Upon graduation, members of the National Technical Honor Society receive three letters of recommendation from the national office to take with them on job interviews. In addition to this, members also have access to the National Technical Honor Society Online Career Center to aid in finding employment. Members also have $91,000 in scholarship opportunities as well, some of which are in conjunction with other student organizations at West Georgia Technical College.

“I am pleased and delighted at the level of academic excellence these students have shown,” West Georgia Technical College President Dr. Skip Sullivan said. “These students have bright futures ahead of them and I commend them for their achievement.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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After sweeping the awards at the state competition, West Georgia Technical College students and faculty excelled at this year’s Phi Beta Lambda National Leadership Conference in Orlando.

	Back Row (left to right): Ann Bolen, Tyler Evans, Katrina Price, Michael Smelser, Jeff Anderson Middle Row: Candy, Rhonda Brown, Terri Grubb, Jeree’ Hedge, Crystal White, Shane Parker Front Row: Amanda Dobbs, Pamecia Whitlock, Beth Candler, Jessica Burger

West Georgia Technical College competed with other schools around the country, including UCLA, University of Pittsburgh, and Arizona State University to sharpen their core business skills, expand their networks, and participate in more than 55 business and business-related competitive events. A total of 1,800 students and advisors not only competed but  attended educational workshops, visited an information-packed exhibit hall and attended motivational keynotes on a broad range of business topics.

“The success of our students and faculty at the National Leadership Conference is an example of the excellence we bring in the classroom and in the workforce,” said West Georgia Technical College President Dr. Skip Sullivan. “I am proud of every one of them and congratulate them on their success.”

This is the 10th year West Georgia Technical College has placed at the National Leadership Conference. This year, students and faculty won a combined total of 10 competitive event awards. Jeree’ Hedge won 1st place in Computer Applications while Jessica Burger and Debbie Price were awarded the President ward in the Career and Membership Achievement Program. West Georgia Technical College students also placed in the categories of Computer Applications, Desktop Publishing, Word Processing, Contemporary Sports Issues, Accounting Analysis & Decision Making, Database Design & Applications, and Desktop Publishing.

This was also the first year West Georgia Technical College advisers placed in the National Leadership Conference. English Department Chair Carol Pearson won first place in Government & Civic Awareness. Accounting Instructor Joey Sanders placed third in Environmental Business. Business Administration Technology Instructor Jeremy Eason received the 2010-2011 Outstanding Local Advisor Award.

“I was stunned, actually,” said Pearson about her first place win. “Not that I doubted that I had ability, but because I had assumed that all the contestants would have the same ability.”

In addition to winning student and adviser awards, West Georgia Technical College came away with numerous campus chapter awards. The Carroll Campus received the 2011 Gold Seal Award of Merit as well as the 2010-2011 Outstanding Chapter Award. West Georgia Technical College campuses also placed as the Top Fundraising Chapter for March of Dimes, with the Carroll Campus placing second and the Lagrange Campus placing fifth. The Carroll Campus also placed seventh for the Local Chapter Annual Business Report.

“WGTC’s performance at nationals is spectacular but not unexpected,” said Pearson. “While we did have the largest-ever number of national top-10 placements, I know how hard we teachers push our students, so I knew our folks would do well.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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Over 200 graduates are expected to take part in West Georgia Technical College’s summer commencement exercises July 14 at the Murphy campus and July 21 at the LaGrange campus. The graduates will receive recognition for completion of their associate degrees or diplomas.

	Dale Bowers, WGTC 2011 GOAL Winner

“The graduates of West Georgia Technical College have grown in both knowledge and experience and they have very bright futures ahead of them,” said West Georgia Technical College President Dr. Skip Sullivan. “I wish them much success in their future endeavors and I commend them for their achievements.”

The July 14th commencement address will be given by West Georgia Technical College student and 2011 Georgia Occupational Award for Leadership Winner, Dale Bowers. Bowers was also named as one of the four finalists for the statewide GOAL Award this past May. A resident of Moreland, Ga., Bowers is a senior in the Associate Degree Nursing Program on the LaGrange Campus and also serves as president of her ADN class. She will attend her own commencement this December.

	Senator Josh McKoon, District 29, Georgia Senate

Republican Senator Josh McKoon, District 29 will give the July 21st commencement address. Sen. McKoon was elected to Georgia State Senate in 2010 and served his first term in the 2011 legislative session. Sen. McKoon serves as a member of the Banking and Financial Institutions, Ethics, Insurance and Labor, Judiciary, and Special Judiciary committees and also serves as a secretary to the Higher Education Committee. He currently works as an attorney for Day Crowley P.C. and serves on the boards of directors of various community organizations in Columbus, Ga.

The graduations will take place July 14 at the Murphy Conference Center on the Murphy campus and July 21 at the Callaway Conference Center on the Lagrange campus. Both ceremonies will begin at 7 p.m.

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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Posted: July 7, 2011
CONTACT: Anitra Ellison, PHONE: 678-664-0523

The West Georgia Technical College Foundation isn’t resting on its laurels. Only months after closing a goal-smashing $11.4 million “Invest in the Next Generation” major gifts campaign, the Foundation today announced a Coweta Campus Campaign that aims to raise $5 million to help fund construction of the College’s new Coweta Campus.

On April 29, the Foundation broke ground on the new campus, which should be ready for students in time for Fall Semester 2012. The new campus will offer a number of programs including general education classes, criminal justice, early childhood development, robotics, electronics, computer information systems and healthcare. The location will also bring a stronger adult education and economic development presence to the area, as well.

“West Georgia Technical College is invested in Coweta County and we are poised to meet the growing needs of workforce development in the area,” West Georgia Technical College President Dr. Skip Sullivan said. “We are excited about the launch of this new campaign and the impact it will have on the future generations to come.”

The campus will be built in phases, with the Foundation completely funding phase one, the Newnan Hospital Inc. Allied Health Services Building. Newnan Hospital, Inc. secured the naming rights to the building with a $1 million gift last year.

The state of Georgia has budgeted $8.5 million for phase two of the campus – a general instruction and administrative building.

“This campaign is critical to the future success of our College and our students,” West Georgia Technical College Vice President of Institutional Advancement Dawn Cook said. “We’ve had a strong presence in Coweta County with the Central Educational Center, and now we’re expanding our presence with a new campus to meet the community’s needs well into the future.”

Orchard Hills Golf Properties, LLC donated 38 acres of prime real estate on I-85 for the new campus. The donation is valued at $1.55 million and is one of the single largest land gifts ever made to a technical college foundation in Georgia.

In addition to the Orchard Hills investment and the $1 million gift from Newnan Hospital, Inc., the Foundation has received a number of smaller gifts from the Coweta County community toward the new campus including donations from Yokogawa Corporation of America, Coweta Dentistry Associates, Coweta-Fayette EMC and Southtowne Motors.

Cook said the new campaign is essential for the continued growth and development of the Coweta Campus.

“This will be a campus for the entire Coweta County community and as such, we are reaching out to the community for its support,” Cook said. “Newnan and Coweta County have been clamoring for greater post-secondary opportunities for years, and we are committed to leading the way and making the investment this community wants and needs.”

West Georgia Technical College has had a strong presence in Coweta County since 2000. The College is currently housed in the Central Educational Center, a collaborative venture between business and industry, the Coweta County School System, and West Georgia Technical College.

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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The West Georgia Technical College Foundation’s most anticipated fundraising event, Black Tie & Boots, has a limited number of tickets available. Due to the confirmed number of corporate sponsorships, the number of tickets on sale to the public is very limited.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of Black Tie & Boots with country star Gary Allan headlining the concert. Allan is known for his hits “Her Man,” “Man to Man,” “Tough Little Boys” and “Nothing On but the Radio.” Past country artists who have performed at the annual concerts include Blake Shelton, Sara Evans, Jo Dee Messina and last year’s star, Josh Turner.

“Black Tie & Boots is one of the premiere events in West Georgia,” said Dawn Cook, Vice President of Institutional Advancement. “The community and our sponsors look forward to this event each year and we pride ourselves on providing our guests with an elegant and intimate atmosphere.”

While Black Tie & Boots is known for bringing the latest country stars to West Georgia, its impact on the community goes deeper than entertainment. Proceeds from the event go toward student scholarships, program improvements, facility upgrades and faculty development.

“The West Georgia Technical College Foundation is an essential part of our College,” said West Georgia Technical College President Dr. Skip Sullivan. “It is because of the Foundation and its support that we are able to make a difference in the lives of our students, faculty and staff and in our communities.”

Tickets go on sale to the public on July 1 at $125 per person or $950 per table. Tickets can be purchased with a credit card on the West Georgia Technical College website, www.westgatech.edu or contact Dawn Cook at dawn.cook@westgatech.edu or at 678.664.0515.

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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On July 4th, while most people will be attending barbecues, going to parades and watching fireworks in celebration of the freedom of this nation, West Georgia Technical College instructor Eugene Jones, will be defending that freedom in Afghanistan. Lt. Col. Jones, a Computer Information Systems Instructor on the Douglasville campus, is on his third deployment since joining the West Georgia Technical College faculty in 2000.

“I applaud Eugene’s commitment to our country and to our College,” said West Georgia Technical College President Dr. Skip Sullivan. “He serves as a good example of the way our employees put service before self and invest in the lives of others on many different levels.”

Jones began his military career after attending Fort Valley State University on a ROTC scholarship where upon graduation, he served a four year commitment to the military. After his four year commitment, Jones got off of active duty and into the Reserves. Two months after 9/11, Jones was sent on his first deployment. He has since been deployed to Kuwait, Iraq, and now Afghanistan. While his family misses him during his deployments, he says they are also his support system.

“My family hates me being gone as much as I have. They have supported me because it’s what I signed up for and I do feel a commitment to the country,” said Jones. “Everyone in the U.S. should do some sort of community service. Mine just so happens to take me away.”

In addition to his family, West Georgia Technical College has also been full of support. Jones says the biggest drawback of being deployed is not being able to see the growth of the school.

“WGTC has been nothing but supportive. I am blessed to work with true professionals that happen to be great people. I miss being at school,” said Jones. “Teaching and mentoring is what I do best. I truly love what I do. I can't wait to get back in front of a class room of students again.”

Putting his talents to good use, Jones also teaches while deployed. After teaching reading in Afghanistan where the literacy rate is 6 percent, Jones has learned firsthand the importance of education.

