New Wilkinson County High School GO Center Ribbon Cutting Held
Wilkinson County High School was the site of a ribbon cutting that was held on March 29 for the new GO Center. Stay in School Specialist Alissa Jacques addressed a large crowd of
students, faculty, business and community leaders who gathered together for the event. She explained the purpose of the GO Center and summed it up in one word…..opportunity".
The new GO Center at Wilkinson County High School is filled with opportunity for students to explore career options, financial aid possibilities and to meet with G-force mentors who will help them
through the college preparation process. The room is equipped with computers with internet access to web sites such as www.georgiaGO.org and www.GAcollege411.org, as well as other informative sites. There are college pennants and posters that draw students' interest to the possibilities awaiting them; and resource books to provide additional college information to students.
Wilkinson County High School students will also have the support of the local United Way, Heart of Georgia Technical College, Wilkinson County Middle School, Youth Apprenticeship and other members of the business community who have offered to lend their time and knowledge to launch GO in the community. County Commissioner Dennis Holder and City of Gordon Mayor Kenneth Turner were among the business and community leaders who pledged their support to the program.
"I applaud your work on behalf of the students of Wilkinson County,"said GO Community Relations Manager Candace Sommer. "With this new GO Center and your support, these students will have a better chance to reach their potential through education".
For more information on GO centers, visit the website at www.georgiaGO.org or email to info@georgiaGO.org.
Pictured (l-r): Kathy Culpepper, assistant superintendent, Wilkinson County Schools; Dennis Holder, Wilkinson County commissioner; Thomas Whipple, Wilkinson County High School counselor; and Kenneth Turner, mayor, City of Gordon.
Heart of Georgia Technical College was well represented at the Career Fair which was recently held at Wilkinson County High School. The Career Fair for the high school students was arranged by Alissa Jacques, Stay in School Coordinator. Pictured: Paula McGowan of HGTC discussing the Environmental Horticulture Program with students.
Heart of Georgia Technical College students from the Nursing Program, Medical Assisting Program and Respiratory Therapy Program recently participated in the American Heart Association Heart Walk. The walkers raised $1190.86 for the cause. Pictured is the HGTC group.
The Difference an Education Makes
Barbara Griffin is an optimist. She says she gets her positive attitude from her grandmother who told her that every cloud has a silver lining. Being laid off from her manufacturing job several years ago could have devastated Griffin, but she says, “The layoff was the best thing that ever happened.”
A graduate of Dublin High School, Griffin had worked in manufacturing since graduating. When she found herself without a job, she decided to do something different; she decided to go to college. She began attending classes at Heart of Georgia Technical College and earned a Legal Office Specialist diploma on her 49th birthday in March 2003. The prior year she had begun working with Morris Robertson as Office Manager, where she is currently employed.
During her studies, Griffin developed a real interest in learning. She returned to HGTC and earned a Customer Service Specialist Certificate and as Associate Degree in Applied Business Technology. She also took a Paralegal class online through HGTC. But she isn’t done yet, “I’d like to go back and study accounting. I’d like to learn more about that,” she says. After being laid off, job security is a primary concern and she feels having transferable skills is important to everyone.
Encouraged by Robertson to pursue her education, Griffin earned a 4.0 average every quarter in school. She was a member of the National Technical Honor Society and Phi Beta Lambda where she placed 4th in the public speaking competition among other technical college and four year college students. She also received the Georgia Occupational Award of Leadership (GOAL) while in school.
Griffin continues to be active through the alumni association. “If Heart of Georgia had not been here, I probably would not have gone back to school. When I started there, I needed a job. I would have gone to another factory and risked the layoffs again. Heart of Georgia helped turn my life around,” says Griffin.
Her age was not a problem in school, “I thought I would feel out of place being my age, with all the young kids. But from the first day, I felt comfortable. The teachers and faculty made me feel welcome. I am here today because of Heart of Georgia.”
Griffin enjoys working in the legal field, “What I like about my job is that I’m helping people. Every client has a need and I like being able to help them.”
HGTC Offers Non-Credit Certification/Refresher Courses
The Continuing Education Division of Heart of Georgia Technical College is offering four new non-credit certification/refresher courses.
