Today is: March 12, 2010

LATEST NEWS FROM THE HGTC FOUNDATION

McRae Rotary Club GEd Scholarship Awarded

The Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation awarded the McRae Rotary Club GED Scholarship for Winter Quarter 2010 to Holly Barfield of McRae.

The McRae Rotary Club established the scholarship, which will be awarded quarterly, to the HGTC Foundation for Telfair County GED (General Educational Development) graduates who enroll in a credit program at Heart of Georgia Technical College.

The scholarship is given in part to fulfill the Rotary International organization’s commitment to Adult Literacy and to encourage local GED graduates to continue their education.

To establish a scholarship, or make a donation to the HGTC Foundation, contact Jenny Shuman at (478) 296-6117 or jshuman@heartofgatech.edu.

Pictured: McRae Rotary Club President Earl Merritt, Holly Barfield, Howard Abney, dean, Little Ocmulgee Instructional Center.

LOIC Tech Fee Scholarships Awarded

Six Little Ocmulgee Instructional Center students have received the Little Ocmulgee Instructional Center Technology Fee Scholarship from the Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation for fall quarter.

Those receiving the award are Haley R. Walker of McRae, Kandice Green of Alamo, Samantha M. Burkes of Rhine, Elizabeth Hames of Helena, Barbara Grant of Glenwood, and Joyce Wooten of Alamo.

The Technology Fee Scholarship is awarded quarterly to students enrolled in a program of study at Little Ocmulgee Instructional Center (LOIC) of the Heart of Georgia Technical College who are in a good academic standing with the college. The scholarship is also based on financial need and the amount of funds available for the award.

The HGTC Foundation is a 501(c)3 organization. If you would like to make a donation to support the technology fee scholarship, please contact Jenny Shuman at 478-296-6117, or visit the Foundation website at www.heartofgatech.edu.

HGTC Foundation awards Dr. Fred A. Smith Jr. Scholarships

Four students enrolled at Heart of Georgia Technical College have received the Fred A. Smith Jr. Scholarship for winter quarter.

The scholarship was established by The Merchants & Citizens Bank of McRae in memory and honor of Dr. Fredrick Augustus Smith Jr. The scholarship is based on financial need and is for students enrolled at the Little Ocmulgee Instructional Center located in Helena.

Students receiving the scholarships are Elizabeth Hames of Helena, Samantha M. Burkes of Rhine, Kandice Green of Alamo, and Barbara Grant of Glenwood.

Scholarships create opportunities to change lives. Those interested in establishing a scholarship or donating to an existing scholarship, please contact Jenny Shuman (478) 296-6117 or jshuman@heartofgatech.edu. The HGTC Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.

HGTC Foundation TOOLS Program held January 22

The Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation awarded tools to 18 Heart of Georgia Tech students on Friday, January 22, 2010.

The program is called TOOLS, Tools for Outstanding Occupational Leadership Students. This year marks the eleventh awards program. Student recipients get a jump-start on their careers by receiving a tools grant. The students range from machinists to pharmacy technicians.

TOOLS is made possible by the Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation, the Morris Bank, and the Louie & Evelyn Livingston Family Foundation.

This year’s recipients are: Tanicka Blash, Health Information Technology; Tommie R. Burns, Air Conditioning Technology; Joshua Clark, Pharmacy Technology; Cody Robert Darnell, Machine Tool Technology; Otis Faircloth, Air Conditioning Technology; Elizabeth Fordham, Medical Assisting; Ruth Ann Gillis, Automotive Technology; Maurice Johnson; Respiratory Therapy; Misty Lamb, Practical Nursing; Elizabeth Medlin, Respiratory Therapy; Elaine Norsworthy, Early Childhood Education; Natasha Sanchez, Diesel Technology; Tia Singleton, Respiratory Therapy; Robert Lee Smith, Air Conditioning Technology; Oshika Stanley, Marketing Management; Robert ‘Benji” Veal, Management and Supervisory Development; Toni Williams, Computer Information Systems; and Cody R. Woodard, Welding and Joining Technology.

HGTC Foundation awards Karen Core CNA Scholarships

The Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation has awarded six students with the Karen Core CNA Scholarship for fall quarter.

The scholarship was established by the Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation to assist certified nursing assistant students.

The Foundation chose Karen Core to honor with the scholarship because of her life-long service to health care as a registered nurse and her past membership on the HGTC Foundation and HGTC nursing advisory committee.

The following students received the scholarship for fall quarter: Brittany Starley from Helena; Marissa Linder from East Dublin; Naomi King from Dublin; Dana Dixon from Dublin; Vicky Stafford from Eastman; Donald Campbell from Dublin.

Scholarships create opportunities to change lives. Those interested in establishing a scholarship or donating to an existing scholarship, please contact Jenny Shuman at (478) 296-6117 or jshuman@heartofgatech.edu. The HGTC Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.

Education important to Patel

The conversation could have come across a touch trivial—the focus was on a bubbling fountain in the main foyer—but the genuine interest by both parties wasn't fained at all.

And much like the fountain in question, its owner, LaQuinta owner and operator Phil Patel, has traveled here, there and everywhere before ending up just in front of the bubbling structure in his new hometown of Dublin.

Unlike the fountain, which was designed for a singular purpose, Patel's journey from Zambia to England and eventually to Laurens County was designed to prepare Patel for any number of purposes and successes he might encounter; education being at the center of each one of his journeys.

Which is why Patel, check in hand only moments earlier, became one of the newest members of the Heart of Georgia Technical College Trustees and also contributed more than $2,000 toward the HGTC Foundation.

"The support of community members and business owners (like Phil) is crucial," said Dr. Randy Peters, President of HGTC. "We couldn't do it without their support."

Nearly four decades prior, when Patel was all of 12 years old, the young boy that became synonymous with supporting Dublin and Laurens County got a bit of a helping hand from his father. From humble beginnings in a small African nation, Patel was sent to study in England just as his father had done before him.

Patel's father had been afforded a similar opportunity by his father, eventually becoming a CPA before returning to Zambia (according to Patel, with one pound and one ticket home).

And it was during Patel's stay in England that he met wife Melanie, who joined him when the couple decided to take a chance and open a hotel in the small town of East Dublin some 5,000 miles across the ocean.

"From where we were with my grandfather, who owned five acres of farmland to me running a successful business we're only three generations removed," Patel said. "...And one of the main things I wanted to impress (with this donation) was education. If you have a good education, you can get a good job, and in turn you can have a good life. All of our schools in the district, as well as the college and the Heart of Georgia have the latest technology and facilities.

And with those you can get a good job and a good life."

Patel has also impressed those same lessons on his two children, Jiten, who is currently working on a masters degree, and Priya, who is studying to become an air traffic controller.

"Phil's message about education is spot-on," Peters said. "There are not enough resources out there to do it alone. We have to create a network of friends and businesses like Phil's that help meet the needs of our students."

The Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation recently invited physicians to attend an open house at the College to tour the Allied Health Department. Shown is Randall Peters, HGTC president, and the group visiting the Surgical Technology Program.

Parker Hannifin Corporation donates to HGTC Foundation

Wendy Fennell, human resources team leader at Parker Hannifin Corporation, presents a $1000 check to the Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation. Penny Mackey, president of the HGTC Foundation, is shown accepting the check.

HGTC Foundation welcomes new trustees

Matt Sweat and Calvin Yawn were welcomed to the Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation Board of Trustees at the November 3, 2009 meeting. Mr. Sweat is employed with First Laurens Bank in Dexter and Mr. Yawn is the Director of the Eastman Housing Authority. The Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation is a non-profit organization that raises private funds to support the college, its programs and its activities. Pictured (l-r) Jeff Davis, IV – vice president, HGTC Foundation Board of Trustees; Calvin Yawn, Matt Sweat, and Penny Mackey - president, HGTC Foundation Board of Trustees.

HGTC students at LOIC receive scholarships

Ten Little Ocmulgee Instructional Center students have received the Little Ocmulgee Instructional Center Technology Fee Scholarship from the Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation for fall quarter.

Those receiving the award are Barbara Grant of Glenwood, Shuntese Rorie of Eastman, Johnny Floyd of Alamo, Katherine Hart of McRae, Chasity Chapman of Alamo, Sally Freeman of McRae, Kiara Daniels of McRae, Kandice Green of Alamo, Michael Dover of McRae, and Jonathan Sellars of McRae.

HGTC Foundation awards Dr. Fred A. Smith Jr. Scholarships

Five Heart of Georgia Technical College students received the Fred A. Smith Jr. Scholarships for fall quarter.

Students receiving the scholarships are Barbara Grant of Glenwood, Chastity Chapman of Alamo, Kandice Green of Alamo, Johnny D. Floyd of Alamo, and Katherine Hart of McRae.

HGTC Foundation elects new officers

New officers for the Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation were recently elected for the 2009 – 2011 term. They are: Penny Mackey, president (Laurens); Jeff Davis, IV, vice president (Laurens); Spencer Tydings, treasurer (Laurens), and Janice Irvin, secretary (Wheeler).

The HGTC Foundation officers serve a two-year term and began their duties at the Annual Meeting, which was held July 30.

The HGTC Foundation is the fundraising arm of the College dedicated to raising and providing resources for the College’s educational excellence and innovation. All members of the Foundation serve in a volunteer capacity.

HGTC Foundation Awards Dr. Fred A. Smith Jr. Scholarships

Five Heart of Georgia Technical College students received the Fred A. Smith Jr. Scholarships for summer quarter.

The scholarship was established by The Merchants & Citizens Bank of McRae in memory and honor of Dr. Fredrick Augustus Smith, Jr. The scholarship is based on financial need and is for students enrolled at the Little Ocmulgee Instructional Center located in Helena.

Students receiving the scholarships are Regina Buchanan of Hazlehurst, Lovie Williams of McRae, Nancy Poole of Alamo, Leroy Oliver of McRae, and Joyce Wooten of Alamo.

Scholarships create opportunities to change lives. Those interested in establishing a scholarship or donating to an existing scholarship, please contact Jenny Shuman at 478-296-6117 or foundation@heartofgatech.edu. The HGTC Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.

LOIC Technology Fee Scholarships

Those receiving the award are Samantha Burkes of Rhine, Amy King of Milan, Joyce Wooten of Alamo, Leroy Oliver of McRae, Shirley McCrimmon of McRae, Regina Buchanan of Hazlehurst, Macie Alvarado of Helena, Nancy Poole of Alamo, Reece Swain of McRae, and Lovie Williams of McRae.

The Technology Fee Scholarship is awarded quarterly to students enrolled in a program of study at Little Ocmulgee Instructional Center (LOIC) of the Heart of Georgia Technical College. The scholarship is awarded to students who are in a good academic standing with the college. The scholarship is also based on financial need and the amount of funds available for the award.

HGTC Foundation Holds Annual Meeting; New Trustees Welcomed

The Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation held its annual meeting on June 30, 2009. The following outgoing trustees were thanked and recognized for their service to the board: Jimmy Allgood (Laurens), Lisa Black (Laurens), Beverly Brown (Telfair), Sheila Christian (Laurens), Susan Coffee (Dodge), Jep Craig (Laurens), Kay Graham (Dodge), Helen Harper (Laurens), Robyn Tanner (Laurens), Alice Todd (Wilkinson), Ed Touchberry (Laurens), Frank Wall (Wilkinson), and David Westerfield (Laurens). The following new trustees were welcomed to the board: Don Avery (Laurens), Jeff Davis, IV (Laurens), Phil Patel (Laurens), Raj Saxena (Laurens), and Spencer Tydings (Laurens). After an informative meeting, the group enjoyed refreshments in honor of outgoing president, Ed Touchberry. Touchberry passed the gavel to Penny Mackey, who will serve for the 2009-2011 term.

Pictured (l-r): Raj Saxena; Don Avery; Phil Patel; Jeff Davis, IV; Spencer Tydings.

HGTC Foundation Awards First McRae Rotary Club GED Scholarship

The Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation awarded the first McRae Rotary Club GED Scholarship on July 14 to Chelsea Mann of Helena. Chelsea is a student in the criminal justice program at Heart of Georgia Tech.

The scholarship is given in part to fulfill the Rotary International organization’s commitment to Adult Literacy and to encourage local GED graduates to continue their education.

Chelsea became interested in technical education as soon as she started her GED classes. “My GED instructor, Mrs. Hentz, influenced my decision very much, as well as my parents. I feel that pursuing a technical career will be a great asset in helping me reach my goal of becoming a successful, productive adult,” commented Chelsea.

To establish a scholarship, or make a donation to the HGTC Foundation, contact Jenny Shuman at (478) 296-6117 or jshuman@heartofgatech.edu.

Pictured: Dr. Howard Abney, dean, Little Ocmulgee Instructional Center and Chelsea Mann.

Foundation Awards NRCW Scholarship

The Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation partnered with the Natural ResourceConservation Workshop to award a $1,000 scholarship this summer.

The 2009 NRCW was held in June at Abraham Baldwin College in Tifton. The mission of the workshop is to expose high school students, ages 15-18, to Georgia’s natural resources, and opportunities and responsibilities they provide. According to Dennis Brooks, workshop director, the camp utilizes classrooms and field trip activities to help interested young people learn the basic principles and wise use of our natural resources.

At the workshop students gain insight into careers through their counselors and visiting professionals. Scholarships are awarded based on test scores from the week’s activities.

Richard Sapp of McRae, GA received the HGTC Foundation scholarship.

Pictured: Sherry Carson, assistant director, USDA-NRCS, presenting the award to Richard Sapp.

HGTC Foundation Awards Karen Core CNA Scholarships

Five Heart of Georgia Technical College students received the Karen Core CNA Scholarship for spring quarter.

