GSW students, faculty, staff, and alumni were among the crowd that lined the streets of Plains on Jan. 9 as GSW alumnus and President Jimmy Carter returned home for the final time. Members of the President Jimmy Carter Leadership Program honored their namesake with several handmade signs displayed during the procession.
On campus, several members of the GSW community gathered near Jackson Hall to hear members of the GSW Concert Band perform Taps in honor of President Jimmy Carter. Members of Taps for Veterans from across the country joined in this memorial at the same time. The buglers at GSW were Mike Saliba, a community member and member of Taps for Veterans, along with GSW student Mychael Jordan.
Carter's life and legacy were honored with a memorial wreath that sat next to his signature in the Presidential Plaza throughout the week.
Read GSW's full statement on Carter's passing here or visit our tribute page here to learn more about Carter's ties to campus.
Dr. Courtney Ross appointed dean of GSW’s College of Nursing and Health SciencesCourtney Ross '07, RN, CNL, NE-BC, has been named the next dean of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, as well as the inaugural recipient of the Sandra Daniel Endowed Chair. Ross officially began his role on Jan. 15, 2025.
Ross, a native of Americus, Ga., has over 20 years of experience in collegiate and post-secondary education, holding various academic and leadership roles such as collegiate instructor, course manager, clinical faculty, division chair, department chair, associate dean, dean, and interim vice president for academic affairs. His professional background also includes serving as a faculty member, program chair, charge nurse, and subject matter expert, as well as leading academic and clinical partnerships to improve health outcomes in diverse communities.
“As an alum of Georgia Southwestern State University, I consider it both an honor and privilege to serve as the next Dean of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences,” stated Ross. “I look forward to building upon the generational legacy that has had a profound impact across communities – locally, regionally, and nationally. I am thrilled to work alongside the outstanding faculty and staff, as well as our community stakeholders and affiliates, as we continue providing a solid educational foundation to those desiring to pursue careers within the nursing and health sciences fields.”
Read more about Ross and his new role here.
Dr. Rachel Abbott named interim provost at Georgia SouthwesternRachel Abbott, Ph.D., has been appointed interim provost and vice president for Academic Affairs at GSW effective Feb. 1.
Abbott currently serves as the dean of GSW’s College of Education, a position she has held for 11 years, and will continue in that capacity during this interim period.
“Dr. Abbott brings more than 20 years of experience in higher education to this position,” said GSW President Michelle Johnston, Ph.D. “I am confident she will provide the kind of supportive, dedicated leadership needed to sustain and accelerate progress in Academic Affairs.”
Abbott earned her Doctor of Philosophy from the University of Alabama, Master of Education from Georgia Southern University, Master of Science from Florida State University, and Bachelor of Science from Longwood College.
“I am honored to serve as Interim Provost at GSW, which has been instrumental in shaping my professional development over the past 16 years,” said Abbott. “I am grateful to Dr. Johnston for the confidence she has placed in me to lead the academic operations at GSW, and I look forward to working with the faculty, staff, and students.”
Read more about Abbott's career at GSW and her new role here.
GSW received recognition of a 10-year reaffirmation of accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) during its annual meeting held Dec. 7-10 in Austin, Texas. The SACSCOC’s mission is to ensure the educational quality and improve the effectiveness of its member institutions.
“This action, which represents the best possible outcome of any accreditation review, validates our mission and our commitment to providing exceptional higher education,” said President Michelle Johnston, Ph.D. “This success is because of what our faculty and staff do, day in and day out, to serve our students and our mission.”
The decision represents years of planning by faculty and staff to document and demonstrate the University’s compliance with regional and national standards of excellence. The multi-year reaffirmation process incorporated input and insights from across GSW and reviewed all aspects of the University including institutional governance, administration and faculty, institutional planning and effectiveness, student achievement, curriculum, physical and financial resources and student support services.
Read more about GSW's reaffirmation from SACSCOC here.
Georgia Southwestern awards posthumous degree at Fall CommencementThe late Charlie Bass of Albany was awarded a posthumous degree at GSW's Fall Commencement Ceremony on Thursday, Dec. 12. His wife, Shey Bass, accepted the framed degree onstage, drawing a standing ovation from the crowd.
