South Georgia Technical College Electronics Technology student Jack Beeland of Lizella was named the college’s September 2026 Student of Excellence during a recent recognition ceremony on the Americus campus.
Beeland was selected from six students nominated by their instructors for outstanding performance in their respective programs. The Student of Excellence recognition highlights students who demonstrate strong academic performance, work ethic, leadership, attendance, and a willingness to go above and beyond in the classroom and lab.
SGTC Vice President of Academic Affairs Julie Partain welcomed the nominees and their families and congratulated the students for earning the recognition.
“We want to highlight those that go a little extra sometimes,” Partain told the students. “I hope you do know that that means that you did something to catch your instructor’s eye for a positive reason.”
Academic Dean Brett Murray explained that being nominated as a Student of Excellence is an accomplishment students can include on job applications and resumes. He said the nominees distinguish themselves through leadership, helping their classmates, putting forth extra effort, and maintaining good attendance.
Beeland was nominated by Electronics Technology instructor Mike Collins. A fourth-semester student, Beeland works full time with his father’s electrical business while attending SGTC. Collins praised Beeland’s work ethic and desire to learn, noting that his experience in the field allows him to connect classroom instruction with situations he encounters on the job.
“School has not always been my strong suit, but once I finally came here and started doing electronics, something I’m familiar with, I actually enjoy learning,” Beeland said. He also thanked Collins for helping him expand his knowledge and improve his skills on the job and credited his father with teaching him the value of hard work, perseverance, and continuing to learn.
Other Student of Excellence nominees were Edgar Diaz of Americus, Air Conditioning Technology, nominated by Johnny Griffin; Aydin Deamon of Americus, Architectural and Engineering Drawing Technology, nominated by Kristie Hudson; Akram Haly of Lithonia, Electrical Systems Technology, nominated by Patrick Owen; Mario Garcia of Orlando, FL, Precision Machining, nominated by Ted Eschmann; and Austin Myers of Alamo, Welding and Joining Technology, nominated by Brad Aldridge.
The instructors who nominated the students shared examples of the qualities that earned them recognition. They highlighted the nominees’ attendance, initiative, willingness to help classmates, commitment to quality work, and drive to develop skills that will serve them in the workforce.
As the September Student of Excellence, Beland will receive a letter of recognition from SGTC President Dr. John Watford and a monetary award. His name will also be featured on the college’s digital sign. All nominees received certificates and special Student of Excellence shirts recognizing their achievement.
South Georgia Technical College offers more than 200 associate degree, diploma, and technical certificate of credit programs designed to provide students with hands-on training and work-ready skills for successful careers. Learn more and apply for admission at www.southgatech.edu.
