SGTC’s Roderick Douglas named Student of Excellence

South Georgia Technical College student Roderick Douglas of Americus was recently named the college’s Student of Excellence for the month of February. Douglas, a Culinary Arts student, was recognized for his hard work, participation and commitment to learning at the Student of Excellence program held in the John M. Pope Industrial Technology Center on the college’s Americus campus.

Culinary Arts Instructor, Chef Ricky Watzlowick, nominated Douglas for the award and stated “Douglas is part of an incredible class. He has been in the food industry for 34 years and has come back to school to refresh his knowledge.” Watzlowick also mentioned, “He (Douglas) is well respected by his peers and is a great example of what the Culinary Arts Program can do”.

Douglas accepted the nomination and addressed the audience by saying, “I am grateful, thankful and honored for the nomination.” Douglas went on to say how great of an institution, South Georgia Technical College is and that he is thankful for the opportunity to represent his program.

The other nominees in the February Student of Excellence ceremony included Geoffrey Glover of Cordele, Barbering; Tyras Washington of Fitzgerald, Cosmetology; Trenidee Sanford of Americus, Criminal Justice Technology; Edwin Cabrera of Americus, Early Childhood Care and Education; NaBryia Denson of Americus, Medical Assisting; and Sierra Berry of Americus, Practical Nursing.

After the other nominees received their certificates and t-shirts, David Kuipers, Vice President of Academic Affairs, explained the criteria to be chosen as the overall Student of Excellence and the benefits that come with the title before announcing Douglas as the winner. The winner is selected based on a number of criteria, including grades, work ethics, participation in clubs and organizations, and amount of program completion. As the winner, Douglas was awarded with a plaque of recognition, a personal letter of recommendation from SGTC President Dr. John Watford. Additionally, his name will be displayed on SGTC’s digital marquee as well as inscribed on a plaque in Hicks Hall among previous Student of Excellence winners.

Each month, students from certain divisions selected for that month are nominated for the Student of Excellence award by their instructors. In addition to Chef Ricky Watzlowick, additional nominating instructors Xavier Jackson, Dorothea McKenzie, Teresa McCook, Jaye Cripe, Jeana Yawn, and Jennifer Childs.

South Georgia Technical College offers over 200 degrees, diplomas, and certificates of credit in a variety of in-demand disciplines. For a complete list of programs visit www.southgatech.edu.