The scholarship was established by the Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation to assist certified nursing assistant students.

The following students received the scholarship for spring quarter: Althea Anderson (Eastman); Calandra Steward (East Dublin); Rebecca Hefner (Dublin); Judy Peacock (Milan); and Cherie Morton (Glenwood).

Horadan Scholarship awarded at HGTC

The Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation awarded the Horadan Scholarship to Elaine Norsworthy of Dublin. Norsworthy is an early childhood care and education student.

According to Norsworthy’s instructor, Gail Clark, “she has great leadership skills, compassion for others, especially children, and excellent work ethics.”

Dr. Lloyd Horadan established the scholarship in memory of his mother, Joyce Horadan. The $500 Horadan Scholarship will be awarded annually to an early childhood care and education student. To be eligible for the scholarship a student must be enrolled in the HGTC early childhood care and education associate degree program, successfully completed 12 credit hours, and have a minimum grade point average of 2.5.

Dr. Horadan is currently the president for Sandersville Technical College. Prior to becoming president of Sandersville Tech, Dr. Horadan worked for Heart of Georgia Technical College for 11 years.

Cody Ryan Woodard receives Howard Scholarship

Cody Woodard of Dublin is the recipient of the Johnny B. Howard Scholarship offered through the Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation. The scholarship is awarded annually to a student who plans to attend HGTC or is attending HGTC and studying the welding and joining program.

Woodard graduated from West Laurens High School this year and attended HGTC as a dual-enrolled student in the welding program. He plans to continue his education at HGTC and complete his program of study.

The scholarship is given in memory of Johnny Buford Howard, a life-long resident of Laurens County and the welding and joining technology instructor at Heart of Georgia Tech for nine years. Howard died in July 2007.

“The Heart of Georgia Tech employees established the scholarship with the Foundation,” said Jenny Shuman, director of institutional development and marketing. “Members of the community have also supported the scholarship and have embraced the opportunity to honor Johnny and help students in the welding program.”

“Johnny would have been very proud to know there is a scholarship to help educate future welders, and Cody is an excellent choice to receive the scholarship,” commented Shuman.

For more information on the Johnny B. Howard Scholarship or to make a contribution, visit the Heart of Georgia Technical College website, www.heartofgatech.edu or call 478-296-6117. The HGTC Foundation is a 501(c)3 organization.

HGTC Foundation awards McCullough Scholarship

Dublin—The Heart of Georgia Technical College (HGTC) Foundation awarded the Alton Lee McCullough Scholarship May 21 at the West Laurens High School Honor’s Night to Cody Ryan Woodard of Dublin. The $1,000 scholarship is awarded in $200 stipends over five quarters.

The Alton Lee McCullough Scholarship is awarded annually to a graduating senior from the Laurens County School System who enrolls in a technical or industrial program at HGTC. The scholarship is given in memory of Alton Lee McCullough, a life-long resident of Laurens County. “Mr. Mac” was a retired vocational teacher, school administrator, and farmer. He was a Laurens County School Superintendent from 1965 to 1973 and in his capacity of superintendent was an advocate for the adjacent location of a comprehensive high school and technical school at the intersection of Interstate 16 and U.S. Highway 441—what we know as West Laurens High School and Heart of Georgia Technical College today.

Woodard is currently taking classes in the welding and joining technology program at Heart of Georgia Technical College as a dual enrolled student.

The Alton Lee McCullough Scholarship was established in August 2002.

Pictured (l-r): Dr. Howard Abney, dean, HGTC; Cody Ryan Woodard; and Doris Abney.

HGTC Foundation awards Brandon T. Lawrence Scholarship

The Heart of Georgia Technical College (HGTC) Foundation awarded the Brandon T. Lawrence Scholarship at the Wheeler County High School Honor’s Night on May 13 to Ricky Westberry of Helena. The $500 scholarship will be awarded in $250 stipends. Robbie Hobbs, high school coordinator for HGTC, presented the award.

The Brandon T. Lawrence Scholarship is given in memory of Brandon Timothy Lawrence, who at age 15 lost his life in a car accident. Because of Lawrence’s zest for life, high academic achievements, and love of people, his family established the scholarship.

Mr. Westberry plans to begin Heart of Georgia Technical College in the fall in the Computer Information Systems - Computer Support Specialist Program.

Pictured (l-r): Stacye Benson (mother of Brandon Lawrence); Ricky Westberry, Robbie Hobbs (HGTC high school coordinator); and Douglas Price (grandfather of Brandon Lawrence).

Hemstreet receives HGTC Foundation Scholarship

The Heart of Georgia Technical College (HGTC) Foundation awarded the Chester Arthur Ryals, Jr./Merchants & Citizens Bank Scholarship to Lacey Hemstreet of McRae at the Telfair County High School Honor’s Night on April 28. The $1,000 scholarship will be awarded in four $250 stipends.

The scholarship is given in memory of Chester Ryals, a life-long resident of Telfair County. He was instrumental in the original 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) construction projects of the lodge at the Little Ocmulgee State Park, as well as the bridge over the Ocmulgee River going in to Abbeville. He is remembered most for his commitment to improving the quality of life for all Telfair County citizens by serving as the Mayor of McRae for 12 years during the 1970s and 1980s.

Lacey plans to enroll at the Heart of Georgia Technical College Little Ocmulgee Instructional Center summer quarter.

Pictured are Lacey Hemstreet and Dr. Howard Abney, dean of the Little Ocmulgee Instructional Center in Helena.

HGTC Foundation awards Dr. Fred A. Smith Jr. Scholarships

Three Heart of Georgia Technical College students received the Fred A. Smith Jr. Scholarships for spring quarter.

The scholarship was established earlier this year by The Merchants & Citizens Bank of McRae in memory and honor of Dr. Fredrick Augustus Smith Jr. The scholarship is based on financial need and is for students enrolled at the Little Ocmulgee Instructional Center located in Helena.

Students receiving the scholarships are Pamela R. Wooten of Alamo, Miesha Greene of Rhine, and Barbara Grant of Glenwood.

HGTC Foundation’s “Live Green, Give Green” employee fund drive successful

The Heart of Georgia Technical College has completed its 2009 Employee Fund Drive to benefit the HGTC Foundation. “Live Green, Give Green” was the theme this year for the very successful drive.

“The goal each year is participation and the HGTC family did not disappoint again this year. Eighty-seven percent of the employees “Gave Green” for a total of $18,741 in donations and pledges,” said Jenny Shuman, director of institutional development and marketing.

The “Live Green, Give Green” campaign kicked off in March at a staff meeting where employees heard testimonials from three students who had been helped by the Foundation. Twelve volunteer team leaders then took the lead in the fund drive.

“The students were an inspiration,” said Shuman. “And, the team leaders did an outstanding job of encouraging their team members to “Give Green.”

Again this year, President Randall Peters set a challenge to employees to join the 1% Club. Peters said, “I give one percent of my salary to the Foundation. I encourage other employees to also give a thoughtful and proportional gift.” Heart of Georgia Tech had 17 employees who stepped up and joined the 1% club this year.