“If being in the Middle East has taught me nothing else, people in the U.S. need to wake up and be thankful,” said Jones. “There is no excuse to walk around uneducated when there are so many opportunities to get not only an education, but a quality education.”

In the midst of all the July 4th celebrations, Jones’ family and his West Georgia Technical College family will be admiring his courage and patiently waiting for the return of one of their own.

“When he is away defending our country, Eugene is sorely missed from the Computer Information Systems faculty ranks. He possesses such a charismatic personality that the void he leaves is a constant reminder of his sacrifices on behalf of the faculty, staff and students at the college,” said Computer Information Systems Program Chair Tracey Thompson. “Each time he has been deployed, as we anxiously await his safe return, we are immensely appreciative that we can rest better knowing that men and women of his courage and integrity are standing guard.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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Eleven West Georgia Technical College students were inducted into the Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society June 10 during the chapter’s first ever induction ceremony. Phi Theta Kappa is a highly recognized international honor society for students who achieve superior academic success at a two-year college. To be considered for membership, students must be in an associate degree program and maintain a 3.5 cumulative GPA.

	G.W. Rogers, WGTC President Dr. Skip Sullivan, Bill Sewell and Laura Jakubiak with the 2011 Phi Theta Kappa inductees.

“You are the cream of the crop and we are proud of you!” said Associate Provost G.W. Rogers to the eleven inductees.

“Keeping grades high offers a lot of opportunities and the ability to offer a little more to a potential employer,” said West Georgia Technical College President Dr. Skip Sullivan. “I am pleased and delighted to recognize their accomplishments and I am very proud of them.”

The West Georgia Technical College chapter received the Pinnacle Award from Phi Theta Kappa headquarters in October 2010 and received the award again in June of this year. The Pinnacle Award recognizes Phi Theta Kappa chapters and regions for successfully enhancing their recruitment and orientation strategies, which is measured by the number of new members reported to the Phi Theta Kappa Headquarters in a given year. West Georgia Technical College was awarded for reaching a 25 percent increase of new members, which is the highest awarded.

“I hope they are very successful in their future endeavors,” said Laura Jakubiak, Registrar and Phi Theta Kappa advisor. “We are very proud of them.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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Downtown Carrollton has welcomed a new neighbor as West Georgia Technical College cut the ribbon on a new administrative headquarters at 401 Adamson Square June 9. College employees, City of Carrollton officials, residents and businesses of Adamson Square came to celebrate the restored building and West Georgia Technical College’s return to its roots.

“This is a great day for the college. We are absolutely delighted to be here,” said WGTC President Dr. Sullivan. “We will be good citizens on the square and we are honored to be here.”

	Daniel Jackson, Chunk Newman, WGTC President Skip Sullivan (center), City of Carrollton Mayor Wayne Garner (right), Mike Patterson, Jim Gill, Casey Coleman, Dawn Cook and Rick Hayden cut the ribbon to WGTC’s new downtown building during the June 9 ceremony.

“We’re excited and delighted that West Georgia Technical College is downtown,” said City of Carrollton Mayor Wayne Garner. “I thank Skip Sullivan for his leadership and support during this project.”

Formerly known as the People’s Bank building, 401 Adamson Square was a dominant presence in Downtown Carrollton for many years. Recently, however, the building sat vacant, negatively impacting the economic vitality of the Square. In April 2010, the West Georgia Technical College Foundation along with the City of Carrollton and the Carrollton Payroll Development Authority saw the opportunity to expand WGTC’s workforce development and adult education capacity in Carroll County, restore one of Adamson Square’s historic buildings and contribute to the revitalization of Downtown Carrollton.

“We can’t talk about economic development without talking about education and workforce development,” said Daniel Jackson, President of the Carroll County Chamber of Commerce. “That is why this facility is so exciting to us and we are delighted to be a part of this.”

The West Georgia Technical College Foundation obtained the building through an agreement with the Carrollton Payroll Development Authority, with the support of the City of Carrollton. The Foundation was also awarded a Façade Improvement Grant in June 2010 by Carrollton Main Street in support of the building’s exterior improvements.  The appraised building is valued at $1.55 million, making this the largest building gift in WGTC Foundation’s history.

“We enjoyed being a part of this project,” said Jim Gill, Chairman of the Carrollton Payroll Development Authority. “We thank West Georgia Technical College and the City of Carrollton for their partnership.”

During the renovation of the facility, the West Georgia Technical College staff, faculty and leadership volunteered more than 4,000 man hours to help with the building’s renovation. West Georgia Technical College employees began moving into the building in March of this year. The location is now home to the College’s Economic Development, Adult Education, and Institutional Advancement divisions as well as the President and Vice Presidents.

“West Georgia Technical College is committed to empowering lives every day and we are inspired by our students,’ said Dawn Cook, VP of Institutional Advancement. We look forward to    expanding our impact and to continue to provide high quality technical and adult education to the entire West Georgia community.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma, and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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The Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia (USG) approved a policy change during their June 7, 2011 meeting that will allow additional courses from the Technical College System of Georgia’s accredited colleges to transfer to all of the USG’s 35 degree-granting institutions.

Until now, credits in five core courses from the TCSG (mathematics, algebra, pre-calculus and two courses in English composition) were transferrable. The Regent’s vote allows the transfer of five additional TCSG courses in American literature, psychology, economics, sociology and public speaking.

To be eligible for the agreement the TCSG colleges must be accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

“The action by the Board of Regents to add five additional TCSG courses to our transfer agreement is another important move toward the goal of seamless education for Georgia students,” said TCSG Commissioner Ron Jackson. “The TCSG and the USG will continue to be focused on creating greater opportunities for all of our students by improving the articulation between our systems.”

“This is a significant step in technical education that will provide more options for students,” said West Georgia Technical College President Dr. Skip Sullivan. “This will allow more opportunities for students to build on the skills they learn here at West Georgia Technical College.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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West Georgia Technical College faculty, staff, alumni, family and friends were present to celebrate and honor the 14 graduates who earned an Associate of Applied Sciences degree in Dental Hygiene this spring. The Dental Hygiene Recognition Ceremony took place June 2 at the First Baptist Church of Douglasville.

“You will always have a home at West Georgia Technical College,” said Cecilia Owens, Dean of Health Sciences to the class of 2011 graduates. “You will always be proud of what you learned here and we are proud of you.”

The ceremony included a special presentation of a song by one of the graduates, a video montage of the graduates’ journey in the program and the ceremonious conferring of the pins followed by the passing of the light and the Dental Hygiene oath. Brenda Rigney, a 2011 Dental Hygiene graduate, began her very emotional valedictorian speech with a quote from Mary Anne Radmacher.

“‘Courage does not always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, I’ll try again tomorrow.’ These two sentences represent what it takes to get through this program,” said Rigney. “It’s been a long hard journey for all of us. We’ve made it and everything is ahead of us.”

	WGTC Dental Hygiene Class of 2011 First row left to right: Miranda Fennell, Stacie M. Ancar, Ashley Tinker, Lori Denney, Brenda S. Rigney, Kim Schubert, Christie Prater Second row left to right: Dani Nicholas, Tarren Beavers, Jordane Podaras, Tasha Daniel, Mekia Gravett, Katie Large

Multiple awards and honors were given during the ceremony as well. Graduate Stacey Wells received the Colgate Star Student Award which honors a student who has exhibited compassion in patient care and has displayed enthusiasm for community service as a dental hygienist. Graduate Ashley Tinker received the Golden Scaler Award, which recognizes the student with the gift of instrumentation precision and that has also demonstrated the finest skills with patient care. The Golden Scaler Award is the highest honor for clinical skills awarded at any dental hygiene pinning ceremony.

Two students and a faculty member were inducted into the newly chartered Delta Delta Sigma Chapter of Sigma Phi Alpha National Dental Hygiene Honor Society. Sigma Phi Alpha is comprised of elected dental hygiene educators and graduates from accredited dental hygiene programs with high scholastic achievement. Students are elected on the basis of scholarship, service, leadership and potential for professional growth. Membership is limited to 10 percent of each graduating class and is selected from a list composed of the upper 20 percent of the class. Charter member and clinical coordinator Lois Burke inducted graduates Brenda Rigney and Kim Schubert as the first members Sigma Phi Alpha. Dental Hygiene Program Director Cherie Rainwater was also inducted and elected as the first chapter president.

“I’m proud of these graduates for the hard work they have invested to achieve their goal,” said WGTC President Dr. Skip Sullivan. “They have bright futures ahead of them and I commend them for their achievement.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

TCSG Rescinds GED® Test Fee Increase

TCSG Rescinds GED® Test Fee Increase
System’s state board holds cost decision until 2012, cites delay
in development of computer-based test

Atlanta – The state board that oversees the Technical College System of Georgia and its Office of Adult Education (OAE) has voted to rescind a planned increase in the GED test fees for Georgia’s adult learners. The TCSG will wait until at least early next year to reconsider the cost. 

The board’s action follows recommendations from both the OAE, which is the statewide provider of the test, and the GED Testing Service® in Washington, D.C., which is responsible for the design and delivery of the test.

In April, the TCSG announced that the test fees would more than double from the current $95, which would coincide with the launch in July of a first-ever, computer-based GED test by the GED Testing Service.

However, the GED Testing Service recently asked Georgia to postpone the cost increase citing the need to resolve all operational and technical matters involved in the development and delivery of the computer-based testing (CBT) model. 

In a letter to TCSG Commissioner Ron Jackson dated May 19, 2011, GED Testing Service Executive Vice President Nicole M. Chestang wrote, “We recommend that the planned CBT implementation date be delayed until we can provide the optimal operational solution and implementation approach for Georgia and ultimately the State’s GED test-takers.”

The current fee of $95 to take the full battery of GED tests that measure reading, writing, social studies, science and mathematics skills will remain in effect into early 2012, or however long it takes to begin the computer-based GED testing.

Both the GED Testing Service and the TCSG want ensure that the CBT is working flawlessly before anyone takes the new electronic version of the test. 

“The computer-based GED testing is an excellent program with great promise, but it won’t be implemented in Georgia until we’re fully confident that every issue with the new model has been worked out,” said Beverly Smith, the TCSG assistant commissioner for adult education.  “In the meantime, we’ll work to inform every adult learner that their test cost will not change in July as planned and encourage them to take full advantage of the test at the current fee level.” 

