South Georgia Technical College Criminal Justice Technology student Hailey Gregory of Americus was named the college’s Student of Excellence for October during a recent recognition ceremony on the Americus campus.
Academic Dean Brett Murray welcomed students, instructors, family members and friends to the ceremony, while Academic Dean Ashley Dukes explained the significance of the Student of Excellence recognition. Dukes said the honor recognizes students who demonstrate hard work, dedication and achievement both inside and outside the classroom. The monthly winner receives a letter of recommendation from SGTC President Dr. John Watford, a $50 monetary award, a Student of Excellence plaque and additional recognition from the college.
Gregory was nominated by Criminal Justice Technology instructor Teresa McCook, who said Gregory has stood out throughout her time in the program through her work ethic, attendance and willingness to take on challenges.
McCook noted that Gregory represented SGTC in SkillsUSA competition last year after initially hesitating because of her responsibilities as a wife and mother. With support from her family, Gregory competed and helped earn a third-place finish. McCook said Gregory plans to compete again and continues to demonstrate the commitment that made her a natural choice for the Student of Excellence nomination.
Gregory is currently completing an internship with the district attorney’s office while finishing requirements for her Criminal Justice Technology diploma. She plans to continue in the program and complete her associate degree before graduating in May. McCook said the internship is giving Gregory an opportunity to gain experience while exploring where she would like to take her criminal justice career.
After being recognized as the October winner, Gregory thanked McCook and her family for supporting her throughout her education.
“There have been times when things were hard, but their encouragement reminded me to keep going and never give up,” Gregory said. “I am proud of how far I’ve come, and I’m excited about where my future will take me.”
Other October Student of Excellence nominees were Kre'Shena Smith of Buena Vista, Barbering, nominated by instructor Andre Robinson; Ashlyn Burke of Americus, Cosmetology nominated by instructor Dorothea Lusane-McKenzie; Persaydeous Donaldson of Decatur, Culinary Arts, nominated by Chef Ricky Watzlowick; Destiny Overstreet of Plains, Early Childhood Care and Education, nominated by instructor Jaye Cripe; Barbara Gordon of DeSoto, Medical Assisting, nominated by instructor Jeana Yawn; and Porsha Ingram of Americus, Practical Nursing, nominated by instructor Jennifer Childs.
Murray closed the ceremony by noting a common quality among the nominees: they approach their education with intention and purpose. He also recognized the instructors and SGTC personnel who help students succeed and congratulated all seven nominees for representing their programs with excellence.
South Georgia Technical College offers over 200 programs in high-demand fields. Apply online for spring semester at www.southgatech.edu.