A designated seat, where Bass would have sat, was adorned with picture of him. Bass was pursuing his specialist in Teacher Leadership, and was set to graduate this December alongside several of his close friends. However, he sadly passed in April 2024, just two classes shy of completing his degree.
“This moment is a testament to his unyielding determination and passion for learning,” his wife, Shey, shared in a Facebook post. “[He] was the epitome of perseverance—whatever he set his mind to, he accomplished with unwavering focus and commitment. His dedication to his education and his drive to better himself inspire me every day. I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to Georgia Southwestern for their kindness, support, and for recognizing [his] hard work and achievements. This degree is more than just a milestone; it is a reflection of his incredible spirit and a legacy that will continue to motivate us all.”
Read more about the Fall Commencement Ceremony here.
This holiday season, organizations at came together in a heartwarming display of generosity, raising funds and collecting toys for the foster children served by SOWEGA CASA, helping make their Christmas wishes come true.
GSW’s Staff Senate raised over $700 from faculty and staff, using the funds to purchase seven $100 gift cards, specifically for teens aged 16-17, ensuring that older foster children had the chance to experience the joy of the season.
The GSW Brotherhood, a living and learning community dedicated to Black male scholars, contributed nearly $500 through their efforts, demonstrating the power of unity and giving.
And most impressive, Cohort 6 of the President Jimmy Carter Leadership Program organized a series of fundraising events and partnered with their high schools to donate more than $3,600 in gift cards, toys, and monetary items to SOWEGA CASA.
Learn more about these philanthropy efforts here.
From first-generation college student to trailblazing leader: How GSW shaped Alex Espitia’s journeyGraduating from college is a monumental accomplishment for anyone, but for first-generation college students, it represents a triumph over unique challenges. Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW) prides itself on fostering student success through its close-knit community. At GSW, students are surround by strong support networks, both on and off campus, laying a foundation for their academic and professional development.
Among GSW’s December 2024 graduates is Alex Espitia, an Integrated Studies major with a minor in Political Science and certificates in Criminal Justice and Leadership. A native of Newton, GA—a small farming community of just 3,000 people—Alex has been no stranger to hard work, assisting on farms alongside his mother since the 10th grade. As a first-generation college student, Alex has always strived to show his family that it’s never too late to pursue an education. He hopes his journey to graduation inspires them, saying, “Tomorrow is an opportunity to better ourselves and better our future.”
Alex credits the President Jimmy Carter Leadership Program and his time as Student Government Association (SGA) President as transformative experiences that molded him into the leader he is today. An accomplished campus trailblazer, Alex has received multiple accolades, including Mr. GSW (2023-2024), Mr. Freshman (2022-2023), Storm Spotter of the Year (2023), and Canes Spotlight (October 2024).
Reflecting on his path to college, Alex recalls applying to 26 different institutions before visiting GSW. “The moment I stepped on campus, I knew this was where I belonged,” he says. “You’re not just a number here, you’re a name,” he states. “GSW’s faculty and staff genuinely care about your success and want to see you succeed, even after graduation.” This personal connection played a pivotal role in Alex’s growth from a first-year student to an accomplished graduate and leader.
Read more about Alex's time at GSW here.
Norton-Hayes English Scholarship established at GSW, honors late faculty memberThe Georgia Southwestern Foundation is pleased to announce the establishment earlier this year of the Norton-Hayes English Scholarship, an endowed fund generously created by George D. Hayes and Valerie A. Hepburn, Ph.D. This new scholarship is designed to support and provide opportunity for students at Georgia Southwestern State University who show promise as English majors.
The Norton-Hayes English Scholarship endowment was established to honor Professor Jack Norton, a long-time and much-admired faculty member in GSW’s English department. Norton's tutelage and mentorship provided a springboard for Hayes' educational and professional achievements. Hayes, a Pelham, Ga. native and 1972 graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in English, credits GSW and Norton for his lifelong interest in literature and learning.
Hayes recognizes the value of higher education and is dedicated to enhancing student experiences through this scholarship.
