in 2005. He has been named president of Coastal Pines Technical College. READ MORE

Anita Reynolds Howard

Anita Reynolds Howard was recently sworn in as the first female and the first African American district attorney in Macon-Bibb County, Georgia. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from VSU in 2002. READ MORE

Jamie Andrews

Jamie Andrews was recently named Outstanding Teacher of the Month by WCTV and Envision Credit Union. She currently teaches at Madison County Central School in Madison, Florida. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Education, with a major in Early Childhood Education, from VSU in 1999. READ MORE

Andrew Pressler

Andrew Pressler has been named operations lead at TransWorld Holdings Inc., to be renamed Charge Enterprises Inc. He earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Communication from VSU in 2011. He previously served in the United States Marine Corps. READ MORE

Deidra Jackson

Deidra Jackson was recently named vice president for finance and operations at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Tifton, Georgia. She earned a Master of Business Administration from VSU in 2010. READ MORE

Tami Kellerman

Tami Kellerman was recently named executive director of foundation, marketing, and community relations for Beloit Health System in Wisconsin. She earned a Master of Public Administration from VSU in 1998. READ MORE

Brett McNeill

Brett McNeill was recently named a partner at Coleman Talley LLP. As an attorney he specializes in commercial transactions, real estate, and construction law. He was named to the Best Lawyers “Ones to Watch” list for 2021. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from VSU in 2009. READ MORE

Heather Teter

Heather Teter was recently named public relations manager for the City of Hinesville, Georgia. She earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Mass Media in 2006 and a Master of Public Administration in 2007, both from VSU. READ MORE

Whitney Anderson

Whitney Anderson was recently named the youth empowerment and engagement coordinator for YWCA Greater Charleston in South Carolina. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from VSU in 2020. READ MORE

Kristel de Groot

Kristel de Groot, co-founder of Your Super, talked to Thrive Global about creating a very successful lifestyle brand. She was recently named one of Forbes 30 Under 30 and Inc. Magazine’s 30 Under 30. She earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from VSU in 2011. READ MORE

Amy Alexander Carter

Amy Alexander Carter has been named special assistant to the president at Southern Regional Technical College. She most recently served as the deputy commissioner of Rural Georgia Initiatives for the Georgia Department of Economic Development. Before that she represented District 175 in the Georgia House of Representatives for 11 years. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Education, major in Business Education, from VSU in 1993. READ MORE

Diane Isibor

Diane Isibor is featured in New Accountant's cover story titled "Pursue Your Passion." The story introduces readers to four young professionals who earned the Certified Management Accountant Scholarship as students and are now pursuing exciting, rewarding jobs. Isibor earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from VSU in 2017. She works for Cummins Inc. READ MORE

Travis Cummings

Travis Cummings was recently appointed to the Florida Commission on Ethics by Gov. Ron DeSantis. Cummings, whose eight-year stint in the Florida House of Representatives ended this year, is vice president of benefits for The Bailey Group. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from VSU in 1994. READ MORE 

Roger Folsom

Roger Folsom has been re-appointed to the Georgia Board of Community Health by Gov. Brian Kemp. His term expires in November 2023. Folsom also serves as chairman of the Dublin-Laurens Development Authority and the Fairview Park Hospital Board of Trustees, sits on the Board of Directors of Farmers State Bank, and was elected to the Board of Governors of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce. He is president and owner of Med1st, a home medical services and equipment company. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from VSU in 1975. READ MORE

Stuart Parker

Stuart Parker was recently elected to the HealthEquity Inc. Board of Directors and appointed to serve on the Compensation Committee and the Cybersecurity Subcommittee of the Audit and Risk Committee. He previously served as chief executive officer of USAA from 2015 till his retirement in February 2020. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management from VSU in 1983. READ MORE

William "Matt" Conell

William “Matt” Connell was recently appointed to the Jacksonville Aviation Authority Board of Directors by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. He is the chief executive officer of Total Military Management, a logistics company. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management from VSU in 1996. READ MORE

Artis Stevens

Artis Stevens was recently named president and chief executive officer of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. He is the first Black person to lead the organization in its 116-year history. He earned a Master of Public Administration from VSU in 2000. READ MORE

Opie Dean Bowen

Opie Dean Bowen was recently appointed to the Certificate of Need Appeal Panel by Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp. He serves as senior counsel for Cherokee County, where he provides in-house legal services for all county departments and advises the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners and the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office on various matters. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from VSU in 2007. READ MORE

Wesley Heidt

Wesley Heidt was recently named Volusia County judge by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. He previously served as the bureau chief in the Office of the Attorney General. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in History from VSU in 1985. READ MORE

Dr. Thomas D. Fausett, Jr.