The Commercial Truck Driving Refresher Course is designed for individuals needing a refresher course. Students will participate in classroom instruction, backing maneuvers, road maneuvers, trip planning, vehicle inspections, and will review the Federal Rules and Regulations. A personal assessment of driving ability will be performed on each student prior to instruction. A current commercial driver’s license, certificate or certified documentation from an accredited driving school, current DOT physical, and current motor vehicle report are required to register for the course. The $500 fee includes drug screen exam, all fuel expenses, and 30 hours of classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel hands on training.
The Welding Certification Test will provide certification that is designed to benefit welders and to assist employers in obtaining qualifications for their welding personnel. All certifications will be governed by AWS D1.1 code book standards. This six hour test is available to anyone who is interested in gaining certification in Arc, MIG, TIG, and Flux Cored in plate and pipe. Applicants must have previous welding training or two years welding experience and must provide their own personal safety welding equipment. The $150 fee includes all materials and supplies. The test will be administered by a certified welding inspector (CWI).
The ServSafe® Certified Food Safety Management Course will provide participants with viable information on potentially hazardous foods and safe food handling practices; the HAACP system of food safety; establishing, purchasing, and receiving standards and procedures; designing facilities and selecting appropriate equipment; and guidelines for working with regulatory agencies. The $200 fee includes all books and materials. This training meets the requirements of the Georgia Department of Human Resources Rules and Regulations for Food Service.
The OSHA Forklift Safety Training course is comprised of classroom training and obstacle course training. The obstacle course test will verify driving skills and abilities while driving under actual conditions. All training is provided by an OSHA Safety Forklift Certified instructor. Successful students will receive a pocket size certificate and a certificate for their permanent file. The fee is $109 and covers the cost of the classroom training and a written exam.
For information on the certification and refresher courses contact Mr. Jep Craig, HGTC vice president of economic development, at 478-274-7843.
HGTC TO HOLD SPRING COMMENCEMENT: Dr. Brenda Shuman-Riley, Georgia’s Teacher of the Year to Speak
Over 250 graduates are eligible to walk across the stage at the Heart of Georgia Technical College Commencement Ceremony on Thursday, April 13, 2006. The ceremony will begin at 7:00 pm and will be held in the DuBose Porter Business & Industry Center located on the Heart of Georgia Tech campus in Dublin. The ceremony is free and open to the public.
Dr. Brenda Shuman-Riley, Georgia’s teacher of the year, will be the guest speaker.
Dr. Shuman-Riley is a veteran educator, having served K-12 and postsecondary as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, and education consultant. Dr. Shuman-Riley holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Education from Georgia Southern University, a Master’s Degree in English Education from the University of Georgia, a Specialist Degree in Educational Administration and Supervision from Georgia Southern University, and a Doctorate in Educational Administration and Leadership from Georgia Southern University. She is involved in several professional activities including membership in the Professional Association of Georgia Educators, Kappa Delta Pi, Phi Delta Kappa, Delta Kappa Gamma Society, and is a local founder of the future teacher organization, SPAGE.
“Graduation is such an exciting time for all of us at Heart of Georgia Tech,” commented Dr. Randall Peters, HGTC president. “To see our graduates walk across the stage and know they have received the best training to enter the workforce is rewarding. And, I look forward to hearing the message Dr. Shuman-Riley will bring to the graduates.”
The Right Choice
When his company downsized, Danny Cherry made the decision to go back to school. This decision turned out to be a choice for success in Cherry’s life.
Cherry enrolled at Heart of Georgia Technical College in the fall of 2004 and began studying Air Conditioning Technology. His strong work ethic and dedication to learning helped Cherry excel in academics and as a leader at the school.
Cherry has earned many awards at HGTC while maintaining a 3.85 grade point average. He earned the Tools for Outstanding Occupational Leadership Students Award (TOOLS) and was recipient of the Georgia Occupational Award of Leadership (GOAL) in 2005. He is a member of the National Technical Honor Society and has been named to the President’s List.
In addition to academics, Cherry has been involved with student organizations. He has served as president of the Student Government Association and SkillsUSA. He has been elected president for the State Leadership Council, the governing body for student government associations among technical colleges. Cherry recently participated in SkillsUSA, a competitive program among technical and four year colleges. He has worked with Communities Activities Projects (CAPS) in providing fans and blankets for the elderly and working with Habitat for Humanity.