“This scholarship honors the professor who taught me how to truly love literature and to always dig a little deeper,” said Hayes. “I hope it inspires others – both students and donors.”
Learn more about this new scholarship and its first recipient, Andrew Bellacomo, here.
GSW is proud to announce the receipt of $11,800.00 awarded by the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety (GOHS) with federal funds from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. These funds are awarded to participate in the Georgia Young Adult Program (GYAP) through iHelp Peer Educators at GSW. The GOHS addresses young adult driver crashes, injuries, and fatalities, and partners with colleges and universities nationwide to implement this program.
Read more about the grant here.
Garrett continues to break records and rack up awardsGraduate guard Destiny Garrett has already had an eventful season. She has been named the Women's Basketball Coaches Association and the Division II Conference Information Directors Association NCAA Division II National Player of the Week twice so far, first for the week of Nov. 25 and second for the week of Jan. 6.
Garrett is the first player in GSW basketball history to be named the national Player of the Week.
She also earned her third PBC Player of the Week award of the season during the week of Jan. 6. With this award, Garrett became the first player in GSW women's basketball history to earn three PBC Player of the Week awards in one season.
During the away game versus Clayton State University on Jan. 29, Garrett broke the record for GSW women's basketball single-game scoring with 34 points.
GSW students Jazmyn Fine, a commuter student from Unadilla, and Linda White, a non-traditional commuter student from Americus, have been selected as the recipients of $1,000 gas cards. This gift is made possible by Charles Eames, a philanthropist from Waycross, and Perry Brothers Oil Company in Americus.
With the rise in travel costs, curbing this expense has become increasingly important for GSW students. The gas card program is specifically designed to alleviate financial burdens, helping students balance their education, work, and personal responsibilities.
“This gas card program is one of the many ways donor generosity presents itself to GSW students,” said Stephen Snyder, executive director of the GSW Foundation. “We are happy to help identify and meet students’ needs.”
Read more about the gas card program and the two winners here.
Rogers selected Preseason All-PBC, GSW picked 6th in coaches pollThe Georgia Southwestern softball team is picked to finish sixth out of nine teams in the Peach Belt Conference in 2025 according to the preseason coaches poll released by the league on Jan. 23. Senior outfielder Ashlyn Rogers was selected to the PBC Preseason All-Conference team.
Rogers, a native of Madison, Fla., led the Lady Hurricanes in home runs (14), runs batted in (40) and slugging percentage (.680) last spring. Her home run tally placed her in a tie for third in the PBC and the 40 RBIs ranked 10th in the league. She had two multi-home run games and 15 multi-RBI outings.
Read more about Rogers and the coaches poll here.
Dominguez earns GSW's First All-Region Soccer DistinctionGSW men's soccer senior defender Damean Dominguez was named to the 2024 All-Southeast Region third team on Dec. 10 by United Soccer Coaches.
Dominguez led a defense that posted the lowest goals against average in program history (1.33). He started all 47 matches of his GSW career. This season, he was on the pitch for 89.2 of 90 minutes per match.
Dominguez, a native of Homestead, Fla., becomes the first player in GSW soccer history to be named to an all-region team.
Read more about Dominquez here.
The Fall 2024 honors lists included 845 students recognized for scholastic achievement.
The 267 students on the President's List earned a semester GPA of 4.0 and took a minimum of 12 credit hours.
The 343 students on the Dean's List earned a semester GPA of 3.5 or better and took a minimum of 12 credit hours.
The 235 students on the Academic Achievement List previously earned at least 12 credit hours at GSW, were enrolled in 3 to 11 hours of courses, and earned a 3.5 or higher GPA.
Find the full honors lists and other student achievements at gsw.meritpages.com.
The Peach Belt Conference released its 2024 cross country Teams of Academic Distinction presented by Barnes & Noble College the week of Jan. 13. Georgia Southwestern sophomores Melissa Duarte, Simone Gillispie and Edwin Gonzalez earned the recognition.
The team is a part of the PBC's larger initiative to celebrate the academic achievements of PBC student-athletes.
Read more about the three athletes here.