It’s estimated that there are more than 1.3 million adult Georgians who are without a high school or GED diploma.  Last year, almost 20,000 men and women in the state changed their lives for the better and improved their job opportunities by passing the test and obtaining their GED diploma.

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WGTC Unveils 2011 VOICES Magazine and Closes Out Art Exhibit
Posted: May 31, 2011
CONTACT: Anitra Ellison, PHONE: 678-664-0523

West Georgia Technical College revealed its creativity with the unveiling of the 2011 issue of VOICES creative arts magazine in conjunction with the close of the Traveling Art Exhibit. The event, which was held in the atrium of the LaGrange campus, showcased the artistic and literary talents of the students, faculty and staff at West Georgia Technical College.

“It’s an exciting part of our college experience to see the creativity of the students and faculty,” said WGTC President Dr. Skip Sullivan. “It’s no easy task and this magazine takes a lot of hours for our editors. I commend everyone who participated.”

The eighth issue of VOICES features original poetry, prose and artwork from 45 students and faculty members and is the only creative arts magazine published annually within the Technical College System of Georgia. Of the 301 submissions received, 49 pieces were published.

	2011VOICES Winners Rhonda Brown and Phyliss Powell with Art Exhibit Showcase Winner, Justin Wood.

“When making selections, the editorial committee first looks for work that represents the college well. We try to include work that relates to students’ work and lives as students,” said Kyle Taylor, English instructor and Editor-in-Chief of VOICES. “As for the prize winners, the committee adds an additional examination for quality and excellence. Prize winners have both excellent content and great technique for the genre.”

Certificates were awarded to first, second and third prize poetry, art and prose winners for VOICES as well as the Showcase and Merit Award winners for the Art Exhibit. Original poetry from faculty and staff members Diane McConnell and the late Mary Edmonson were read as well as a poem from nursing student, Rhonda Brown. Brown made VOICES history by being the first person to win a prize in poetry, art and prose.

“I was surprised and overwhelmed! I didn’t expect that,” said Brown who is studying to be a registered nurse. Brown won third prize for her oil painting, “Forgotten Home;” first prize for her poem “Ignorance is not Bliss;” and third prize for her essay, “Identically Dissimilar.”

	2011 VOICES Editors: Jeremy Bishop, Jennifer Jiles, Trish Ivey, Kyle Taylor, Carol Pearson, Susan Prestridge, and Pam Sanders

The literary and art pieces that were on display at the event not only demonstrated the level of talent and creativity at West Georgia Technical College, but also served as a source of inspiration and accomplishment.

“There is a tremendous sense of pride I see when I speak to our contributors,” Taylor said. “I have had several who have told me that the magazine was their primary motivation for continuing to write or create art. If this is the main impact of the magazine, then I think it has served an excellent purpose.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

WGTC Student Honored as Finalist for the TCSG Student of the Year
Posted: May 31, 2011
CONTACT: Anitra Ellison, PHONE: 678-664-0523

Dale Bowers, a student in the Registered Nursing program at LaGrange campus of West Georgia Technical College, was chosen as one of nine finalists for the Technical College System of Georgia’s 2011 Student of the Year award.

	GOAL Finalist Dale Bowers (left) with WGTC Rick Perkins Award Winner Karen Freeman.

The award is part of the system’s annual Georgia Occupational Award of Leadership (GOAL) program, which recognizes the best student at each of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one Board of Regents college with a technical division.

Bowers was recognized during a banquet honoring the system’s top students and instructors at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Atlanta on May 26. Out of the nine finalists, Bowers placed in the top four.

“There were more than 191,000 students who enrolled in the Technical College System of Georgia last year, so it’s quite a remarkable accomplishment to be named a finalist for the Student of the Year award,” said TCSG Commissioner Ron Jackson. “Bowers excelled in the classroom and is a great role model in her community, and she worked very hard to earn her place as one of our finalists.”

Bowers is studying for the Associate Degree in Nursing, which will prepare her to become certified as a Registered Nurse. She serves as the class president for the 2011 class of ADN students and was nominated for the award by instructor Katilya Harris, RN, MSN.

“Bowers serves as a good example of the drive and determination our students have at West Georgia Technical College,” said WGTC President Dr. Skip Sullivan. “She represented the College well and we are very proud of her accomplishment.”

Judging for the award starts at each college then continues on to the regional level. At the state level, the nine finalists are interviewed by a panel of judges representing business, industry and higher education in Georgia. At each step, the students are rated on their academic accomplishments, leadership qualities, involvement in their local communities, and future aspirations.

The competition for the award is intense, for not only is the winner named Georgia’s technical college student of the year and ambassador for technical education, the winner also gets the keys to a brand-new Chevrolet Cruze, presented by Chevrolet and the local Chevrolet dealers, long-time sponsors of the GOAL program.

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

WGTC Holds Inaugural Traveling Art Exhibit
Posted: May 19, 2011
CONTACT: Anitra Ellison, PHONE: 678-664-0523

West Georgia Technical College students and faculty showed off their artistic side at the College’s inaugural Traveling Art Exhibit. The exhibit, which started April 29 and will close May 19, sets out to highlight all of the creative individuals and their work that are part of the College community.

“I am blown away by the creativity and talent of our students, faculty and staff here at West Georgia Technical College,” said WGTC President Dr. Skip Sullivan. “We encourage creativity and expression here at the College and I commend everyone who participated.”

Submissions were accepted from current students, recent graduates, current and retired faculty and staff, members of West Georgia Technical College’s various boards and advisory committees, as well as current students from local high schools in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson, Heard, Meriwether and Troup counties. Submissions were accepted in the mediums of paintings, drawings, metalwork, sculpture, photography, mixed media and other forms of visual art.

“Out of the 118 submissions, 61 of those submissions were from the Douglas campus,” said Dr. Judy Jackson, an English instructor and the Douglas campus coordinator for the exhibit. “We are very proud of all of our artists.”

	WGTC nursing student Carley Ethridge with her Showcase Piece “Life After the Storm”.

Many of the artists who submitted their work to the exhibit were inspired by literature read in Jackson’s English 1101 Composition class, including the short story “A Rose for Emily” and the poem, “My Last Duchess.” The essay “Ground Zero”, which was about a writer’s experience visiting the site, was particularly inspiring for nursing student Carley Ethridge. Ethridge, who is a Showcase winner for her mixed media work entitled “Life After the Storm,” combined the national tragedy of 9/11 with her own personal tragedy of losing her son to a brain tumor to create a powerful piece of art.

“I haven’t talked about my son and his death a lot,” said Ethridge. “But working on this piece for the exhibit and talking about it has helped a lot.”

While some of the artwork had deeper, complex themes, other works of art happened by accident. Donald Atkins, III, a computer networking student, is a Showcase winner for his photograph entitled “Sunset Silhouette” which shows the silhouette of a little boy against the backdrop of a sunset along the beach.

	WGTC computer networking student Donald Atkins, III with his Showcase Piece “Sunset Silhouette”.

“The kid stepped in my shot; I was pretty mad,” said Atkins. “I didn’t say anything, and I didn’t do anything to the picture. No Photoshop or anything.”

Two area artists served as judges and selected 17 Showcase winners and five Merit Awards from entries submitted on line and compiled to CD. The Traveling Art Exhibit will conclude May 19 in concurrence with the unveiling of the 2011 VOICES creative arts magazine on the LaGrange Campus.

“The exhibit gave our students the opportunity to use their creative abilities in a significant way,” said Jackson. “It was an opportunity for the college to recognize a large number of students for their artistic and creative works. The fact that our faculty, staff, and area high schools could participate was a plus.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

TCSG Announces New Website with Information about HOPE Changes
Posted: May 12, 2011
CONTACT: Anitra Ellison, PHONE: 678-664-0523

TCSG ANNOUNCES NEW WEBSITE WITH INFORMATION ABOUT HOPE CHANGES
Helps students answer the question ‘What about HOPE and me?’

Atlanta - The Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) unveiled a new website today that’s loaded with information about the recent changes to Georgia’s HOPE Grant and Scholarship program.  The www.tcsg.edu/HOPE website is a great resource for current West Georgia Technical College students as well as prospective college students, both young and old, to get the latest facts about earning and keeping their HOPE program benefits.

A link to the website is also available on the West Georgia Technical College home page.

After lawmakers made the necessary modifications to the HOPE program earlier this year, many students are asking What about HOPE and me?  To better answer that question, the new TCSG website has examples of six students with different academic backgrounds and places in their pursuit of a college education. Two are students already in college, two more are graduating high school, another is trying to decide on where to go to college, and the last is a non-traditional student who’s looking to college to help change careers.

Visitors to the website can also access frequently asked questions about the HOPE changes and find additional information about other ways to get financial assistance for college, like the federal Pell Grant.  There are links to each of the 26 TCSG college websites and an online form to submit questions about HOPE directly to any of the technical college financial aid offices. 

Downloadable videos about the HOPE program requirements will be added to the website in the coming weeks.

“The TCSG created this website to assist Georgians as they navigate their way through the HOPE program, which even with the recent changes is still one of the very best college financial aid programs in the country,” said TCSG Commissioner Ron Jackson.  “For someone who’s enrolled at a TCSG college or is interested in attending one, getting and keeping HOPE means great cost savings on top of what’s already one of the most affordable college education values in the entire southeast.  It’s important that people understand exactly what’s needed qualify for the HOPE program, what it now pays for, and how to use it to complete their college education. ”

“West Georgia Technical College strives to make education accessible to as many students as possible,” said WGTC President Dr. Skip Sullivan. “We’ll be implementing extra support to advise our students and make the transition smooth.”

Beginning in the fall, the average tuition for a full semester course load in a standard program at a TCSG college will be about $1,125. Under the recent changes, the HOPE Grant or Scholarship will pay $60.75 per TCSG semester credit hour (which is determined by a percentage the cost of tuition from the previous year), meaning that the average student using HOPE at a TCSG college in the fall will have to pay about $214 in out of pocket tuition cost.  Also, students will be responsible for approximately $240 in books and fees that was paid for by HOPE last year, but is no longer covered.

The website also details an important new requirement that students maintain a 3.0 grade point average (GPA) at certain checkpoints in order to keep the HOPE Grant.  Previously, TCSG students receiving the grant had to maintain satisfactory academic progress, which was considered to be at least a 2.0 GPA. 

Early on, there was some concern that all students would immediately need the higher GPA upon implementation of the new rule if they were to continue their HOPE Grant eligibility. However, the new rule only applies to those HOPE Grant recipients who cross the 30 or 60 semester hour checkpoint during the fall semester 2011 or later.