“Our employees always have a great giving spirit. They recognize the benefit of the Foundation’s work and know how much our students and our College benefit in so many ways,” commented Peters. “They believe in the College and see how we change lives.”

The mission of the Foundation is to support and enhance the College by encouraging private giving. For more information on the HGTC Foundation, contact Jenny Shuman at 478-296-6117, jshuman@heartofgatech.edu or visit the HGTC Foundation’s website at www.heartofgatech.edu.

McRae Rotary Club establishes HGTC Foundation scholarship

The McRae Rotary Club has partnered with the Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation to provide a $500 scholarship annually for Telfair County GED (General Educational Development) graduates who enroll in a credit program at HGTC.

The scholarship is given in part to fulfill the Rotary International organization’s commitment to Adult Literacy and to encourage local GED graduates to continue their education.

“We are very pleased to partner with the McRae Rotary Club to offer this scholarship,” said Jenny Shuman, executive director HGTC Foundation.

For information on establishing a scholarship, contributing to an existing scholarship, or making a general contribution to the HGTC Foundation, contact Jenny Shuman at jshuman@heartofgatech.edu or 478-296-6117.

HGTC Foundation awards Karen Core CNA Scholarships

Five Heart of Georgia Technical College students received the Karen Core CNA Scholarship for winter quarter.

The scholarship was established by the Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation to assist certified nursing assistant students.

The following students received the scholarship for winter quarter: Kimberly Jones (Laurens); Annie Lee Cravey (Telfair); Johnny Spivey (Laurens); Ronda Bryant (Telfair); Pamela Renay Smith (Telfair).

Lending Library at HGTC

For the past 10 years, an on-campus resource has helped ensure that Heart of Georgia Technical College students have the textbooks they need to excel in their respective programs of study.

HGTC’s lending library was launched a decade ago through funds from the college’s Student Government Association and the HGTC Foundation.

“We offer the lending library to all students,” said Janet Smith, SGA advisor and special populations coordinator, who initially helped to get the textbook program off and running. “We loan books to any student after they exhaust their Pell [grant] and HOPE [scholarship] funds.”

Since the program began, the response has been tremendous, according to Smith.

The library served 250 students during summer quarter 2008 alone.

“The response has been so overwhelming,” said Smith.

To qualify for the program, students must first fill out an application and answer questions to ensure there is indeed a need. Books are checked out on a first-come, first-serve basis each quarter. Students typically receive their textbooks the first week of class.

Interest in the library has been so great that when the new main library opened in Livingston Hall last year, space was reserved for the lending library as well. There, the books are cataloged and a checkout list is maintained.

Students are often referred to the program through the on-campus bookstore and even the Department of Family and Children Services.

“The bookstore works very well with us,” said Smith of the referrals.

“We try to help as many students as we can,” said Christine Dowd, who along with HGTC media specialist Wendy Morris helps oversee the lending library.

New books are purchased regularly, and while not every program is covered, books for most if not all core classes are available.

“We usually purchase a few extras each term,” said Dowd of the books, which are bought through SGA funding.

The lending library has been so successful, that other schools have used it as a model to launch similar programs of their own. HGTC’s library was one of the first established in the state.

Smith says in many instances, having access to the lending library helps keep students in school who would otherwise drop out because they don’t have the funds or resources to continue.

“It’s one of the things that can keep them in school,” said Smith.

Pictured: Christine Dowd assisting Business Technology student, Tanya Marshall (Bleckley County).

HGTC Foundation awards Dr. Fred A. Smith Jr. Scholarships

DUBLIN—Five Heart of Georgia Technical College students received the Fred A. Smith Jr. Scholarships for winter quarter.

Students receiving the scholarships are Pamela R. Wooten of Alamo, Jodi Williams of Helena, Stephanie White of McRae, Scarlett Wiggins of Eastman, and Barbara Grant of Glenwood.

LOIC TECHNOLOGY FEE SCHOLARSHIPS

HELENA—Nine Little Ocmulgee Instructional Center students have received the Little Ocmulgee Instructional Center Technology Fee Scholarship from the Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation for winter quarter.

Those receiving the award are Barbara Grant of Glenwood, Kyle Materne of Jacksonville, Amy McIntyre of Milan, Nancy Poole of Alamo, Stephanie White of McRae, Scarlett Wiggins of Eastman, Jodi Williams of Helena, Joyce Wooten of Alamo, and Pamela Wooten of Alamo.

The Technology Fee Scholarship is awarded quarterly to students enrolled in a program of study at Little Ocmulgee Instructional Center (LOIC) of the Heart of Georgia Technical College. The scholarship is awarded to students who are in a good academic standing with the college. The scholarship is also based on financial need and the amount of funds available for the award.

HGTC Foundation TOOLS Program held December 5

The Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation awarded tools to 20 Heart of Georgia Tech students on Friday, December 5, 2008.

The program is called TOOLS, Tools for Outstanding Occupational Leadership Students. This year marks the tenth awards program.

TOOLS is made possible by the Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation, the Morris State Bank, and the Louie & Evelyn Livingston Family Foundation.

The Heart of Georgia Tech Foundation is giving back to the community by preparing students to enter the workforce. Student recipients range from respiratory therapists to diesel equipment mechanics. “What potential employees need to enter the workforce varies,” said Ed Touchberry, president of the HGTC Foundation. “So the tools awarded can range from state licensing fees to physical tools such as a metric nut driver set.”

The recipients for 2008 are Joseph Beaugez of Dublin, machine tool technology; Phillip Brown of Dublin, management and supervisory development; Trenance Burger of Dublin, early childhood care and education; Sharon Giambrone of Dublin, business office specialist; Johnny Graham of East Dublin, industrial systems technology; Gene Haun of Eastman, diesel equipment technology; Iva Herrington of Tennille, medical office specialist; Tameka Hudson of McRae, medical assisting; Rebecca Jones of Dublin, respiratory therapy; Pamela Knight of Dudley, business office technology; Scott Lamb of Dudley, machine tool technology; Brandon Maddox of East Dublin, welding and joining technology; Eddie Mathis, Jr. of Alamo, computer information systems; Marie Smith of Chester, radiologic technology; Joel Taylor of Dublin, air conditioning technology; Amy Williams of Dublin, medical office specialist; Brad Williams of Glenwood, air conditioning technology; John Wong K of Danville, practical nursing; and Brenton Wood of McRae, automotive technology.

Dr. Howard Abney, dean of the Heart of Georgia Technical College Little Ocmulgee Instructional Center, is shown presenting Stephanie White (from McRae) with a Karen Core Certified Nursing Assistant Scholarship. The scholarship will pay the HGTC student’s national exam fee. Mrs. Core, for whom the scholarship is named, provided life-long service to health care as a registered nurse and is a past member of the HGTC Foundation and HGTC nursing advisory committee.