The Peach Belt Conference released its 2024 men's soccer Team of Academic Distinction presented by Barnes & Noble College the week of Jan. 13. GSW graduate student Jack Malleret along with sophomores Jonathan Bedard, Sam Bruns, Axel-Ambroise Gravel and Dante Johnson earned the recognition.
With five players named to the PBC Team of Academic Distinction this year, the Hurricanes had the second-highest showing in the league.
Learn more about the five players here.
The Peach Belt Conference released its 2024 women's soccer Team of Academic Distinction presented by Barnes & Noble College the week of Jan. 13. Georgia Southwestern juniors Lucia Bustamante and Karsen Winget along with sophomores Alana Beddow, Toni Clark and Maci Dunlap earned the recognition.
The team is a part of the PBC's larger initiative to celebrate the academic achievements of PBC student-athletes.
Learn more about the five players here.
The Georgia Southwestern baseball team is picked to finish fifth out of 10 teams in the Peach Belt Conference in 2025 according to the preseason coaches poll recently released by the league. Senior outfielder Brant Deerman and senior second baseman Cory Lee were selected to the PBC Preseason All-Conference team.
Deerman, a native of Piedmont, Ala., was a first team All-Conference selection last spring. He led the Hurricanes with a .372 batting average, which ranked fifth in the PBC, and 84 hits, which ranked fourth. His 65 RBIs was a program record. Deerman had multiple hits in 27 of his 53 games played and 20 games with multiple RBIs.
Lee, a native of Loganville, Ga., was a first team All-Conference selection last spring. He finished right behind Deerman with a .369 batting average, which ranked eighth in the PBC, was second on the team with 15 doubles and a .551 slugging percentage. Lee had multiple hits in 21 of his 46 games played.
Read more about Deerman, Lee, and the coaches poll here.
Watson wins Mr. A's Shooting for CashCooper Watson, a GSW freshman known as "Coop" from Auburn, Ala., won a chance in Mr. A's Shooting for Cash at the GSW home games during this season.
Participants are given a chance to shoot a free-throw for $25, a three-pointer for $50 and a half-court heave for $100. She succeeded in hitting the free-throw for $25.
This event is sponsored by Ervin Anderson, who is affectionately know as Mr. A.
Pictured (left to right) are Ervin Anderson, Cooper Watson, and GSW Athletic Director Mike Leeder.
Associate Professor Qian "Maggie" Wang, Ph.D., was recently featured on the credit and personal finance website WalletHub. Wang's expertise on loans was featured in an “Ask the Experts” column.
Read the full piece here.
Professor of History and Chair of the Department of History and Political Science Glenn Robins, Ph.D., recently published an article on former President Jimmy Carter. The piece, "The Carter-Rickover Relationship," appears in "Naval History." Robins offers a reexamination of the connection between Carter and the father of the nuclear Navy, Admiral Hyman G. Rickover. The article is one of several pieces featured currently in the U.S. Naval Institute’s publication.
Professor and Chair of English and Modern Languages Michael A. Moir, Jr. presented a paper titled 'Spat On and Shat On and Raped and Abused: Shane MacGowan's Tales of London-Irish Experience' at the annual meeting of the Modern Language Association in New Orleans on Jan. 11 as part of a panel sponsored by the American Conference for Irish Studies on Irish Truth-Tellers.
The Department of Human Resources has launched an Employee of the Month program with the purpose of encouraging recognition of GSW faculty and staff who have significantly benefited the University and made contributions beyond the usual expectations or their employment.
Nominations can be made online each month here.
The November 2024 Employees of the Month were:
On Nov. 19, 2024, N. Iordanova, Ph.D., was awarded another grant in the amount of $5,000 for the International Service Learning Fund. These funds will be used to sponsor some of the activities related to the upcoming study abroad trips to Peru (Spring Break 2025) and China (June 2025). The Augusta Howard Warren Foundation has been an continuous supporter of Iordanova's efforts to facilitate numerous study abroad trips for GSW students.
GSW Senior Associate Director of Athletics Signe Coombs named AD at Truman StateTruman State University has selected Signe Coombs as the school's next director of athletics.
Coombs was selected following a nationwide search. A former Division I student-athlete, she also brings experience as a collegiate coach and athletic administrator. She currently serves as the senior associate director of athletics and senior woman administrator at Georgia Southwestern State University.