This means that newer students have additional time to improve their GPA, if necessary.  Also, students who crossed a checkpoint with satisfactory academic progress before the upcoming fall semester will keep the HOPE Grant until they either graduate or reach the next GPA requirement at the 60-hour checkpoint.

Last year, three-quarters of the 191,000 students who enrolled at the 26 TCSG colleges relied on the HOPE program to help pay for their college education.  That includes almost 138,000 students who qualified for the HOPE Grant to enroll in technical certificate and diploma programs, which usually take less than two years to complete, and  another 7,400 TCSG students who used the HOPE Scholarship for two-year associate degree programs. 

The Technical College System of Georgia offers more than 600 certificate, diploma and degree programs.  Enrollment in the TCSG colleges has grown by almost 33 percent in just two years, with tens of thousands of new students taking advantage of the low tuition, great instructors and easy access to in-demand programs like healthcare, life sciences, advanced manufacturing, aerospace and more.  And almost 76,000 TCSG students studied online last year through the system’s Georgia Virtual Technical Connection.

For more information about the TCSG, go to www.tcsg.edu 

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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WGTC to Host Championship Rodeo
Posted: May 11, 2011
CONTACT: Anitra Ellison, PHONE: 678-664-0523

West Georgia Technical College will host the TuffRiders Championship Rodeo on May 13 -14. The gates will open at 6 p.m. and the rodeo will begin at 8 p.m. each night. This is the second year that West Georgia Technical College has hosted the Rodeo.

“West Georgia Technical College is committed to the West Georgia Community,” said West Georgia Technical College President Dr. Skip Sullivan. “We are proud to host and partner with the TuffRiders Championship Rodeo to bring a world-class competitive rodeo to our Murphy Campus.”

Before the rodeo kicks off at 8 p.m., spectators can enjoy mechanical bull riding, bungee jumping, pony rides and souvenir shops which will open at 6 p.m. each night. The rodeo will feature bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, tie down roping, steer wrestling, barrel racing, team roping, ladies break-away roping, and the crowd favorite bull riding. All scheduled events are sanctioned by the International Professional Rodeo Association.

Rising Nashville recording artist, Bartlee Norton will perform live each night. Norton, whose known for his singles “Doin' It the Hard Way” and “Back on the Ground”, will be onsite for autographing CDs, t-shirts, and other official merchandise at the rodeo.

In addition to bringing entertainment to Waco, Georgia, the Tuff Riders' Championship Rodeo is donating $1000 back to the community. They will award a $500 scholarship to a graduating senior and award $500 to a local school through a calf scramble contest.

Tickets are priced at $12 in advance and $15 at the gate for adults; $7 in advance and $10 at the gate for children. Students and employees of West Georgia Technical College can show their school ID and receive discounted tickets priced at $10 for adults and $5 for children. Advance tickets can be purchased starting Monday, May 2nd thru Friday, May 13 at noon at James O’Neal Dodge in Bremen, Wallace Farm Supply in Carrollton, Easy Pay Title Pawn in Tallapoosa and at each West Georgia Technical College campus.

“The Tuff Riders' Championship Rodeo Committee and The International Professional Rodeo Association are proud to partner with West Georgia Technical College in bringing this world class event to Waco,” said Clint Chance, Chief Operations Officer of the Tuff Riders' Championship Rodeo. “The professionalism and growth of both the West Georgia Technical College institution and the IPRA makes this partnership a perfect match.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

WGTC Breaks Ground on New Coweta Campus
Posted: May 10, 2011
CONTACT: Anitra Ellison, PHONE: 678-664-0523

West Georgia Technical College broke ground on what will soon be the brand new, stand-alone, full-service Coweta Campus on April 29th. State and local dignitaries, board members and Foundation trustees were in attendance at the groundbreaking ceremony.

“We are excited and delighted for the citizens of Coweta,” said West Georgia Technical College President Dr. Skip Sullivan. “This is a time to celebrate, not only for our new campus, but also for new opportunities and the investment of this community on the Coweta campus.”

	WGTC board members, trustees, State and local dignitaries break ground on the new Coweta Campus.

“The level of support that the West Georgia Technical College has received shows that education is an important priority in Coweta County,” said Dawn Cook, West Georgia Technical College Vice President of Institutional Advancement. “The West Georgia Technical College Foundation is tremendously grateful for the community’s investment in technical education and our students.”

West Georgia Technical College has been a vital educational presence in Coweta County since 2000. The College is currently housed in the Central Educational Center (CEC), which opened as a collaborative venture between business and industry, the Coweta County School System, and West Georgia Technical College.

“The economic development impact this campus will have on this community cannot be overstated,” said Ron Jackson, Commissioner of the Technical College System of Georgia. “I cannot think of a better investment of state government money. It’s not wasted; it changes people’s lives.”

The state of Georgia has budgeted $8.5 million for phase two of the campus which will include three classroom buildings, a maintenance and operations building, outdoor education and shops and parking.

“80 percent of the workforce is going to need technical training. To be able to meet the needs of workforce development is a great asset,” said Lieutenant Governor Casey Cagle. “Students need more options and more relevance in the workplace. That’s where the CEC and West Georgia Technical College come into place.”

The new Coweta County campus will offer a number of programs including general education classes, criminal justice, early childhood development, robotics, electronics, computer information systems and healthcare. The location will also bring a stronger adult education and economic development presence to the area.

“Thanks to the CEC, West Georgia Technical College has been a big presence in our community,” said David Brown, Chairman of the Coweta County Development Authority. “Thank you all for making that important first step. It takes a community to get this done.”

Orchard Hills Golf Properties, LLC donated 38 acres of prime real estate on I-85 for the new campus. The donation is valued at $1.55 million and is one of the single largest land gifts ever made to a technical college foundation in Georgia.

“Having technical education and training is absolutely essential and this new campus will allow us to meet those demands,” said Jim Mottola, member of the Orchard Hills Golf Properties, LLC. “Invest in technical education; it’s the best return you’ll get.”

The West Georgia Technical College Foundation was presented with a $1 million check from Newnan Hospital, Inc. The investment is the largest cash gift received in the West Georgia Technical College Foundation’s inaugural major gifts campaign and will be used exclusively to fund a portion of the cost of construction of an allied health services building, which will be named the “Newnan Hospital, Inc. Allied Health Services Building.”

“It’s important to have our campus in our community,” said Tom Moat, President of the Board of Directors of Newnan Hospital, Inc. “We are pleased to contribute to technical education with our new campus. This campus will meet the needs of all of today’s industries.”

“This is just starting and we want you to be a part of it,” said Sullivan. “This is going to change the face of Coweta County.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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WGTC Students and Faculty Excel in PBL State Competition
Posted: May 9, 2011
CONTACT: Anitra Ellison, PHONE: 678-664-0523

West Georgia Technical College students and faculty won top honors at this year’s Phi Beta Lambda state competition. Demonstrating their knowledge, professionalism, and leadership potential, 26 students placed at the competition and 18 students qualified to compete in the national competition in Orlando, Florida in June. Overall, the West Georgia Technical College chapter of Phi Beta Lambda won 35 awards in 23 different events.

“We brought home more chapter awards than ever,” said Carol Pearson, English department program chair and PBL Professional Division president. “Winning awards are good for the student’s morale. Other schools know we come to compete and we do well consistently.”

	Members and advisors of the WGTC chapter of Phi Beta Lambda at the state competition in Atlanta.

In addition to individual competitions, each campus chapter competed and won in different categories. The Carroll campus received first place for March of Dimes fundraising, raising $2,270.53 while LaGrange placed second, raising $2,000. The Douglas campus raised $1000 for March of Dimes, even though they did not receive an award.

The Carroll campus also received first place for their Community Service Project, first place for the Local Chapter Annual Business Report, and received the Gold Seal Award of Merit while the Douglas campus received the Bronze Seal Award of Merit. Two advisors also received awards; Carol Pearson was awarded for five years of service with PBL and Jeremy Eason received the PBL Advisor of the Year Award.

“Receiving an award for PBL Advisor of the Year is an honor,” said Business Administration Technology Instructor Jeremy Eason. “I could not have received this award without the hard work, dedication, and perseverance of our chapter’s members.”

Not only does PBL help its members learn professional skills, it also helps them learn life skills as well. Jessica Burger, a Criminal justice student on the Carroll campus says that PBL has changed her life a great deal.

“Before I joined PBL, I didn’t talk that much and I was terrified at talking in front of a lot of people,” said Burger who was voted as a PBL state officer at the state competition. “Being in PBL has made my college experience a lot better. I’ve done more as a member than I would have done as a regular college student.”

The organization has participated in college-wide initiatives for Project Care and Project Gift; volunteered at the Carroll County Soup Kitchen; created, signed and delivered Christmas and Valentine’s cards to local assisted living homes; cleaned up a local park; and raised funds for the March of Dimes, in addition to competing in local, state, and national conferences and competitions.

“These students are a great example of the value we place on academic excellence,” said West Georgia Technical College President Dr. Skip Sullivan. “Our students are top competitors and they represented the College well. I’m proud of them all and congratulate them on a job well done.”

“A lot of schools are facing budget cuts and I’m really impressed that our school sees the importance of PBL,” said Pearson. “West Georgia Technical College truly is a student-centered college.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

WGTC Foundation Exceeds Goal at the Close of Major Gifts Campaign
Posted: May 9, 2011
CONTACT: Anitra Ellison, PHONE: 678-664-0523

The West Georgia Technical College Foundation major gifts campaign entitled “Invest in the Next Generation”, has come to a close. The campaign, which was created in June 2007, specifically sought to raise funds to build a new Coweta County Campus; strengthen the Student Scholarship and Grant Fund; create a Healthcare Endowment; and to enhance the Adult Education and Literacy program with an endowment. The initial goal at the start of the campaign was $8 million. The Foundation has exceeded that goal, raising over $11.4 million.

“This is an incredible achievement made possible by the community we are proud to serve,” said WGTC President Dr. Skip Sullivan. “The donations to the West Georgia Technical College Foundation are more than an expression of generosity; they are an investment of lives changed.”

The Clements Group, an institutional advancement and effectiveness firm, conducted a feasibility study in February 2007 to determine potential support for a major gifts campaign. Seventy-four community leaders, Foundation board members, members of the College’s Board of Directors, and employees of the College were interviewed in regard to the College’s program appeal, availability of financial support, leadership, and organization. After the analysis of the responses, the suggested initiatives for the proposed campaign were determined.