While at HGTC, Cherry worked in the work study program. He assisted instructors in day to day activities and was instrumental in helping the college receive accreditation for its air conditioning course of study.
Cherry has secured a position with an air conditioning installation and service company. His experience at HGTC has helped him grow academically and personally and has prepared him for a new career.
Heart of Georgia Technical College was the site for a seminar, “Ten Simple Rules of Investing,” which was presented by Charles Johnson from the Edward D. Jones Company. Approximately 35 people were in attendance at the seminar which was free and open to the public.
Determined to Succeed
Yolanda Kratz is determined to succeed. She doesn’t let a visual disability get in her way. She had been working in the accounting field when she was forced to resign in 2001 because of her disability.
This might have discouraged some, but Kratz became even more committed to finding her place. She enrolled at Heart of Georgia Technical College where she is successful in the classroom and out. A member of the National Technical Honor Society, she excels at academics while participating in various student organizations. She maintains a 4.0 grade point average and has been on the President’s List since her first quarter with HGTC.
Kratz has served in student government at HGTC and as secretary of the State Student Leadership Council for technical colleges. She worked as president of Phi Beta Lambda. Her disability has not kept her from competing in SkillsUSA in visual and accounting principles where she placed second in the region and state. She is now eligible to compete at the national level.
Kratz also uses her skills to serve other students. While participating in the work study program, she has enjoyed tutoring other students.
Nominated for the Georgia Occupational Award of Leadership (GOAL), Kratz has proven that she is respected among her teachers and peers.
Kratz currently uses a Maxpro camera designed for the visually impaired to help her see the board in the classroom. The glasses bring images right in front of her eyes to help her see.
Kratz is current studying Networking and is working towards a diploma in Computer Information Systems. She hopes to work in networking and to help others with similar disabilities.
Kratz lives in Bleckley County with her two teenage children. She credits her children with giving her the determination to succeed.
HGTC PBL students compete in state competition
Members of the Heart of Georgia Technical College Phi Beta Lambda (PBL) organization recently attended and competed at the State Conference and Competition. The following students placed in the competition and will represent the State of Georgia at the National Competition:
Angela Moore 1st Visual Basic Programming
Dennis Sikes 1st Networking Concepts
1st Computer Concepts
Winston Bolen 2nd Computer Concepts
2nd Management Concepts
Yolanda Kratz 2nd Visual Basic Programming
PBL is a national organization for business technology and information technology students. PBL provides opportunities to develop vocational competencies for business occupations. PBL also promotes a sense of civic and personal responsibility. District, state, and national competitions are open to students in this organization. Phi Beta Lambda members are also involved in various community and charitable endeavors as well.
Dr. Randall Peters, HGTC president, commented, “All of us at Heart of Georgia Technical College are proud of these students and their instructors. We wish them the best as they compete in the national competition.”
(Pictured (l-r): Dennis Sikes, Teresa Dean, Yolanda Kratz, David Cooke, Angela Moore, Laura Wilson, Heidi Tanner, and Winston Bolen)
Boys and girls in the Heart of Georgia Technical College Pre-K class got a running start for an egg hunt. The children made their baskets as an in-class project under the direction of Misty Smith, pre-k instructor.
The Heart of Georgia Technical College Continuing Education Division recently provided Forklift Training for some employees of the VA Medical Center. Wallace Lord was the instructor. For information on specialized training for your business or industry, contact Jep Craig, vice president for economic development, at 478-274-7843 or jcraig@heartofgatech.edu.
Walker Recognized by State Organization
Rickey Walker has worn many hats as an employee of Heart of Georgia Technical College. His most recent work as Student Life and Retention Specialist has earned him statewide recognition by the Association for the Promotion of Campus Activities (APCA).
APCA is a national activities organization that serves campus organizations. It caters to smaller schools, allowing them to bond together for services and activities.
In his current position, Walker oversees student organizations at HGTC. This is a newly created position; Walker feels is just right for him. He has served as advisor to the HGTC Student Government since he started working at the college. He now coordinates all clubs, enrichment programs and retention programs.