In her most recent role at GSW, Coombs was tasked with directing and coordinating internal and external operations that included compliance, student-athlete academic services, sport and personnel oversight, fundraising, and campus and community partnerships. During Coombs's leadership, the GSW HERricane women's sports initiative launched to empower female student-athletes through personal and professional development opportunities. The programming has since grown to serve all GSW student-athletes, local youth and Sumter County organizations to provide comprehensive education focused on overall well-being. Under her guidance, student-athletes also have record-setting academic performance streaks, and several athletic programs have experienced unprecedented competition success. With more than 4,000 community service hours logged per year through the NCAA TeamWorks competition implemented by HelperHelper, the department has ranked No. 1 in the country twice in the last four years and ranked in the top five since 2019.
Coombs began her duties at Truman on Feb. 1.
Read more about Coombs work at GSW and her new role in Kirksville, Mo. here.
Crawford elevated to Senior Associate AD, steps down as Head Men's Soccer CoachDirector of Athletics Mike Leeder has announced that effective Feb. 1, Eric Crawford will be appointed senior associate director of athletics replacing Signe Coombs, who has accepted the role of director of athletics at Truman State University. Crawford is currently the associate director of athletics for business and operations at GSW while also serving as the Hurricanes head men's soccer coach.
"We are very happy that Eric will be transitioning into this important role, and look forward to watching his continued development as an outstanding administrator," Leeder said. "I have enjoyed working with Eric in his capacity as our head men's soccer coach, and appreciate all that he has accomplished in that arena."
Read more about Crawford's career at GSW and his new role here.
Two staff members in the Division of Business and Finances have taken on new roles as of Jan. 1.
Shawn McGee (pictured at left), who has served as Director of Auxiliary Services since August 2022, has taken on the role of Director of Budgets and Risk Management. This position, which has been vacant for over a year, was reclassified to better meet the University’s needs. McGee is in his second “tour of duty” at GSW, having previously served as Comptroller from 2008-2010 before returning as Director of Auxiliary Services in 2022.
In his new role, McGee will oversee the development, implementation, and management of the University’s annual budget. With over 28 years of experience in governmental accounting, budgeting, auditing, and operations, McGee is well-positioned to enhance our budget operations, and we look forward to the expertise he brings to this role.
Jenn Smith (pictured at right), who has been the Director of Physical Plant since August 2022, has taken on the role of Director of Auxiliary Services and Special Projects. Smith has been a vital member of the GSW community since 2018, serving as Plant Services Coordinator before her promotion to Director of Physical Plant.
In her new role, Smith will oversee the operations of our Auxiliary Services, including but not limited to Dining, Bookstore, Vending, and the new Griffin Bell Conference Center. Her exceptional attention to detail and dedication to customer service have been invaluable in her previous roles, and we are confident she will make significant contributions to Auxiliary Services as we focus on improving and expanding our revenue-generating opportunities.
In the interim, Smith will continue to direct the operations of Physical Plant until that position is filled. Similarly, McGee will remain heavily involved with Auxiliary Services during this transition period.
Banketas named Director of Institutional ResearchGeorge Banketas III assumed the role of Director of Institutional Research on Jan. 1.
Banketas has been an integral part of the GSW community since 2019, serving as a Data Management and Reporting Specialist in the Office of Institutional Research. Over the years, he has demonstrated exceptional skill in data collection, analysis, and reporting to support various university functions, including academic affairs, admissions, and compliance.
A proud alumnus of GSW, Banketas has represented GSW at regional and national levels through his work with the Association of Institutional Research and the Regents Advisory Committee for Institutional Research and Planning. His expertise in tools such as Crystal, Tableau, and Power BI, combined with his ability to foster collaboration and data-driven decision-making, has significantly advanced GSW's institutional capabilities.
Griffin takes on new role as Teaching and Learning LibrarianThe GSW Library is pleased to announce that Jennifer Griffin has transitioned into the position of Teaching and Learning Librarian, effective Jan. 1.