“Externally, I think the Campaign raised the visibility of the College in the region, improved its image, and connected it with community leaders that had previously had little or no relationship with WGTC. Internally, I believe it increased the pride that employees felt in being part of a college that was so well regarded in the community, and increased their awareness of the critical nature of their jobs,” said Jackie Bowen, a senior consultant of the Clements Group. “This could not have happened without the dedication and energy of Dr. Sullivan and Dawn.  We could provide counsel and advice, but the feet on the street were theirs.”

The campaign focused on four initiatives. The first initiative, the Coweta Campus Fund, was to raise funding for a new, stand-alone, full service campus. Orchard Hills Golf Properties, LLC donated 38 acres of prime real estate on I-85 for the new campus. The donation is valued at $1.55 million and is one of the single largest land gifts ever made to a technical college foundation in Georgia.

The second initiative, the Healthcare Fund, provided funds for enhancing training, expanding existing programs, establishing new programs, and improving equipment and facilities for the next generation of medical support personnel. The third initiative, the Student Scholarship and Grant Fund, was created to help students surmount the barriers that prevent them from pursuing a college education. The fourth initiative, the Adult Education and Literacy Fund, helped to offer people of every age and economic background to pursue the basic education credentials that will help them compete and earn in the workplace.

The West Georgia Technical College Foundation received a $1 million donation from Newnan Hospital, Inc., which was the largest cash gift in the inaugural major gifts campaign. The donation will be used exclusively to fund a portion of the cost of construction of an allied health services building on the brand new Coweta County campus, which will be named the “Newnan Hospital, Inc. Allied Health Services Building.”

The Foundation has also received donations from the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, GreyStone Power Corporation and Foundation, Tanner Health System, Redken, Piedmont Newnan Hospital, YOKOGAWA Corporation of America, Coweta-Fayette EMC, the AT&T Foundation, Southwire Company and many other businesses, foundations and individuals.

“I am proud of the positive impact this College and Foundation make in the lives of so many,” said Dawn Cook, WGTC Vice President of Institutional Advancement. “And I want to thank everyone who made an investment in our Foundation for making these successes possible.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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WGTC to Sponsor Bassmaster Elite Series at West Point Lake
Posted: May 3, 2011
CONTACT: Anitra Ellison, PHONE: 678-664-0523

West Georgia Technical College will be the presenting sponsors of the Bassmasters Elite Series Pride of Georgia tournament which will be held at Pyne Road Park at West Point Lake May 5th – 8th. This is the first time West Point Lake has hosted the Pride of Georgia tournament and the first time West Georgia Technical College has been a presenting sponsor.  The event has been previously held at Clarks Hill Lake near Augusta for the past several years.

“West Georgia Technical College is fully invested in Troup County,” said WGTC President Dr. Skip Sullivan. “We are proud to be a presenting sponsor for this nationally-acclaimed tournament and proud to be a part of this community.”

The tournament will feature 99 professional anglers from 27 states and one foreign country, including Kevin VanDam from Kalamazoo, MI, reigning champion and four-time winner of the Bassmaster Classic. The anglers will compete for the top prize of $100,000, a chance to qualify for the Bassmaster Classic, and a shot at the 2011 Toyota Tundra Bassmaster Angler of the Year title.

West Georgia Technical College’s very own Mike Lee, a member of the Board of Directors, will play a role in the tournament as a marshal. He will be assigned to one of the 99 anglers who are competing and will ride in the boat all day with the angler. Lee will ride in the boat each and every day until that angler is eliminated from competition.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve the College and the board in an area I’m very passionate about,” said Lee who is also a fishing enthusiast. “This tournament is fantastic exposure for the College. It’s a big event and an opportunity to get our name out in front of a lot of people.”

ESPN2 will have television crews on hand taping for their hour long program, The Bassmasters, which is one of the highest-rated outdoors programs on television. Up-to-the-minute event standings, stories, photo galleries, blogs, live coverage of weigh-ins, and on-the-water and behind-the-scenes video will be available on Bassmaster.com and ESPN3.com.

In addition to the tournament, fishing enthusiasts can enjoy early morning launches; tournament weigh-ins; Ask the Experts, where fans pose questions to Elite Series pros; B.A.S.S. giveaways; tips and techniques from industry experts; angler autograph sessions; and product demonstrations. Official B.A.S.S. merchandise will be available for purchase.

There are plenty of other activities to enjoy as well. The event will also feature a Dock Dogs competition; Hamster Water Balls; Team Sandtastic, a professional sand carving company that will produce a sand carving at Pyne Road Park to commemorate the Pride of Georgia; live music from local and regional acts bands including The Harborcoats, Rustic Charlie, and Paris Luna; a Kids Zone with inflatables; local food vendors, and a First Friday Street Party in downtown LaGrange. And the best part is that all of the events and activities are free.

“West Georgia Technical College’s support of this event as a presenting sponsor has allowed us to keep this event free so everyone can come out to the shores of pristine West Point Lake on a great spring weekend and enjoy this top-notch tournament and festival,” said Laura Jennings, director of tourism for LaGrange-Troup County. “While the financial impact of having the Pride of Georgia tournament here for a week is significant, we believe the real dividend is the ESPN2 coverage. People all over the nation and world will come to know West Point Lake.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

High School Students Gain Real World Experience in WGTC Dual Enrollment Program
Posted: April 26, 2011
CONTACT: Anitra Ellison, PHONE: 678-664-0523

At a time when the job market is still bleak, students enrolled in West Georgia Technical College’s dual enrollment program have a leg up on the competition. The Dual Enrollment program allows high school juniors and seniors to earn both high school and college credit. Many use the program to earn a college technical certificate while still in high school.

	Dual enrollment won first place for their table decorations at the Second Annual Recruitment and Retention Day at the Murphy campus on April 11. Dual enrollment students included Holly Robinson, Anna Washington, Brianna George, and Kayla Brown.

“It’s a great opportunity,” said Andra Brantley, High School Coordinator for Douglas, Haralson and Carroll counties at West Georgia Technical College. “It’s an opportunity that high school students should take advantage of.”

Carrollton High School senior and Patient Care student at West Georgia Technical College Becky Aldridge has certainly taken advantage of the program. From 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., Aldridge works at Countryside Health Center before going on to a regular day of classes at Carrollton High School.

“I help feed, clean and bathe the patients. I also help them with their therapy,” Aldridge said. In addition to her college course work, the graduating senior also juggles her high school classes and her student government position as secretary of her senior class.

“I do have to study more,” said Aldridge, who will continue her studies at West Georgia Technical College this fall. “But doing dual enrollment is worth it because it tells me what college life is like and I’ve become friends with the other students in the program.”

Patient Care instructor Pat Sailors has been with the dual enrollment program since its inception eight years ago and has seen its success.

“One of my first students in the dual enrollment program is now in medical school at the Medical College of Georgia,” said Sailors. “I’ve had numerous students go on to RN, LPN, and lab technician programs. It’s really been a success.”

While students can earn college credit in the dual enrollment program, it also prepares them for a job right out of high school, or in some cases, while they are still in high school.

“Nursing homes will hire dual enrollment students part-time,” said Sailors. “When they graduate, they can take the state certification test. If they pass, they are able to work anywhere in the state of Georgia.”

Although the option of going straight into the workforce is available, many students choose to further their education.

“The majority of dual enrollment students come back to West Georgia Technical College and get their diploma or degree,” said Brantley. “I highly recommend this program for students not only seeking a technical education but a traditional four-year education as well.”

“Dual enrollment students leverage their time in high school to get a College certificate they can continue to build on at West Georgia Technical College or use to get a job right now,” said West Georgia Technical College President Dr. Skip Sullivan. “We commend them for the dedication and hard work they put into their education.”

West Georgia Technical College offers dual enrollment programs in over 20 areas including culinary arts, cosmetology, law enforcement, welding, healthcare and many others. Programs are offered on all five campuses and both instructional sites at Franklin and Greenville. Courses vary by location. For more information on dual enrollment, contact Andra Brantley at 770.947.7538 or Carly Byrd at 706.756.4670.

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

March of Dimes Campaign Wraps Up With Walk in West Georgia
Posted: April 22, 2011
CONTACT: Anitra Ellison, PHONE: 678-664-0523

A clear sunny sky, cool breeze and a sparkling lake served as the backdrop for the West Central March for Babies April 16 at the Plant Wansley Recreation Area near Lowell in southern Carroll County. Over 60 teams and local organizations, including West Georgia Technical College, laced up their sneakers and marched for babies.

“West Georgia Technical College is proud and pleased to be sponsor for such a great cause,” said Dawn Cook, Vice President of Institutional Advancement and West Central Georgia Walk for Babies Chair. “We hope that everyone will continue to raise support for a worthwhile cause.”

	Team WGTC raised over $18,500 for the 2011 March of Dimes March for Babies. Team members included (front) Anitra Ellison, Robin Witcher, Walk for Babies Chair Dawn Cook, Stephanie Fant, Julia Frazier, (back) Dee Coulter, Mark Kenerly, Penny Kenerly, Kevin Cain and Aaron Sones.

At the heart of event was little Wynn McBrayer, who after two surgeries and time in the neonatal intensive care unit, has been fighting a congenital heart defect since his birth nine months ago. The McBrayers -- mother Ellen, father Scott and big brother Rhett -- serve as this year’s West Central Georgia Ambassador Family for the March for Babies. Ellen McBrayer left the walkers teary-eyed with her inspiring words.

“We knew a world of healthy babies with our son Rhett and when Wynn was born, we discovered a world of sick babies. It’s been a devastating, whirlwind of a time,” said Ellen McBrayer. “Today, Wynn is 9 months old and that’s 9 months of a chance.”

The over 300 participants taking part in the six-mile walk kept Wynn McBrayer and other babies like him in their hearts and in their wallets, helping to raise a total of over $86,000. Carla Starling, senior community director for the Southwest Georgia Division of March of Dimes, said the total surpassed their goal of $85,000.

“It was phenomenal,” said Starling. “It was a beautiful day, there was a good turnout, and hearts were touched.”

The top three fundraising teams were announced at the conclusion of the walk with Georgia Power taking first place, bringing in over $24,000. West Georgia Technical College came in at second place, raising well over $18,500. The McBrayer’s fundraising team “Win for Wynn McBrayer”, came in at third, raising over $15,000.