Ed Touchberry Gives Back to the Community

When Ed Touchberry was originally approached about coming on board with the Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation, he admits to having apprehensions.

"Neither I, nor any of my family members ever attended Heart of Georgia Technical College," said Touchberry.

But since that initial prodding, he's grown to enjoy the work he and his fellow board of trustee members do to benefit the college.

“My eyes were really opened."

Touchberry, who spends his days working as YKK AP America's public relations/general affairs manager in Dublin, has been involved with HGTC's Foundation since July 2002. He currently serves as president of the foundation's board of trustees.

The foundation, a private sector partner with the college, maintains a two-fold goal: raising funds and providing resources to support HGTC programs that do not receive state and federal aid, and also working to improve and promote the college's educational programs.

The foundation is comprised of a volunteer board of trustees representing HGTC's six-county service area: Bleckley, Dodge, Laurens, Wheeler, Wilkinson and Telfair counties.

Foundation members typically serve two- to three-year terms.

"We try to get representatives to serve on the board of trustees from all the various counties," said Touchberry.

Each year, Touchberry and his fellow foundation members plan and organize at least two major fundraising events to support the college. This year's annual community fund drive began in September. A second, special fundraiser is also held each year, and has in the past included the Denim and Diamonds event and the I Heard it Through the Grapevine event.

Proceeds from the foundation's annual fundraisers also go to support another cause Touchberry denotes as a special outreach for the community — the annual TOOLS event, which the foundation supports in conjunction with the Livingston Family Foundation and Morris State Bank.

Each spring TOOLS (Tools for Outstanding Occupational Leadership Students) recognizes deserving HGTC students by awarding them with tools and materials they can utilize in their respective career fields.

This year's TOOLS program is set for December 5 at noon in the Porter Center. Twenty deserving students, nominated by their instructors, in fields of study ranging from early childhood care and education to machine tool technology will be recognized — and it's all funded through the combined efforts of the foundation's fundraisers, Morris State Bank and the Livingston family.

"What we try to do is pick deserving students who meet the criteria," said Touchberry of the students selected, who often receive money to cover the cost of testing fees and board exams, proper uniforms and work attire and even computers and other technology equipment.

"I think it's one of the greatest programs the college has," said Touchberry of the TOOLS program.

And while Touchberry says the current economic climate has presented its share of fundraising challenges of late, the local community remains supportive of both the college and the foundation's overall mission — and the time and dedication of the instructors and staff who work to support the HGTC students in their career endeavors.

"I am, have been, and still am extremely impressed with the instructors who try to assist these students," said Touchberry of the HGTC staff. "I think the community is extremely fortunate to have a facility such as HGTC."

Wendy Fennell (L), human resources team leader at Parker Hannifin Corporation, presents a $1000 check to the Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation Annual Fund. Ed Touchberry (R), president of the HGTC Foundation is shown accepting the check.

Oconee Regional Cancer Center donates to HGTC Foundation

The Oconee Regional Cancer Center made a $1,000 donation to the Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation’s Annual Fund Drive on October 15, 2008. (L-R) Dr. Randall L. Peters, HGTC president, accepts the donation from Linda Turner, Oconee Regional Cancer Center practice administrator, while Laurie Wicker, HGTC director of development looks on.

HGTC Foundation awards Dr. Fred A. Smith Jr. Scholarships

Five Heart of Georgia Technical College students received the Fred A. Smith Jr. Scholarships for fall quarter.

Students receiving the scholarships are Pamela Wooten of Alamo, Jodi McCranie of Helena, Barbara Grant of Glenwood, Kimberly Kenady of McRae, and Queen Willis of McRae.

Scholarships create opportunities to change lives. Those interested in establishing a scholarship or donating to an existing scholarship, please contact Laurie Wicker at (478) 274-7878 or foundation@heartofgatech.edu. The HGTC Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.

Pictured (l-r); Pamela Wooten, Kimberly Kenady, Dr. Noward Abney, Jodi McCranie and Queen Willis. Not pictured: Barbara Grant.

Mackey elected vice president of HGTC Foundation

The Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation elected Penny Mackey as vice president at the September meeting. Mackey has served on the HGTC Foundation since July 2007.

Mackey is an attorney with the firm Robertson & Mackey and has been involved in the legal profession for over 20 years. She is a member of the State Bar of Georgia and American Trial Lawyers Association. She serves as a member of the Advisory Council for Office Technology with Heart of Georgia Technical College and is an alumnus of HGTC. Mackey is a member of Dudley Baptist Church. She is married and has three sons.

The HGTC Foundation is the fundraising arm of the college dedicated to raising and providing resources for HGTC’s educational excellence and innovation. The Foundation is guided by a volunteer board of trustees composed of business and community leaders from the Heart of Georgia Tech service area.

Technology Fee Scholarship Awarded

Those receiving the award are Paula Turner of Lumber City, Kristin S. Randall of Helena, Tonja Peterson of Helena, Pamela R. Wooten of Alamo, Barbara Grant of Glenwood, Melissa Best of McRae, Kimberly Kenady of McRae, Queen Willis of McRae, and Jodi Williams of Helena.

The Technology Fee Scholarship is awarded quarterly to students enrolled in a program of study at Little Ocmulgee Instructional Center (LOIC) of the Heart of Georgia Technical College. The scholarship is awarded to students who are in a good academic standing with the college. The scholarship is also based on financial need and the amount of funds available for the award.

The HGTC Foundation is a 501(c)3 organization. If you would like to make a donation to support the technology fee scholarship, please contact Laurie Wicker at 478-274-7878 or 478-274-7880, or visit the Foundation website at www.heartofgatech.edu.

Bricks are going up

The Heart of Georgia Technical College Alumni Association partnered with the HGTC Foundation for the “Build a Future, Buy a Brick” campaign. Commemorative bricks will accentuate the lobby and staircase of Louie Livingston Hall, which opened September 18, 2008 on the Dublin campus.

Workers have installed the first set of bricks. “We are excited about the opportunity for supporters of the college to be able to recognize special people with a brick,” said Laurie Wicker, director of development. “We have bricks ‘in memory of’ and ‘in honor of’ and some that just have a business name.”

There is plenty of room for additional bricks. Bricks are $100 for four-by-eight inch brick pavers and include up to three lines of engraved text. Proceeds from the brick project support a Heart of Georgia Tech Alumni Scholarship, the Mary Alice Watson Scholarship, and provide resources for college-wide projects.

Bricks may be ordered on-line by visiting the Heart of Georgia Technical College website at www.heartofgatech.edu and selecting the “DONATE” link. For more information or a brick order form, call (478) 274-7627.

HGTC Foundation to hold Annual Fund Drive

The Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation will hold its annual fund drive the week of September 29.

Prior to each community fund drive, the Foundation holds an internal campaign for the Heart of Georgia Technical College employees. The employee fund drive was held in the spring, and 95 percent of the full-time employees participated by investing in the Foundation.