Walker’s supervisor, Rick Swanson, Dean of Student Services, is proud of Walker’s accomplishments, “Rickey has taken his passion for student activities to a new level at HGTC by giving of himself 24/7 including weekends, to find and provide those activities outside the classroom that aid the students of HGTC in developing the qualities of leadership and community involvement that makes them good citizens. He has been involved in all aspects of student activities at the college level, HGTC, and state through the Technical College System of Georgia Statewide Student Leadership Council, and the annual fall leadership training program for all student organization leaders.”
Swanson and Walker have worked together to promote the Dubose Porter Training and Conference Center, “As Rickey’s supervisor, I have continuously encouraged him to bring various statewide student organization conferences to Dublin to support the community and showcase HGTC.” They have plans to host the state Student Leadership Council and the SkillsUSA state meeting in the future.
Pictured (l-r): Eric Lambert, APCA executive director and Rickey Walker.
HGTC begins $13.7 million expansion
by Natalie Davis
The Courier Herald
As local and state leaders gathered at Heart of Georgia Technical College Wednesday, the anxious faces of 16 pre-k’ers were among them.
Below the ominous threat of rain, spades in hand and hard hats on, the group of excited 4- and 5-year-olds took part in the ceremonial breaking ground on the college’s latest expansion — a new $13.7 million allied health facility.
Heralding them “the youngest college students,” HGTC President Dr. Randall Peters said the construction of the new building is a cornerstone for their future and the future of the local community.
“This building is all about the future,” said Peters. “This is their new college building.”
With plans in the works for the past few years, the new building aims to meet the growing demand for health care professionals in the area, officials noted.
State Sen. Ross Tolleson, who Peters said along with state Rep. DuBose Porter have worked to ensure the necessary funding for the project has been secured in the state budget in Atlanta, said the new facility “delivers health care to rural Georgia” and meets the regional demand.
The college’s allied health program is one of its fastest growing areas, so much so that current facilities have been unable to keep up with the demand. The college’s overall enrollment has been among the fastest growing within the state technical college system over the past few years.
What began with around 15 students, the HGTC’s nursing program has seen steady increases over the past few years as the demand for trained health care employees has increased.
Porter noted that before, health care professionals have had to be imported into the area to meet job needs.
“We just didn’t have enough [space available for the necessary training],” he said, but, “if given that opportunity, our people could compete with anyone in the world.”
The new health building, which will include a library, laboratories and classrooms for cosmetology, physical and life sciences and veterinary technology, will also allow the college to expand course offerings to include new programs such as surgical technology and more LPN classes.
The construction is part of a large-scale expansion on the college’s main campus, which is also slated to include renovations to the Stewart Building to create more room for the early childhood education and prekindergarten programs.
All phases of the campus renovation are slated for completion sometime in 2009.
HGTC Board of Directors Chair Richard Jones said events like Wednesday’s groundbreaking and last week’s commencement ceremony are some of the “fringe benefits” of his association with the college.
“To see these kids walk across that stage ... is one of the best benefits you can ever have,” said Jones. “This day has truly been made possible through the efforts of many here today.”
Said state Department of Technical College commissioner Michael Vollmer of the impact of campuses such as HGTC, “We are changing lives. You are changing lives every single day.”
While there are many projects in other districts across the state perhaps equally important, Tolleson said HGTC’s new building is “a deserving project that stands on its own merits.”
“This is a great day,” he said.
Peters noted the cooperative effort among the area’s state leaders, as well as past contributions of those including former state Sen. Hugh Gillis, who have worked to ensure that the project’s vision has remained intact.
“It’s all of us working with a common vision to make life better here,” said Porter. “We’ve all done it together.”
But, noted Peters, perhaps none of the college’s local impact could have ever been possible without the vision of past leaders, namely the late Louie Livingston. Because of his efforts, Peters said he was proud to announce that the new allied health facility will be named in his honor —
Louie Livingston Hall.
Livingston, who passed away last year, served as president and was a trustee with the HGTC foundation. In 2001, he was recognized by the college as its “Founding Father” for his contributions. He worked as an ambassador for the school for over 35 years, and his family, through The Louie and Evelyn Livingston Family Foundation, has continued its support of the college.
Though the official naming of the building is awaiting a final vote from the state Technical College System of Georgia board of directors, Peters said he felt confident of its approval.
“It’s a great pleasure to be able to make that announcement.”
