Williams Named SGTC Student of Excellence

September 25, 2024
Nominees for SGTC’s Student of Excellence Award for September were (front row, L-R) Debra Merrell, Henry Johnson, Lance Cornell, Cassandra Williams, Michael Mendez-Hernandez, Jordan Hayes, and Robert Nesselrotte. Not pictured is nominee Te’ahja Hardwick. Back row (l-r) are nominating instructors Johnny Griffin, Kristie Hudson, Mike Collins, Brandon Gross, Patrick Owen, Jake Pittman, and Ted Eschmann.
Nominees for SGTC’s Student of Excellence Award for September were (front row, L-R) Debra Merrell, Henry Johnson, Lance Cornell, Cassandra Williams, Michael Mendez-Hernandez, Jordan Hayes, and Robert Nesselrotte. Not pictured is nominee Te’ahja Hardwick. Back row (l-r) are nominating instructors Johnny Griffin, Kristie Hudson, Mike Collins, Brandon Gross, Patrick Owen, Jake Pittman, and Ted Eschmann.

South Georgia Technical College in Americus recently held a ceremony to recognize outstanding students in several program areas. The overall “Student of Excellence” distinction was awarded to Horticulture student Cassandra Williams of Perry. She was nominated by instructor Brandon Gross.

Dr. David Finley, Academic Dean, opened the ceremony by congratulating all the nominees for their recognition as outstanding students in their programs.

Next, each nominating instructor introduced his or her nominated student with remarks on what makes the student worthy of the Student of Excellence honor. Nominated students also had the opportunity to address the audience.

Following the introduction of the nominees, Vice President of Academic Affairs Julie Partain announced Williams as the overall winner. For her achievement as the overall Student of Excellence, Williams received a commemorative plaque, a congratulatory letter from SGTC President Dr. John Watford, and a $50 check.

SGTC Student of Excellence overall winner Cassandra Williams (right) with Horticulture instructor Brandon Gross.
SGTC Student of Excellence overall winner Cassandra Williams (right) with Horticulture instructor Brandon Gross.

Gross introduced Williams as his nominee for the award with praise for her dedication and work ethics as well as the quality of her character. “She’s a dedicated mom and wife,” Gross said, “and just an all-around impressive person.”

Upon accepting the honor, Williams thanked Gross for his direction in the Horticulture program. “A good instructor will make or break your education,” she said, “and Mister Gross is a superb instructor … I really appreciate the experience that I’m getting here at South Georgia Tech.”

Other nominees for the honor included: Debra Merrell of Byromville, Air Conditioning Technology, nominated by Johnny Griffin; Henry Johnson of Buena Vista, Drafting Technology, nominated by Kristie Hudson; Lance Cornell of Andersonville, Electronics Technology, nominated by Mike Collins; Michael Mendez-Hernandez of Americus, Electrical Systems Technology, nominated by Patrick Owen; Te’ahja Hardwick of Cuthbert, Industrial Systems Technology, nominated by Patrick Owen; Jordan Hayes of Albany, nominated by Jake Pittman; and Robert Nesselrotte of Box Springs, nominated by Ted Eschmann.

The Student of Excellence is selected based on a number of criteria, including grades, work ethics, participation in clubs and organizations, and amount of program completion.

South Georgia Technical College offers over 200 degrees, diplomas, and technical certificates of credit in a variety of in-demand disciplines. For a complete list of programs visit www.southgatech.edu. Apply now for the fall C-term beginning October 16.