Dr. Thomas D. Fausett Jr. was recently elected president of the Georgia Academy of Family Physicians. He operates a private independent practice in Adel, Georgia, and is on staff at Southwell Medical and Southwell Health and Rehabilitation Center, also in Adel. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from VSU in 1992. READ MORE

Stripling Luke

Stripling Luke earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice in 2004 and a Master of Science in Criminal Justice in 2006, both from Valdosta State University. He was recently promoted to Assistant Special Agent in charge of the GBI's Southwestern Regional Drug Enforcement Office in Albany, which covers a 42-county area in Southwest Georgia. READ MORE

Donna Kay Sledge

Donna Kay Sledge earned a Bachelor of Science in Sports Medicine and a Bachelor of Science in Health and Physical Education from Valdosta State University in 1990. She was recently named Junior College Head Athletic Trainer of the Year by the National Athletic Trainers' Association Intercollegiate Council for Sports Medicine. She currently serves as the head athletic trainer at Abraham Baldwin Colege. READ MORE

Christie Tolbert

Christie Tolbert earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology in 2006 and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2014, both from Valdosta State University. She was recently named a Frontline Hero by Southeast Georgia Health System, where she currently works as a labor and delivery nurse at the Miriam & Hugh Nunnally Maternity Care Center. READ MORE

Eddie Howard Jr. 

Eddie Howard Jr. earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Arts from Valdosta State University in 1993. He was recently named Vice President for Student Affairs at Northern Kentucky University. He will assume the role on Jan. 1, 2021, and will provide direct leadership over student-centred departments across campus. READ MORE

Katrina Bostick

Katrina Bostick earned a Master of Social Work from Valdosta State University in May 2015. She currently serves as executive director of Family Promise of the Coastal Empire in Savannah, Georgia, and was recently named to the National Family Promise Affiliate Council. READ MORE

Natalie Milko

Natalie Milko earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design from Valdosta State University in May 2016. She was recently selected for a Downtown Valdosta mural project in Bennie's Alley. READ MORE

Lindsey Archer

Lindsey earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Performance from Valdosta State University in 2001. She was recently hired by Newnan Theatre Company to run its Academy for Theatre Arts program for high school students. READ MORE

Rebekah Ward

Rebekah Ward earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Arts from Valdosta State University in May 2020. She has recently been named the musical theatre jazz and tap instructor at Colquitt County Arts Center. READ MORE

Jermaine Whirl

Jermaine Whirl earned a Doctor of Education in Leadership from Valdosta State University in May 2020. He was recently named president of Augusta Technical College. READ MORE

Greg Voyles

Greg Voyles earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Political Science in 1991 from Valdosta State University. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp recently named him the new Superior Court Judge for the Southern Judicial Circuit, which includes Lowndes, Brooks, Colquitt, Echols, and Thomas counties. READ MORE

Caleb Jamal Brown

Caleb Jamel Brown earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art in 2016 from Valdosta State University. He is currently involved with MINT, an Atlanta-based art gallery and arts organization, and has served as an artist in residence around the globe. His exhibit, “Growing Pains,” was recently shown at the Plough Gallery in Tifton, Georgia. READ MORE

Alvin Williams

Alvin Williams earned an Education Specialist in Educational Leadership in 2015 from Valdosta State University. He is currently serving his first year as principal of Bradwell Institute in Hinesville, Georgia. READ MORE

Johnnie Marshall

Johnnie Marshall earned a Bachelor of Science in Education in Middle Grades Education in 2010, a Master of Education in Middle Grades Education in 2013, and a Doctor of Education in Leadership in 2018 from Valdosta State University. He earned the 2019 Milken Educator Award and currently serves as assistant principal of the Valdosta Early College Academy. READ MORE

Dr. Charles G. Howell

Dr. Charles G. Howell earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology in 1970 from Valdosta State University. He was recently named Chief Executive Officer of Augusta University Medical Associates. READ MORE

Father Jason Patrick Adams

Father Jason Patrick Adams earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Valdosta State University in 2006. He was recently named the new parochial vicar at St. John Evangelist Church in Valdosta and the San Jose Mission in Lake Park. READ MORE