Members of the Telfair County and Wheeler County Youth Leadership groups recently met at the Heart of Georgia Technical College Little Ocmulgee Instructional Center. The students were greeted by Dr. Howard Abney, dean of the instructional center, and were able to tour the facility. Dr. Abney discussed the value of technical education and briefed them on the HGTC offerings. Those in attendance were: Takida Baker (Telfair County High School), Molly Bentley (Telfair County High School), April Brown (Wheeler County High School), Laura Burch (Telfair County High School), Maria Gonzalez (Wheeler County High School), Gladaya Hamilton (Telfair County High School), Tekia Hamilton (Telfair County High School), Jasmine Hurst (Telfair County High School), Bailey Joiner (Telfair County High School),Lauren Jones (Telfair County High School), Keely Kight (Telfair County High School), Mara Mancio (Wheeler County High School), Brooke McKinnon (Telfair County High School), Marchelle McRae (Telfair County High School), Katie Mitchell (Wheeler County High School), Thea Mullis (Wheeler County High School), Kurt Thigpen (Telfair County High School), Cody Thomas (Wheeler County High School), Hannah Thornton (Wheeler County High School).
HGTC completes 2006 employee fund drive
The Heart of Georgia Technical College completed its 2006 Employee Fund Drive this month (April) to benefit the HGTC Foundation.
The goal for the internal fund drive was 100 percent participation from the full-time employees. “The goal each year is participation,” said Laurie Wicker, director of development. The Employee Fund Drive had 90 percent participation for 2006.
“We realize the importance of the support from the Heart of Georgia Tech family,” Wicker said. “That’s why we have a participation goal rather than a monetary goal. Even though we did not make our 100 percent goal, reaching 90 percent is outstanding.”
“Our employees know first-hand the difference the Foundation makes in the lives of the Heart of Georgia Tech students,” Wicker said.
The mission of the Foundation is to support and enhance the college by encouraging private giving. Because the college is state-assisted, it is increasingly reliant on private contributions to fund programs, scholarships, student emergency grants, professional development grants, library resources, instructional equipment/technologies, and other programs for which the state dollars are insufficient or unavailable.
The Foundation began holding an annual internal fund drive in 1999. Since that first campaign, the HGTC employees have increased their giving more than 1,200 percent. “Our employees make a difference,” said Randall L. Peters, HGTC president. “They believe in the college. They see first-hand how we change lives.”
Peters set a challenge to employees to join the 1% Club. “I give one percent of my salary to the Foundation. I encourage you to also give a thoughtful and proportional gift,” he said. Heart of Georgia Tech has 13 employees who have stepped up and joined the 1% Club.
Prior to each community fund drive, the Foundation holds an internal campaign for the HGTC employees. The Foundation will hold its annual community fund drive in August.
For more information on the HGTC Foundation or on how you can help, contact Laurie Wicker at (478) 274-7878, lwicker@heartofgatech.edu or visit the HGTC Foundation’s website at www.heartofgatech.edu/main/Exec/Foundation.
Oconee Electric Membership Corporation Foundation awards funding to
Heart of Georgia Technical College
Oconee Electric Membership Corporation Foundation awarded the Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation $4,000 towards funding for a fitness trail on the Heart of Georgia Technical College campus.
The funding comes from a special program, Operation Round Up, where members of Oconee EMC round up their monthly electric bill to the nearest dollar to help support the Foundation.
The purpose of the HGTC Foundation project is to develop a 20-station fitness trail. Wellness is an initiative identified in HGTC’s strategic plan. By implementing a fitness trail, HGTC will meet a goal of its five-year strategic plan.
There is not a public fitness trail with exercise stations in the community. “The HGTC Foundation recognizes the need to make the HGTC campus a more fitness friendly environment,” said Laurie Wicker, director of development. “State funds are not available to implement a wellness program on campus; therefore, we are seeking private funds to create a fitness trail for the campus and community.”
The Oconee EMC Foundation Round Up grant meets about a third of the project need. “The Foundation is seeking other sources to complete funding for the project,” said Wicker.
Pictured: Alexis Hughes, Oconee EMC Foundation secretary/treasurer, presents a $4,000 Operation Round Up grant check to the HGTC Foundation at their March 2006 meeting.
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