Previously serving as the Access Services Supervisor, Griffin will now focus on enhancing the library’s teaching and learning initiatives. Her expertise and dedication to supporting students and faculty will continue to contribute significantly to the library’s mission of fostering academic success and engagement.
New hires from December and January included:
Paula Bryant, Associate Dean and Professor in the School of Nursing, retired on Dec. 1, 2024. She is continuing to teach in GSW's nursing program as a part-time instructor as of Jan. 1, 2025.
Pamela Green, assistant in the Office of Student Accounts, retired on Jan. 1, 2025.
Promotions and title changes from December and January included:
Retired Campus Safety Officer Irwin Clyde Rutherford passed away on Dec. 4, 2024. He began working at GSW in 1976 and finished his 28th year of service here in 2004. His life was focused on service – in the Army and Air Force, in his church and community, and on our campus. He was known at GSW for being full of kindness and always professional. His daughter, Tammy Middleton who works in GSW's Department of First-Year Experience and Student Success, shared that her father was a "gentle giant," who was known for mentoring students and helping anyone who came into his life.
Dr. David Lewis Smith passed away on Jan. 25, 2025. He retired from Georgia Southwestern in 2002 after 21 years as a professor of sociology and criminal justice. He and his wife, Nora Smith, ultimately retired to Dahlonega, Ga.
Farewells from December and January included:
Georgia Southwestern held its 45th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Convocation on Jan. 29 with GSW alumnus Andra Bryant '98 serving as the keynote speaker. The ceremony also included performances from the GSW Concert Choir and Southwest Civic Chorus, Sumter County High School Select Choir, and the GSW Gospel Choir with the wreath presentation by the Sumter County High School JROTC. Several area schools were also in attendance.
Read more about this year's speaker here and find photos from the event on GSW's Facebook page.
Campus was blanketed in several inches of snow following a winter storm on Jan. 21. It was the area's first snowfall since 2018. Students, faculty, and staff enjoyed the rare weather for several days before the snow fully melted.
While classes shifted into a remote format and most faculty and staff were unable to travel to campus, many people helped keep students and campus safe throughout the week: GSW Public Safety, Physical Plant, Dining Services, Residence Life, executive leadership, and the many staff members and student-athletes who helped serve students in the Dining Hall during the campus closures
See more photos from the GSW community's adventures in the snow on GSW's Facebook page.
GSW nursing students attended the grand opening of the Bill and Olivia Amos Children's Hospital (BOACH) at Piedmont Columbus Regional on Oct. 9, 2024. BOACH is the only freestanding children's hospital in the southwest region. It has 30 med-surg beds, 10 intermediate care beds, 2 mental health safety rooms, and 6 Pediatric Intensive Care rooms. BOACH will also be home to an outpatient infusion clinic specifically for pediatric patients. Future plans include to add a surgery center and attached pediatric emergency room. The School of Nursing is proud to partner with Piedmont and BOACH to give students the best learning experiences.
"On behalf of Georgia Southwestern State University administrators, faculty, staff, students, and the MLK Convocation Committee, I would like to thank everyone that helped to make [the MLK Convocation] possible.
First, I would like to recognize the MLK Convocation Committee. Representing the staff Ms. Angie Christmas, Ms. Tiffany Aldridge, Ms. Tammy Middleton, Ms. Ebony Guidry, Mr. Ervin Anderson, Mr. O’Neil Lewis and myself. Representing the student body Ms. Shiriyah Battle, Mr. Zykarius Harshaw, and Mr. Joseph McKellar.
Next, I would like to thank the following people and organizations: Mr. Andra Brantley, Sumter County High School JROTC, GSW Concert Choir & Southwest Civic Chorus, GSW Brotherhood, GSW Gospel Choir, National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), Student African American Brotherhood (SAAB), Student Government Association (SGA), Strong United Assertive Virtuous Educated (SUAVE) Women, African American Male Institute (AAMI), the GSW Athletic Department, Aladdin Food Services, Physical Plant, GSW Division of Business and Finance, Office of the President, Office of Academic Affairs, and GSW Division of Student Engagement and Success."
Find more events on the GSW academic calendar, on CanesConnect, and on the Events Open to the Community webpage.