“Our employees see first-hand the difference the Foundation makes in the lives of our students,” said Laurie Wicker, director of development. “They help make it happen for our students by giving back.”

“The trustees have a plan for investing, which will appeal to all those who want to help make success happen at Heart of Georgia Tech,” said Ed Touchberry, president of the HGTC Foundation.

Touchberry along with the other 20 trustees will be making personal calls to individuals and businesses for support.

The mission of the Foundation is to support and enhance the college by encouraging private giving. The college relies heavily on the Foundation for private contributions to fund programs, scholarships, library resources, and instructional equipment, just to name a few.

“I hope everyone in our six-county community will help make success happen at Heart of Georgia Tech,” said Touchberry. “Our economic future and the future of our workforce depend on Heart of Georgia Tech.”

For more information on the Fund Drive or how you can help make it happen, visit www.heartofgatech.edu or call (478) 274-7878.

The HGTC Foundation is a 501(c)3 organization.

Foundation awards NRCW Scholarship

The Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation partnered with the Natural Resource Conservation Workshop to award a $1,000 scholarship this summer.

The 2008 NRCW was held June 8-12 at Abraham Baldwin College in Tifton. The mission of the workshop is to expose high school students, ages 15-18, to Georgia’s natural resources and opportunities and responsibilities that they provide. According to Dennis Brooks, workshop director, the camp utilizes classrooms and field trip activities to help interested young people learn the basic principles and wise use of our natural resources.

At the workshop students gain insight into careers through their counselors and visiting professionals. Scholarships are awarded based on test scores from the week’s activities.

Ethan Smith, 16, of Senoia, GA received the HGTC Foundation scholarship. Smith will be a junior at East Coweta High School this fall.

Tickets on sale for HGTC Foundation’s special event

Tickets are on sale now for the Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation special event, I heard it through the Grapevine. The event will be held Friday night, August 8, at the HGTC Porter Center. Tickets are $25 each.

Entertainment for the event will be The Grapevine, Georgia’s premier band from Macon. Guests will enjoy heavy hors d'œuvres and dancing from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. The band’s repertoire ranges from Motown, R&B, Beach, Pop, and 60s- 70s- 80s-rock. According to Jep Craig, HGTC trustee, “the 10-member ban will have the crowd in full participation before the night is over.”

To add excitement to the event, the Foundation is sponsoring a drawing for $2,500 cash. Tickets for the drawing are $50 each. The drawing will be held the night of the event; however, those purchasing a ticket do not have to be present to win the cash drawing.

For more information or to purchase tickets contact Sheila Christian at (478) 275-8533 or the Foundation Office at (478) 274-7878 or 7880.

Tech Fee Scholarships awarded at HGTC

Those receiving the award are Cecelia H. Webb of Eastman, Kasey Bryant of Eastman, Jodi McCranie of Helena, Edna Wilson of Alamo, Bridgette Nelms of McRae, Mamie C. Robinson of Alamo, Kristi Hilburn of Glenwood, Leah Davis of Milen, Barbara Grant of Glenwood, and Melissa Best of McRae.

The Technology Fee Scholarship is awarded quarterly to students enrolled in a program of study at Little Ocmulgee Instructional Center (LOIC) of the Heart of Georgia Technical College. The scholarship is awarded to students who are in a good academic standing with the college. The scholarship is also based on financial need and the amount of funds available for the award.

HGTC Foundation awards Dr. Fred A. Smith Jr. Scholarships

Five Heart of Georgia Technical College students received the Fred A. Smith Jr. Scholarships for summer quarter.

Students receiving the scholarships are Bridgette Nelms of McRae, Mamie C. Robinson of Alamo, Jodi McCranie of Helena, Kasey Bryant of Eastman, and Barbara Grant of Glenwood.

Scholarships create opportunities to change lives. Those interested in establishing a scholarship or donating to an existing scholarship, please contact Laurie Wicker at (478) 274-7878 or lwicker@heartofgatech.edu. The HGTC Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.

Devanney receives McCullough Scholarship

Heather Devanney, a student at West Laurens High School, was presented the McCullough Scholarship Award from Mrs. Doris McCullough Abney at the West Laurens High School Honors night May 15, 2008. Heather is a dual enrolled student with the Heart of Georgia Technical College and will use the $1,000.00 Scholarship Award to pursue an Associate Degree in Radiological Technology at the college. Dr. Howard Abney presented the award on behalf of HGTC.

Johnson receives first Howard Scholarship

Marcus Johnson of Tennille is the first recipient of the Johnny B. Howard Scholarship.

Johnson is a first quarter welding and joining technology student at Heart of Georgia Technical College. The Johnny B. Howard Scholarship is given by the Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation to a HGTC student enrolled in the welding and joining program.

Johnson is a 2007 graduate of Washington County High School, where he wasactive in track, football, and basketball.

“The Heart of Georgia Tech employees established the scholarship with the Foundation,” said Laurie Wicker, executive director. “Members of the community have embraced the opportunity to honor Johnny and help students in the welding program.”

“He always put the students first,” said Wicker. “I know he would be very proud to know there is a scholarship to help educate future welders.”

For more information on the Johnny B. Howard Scholarship or to make a contribution, visit the Heart of Georgia Technical College website, www.heartofgatech.edu. The HGTC Foundation is a 501(c)3 organization.

HGTC Foundation to sponsor special event

The Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation will sponsor I heard it through the Grapevine Friday night, August 8 at the HGTC Porter Center.

The HGTC Foundation is the fund raising arm of the College dedicated to raising and providing resources for HGTC’s educational excellence and innovation. The Foundation is guided by a volunteer board of trustees composed of 21 business and community leaders from the College’s six-county service area: Bleckley, Dodge, Laurens, Telfair, Wheeler, and Wilkinson Counties.

The entertainment for the special event will be The Grapevine, Georgia’s premier band from Macon. Guests will enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres and dancing from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. The Grapevine has electrified audiences across Georgia for 20 years. In 2000, The Grapevine received the prestigious Band of the Year, awarded by the Atlanta Society of Entertainers.

After six successful years of celebrity-waited dinners with entertainment, the Foundation has decided to change the theme of their special event. “The goal of the Foundation is to raise money,” said Ed Touchberry, HGTC Foundation president. “The August special event should interest all types of folks.”

Those attending will be treated to heavy hors d’oeuvres and dancing to a diverse repertoire of music such as Motown, R&B, Beach, Pop, and 60s- 70s- 80s- rock. “The 10-member band will have the crowd in full participation before the night is over,” said Jep Craig, HGTC trustee.

To add some excitement to the event, the Foundation is sponsoring a drawing for $2,500 cash. Individuals may purchase cash drawing tickets for $50 each. The drawing will be held the night of the event; however, those purchasing tickets do not have to be present to win.

For more information on the event or to purchase tickets contact Sheila Christian at 478 275-8533 or the Foundation Office at 478 274-7878 or 7880.

