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Scholarship to help single moms get
GEDs
By Trey Wood Staff, LaGrange Daily News
Posted: December 23, 2007
 When
the mother of Gardner Newman Middle School interim principal Ernest
Ward died Oct. 25, the last thing he was thinking about was a scholarship
in her honor. But it was one of the first things his teachers thought
of.
Evelyn Ward was born in Chambers County, Ala., in
1943 and never had more than a third-grade education. More than
50 years later, she went to West Georgia Technical College as a
single mother of four to get her GED.
Now, single mothers in the GED program at West Georgia
Tech have a scholarship that will pay the $95 for the exam. Any
single mother who enrolls to take the GED in the adult literacy
department can qualify for the scholarship.
“(The) teachers collected a lot of money and
wanted to create a scholarship and put the money in our foundation,” said
Kevin Cain, director of advancement and marketing at West Georgia
Tech. “... We’re obviously very pleased because the
scholarship has been created to assist single moms to get their
GEDs, and if anybody needs the assistance, I would thing that would
be a great category.”
Ernest Ward and his sister Barbara Boddie agreed
to the scholarship that would honor their mother.
“It was strictly something that, while I was
home making all the funeral arrangements, the teachers inspired,” Ward
said. “So often, when I’m talking with the kids, I’m
just real intimate with the kids, and I share what my life story
was like. Most often I tell them it doesn’t matter how you
start. What matters is how you finish, and I showed them that my
mom raised four of us as a single parent.”
He and Boddie are Evelyn Ward’s middle children.
Her oldest child is Larry Ward, and her youngest is Ricky Ward. “ This
is a woman who only had a third-grade education, so that’s
why she went back” to get her GED, Ernest Ward said.
Evelyn Ward taught herself to read through daily
Bible readings. She was also a whiz with e-mails and the Internet,
ordering shoes online, her daughter said.
“There was a lot that she couldn’t do,
but she knew exactly what to do,” Boddie said. “She
was a nurse’s assistant, too.
”The scholarship will pay for the rising costs
of the GED exam. Last year, the price was $65, but has jumped $30,
Cain said. With other costs that single moms have besides raising
children, it’s one less thing for them to worry about.
“We have many single women in our program that
have children, and some of them even have a hard time getting to
school, much less getting there to finish,” said Mary Edmondson,
director of adult literacy.” “... It will help.
” Evelyn Ward was diagnosed with Crohn’s
disease, placing her on disabilitiy, but it was never something
she taught her child en to live with.
“She didn’t teach her kids that that
was a way of life,” Ernest Ward said. “It was a means
to an end , and she taught us the value of an education.
"Three of her children became college graduates.
Before becoming an educator, Ward was a detective with LaGrange
police. In 1994, he left to become a teacher at Long Cane Elementary
School.
His mother supported her children until they could
take care of themselves, then went back for her GED to show how
important an education is.
“Since I was so open about (my life story),” Ernest
Ward said, “the teachers just felt‘ Why not use this
as an opportunity to raise this money to help other females be
able to do what your mom did when she died.’”
Trey Wood can be reached a t twood@lagrangenews.com
or (706) 884-7311.
Pictured: Mary Edmondson, left, West
Georgia Technical College’s director of adult literacy,
accepts a check from Barbara Boddie and Gardner Newman Middle
School principal Ernest Ward for a new scholarship to pay GED
test fees for single mothers at West Georgia Tech thanks to Gardner
Newman Middle School teachers, and Ward and Boddie’s mother.
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New WGTC Student Leadership Council
(SLC)
Posted: November 6, 2007
West Georgia Technical College's Student Leadership Council (SLC)
newly elected officers. Pictured left to right: Charlie Davidson,
Vice President, Adeva Holston , Parliamentarian, Ginger Patterson,
President, Melanie Ellerbee, Secretary and Christie Langston, Treasurer.
Standing: Jerry Gray, WGTC instructor and SLC advisor.
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New Medical Assisting Club established
Posted: November 6, 2007
 The
newly established Medical Assisting Club at West Georgia Technical
College invites all medical assisting students to come join and
help make The Medical Assisting Club one of the best organizations
on campus. The members have set goals for the club to be active
in the surrounding community through sharing with those who are
less fortunate. The Medical Assisting Club’s first project
is to share gifts with the less fortunate nursing home residents
this Christmas. We invite you to join and make a difference.