Dr. Justin Vining 

Dr. Justin Vining earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Valdosta State University in 2003. He recently expanded his pediatric cardiology practice to Valdosta. He also practices in Tallahassee, Florida. READ MORE

Bryce Ethrdge

Bryce Ethridge earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from Valdsota State University in 2019. He was recently hired as a reporter for the Moultrie Observer. READ MORE

Stan Crance

Stan Crance earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management from Valdosta State University in 2005. He was recently appointed by the Southern Georgia Regional Commission Lending Department to the Loan Board of Directors for the Southern Georgia Area Resource Development Agency and the Southern Georgia Area Development Corporation. He has served as the director of business recruitment and existing industry with the Valdosta-Lowndes Development Authority since 2015. READ MORE

Tim Golden

Tim Golden earned a Bachelors of Arts in History from Valdosta State University in 1977.  He was recently named chariman of the Georgia State Transportation Board. READ MORE

Matthew Holley 

Matthey Holley earned a Master of Education in Adult and Career Education from Valdosta State University in 2015.  He was recently named the Georgia State Air Force Association STEM Teacher of the Year.  READ MORE

Tanguler Gray

Tanguler Gray earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Accounting fro Valdosta State University in 1991.  She was recently named president of the National Child Support Enforcement Association's Board of Directors. READ MORE

Dr. Beverley Richardson-Blake

Dr. Beverley Richardosn- Blake earned a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education in 1978, a Master of Education in Early Childhood Education in 1981, a Master of Education in Educational Administration-Supervision in 1985, and an Education Specialist in Early Childhood Education in 1987, all from Valdosta State University.  She serves as a senior advisor at VSU.  She was recently recognized in The Valdosta Daily Times for her legacy of service to others. READ MORE

Jon Benson

Jon Benson earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Mass Media from Valdosta State University in 2013.  He was recently named Director of Video Production for the Forsyth County News. READ MORE

Mackenzie Thompkins

Mackenzie Thompkins earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from Valdosta State University in 2005. He was recently named Vice President and Senior Relationship Manager for Business Banking at Bank of America Merrill Lynch. READ MORE

Dana Glass

Dana Glass earned her Master of Social Work from Valdosta State University in 2001. She wad recently named Chief Executive Officer of Aspire Behavioral health and Developmental Disability Services. READ MORE

Alphonso Sanders

Alphonso Sanders earned a Master of Music Education from Valdosta State University in 1990.  He was recently named Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Lincol University in Missouri. READ MORE

John Lester

John Lester earned a Doctor of Public Administration from Valdosta State University in 2014. He was recently named Vice President for University Communications and Marketing at Georgia Southern University. READ MORE

Deryl Seckinger

Deryl Seckinger earned a Doctor of Public Administration from Valdosta State University in 2018. He was recently named Chief of Police for East Georgia State College. READ MORE

Debra Lightsey

Debra Lightsey earned a Master of Education in School Guidance and Counseling in 2003 and an Education Specialist in Educational Leadership in 2014 from Valdosta State University. She was recently named Assistant Principal at Odum Elementary School in Colquitt County, Georgia. READ MORE

Brent Watts

Brent Watts earned a Masters  Degree in Physical Education from Valdosta State University in 2007. He was recently named principal of Daughtry Elementary School in Jackson, Georgia.  READ MORE

Marie Guest

Marie earned an Education Specialist in Instructional Technology from Valdosta State University in 2007. She was recently named Instructor of the Year at North Florida Community College. READ MORE

Janice Rago

Janice Rago earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art from Valdosta State University in 2009. She was recently selected by the City of Valdosta Public Art Advisory Committee to be the muralist for a Downtown Valdosta Mural Project. READ MORE

Matt Crews

Matt Crews earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from Valdosta State University in 2009. He was recently named head coach of the Colquitt County High School baseball team. READ MORE

Mark Bassford

Mark Bassford earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from Valdosta State University in 2007. He was recently appointed to the Georgia Department of Economic Development Advisory Board. He is president of Bassford Companies, including Warehouse Rentals, Bassford Industrial Construction, and Bassford Packaging. READ MORE

Josh Branan

Josh Branan earned a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from Valdosta State University in 2005. He was recently named head coach of the Tennessee Wesleyan University volleyball team.  READ MORE

Gary Goff

Gary Goff earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing from Valdosta State university in 1996. He is head coach of the Blazer football team and recently offered some advice on recruiting. READ MORE