Foundation to establish Karen Core CNA Scholarship

As of July 1, 2007, the State of Georgia requires all students completing a Certified Nursing Assistant’s (CNA) Program to pass the national exam in order to work as a CNA.

For students in the Heart of Georgia Technical College CNA Program, coming up with an extra $107 at the end of the quarter has been difficult. “This program has typically been for students who want to get into the workforce quickly, have a good job, and good benefits,” said Sylvia Rozier, practical nursing program chair for HGTC. “The new requirements by the state are a financial road block to the CNA students getting a job.”

In an effort to assist good students in financial need, the Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation is establishing the Karen Core CNA Scholarship. The scholarship will pay for a HGTC student’s national exam fee.

The Foundation chose Core to honor with the scholarship because of her life-long service to health care as a registered nurse and her past membership on the HGTC Foundation and HGTC nursing advisory committee. “Mrs. Core is a shining example of a healthcare professional and a philanthropist,” said Rozier.

For the current fiscal year Heart of Georgia Tech has enrolled 210 students in the CNA program. Of those, 138 have completed the program and the other 63 are on schedule to graduate this spring; however, none of the student have taken the national exam. The Foundation’s goal is to have enough donations to the new Karen Core CNA Scholarship to award a minimum of 10 scholarships fall quarter.

To ensure the sustainability of the Karen Core CNA Scholarship, community support is needed. If you would like to make a donation contact Laurie Wicker, executive director of the HGTC Foundation, at (478) 274-7878 or go on-line at www.heartofgatech.edu and make a donation. The HGTC Foundation is a 501(c)3 organization.

HGTC Foundation to award Brandon T. Lawrence Scholarship

The Heart of Georgia Technical College (HGTC) Foundation will award the Brandon T. Lawrence Scholarship at the Wheeler County High School Honor’s Night on May 7 to Jessika Belflower of Alamo. The $500 scholarship is awarded in $250 stipends.

The Brandon T. Lawrence Scholarship is given in memory of Brandon Timothy Lawrence, age 15, who lost his life on February 6, 2004 in a car accident. Because of Lawrence’s zest for life, high academic achievements, and love of people, his family established the scholarship. This will be the third Lawrence Scholarship awarded at Wheeler County High School.

Belflower’s program of study at Heart of Georgia Tech is radiologic technology.

HGTC Foundation awards McCullough Scholarship

The Heart of Georgia Technical College (HGTC) Foundation will award the Alton Lee McCullough Scholarship May 15 at the West Laurens High School Honor’s Night to Heather Alyse Devaney of Rentz. The $1,000 scholarship is awarded in $200 stipends over five quarters.

Devaney is currently taking classes at Heart of Georgia Technical College as a dual enrolled student. She is pursuing a diploma is radiologic technology. West Laurens High School Principal Hugh Kight describes Devaney as a goal setter and a self-starter. He said, “She knows what she wants in life.”

The Alton Lee McCullough Scholarship was established in August 2002.

First Horadan Scholarship Awarded

The Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation awarded the first Horadan Scholarship in April to Wanda M. Coney of Dublin. Coney is an early childhood care and education student. According to Coney’s instructor, Gail Clark, “she has a genuine love for children and a strong commitment to the profession.”

Dr. Horadan is currently the president for Sandersville Technical College. Prior to becoming president of Sandersville Tech, Dr. Horadan worked for Heart of Georgia Technical College for 11 years.

Cliett receives HGTC Foundation Scholarship

The Heart of Georgia Technical College (HGTC) Foundation awarded the Chester Arthur Ryals, Jr./Merchants & Citizens Bank Scholarship to J.D. Cliett of Jacksonville at the Telfair County High School Honor’s Night on April 29. The $1,000 scholarship will be awarded in four $250 stipends.

Cliett is a dual enrolled student at Heart of Georgia Tech. His program of study is electronics technology.

HGTC Foundation awards first Dale Thompson GED Fee Scholarships

The Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation awarded the first Dale Thompson GED Fee Scholarships this spring. The three recipients are Jennifer Brantley, Gerald Darnell II, and Tiara Jones, all from Laurens County.

The HGTC Foundation established a GED Fee Scholarship in Dale Thompson’s memory and honor, because of his passion to help adults who had dropped out of high school and wanted to complete their education. The cost to take all five parts of the GED test is $95, or $19 for each individual section. Students enrolled in the HGTC adult education program may apply for scholarship funding to cover two of the five parts.

The HGTC Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Donations to the Dale Thompson GED Fee Scholarship may be sent to HGTC Foundation, 560 Pinehill Road, Dublin, GA 31021, or may be made on-line at www.heartofgatech.edu.

Technology Fee Scholarship awarded at LOIC for spring quarter

Nine Little Ocmulgee Instructional Center students have received the Little Ocmulgee Instructional Center Technology Fee Scholarship from the Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation for spring quarter.

Those receiving the award are Bridgette Nelms of McRae, Mamie Robinson of Alamo, Jodi McCranie of Helena, Wanda V. Marchant of Milan, Melissa Best of McRae, Leah Davis of Milan, Sherri L. Kirkland of Hazelhurst, Harley Angel Lake of McRae, and Valerie Lashon Jones of Helena.

The Technology Fee Scholarship is awarded quarterly to students enrolled in a program of study at Little Ocmulgee Instructional Center (LOIC) of the Heart of Georgia Technical College. The scholarship is awarded to students who are in a good academic standing with the college. The scholarship is also based on financial need and the amount of funds available for the award.

HGTC Foundation establishes Dale Thompson Scholarship

H. Dale Thompson was a life-long advocate for adult education. Upon his passing July 2001, funds were donated to the Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation to assist adult education in Thompson’s memory.

“Because of Mr. Thompson’s passion to help adults who had dropped out of high school and needed to complete their education, we wanted to use the funds in his memory for a specific area in adult education,” said Dahlia Allen, dean of adult education for Heart of Georgia Tech.

Thompson’s dream was to have a lasting effect on the progress of adult education. The HGTC Foundation established a GED Fee Scholarship in his honor. The cost to take all five parts of the GED test is $95, or $19 for each individual section. Students enrolled in the HGTC adult education program may apply for scholarship funding to cover two of the five parts.

Thompson was a life-long resident of Laurens County. He practiced law in Dublin for 52 years. His wife, Jane, and son, Scott, both live in Dublin. His daughter, Janet Greer, and her family live in LaGrange. His son, Henry, and his family live in Summerville, SC.

HGTC Foundation awards first five Dr. Fred A. Smith Jr. Scholarships

The Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation awarded the first Dr. Fred A. Smith Jr. Scholarships Friday, April 4, 2008, at the Little Ocmulgee Instructional Center. Dr. Howard Abney (front R), dean of LOIC, is pictured on the front row (L-R) are four of the five recipients: Leah Davis, Jodi McCranie, Mamie Robinson, and Melissa Best. Back row (L-R): Beverly Brown, HGTC trustee; Eddie Selph, president of The Merchants & Citizens Bank; Janice Irvin, HGTC trustee; Paula Rogers, president of the Telfair Chamber of Commerce; Jimmy Ray, HGTC trustee; and Laurie Wicker, HGTC Foundation executive director.

The Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation awarded the first five Dr. Fred A. Smith Jr. Scholarships on April 4 at a presentation ceremony held at the Little Ocmulgee Instruction Center (LOIC) in Helena.

The scholarship was established earlier this year by The Merchants & Citizens Bank of McRae in memory and honor of Dr. Fredrick Augustus Smith Jr. The scholarship is based on financial need and is for students enrolled at the LOIC. Students receiving the scholarships are Bridgette Nelms of McRae, Leah Davis of Milan, Mamie C. Robinson of Alamo, Jodi McCranie of Helena and Melisa Best of McRae.

Dr. Smith was a lifelong resident of Telfair County. He graduated from the University of Georgia in 1937 with a bachelor of science and received a doctor of medicine degree from Emory University in 1941. Dr. Smith was a veteran of World War II, serving as captain and surgeon in the Emory Medical Unit in Europe and North Africa. He was vice chairman of the Board of Directors of The Merchants and Citizens Bank, a member of the McRae Rotary Club, and active in the timber industry. He practiced medicine for 50 years in McRae and the surrounding area. Dr. Smith passed away on Jan. 15, 1999, at age 82.

The Foundation will award five, $50 Smith Scholarships quarterly. “The M & C Bank expressed an interest in helping as many students as possible,” said Dr. Howard Abney, dean of the Little Ocmulgee Instructional Center. “Even with the majority of our students on the HOPE grant,” Abney said, “they still need funds for books and supplies—which add up quickly.”

Scholarships create opportunities to change lives. Those interested in establishing a scholarship or donating to an existing scholarship, please contact Laurie Wicker at (478) 274-7878 or lwicker@heartofgatech.edu. The HGTC Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.

Merchant & Citizens Bank establishes second

HGTC Foundation scholarship

The Merchant & Citizens Bank of McRae has partnered with the Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation to provide scholarship opportunities for students enrolled at the Little Ocmulgee Instructional Center. This is the second partnership with The

M & C Bank and the HGTC Foundation to offer local students scholarship opportunities.

Last year the bank established the Chester Arthur Ryals, Jr. Scholarship which is awarded annually to a Telfair County High School graduating senior who plans to attend Heart of Georgia Technical College.

The new scholarship, Dr. Fred A. Smith Jr. Scholarship, will be awarded quarterly. Students in good academic standing who have a financial need are eligible for the scholarship. The Foundation will award five, $50 scholarships each quarter. “The

M & C Bank expressed an interest in helping as many students as possible,” said Dr. Howard Abney, dean of the Little Ocmulgee Instructional Center. “Even with the majority of our students on the HOPE grant,” Abney said, “they still need funds for books and supplies—which add up quickly.”

The M & C Bank has established this award in memory and honor of Dr. Fredrick Augustus Smith, Jr. Dr. Smith was a lifelong resident of Telfair County. He graduated from the University of Georgia in 1937 with a bachelor of science and received a doctor of medicine degree from Emory University in 1941. Dr. Smith was a veteran of World War II, serving as captain and surgeon in the Emory Medical Unit in Europe and North Africa. He was vice chairman of the Board of Directors of The Merchants and Citizens Bank, a member of the McRae Rotary Club, and active in the timber industry. He practiced medicine for 50 years in McRae and the surrounding area. Dr. Smith passed away on Jan. 15, 1999, at age 82.

“We are very pleased to partner with The M & C Bank to offer our students quarterly scholarship opportunities,” said Laurie Wicker, executive director HGTC Foundation. LOIC students interested in applying for the scholarship should contact Dr. Howard Abney or Penny Barlow at LOIC or may access a scholarship application on-line at www.heartofgatech.edu and select the Foundation link. The first scholarship awards will be made spring quarter.

Scholarships create opportunities to change lives. Those interested in establishing a scholarship or donating to an existing scholarship, please contact Laurie Wicker at (478) 274-7878 or lwicker@heartofgatech.edu. The HGTC Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.

HGTC students receive scholarships

Those receiving the award are Krystal Howell of Helena, Melissa Best of McRae, Crystal G. Herndon of Hazelhurst, Edna F. Wilson of Alamo, Jodi McCranie of Helena, Artia Mack of McRae, Gwendolyn D. Harris of McRae, Leah Davis of Milan, and Timothy Robinson of Alamo.

The Technology Fee Scholarship is awarded quarterly to students enrolled in a program of study at Little Ocmulgee Instructional Center (LOIC) of the Heart of Georgia Technical College. The scholarship is awarded to students who are in a good academic standing with the college. The scholarship is also based on financial need and the amount of funds available for the award.

Horadan scholarship to be awarded in spring

The Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation will award the first Horadan Scholarship this spring. In 2002 Dr. Lloyd Horadan established a scholarship in memory of his mother, Joyce Horadan.

After five years, the scholarship has reached maturity to make the first award in May 2008. The $500 Horadan Scholarship will be awarded annually to an early childhood care and education student. To be eligible for the scholarship a student must be enrolled in the HGTC early childhood care and education associate degree program, successfully completed 12 credit hours, and have a minimum grade point average of 2.5.

Dr. Horadan is currently the president for Sandersville Technical College. Prior to becoming president of Sandersville Tech, Dr. Horadan worked for Heart of Georgia Technical College for 11 years.

“We are very excited to offer this scholarship opportunity to our early childhood care and education students,” said Laurie Wicker, director of development. Students completing the early childhood care and education associate degree program are eligible to work as a paraprofessional (pre-K through 12 grade); a director of a child care center; or Head Start teacher.

HGTC Foundation TOOLS Program set for December 7

The Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation will award tools to 11 Heart of Georgia Tech students on Friday, December 7, 2007.

The program is called TOOLS, Tools for Outstanding Occupational Leadership Students. This year marks the ninth awards program.

TOOLS is made possible by the Heart of Georgia Technical College Foundation, the Morris State Bank, and the Louie & Evelyn Livingston Family Foundation.

The Heart of Georgia Tech Foundation is giving back to the community by preparing students to enter the workforce. Student recipients range from respiratory therapists to diesel equipment mechanics. “What potential employees need to enter the workforce varies,” said Laurie Wicker, executive director of the HGTC Foundation. “So the tools awarded can range from state licensing fees to physical tools such as a welding torch.”

The recipients for 2007 are Latonia Brantley, early childhood care and education; Phoenix Davis, industrial systems; Laise Ellington, respiratory therapy; Jackie Monroe Mullis, air conditioning technology; Laurie Renee Nairn, accounting; Jason Saverslak, machine tool technology; Derrick K. Shepherd, respiratory therapy; Terrance Shields, air conditioning technology; Derek Sutton, diesel equipment technology; Eddie Swint, air conditioning technology; Julian M. Thigpin III, respiratory therapy.