The mission of The Medical Assisting Club of West Georgia Technical
College is to encourage medical assisting students to endeavor
to be more effective; aspire to render greater service to patients
and the community; to maintain the ethics of the medical assisting
profession; to be dedicated to the care and well-being of all patients;
and to provide information, instruction and experiences to members
that will advance their skills and their employment objectives.
Pictured: standing L to R: Karen Murray; Amber
Robinson; Cassandra Scott; Nancy Speir; and Johniar Burks.
Sitting L to R: Frances Talley, Advisor; Anita Ogletree; Shykella
Poole; and Brenyerna McCord.
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New courses train electric line
workers
Posted: October 21, 2007 - LaGrange Daily News
West Georgia Technical College has added an electrical line worker
apprentice program to its course offerings, a move geared to prepare
students for entry-level employment at electric utility companies.
“ There’s a shortage of trained line workers across
the country,” said Darryl Harrison, the college’s vice
president for Academic Affairs.“ The shortage is so dramatic
in some areas that electrical hookups for new industries are being
delayed.”
 In
Georgia, the need for new linemen is largely due to the number
of those retiring and approaching retirement, Harrison said. The
state Department of Labor says that of 5,000 linemen employed throughout
the state, half currently are eligible to retire.
West Georgia Technical College President Daryl Gilley began brainstorming
with Diverse Power President/ CEO Wayne Livingston about a year
ago on adding a line worker program that would benefit both the
college and the community by addressing the need for trained line
workers. With Livingston’s assurance of assistance from Diverse
Power, the local electric cooperative, the college put together
the program which debuted Oct. 1.
To date, Diverse Power has donated to the program a bucket truck
and derrick truck (both ready for retirement from the co-op’s
fleet), numerous poles, transformers, overhead and underground
wire, and access to employees for technical advice.
“ It’s a very significant contribution,” said
Gilley, adding that, if purchased new, each truck would have cost
about $100,000. “This is a brand-new program started from
scratch. Our startup costs would have made it almost prohibitive
without the help we’ve received from Diverse Power.”
The 16-credit-hour program may be completed by a full-time student
in one quarter or may be spread over two or three quarters. Curriculum
targets organization principles, workplace skills, automation skills
and occupational skills with coursework on the fundamentals of
electricity, operating line and bucket trucks, using blueprints,
creating a resume and more.
Diverse Power’s Kirk King, manager of construction and
maintenance, and safety coordinator Glenn Cunningham will be called
on as guest lecturers. Students may use HOPE scholarships to cover
costs of the program.
Livingston said graduates of the program are almost guaranteed
to be hired not only by Diverse Power, but by other electric cooperatives,
private and municipal utilities, and contract companies that serve
utilities.
“ A graduate of this program will have a job,” Gilley
said. “To have the guarantee of a job in today’s world
is huge.”
The program benefits not only employees but the utilities that
hire them, Livingston said.“ When we spend 90 days to six
months training someone and it doesn’t work out, we’ve
lost a lot of money,” he said. “With this program,
we hire someone who’s already trained and has a proven desire
to do the work of a lineman.”
Livingston, who worked on a line crew himself on his way up the
electric cooperative ladder, recommends the work to anyone who“ likes
a challenging job that not everyone can do, is a hard worker who’s
self-motivated and isn’t afraid of heights.”
Added Gilley: “We’re talking about hot jobs for cool
heads.” Gilley praised Diverse Power’s input into the
program and the co-op’s commitment to community.“ This
wouldn’t have happened without Diverse
Power,” he said.
Pictured:From left are Diverse Power President/CEO
Wayne Livingston; Darryl Harrison, vice president for Academic
Affairs at West Georgia Technical College; and college President
Daryl Gilley.
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West Georgia Tech starts classes on
new campus
By Trey Wood - Staff writer - LaGrange Daily News
Posted: Thursday, October 4, 2007
As West Georgia Technical College began a new quarter Wednesday,
students had new notebooks, new teachers and a new building to
call home.
 Students
in the fields of health science and early childhood education began
classes at the college’s new location - the former Raytheon
Systems building on Orchard Hill Road in LaGrange. About 500 students
walked through the doors at the new campus on Wednesday, joining
GED students who relocated in July, said Kevin Cain, director of
advancement and marketing.
“This is nice, right here,” said Lafaye Childs, 31,
walking into the building for the first time.
She was heading toward professor Eddie Rhodes’ medical terminology
for allied health sciences class at 8 a.m. today.
“This is like a real college. We’re moving up now,
aren’t we?” she said.
The upper level of the 245,000-square-foot facility is being used
by Kia Motors workers, many of them engineers involved with construction
of the automaker’s plant in West Point. They’ll move
out once the facility is complete.