“We are just glad to be a part of the March of Dimes family and we plan to sponsor them every year,” said Ellen McBrayer. “Let’s just walk for babies!”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

WGTC LPN Graduates Celebrate 100 percent Pass Rate
Posted: April 18, 2011
CONTACT: Anitra Ellison, PHONE: 678-664-0523

The spring and summer 2010 LPN graduates from the Murphy and Coweta campuses all had a 100 percent pass rate on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). The national exam measures the knowledge, skills and abilities of an LPN candidate and must be passed to receive a license to practice. Former Practical Nursing Program Director, Tricia Thompson, said that this is the first time since the merger that West Georgia Technical College has had a 100 percent pass rate.

2010 LPN Graduates

“We congratulate these graduates on their achievement,” said WGTC President Dr. Skip Sullivan. “This accomplishment is a reflection of the dedication we as a College give to our students and I commend them on their hard work.”

According to the rules and regulations of the Georgia Board of Nursing, a school must maintain a passing percentage of at least 80 percent of first time exam takers over a four year period. A 100 percent pass rate not only means good news for students, but also good news for the College as well.

“Having a 100 percent pass rate attracts a wider variety of students, higher staff rates and it ensures jobs,” said Thompson. “Students have told me that they have researched the pass rates at West Georgia Technical College and that was their reason they chose to attend.”

Connie Styons, the LPN Education Consultant of the Georgia Board of Examiners for Licensed Practical Nurses, said that West Georgia Technical College’s pass rates have steadily improved over the past five years.

“The average pass rates for 2010 in the state of Georgia are 92.25 percent, while West Georgia Technical College is 98.04 percent,” said Styons. “They are way above average and should be very proud of what they accomplished.”

Amie Albert, a 2010 LPN graduate from the Murphy campus, credits the success of her class to the faculty and her driven classmates.

“The instructors were our support system. They were always there whenever we needed help,” said Albert. “Our class had the drive to do well and could be perfectionists at times. I think the combo of the two worked well together.”

On the heels of their achievement, the Practical Nursing program is striving to maintain a 100 percent pass rate. Thompson said that they will continue to do what they’ve been doing.

“We will continue to research, revise and remain current on our curriculum,” said Thompson. “We also stress critical thinking. Nurses have to think critically and make quick decisions.” Albert also has tips for LPN students anticipating the NCLEX exam.

“Be mindful of the fundamentals of nursing,” said Albert. “But it wasn’t as hard as I thought.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

Renovated Franklin Site Unveiled at Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Posted: April 18, 2011
CONTACT: Anitra Ellison, PHONE: 678-664-0523

After months of renovations, West Georgia Technical College cut the ribbon to the new and improved Franklin site, on April 14th. Located on Highway 34 East, the building was donated to the West Georgia Technical College Foundation by the Heard County Development Authority, allowing the College to make significant investment in the facility.

“We are absolutely and incredibly excited about this facility,” said West Georgia Technical College President Dr. Skip Sullivan. “It will serve our students and community well and for a very long time.”

	State Farm Agent, Terry Harper (center) and President Dr. Skip Sullivan (right), cuts ribbon to the newly renovated Franklin site at West Georgia Technical College.

The Franklin site, which has history in textile manufacturing and once served as a sewing facility, has undergone extensive interior and exterior renovations. During construction, students took classes in portable classrooms. State Farm Agent, Terry Harper, remembers the tremendous work that was needed on the building and the efforts of the people who helped make it the working educational center it is today.

“This facility is a product of ‘visdom’, vision and wisdom,” said Harper. “I’m appreciative of the Foundation and Dr. Sullivan’s vision and wisdom.”

The renovated building is now home to classrooms, computer labs, a state-of-the-art welding lab and a cosmetology lab that not only trains students but also offers full salon services to the community. The salon, which will also offer spa services, will open to the public on April 19th from 4:30-8:30 p.m. with very competitive pricing.

“This site is the foundation for future growth,” said Heard County Development Authority Chair, Emmett Harrod. “And I appreciate the commitment made here.”

In January, the site began offering regular day and evening classes in cosmetology, general education and welding. Adults pursuing a GED can also take Adult Education classes at the site as well.

“We are full of excitement as we work to better the citizens of the Franklin community,” Vice President of Institutional Advancement, Dawn Cook said. Most can agree that the renovated site proves to be beneficial to the Franklin workforce and community.

“West Georgia Technical College’s commitment to the community is contagious,” said Kathy Knowles, President of the Heard County Chamber of Commerce. “Their successes are our work force.”

“How great is it to drive by the Franklin site and see the parking lot full of cars?” said Sullivan. “That’s why we’re here - to develop the workforce.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

March of Dimes Motorcycle Ride a Success
Posted: April 12, 2011
CONTACT: Anitra Ellison, PHONE: 678-664-0523

More than 30 bikers and riders from the west Georgia area revved up their bikes for the March of Dimes Motorcycle Ride on Saturday, April 9. Riders coasted into the Carroll and LaGrange campuses to register at 9 am and to receive a t-shirt and raffle ticket. Participants were in good spirits as they waited for the ride to begin.

WGTC VP of Institutional Advancement and March of Dimes Chair Dawn Cook (left) and Tracey Thompson(center) with the Motorcycle Ride participants.

“We are thrilled at the outcome of participants at this event,” said Dawn Cook, Vice President of Institutional Advancement and 2011 March of Dimes Chair. “It’s great to see the camaraderie among all of the riders.”

“As typical of bike rides, we had group of individuals from a variety of backgrounds come together in order to help a very worthy cause,” said Tracey Thompson, Computer Information Systems Program Chair who was also at the head this fundraiser. “There were men, women and two children who participated.”

The bikers, who are no strangers to fundraising rides, were happy to ride for good cause.

“We try to do all the benefits,” said participant Thomas Gonsalves, who has been riding motorcycles all his life. “Really, we’ll do anything to ride.”

Riders started their engines as the kickstands went up at 10 am. The riders traveled to and met at the West Georgia Technical College’s newly renovated Franklin site for a short respite before meeting at the Texas Roadhouse in Newnan for lunch. During lunch, raffle tickets were drawn for prizes ranging from gift certificates to jewelry and fragrance sets. Over $1,000 was raised during the event.

“Riding for Babies was a great success in raising money and awareness for March of Dimes,” said Tracey Thompson. “Everyone enjoyed themselves, and we had a safe ride thanks to escorts provided by the Carroll County Sheriff's Dept., the Heard County Sheriff's Dept., and the Newnan Police Dept.”

“WGTC is committed to giving back to the community,” said College President Dr. Skip Sullivan. “I could not be more pleased with the turnout of this event and the giving hearts of our faculty, staff and community members.”

Through all of the fun, the thrill of the ride and the great prizes, the reason for the fundraiser was never forgotten.

“I hope it helps a lot of babies,” said 2011 West Georgia Technical College graduate Birch Thompson. “If it does something for one child, it’s well worth it.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

GED Testing Fees Set to Increase in July
Posted: April 7, 2011

GED Testing Fees Set to Increase in July
National revamp of testing program leads to changes

Atlanta – Georgia’s adult learners who want to earn their General Educational Development (GED®) diploma will soon have to pay more for the test following changes to the fee structure by the national administrator of the GED Testing Service.

The American Council on Education (ACE), which is the administrator, and Pearson VUE, a specialist in computer-based academic testing, are collaborating in a partnership to expand student access to GED testing nationwide. They announced the new testing fee structure in March. 

The TCSG Office of Adult Education is the statewide provider for the GED test. Last year, almost 20,000 Georgians changed their lives for the better and improved their job opportunities by passing the test and obtaining their GED diploma.

Georgia’s GED test-takers currently pay $95 to take the full battery of five tests that measure reading, writing, social studies, science, and mathematics skills. Starting on July 1, 2011, the new fee structure will be $50 for each test, meaning the entire battery will cost $250 if the five tests are taken on separate days. The expense will be lower if two or more tests are taken together, and someone taking all five tests in a day can save $75.

The GED testing fee increase for Georgia adult learners had to be formally approved by the state board of the Technical College System of Georgia, which oversees the state’s Office of Adult Education. The board voted for the measure during its meeting in Atlanta on April 7.

“The increased cost to take the GED tests could not be avoided due to the higher fees from the national test administrator. We don’t want to catch anyone by surprise, and we’ll be doing all that we can to inform everyone about this change,” said Beverly Smith, the TCSG assistant commissioner for adult education.

Persons who are ready to take GED tests now or who will soon complete their test preparation will be strongly encouraged to save money and take the test before July 1. The TCSG Office of Adult Education will be working closely with the staff at each of Georgia’s 45 official GED Testing Centers to ensure that adult learners, their families, and local communities are fully aware of the new fees before they take effect this summer. 

Although the tests fees are increasing, Smith noted that the State of Georgia continues to offer all other adult education and GED preparation services free of charge to more than 90,000 adult learners, and there are added benefits for completing the program and passing the tests.

“Georgia’s adult learners can still receive individualized GED instruction, test preparation and readiness assessments, and college and career advisement at no cost at numerous locations throughout the state, including on most technical college campuses. And, once they earn a GED diploma, the state presents them with a HOPE voucher that can be used to enroll at a TCSG college, which in turn opens the door to receive the HOPE grant,” said Smith.

Georgia residents who pass the GED tests receive a $500 HOPE voucher to help pay for their expenses at an eligible Georgia postsecondary institution. The HOPE grant, which is separate from the voucher, will pay for most of the state technical college tuition. To keep the HOPE grant, the student must maintain at least a 3.0 college grade point average. 

There are almost 1.1 million Georgians over the age of 25 who are still without their high school or GED diploma. The odds work against individuals without a secondary education credential, especially in the 21st Century economy where as many as four in five jobs will require some level of postsecondary education. Today’s high school dropouts earn an average of almost $9,000 less annually than a person with a GED or high school diploma.

For more information regarding the fee increases, contact the local GED testing center, or call Kim Lee, the state director of GED testing, at 404-679-4959 or email her at klee@tcsg.edu.

A list of all GED Testing Centers in Georgia and additional information is available at http://www.tcsg.edu/forAdultLearners.php

GED® and the GED Testing Service® are registered trademarks of the American Council on Education® and may not be used or reproduced without the express written permission of the American Council on Education.