Classes in other fields are still at the Fort Drive campus, as
work on the new facility continues. Eventually, the Orchard Hill
campus will accommodate all programs of the college, with room
for future growth. The college will continue to operate the Callaway
Center and Child Development Center on Fort Drive and hopes to
link the two campuses with a 3,000-foot road.
“It’s kind of a dream come true,” Cain said. “It’s
coming along. It’s just really exciting to actually have
some programs in place and functioning.”
The next programs to move will be digital media technology, sports
and fitness management, and cosmetology. A new media lab is nearing
completion.
“It’s really an exciting time for West Georgia Tech,” Cain
said.
Parts of the new campus have yet to be renovated for college use,
including the general education classes and administrative areas.
Main renovations are being done with $3.2 million in state funds.
A student-faculty lounge is also in the works and will include
hot and cold lunch options that will be open to the community.
A coffee bar, big-screen TV and comfortable seats are just a few
things patrons have to look forward to on their lunch breaks.
The school library, though not open for use, has moved into the
new building and will be ready next week.
“It’s very, very positive. Any time you have something
new, there’s some excitement about it,” Cain said. “It’s
literally a new campus with a new feeling and new programs to offer
to the community.”
“I think it’s something that the community will be
very, very proud of.”
Trey Wood can be reached at twood@lagrangenews.com
or (706) 884-7311, Ext. 230.
Pictured: Angela Hopson checks room assignments
Wednesday before going to class at West Georgia Technical College.
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WGTC thanks Milliken and Interface
FLOR for the carpet donated for WGTC’s new West Campus
Posted: September 17, 2007
Thanks
to a generous donation from Milliken Floor Covering, carpet has
been installed in the second floor of the library at the new
WGTC West Campus. This space (pictured above) is currently serving
as
the temporary corporate headquarters for Kia Motors Manufacturing
Georgia. The Milliken carpet will also be used in classrooms
and offices at the College’s new West Campus.
Pictured are (l-r) Kevin Cain, WGTC Marketing
Director; Russell Grizzle, President of Milliken Floor Covering;
and Daryl Gilley, President of West Georgia Technical College.
Thanks
to a generous donation from Interface FLOR, carpet was recently
installed in the first floor of the new library of West Georgia
Technical College’s West Campus. Presenting a “Cool
Carpet” certificate to Daryl Gilley, President of West Georgia
Technical College is Kathy McDuffie, VP for Administration, Interface
FLOR. By using Cool Carpet from Interface, all of the carbon dioxide
emissions associated with the life cycle of the products are neutralized
with emission reduction credits.
Pictured above are (l-r) Barbara Knight, Director
of the WGTC Library; Kathy McDuffie, Interface FLOR; Dr. Daryl
Gilley, WGTC President; Liz Moskus, Interface FLOR Creative
Design Specialist; and Kevin Cain, WGTC Marketing Director.
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National Technical Honor Society Induction
Ceremony held
Posted: August 30, 2007
West Georgia Technical College inducted 16 students into the National
Technical Honor Society on Tuesday, August 28. NTHS has a long
history of recognizing outstanding career and technical students.
The society was founded in 1984 and continues today to carry out
its mission to lift up and publicly acknowledge students committed
to excellence, values, courage, and achievement.
Students inducted into NTHS are recognized as honest and responsible
student-citizens who have made a personal commitment to excellence
through academic, leadership and service achievements and contributions.
 To
become a member of the National Technical Honor Society you:
1. Must be enrolled in diploma/degree program.
2. Must have completed 20 consecutive quarter hours.
3. Must have a minimum cumulative 3.5 GPA in your current program.
4. Must be nominated by an instructor.
5. Must have at least a 2 in Work Ethics.
6. Must be involved in other campus organizations or church or community
work.
NTHS Officers are: (l-r) Alison Bolnick, Treasurer; Kimberly Bryant,
Secretary; Rose Pellett, President; and Linda Clements, Vice President.
New Inductees are: Wendy Atkins, Accounting; Susan Austin, Management;
Deborah Blalock, Business Office Technology; Alice Bowden, Business
Office Technology; Michael P. Coggins, Information Technology;
Stephen B. Copeland, Fire Science; Lisabeth Duncan, Business Office
Technology; Melanie Ellerbee, Electronics; Marycharles Fincher,
Management; Stephen M. Funk, Fire Science; Marcia Hosang, Business
Office Technology; Jeremy Langford, Electronics; Christie Langston,
Business Office Technology; Judith Lee, Accounting; William McElvery,
Fire Science; and Susan Wooten, Business Office Technology.