Ribbon Cutting for New Southwire Center for Manufacturing Excellence
Posted: April 4, 2011
CONTACT: Anitra Ellison, PHONE: 678-664-0523

Unveiling the fruits of their partnership, Southwire Company and West Georgia Technical College held a ribbon cutting ceremony, March 30, marking the opening of the new Southwire Center for Manufacturing Excellence on the College’s Carroll Campus.

	WGTC President Dr. Skip Sullivan (left) and Southwire Company President and CEO Stu Thorn (right), cut the ribbon for the Southwire Center for Manufacturing Excellence.

“This is an exciting time for us,” said West Georgia Technical College President Dr. Skip Sullivan. “We could not be more proud of this partnership, and we are grateful for Southwire’s investment in our college.”

The Southwire Center for Manufacturing Excellence, which is funded by a $1 million gift by the company, will be staffed by a full-time faculty member serving as a liaison between Southwire and West Georgia Technical College. The center will build upon the skills possessed by the company’s current manufacturing and maintenance employees, while creating a pool of talent for Southwire and the west Georgia area.

“This partnership will help current and future employees of Southwire,” said Gary Pasley, Southwire Company Utility Products Plant maintenance manager. “This new center will give students the tools they need to be able to hit the ground running.”

The state-of-the-art center is equipped with electronics work benches and stations for industrial safety and mechanics. The curriculum for the center will include online coursework, instructor-led courses and on-the-job assignments. West Georgia Technical College student Nick Smith spoke at the ceremony and said he is looking forward to the new opportunities and the creation of jobs the center will provide for students like him.

“I express my sincere gratitude to Southwire for their generous investment,” Smith said. “I wish the alliance many successes in the years ahead.”

In his remarks, Southwire President and CEO Stu Thorn said he believes partnership is the key to success for both Southwire and West Georgia Technical College.

“Southwire is dedicated to applying partnership ideas to technical education,” Thorn said. “Why stop with having a partnership with our customers? Why not bring that partnership into the community?”

“Workforce development is a team sport,” Sullivan said. “We can’t do it by ourselves.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

A technology leader for more than 50 years, Southwire Company is North America’s largest building wire producer and one of the world’s leading wire and cable manufacturers. The company’s product line includes copper and aluminum building wire, industrial power cable, flexible power cord, metal-clad (MC) cable, utility products, and copper and aluminum rod. Southwire’s headquarters is in Carrollton, Ga.

Motorcycle Ride for March of Dimes
Posted: March 29, 2011
CONTACT: Anitra Ellison, PHONE: 678-664-0523

Set aside your walking shoes, break out your motorcycle boots and get ready to Ride for Babies!  West Georgia Technical College is hosting a Motorcycle Ride to benefit the March of Dimes on Saturday, April 9th.

Registration will take place at 9 a.m. - 10 a.m. at two locations: Carroll Campus, west parking lot, and LaGrange Campus, East Campus “D” Building.  The Biker’s registration fee is $25 and all riders’ registration fee is $10. All proceeds will benefit the March of Dimes.

While March of Dimes is widely known for “Walks” that mark the conclusion of their fundraising drive each year, WGTC decided to deviate from the norm and not only participate in the Walk, but also to Ride for Babies.  Tracey Thompson, Computer Information Systems Chair and Instructor who is also heading this fundraiser, knows from personal experience how important this bike ride is to the March of Dimes. “From participating in motorcycle bike rides with my husband, I quickly learned that’s where some of the most caring and supportive individuals in our community assemble for a variety of needs and charities; from assisting families with large medical bills from cancer treatments, to helping pay for a funeral when the family’s funds have been depleted, “ said Thompson.  “Naturally, a bike ride came to mind when thinking of fundraising for the March of Dimes.”

“We are very excited to host the March of Dimes Motorcycle Ride,” said Dawn Cook, Vice President of Institutional Advancement.  “It’s important that we are able to come together as a community to help improve the health of babies.”

Kickstands go up at 10 a.m., and all riders will travel to and meet at the new Franklin site for a short respite, then will travel to Texas Roadhouse in Newnan for lunch.  All riders will be responsible for their own lunch tabs.  During registration and while placing orders at the destination, raffle tickets will be sold for items that local businesses have donated.  Each registrant will receive one complimentary raffle ticket and a ride t-shirt, which are available while supplies last.

“WGTC fully supports local community events, and many of our faculty and staff participate regularly in such events,” said President Dr. Skip Sullivan.  “I am pleased that employees of our College have a giving heart, and have elected to support March of Dimes and initiated the Motorcycle Ride to raise support.”

“What is more uplifting than seeing a turnout of who we often think of being the toughest individuals around banding together to support our most precious babies?  This will be a gathering of some of the biggest hearts in our community,” said Thompson.   “You won’t want to miss the powerful message that these bikers will deliver when they rev up and Ride for Babies, in unison, for the March of Dimes.”

For more information about participating in the March of Dimes Motorcycle Ride, contact Thompson at tracey.thompson@westgatech.edu or 770-836-4715.

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study.  A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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WGTC Announces Student and Teacher of the Year
Posted: March 18, 2011
CONTACT: Ben Chambers, PHONE: 678-664-0525

West Georgia Technical College has announced its Georgia Occupational Award of Leadership winner – Dale Bowers, a Registered Nursing student from Moreland – and its Rick Perkins Award winner – Early Childhood Care and Education instructor Karen Freeman of LaGrange.

Dale Bowers

The announcement was made March 10 at a reception to honor student and faculty nominees for their respective awards.

“We congratulate both Dale and Karen on their victories in local competition,” President Dr. Skip Sullivan said. “I know they will both represent West Georgia Technical College well as they compete for their respective state awards.”
 
GOAL, a statewide program of the Technical College System of Georgia, honors excellence in academics and leadership among the state’s technical college students. Local GOAL winners are selected at each of the state’s 26 technical colleges as well as the four Board of Regents colleges with technical education divisions. 

As West Georgia Tech’s GOAL winner, Bowers will represent the College March 23 at Heart of Georgia Technical College in Dublin, competing against winners from the other eight Technical College System of Georgia colleges in the Central Region. Three students from that competition will compete in the state competition.

Student winners – like Bowers – prepare for a three-minute speech and a 12-minute interview by a team of judges.

Bowers is studying for the Associate Degree in Nursing, which will prepare her to become certified as a Registered Nurse. She serves as the class president for the 2011 class of ADN students.

Karen Freeman

Freeman also will continue competition in Dublin against winners from the other eight regional colleges. Two of those will go to the state competition.

Freeman has held her current position with West Georgia Tech since 2006. Prior to that, she taught at the elementary level in both the Meriwether County and Troup County school systems. Freeman holds a Master of Education degree in Early Childhood Education from LaGrange College.

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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WGTC to Cut Ribbon on Renovated Franklin Site
Posted: March 8, 2011
CONTACT: Ben Chambers, PHONE: 770-537-5756

After extensive renovations that placed students in portable classrooms for several months, West Georgia Technical College is preparing to cut the ribbon on its refreshed Franklin location. And what a refresh it is.

Gone are the last vestiges of the building’s history in textile manufacturing. Visitors now see a thoroughly modern educational center with all-new labs classrooms and – the building’s crown jewel – a fully equipped salon for cosmetology students.

“West Georgia Technical College is fully invested in Franklin and Heard County,” President Dr. Skip Sullivan said. “Now that the upgrades are complete, I invite everyone to see this new facility. It is a great opportunity for West Georgia Tech to show Heard County what we are all about. And opportunity is exactly what we are offering the people of Heard County as well.”

The building on Highway 34 East was donated to the West Georgia Technical College Foundation last year by the Heard County Development Authority. The donation enabled the College to make significant investment in the facility.

“We are extremely grateful to have such a tremendous partner in the Heard County Development Authority,” Dawn Cook, Vice President of Institutional Advancement, said. “With their help, West Georgia Technical College is able to vastly improve both the quality and quantity of our class offerings in this community.” Cook oversees the WGTC Foundation’s operations and has negotiated a similar transaction in Meriwether County for the College’s Greenville Site.

The Franklin Site now has a state-of-the-art welding lab, cosmetology lab, computer labs, and classrooms, Sullivan said.

“We now have a shop that mirrors industry standards,” welding instructor Mark Rollins said. “Our graduates will be ready to work when they leave here.”

The new cosmetology lab will not only train students, but will offer full salon services to the community.

“The community is very excited and constantly asking when our salon services will begin,” cosmetology instructor Amina Blackmon said. “We are so excited to have a fully functioning cosmetology lab and salon floor.”

In addition to regular day and evening classes the Franklin site will also provide Adult Education classes for adults pursuing a GED.

The newly renovated West Georgia Technical College Franklin site will be unveiled at a ribbon cutting ceremony from 4 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. on April 14, 2011. The Heard County Chamber of Commerce will be holding a Business After Hours event concurrently.

Salon services will begin April 19 from 4:30-8:30 p.m. with very competitive pricing.

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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Gary Allan Will Headline 10th Anniversary Black Tie & Boots
Posted: February 23, 2011
CONTACT: Ben Chambers, PHONE: 770-537-5756

Gary Allan will be the latest country star to play Waco when he headlines this year’s Black Tie & Boots event for the West Georgia Technical College Foundation.

Gary Allan

Allan follows in the bootprints of a host of country music stalwarts including Blake Shelton, Sara Evans, Jo Dee Messina and last year’s star, Josh Turner.

The August 20 concert marks the 10th anniversary for one of the area’s premier fundraising events.

“As our 10th anniversary, this year is special to us,” Vice President of Institutional Advancement Dawn Cook said. “We are working hard to make this our best event ever. I think our guests will be blown away with what we have planned.”

One thing won’t change, though. Black Tie & Boots is one of the hardest tickets to get in West Georgia. “We plan to sell out with corporate sponsors,” Cook said. “Any seats that remain open on July 1 will go on sale to the public at $125 per person or $950 per table.”

“If you want to be sure to get a seat, you need to purchase a corporate sponsorship,” she said.

Allan is a bit of a departure for Black Tie & Boots – a grittier and more serious artist who wouldn’t play the bars that didn’t allow George Jones songs. Allan is a country artist who says, “You’ll never hear me singing about tractors or farms, just because I don’t know anything about that stuff. Wrong roads and dark horses I know about. Still, I think the pain can get to be some kind of a positive for me because it connects to everything I’ve ever dreamed of. While it’s relentless, it’s confirmation of the actual existence of this big musical drama, the result of the dream.”

If his career often has seemed less loud and permanently neon-lit than those of some of his peers, Allan has indeed achieved a robust viability, consistently hitting all the gold and platinum sales benchmarks by which those kinds of determinations are measured.

“I remember talking about this when I first got signed to a Nashville major label,” Allan said. “Even then I was able to say, ‘Look, I’m never going to be the latest greatest thing, because that usually goes straight up and then burns out.’ My goal was — and remains — to be like Willie Nelson or George Strait, people who consistently rise. I think because I’ve done this since I was a little kid that I want it to be in my life forever. I want to be like Willie, playing until I’m 70. That’s what I’m swinging for.”

You can hear that grittiness in his newest album, the 2010 release, Get Off on the Pain.

Allan made his debut on the country music scene with the release of his single “Her Man,” the lead-off to his gold-certified debut album Used Heart for Sale, which was released in 1996.

Allan’s third album, Smoke Rings in the Dark, was the first platinum album of his career. Its successors, Alright Guy (2001) and See If I Care (2003), were all certified platinum as well, while 2005’s Tough All Over and 2007’s Greatest Hits were both certified gold.

Overall, Allan’s seven studio albums and Greatest Hits package have produced 24 singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs charts, including three that reached Number One: “Man to Man” and “Tough Little Boys” in 2003, and “Nothing On but the Radio” in 2004. Seven more of his singles have reached the Top Ten as well: “Her Man,” “It Would Be You,” “Right Where I Need to Be,” “The One,” “Best I Ever Had” (a cover of a Vertical Horizon song), “Life Ain’t Always Beautiful,” and “Watching Airplanes.”

Black Tie & Boots includes a seated meal at 7 p.m. and the concert at 8 p.m. and is the WGTC Foundation’s largest fundraiser of the year, Cook said.

“The proceeds go toward student scholarships, program improvements, facility upgrades and faculty development. The event is absolutely crucial,” she said. “Our Foundation is giving $20,000 in student scholarships this year because of Black Tie & Boots and events like it.”

“Folks in the community have come to know about this event. I have people asking me every year, ‘Who are you going to get next year? Who’s coming this year? When do tickets go on sale?’ There’s a lot of community goodwill that’s built off of this, as well,” Cook said.

President Dr. Skip Sullivan said the College has come to rely on the Foundation’s support.

“When you look at the way they are supporting our students with scholarships, our faculty with reimbursement for continuing education, our plans for future growth through facility improvements, the Foundation is an essential part of our College going forward. We cannot do what we need to do for students without the Foundation.”

“I encourage people to come out and see Gary Allan, have a good time and do something good to support our community and our students,” Sullivan said.

For more information about becoming a sponsor, contact Cook at dawn.cook@westgatech.edu or 770.537.6010.

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March for Babies Campaign Kicks Off in West Georgia
Posted: February 2, 2011
CONTACT: Ben Chambers, PHONE: 770-537-5756

Wynn McBrayer is a fighter. Since his birth seven months ago at Northside Hospital – including his time in the neonatal intensive care unit there and two surgeries later – Wynn has been fighting a congenital heart defect that may yet claim his life. But he and his family – mom Ellen, dad Scott and big brother Rhett – aren’t giving up.

In fact, the McBrayers, who live in Villa Rica, are taking the fight to the next level – as the West Central Georgia Ambassador Family for the March for Babies, the leading fundraising event for March of Dimes.

	March of Dimes senior community director Carla Starling (left) and West Central Georgia Walk for Babies Chair Dawn Cook (right) announced Ellen and Scott McBrayer (center) and their sons Rhett (standing) and Wynn as 2011 Ambassador Family January 25.  The Walk is April 16 at Plant Wansley.

“We are very excited about our role in the March for Babies this year,” Ellen McBrayer said. “March of Dimes is a great organization that works very hard to support babies like Wynn, who have serious medical needs, but which also works to provide benefits to all expecting mothers and infants.”

Ellen and Scott McBrayer both work in her family’s business, Jones-Wynn Funeral Home, and Ellen said that adds another layer to the story.

“As funeral directors, we knew a world of healthy babies with our son Rhett and, unfortunately, a world where babies did not survive,” she said. “When Wynn was born, we discovered a world in the middle. The world of sick babies was much larger that we could ever imagine. Birth is supposed to be kisses and hugs and family celebrating together. We now know what a gift that is.”

The West Central Georgia March of Babies kicked off its campaign with a breakfast January 25 at Sunset Hills Country Club in Carrollton. West Georgia Technical College Vice President of Institutional Advancement Dawn Cook is this year’s chair.

Carla Starling, senior community director for the Southwest Georgia Division of March of Dimes, announced that the West Central March for Babies will be April 16 at the Plant Wansley Recreation Area near Lowell in southern Carroll County.

But for those at the breakfast and throughout the community the fundraising work begins now. Teams of any number are invited to register for the walk. There is neither a fee to walk nor minimum amount to raise to be an official team. West Central March for Babies organizers hope to raise $85,000 this year, Starling said. The walk serves all of Carroll and Haralson counties.

Other events, including a golf tournament and a fishing tournament at Plant Wansley’s private lakes, are planned as well.

“We will be working hard in the community to get the word out about this important cause,” Cook said. “Everyone loves a newborn. They are innocent and helpless and deserve our help to get a healthy start in the world. Ellen and I hope everyone will help us win one for Wynn.”

Ellen McBrayer, whose speech left few dry eyes at the kickoff breakfast, said her family is very honored and committed to March for Babies.

“Every day we have Wynn is a gift,” she said. “We are humbled to have this opportunity to be the 2011 Ambassador Family for the March of Dimes and for our children, Wynn and Rhett, to represent all that the March of Dimes stands for. Please join with us to raise money, to give the gift of life, to help the March of Dimes cut down on the number of sick babies in our world.”

Ellen encouraged people to join her fundraising team “Win for Wynn McBrayer” at www.marchforbabies.org. The West Georgia Technical College team can be accessed from the College’s website, www.westgatech.edu.

Cook said those interested in helping can contact her at 770.537.6010 or dawn.cook@westgatech.edu. Donations can be mailed to P.O. Box 225; Waco, GA 30182.

Starling can be reached at 706.845.0708.

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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Scholarship Will Help GED Students
Posted: January 25, 2011
CONTACT: Ben Chambers, PHONE: 770-537-5756

The West Georgia Technical College Foundation used a fundraising concert tonight to announce the creation of a named scholarship that will assist those unable to pay for GED testing.

	West Georgia Technical College Vice President of Institutional Advancement Dawn Cook, President Dr. Skip Sullivan and Vice President of Adult Education Dr. Richard L. Robinson presented a check January 22 to Dr. Ray Perren, son of Lessie Dean Perren, a 1978 GED graduate from what was then Carroll Tech.

The Lessie Dean Perren Scholarship Fund will provide help to GED students who can’t afford the $95 exam fee, Vice President of Institutional Advancement Dawn Cook said in remarks before a concert by traditional country star Doug Stone at the College’s Murphy Campus.

The scholarship honors the memory of Mrs. Lessie Dean Perren, a 1978 graduate of what was then Carroll Tech. Perren later obtained her Emergency Medical Technician certificate and practical nursing diploma. Those led her to a 25-year career as a nurse in the emergency room and intensive care unit at WellStar Paulding Hospital.

Perren’s son, Dr. Ray Perren, was on hand for the presentation and said his mother was “a huge advocate for adult education and technical education who knew first-hand how these opportunities change lives.”

The younger Perren himself serves as President of Wiregrass Technical College, a sister school of West Georgia Tech in the Technical College System of Georgia. Wiregrass Tech is headquartered in Valdosta.

“We are proud to establish this scholarship honoring the memory of a graduate of Carroll Tech, and we are honored to have Dr. Perren on hand for the presentation,” West Georgia Tech President Dr. Skip Sullivan said.

Cook said the Foundation is establishing the named scholarship with $1,000 in seed money. Others wishing to contribute are encouraged to fund this scholarship for GED students, she said. Donations can be made online at www.westgatech.edu/foundation.

“There are many, many students today at West Georgia Tech, who – just like Mrs. Perren – are changing their lives one step at a time and one day at a time,” Cook said. “We believe this scholarship will ease the struggles these students face in a small way and enable them to press on toward the next goal for their lives.”

About 600 guests were on hand to see Stone’s 90-minute concert immediate following the check presentation.

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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Black Will Give Address at Rescheduled Commencement
Posted: January 19, 2011
CONTACT: Ben Chambers, PHONE: 770-537-5756

Gary Black – Georgia’s first new Agriculture Commissioner in over 40 years – will give the commencement address to West Georgia Technical College graduates in winter exercises January 27 the College announced today. The ceremony was rescheduled because of hazardous driving conditions January 13.

Black was elected last fall to replace retiring Tommy Irvin who held the post for 42 years.

“We could not be more honored than to have Commissioner Black speak at our winter commencement, President Dr. Skip Sullivan said. “It will be exciting to see his vision for the Department of Agriculture begin to take shape.”

Black, 51, and his wife Lydia, son Ward and daughter Caroline operate Harmony Grove Farms in Commerce, specializing in the production of home grown beef for local consumers.

Black’s first experience as an advocate for agriculture came at age 17 when he served as Georgia FFA State President. Black was a campus leader at the University of Georgia, graduating with a degree in Agricultural Education in 1980. In 1980, he served as a student intern on the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry.

Black began his career with the Georgia Farm Bureau in 1980 as a Field Representative and later served as Coordinator for the State Young Farmer Program. Leaders of the Georgia Agribusiness Council, a chamber-like organization for farmers and agricultural business owners, tapped Black to serve as President in 1989 – a position he held for 21 years.

Black co-managed the Georgia Food Industry Partnership for 13 years. This public-private consortium directs research funding for food safety and product improvement at Georgia’s research universities.

Black has been recognized for his leadership by the Georgia FFA Association, Georgia Young Farmer’s Association, CropLife America, Georgia Agricultural Economics Association, Southern Crop Production Association, Georgia Plant Food Educational Society and Georgia Seed Association. He is a past chairman of the UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Alumni Society and a recipient of the society’s Professional Achievement Award in 2004.

Black will speak as West Georgia Tech awards about 140 associate degrees and technical diplomas. An additional 300 students will be recognized for completion of a technical certificate of credit.

Graduation begins at 7 p.m. on the College’s Murphy Campus in Waco, Georgia. For more information, visit www.westgatech.edu.

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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