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Adult Literacy moves to the West
Campus
Posted: August 16, 2007
 Meeting
the Adult Literacy needs of the area has long been a major part
of the West Georgia Technical
College mission, and this has certainly been a banner year for the program.
The Adult Literacy program was selected to conduct an Accelerated Learning
program as part of the Georgia Work Ready initiative and graduated the
oldest known GED recipient in the USA, Mr. T. A. Barnes, at 96 years
of age.
To say the least, the Adult Literacy program at West Georgia
Technical College is on the move…literally! The Adult Literacy
program has become WGTC’s first official resident on the
new West Campus. The move, which occurred in June 2007, could not
have come at a more opportune time.
The new location on the West Campus has provided much needed
additional space to accommodate the booming Adult Literacy program.
The Adult Literacy Program has also seen a rapidly increasing number
of enrollees in the English as a Second Language (ESL) program.
Last year, the program added two off-campus ESL sites to accommodate
the needs of the community. This program teaches English language
skills to those for whom English is not a native language.
Besides the teaching center on the West Campus, the Adult Literacy
program provides teaching sites at nine additional locations in
Greenville, Franklin, Warm Springs, Woodbury, Luthersville, Hogansville,
Manchester, West Point, and at the Ethel Knight Resource Center
in LaGrange. These sites are strategically located in order to
serve as many people as possible in the west Georgia area.
Please call Mary Edmondson, Director of Adult Literacy, at 706-882-2627
or 706-882-2626 for a full schedule of days and times for the above
locations.
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West Georgia Technical College Conducts
Spring Commencement Ceremonies
Posted: August 16, 2007
 West
Georgia Technical College held its spring commencement ceremony
June 22, 2007, at the Callaway Center on the college campus. The
college awarded 44 associate of applied science degrees, 102 diplomas,
and 238 technical certificates of credit to graduating students.
Debra Lyons, program manager for the Governor’s Office
of Workforce Development brought the commencement address to a
packed house of family, friends, and well wishers. Ms Lyons spoke
of the change in Georgia’s economic base and the need to
become globally competitive in the workplace.
She highlighted the need for advanced technical training programs such
as those offered at West Georgia Technical College and the part those
programs play in developing a highly trained workforce. Such a workforce
attracts new business and industry to the area and assures continued
economic development for the region.
 During
the ceremony, the college also recognized Dian Coulter (Mathematics
Instructor) as the WGTC 2007 Teacher of Excellence. Ms. Coulter
will represent West Georgia Technical College at the state Rick
Perkins Award competition in Augusta later this year. She will
attend the Lighthouse Conference which focuses on teaching and
learning in the technical college.
West Georgia Technical College has incorporated two graduation
ceremonies a year into the calendar in order to accommodate the
overflow crowds that come to the campus for this event. The winter
quarter graduation is scheduled for January 25, 2008.
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How can you tell it's Summer at WGTC?
Posted: August 16, 2007
 When
you see young people running across the lawn, excitedly planning
a puppet show, exploring nature with hands-on experiments, or practicing
their Spanish over lunch. This is what happened on July 16-19 at
WGTC. Over forty young people ranging from seven to fourteen years
old were at the West Georgia Technical College campus during the
2007 Summer Youth Academy participating in a variety of classes
including Recreational Sports, Puppetry Arts, Spanish, Operation
Be Fit, Mask Making, Understanding
Mother Nature: The Ecology and You, Science Investigators, Creative Dramatics and Jr.
Law Enforcers.
Highlights from this year’s Academy included a puppet show
using puppets designed by the students in Puppetry Arts:
the planting of a tree outside the Callaway Conference Center as
part of the Mother Nature: The Ecology and You class;
a traditional fiesta with ethnic food, music and a piñata
during Let’s Learn Spanish; the “powers” of
oobleck created in the Science Investigators class; a
plan developed during the week with “Dr. Fit” to learn
the building blocks for a healthy life in Operation Be Fit;
and the LaGrange Police Department’s K-9 demonstration during
the Jr. Law Enforcers segment. The students were also
treated to stories by Carol Cain, LaGrange storyteller and Mama
Jama, a.k.a. Certified Literate Community Program Executive Director
Debbie Burdette.
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 WGTC's
Associate of the Year
Posted: July 23, 2007
Kay Humphries, WGTC Registrar, was recently voted WGTC’s
2007 Associate of the Year by her peers. The winner of this award
demonstrates great customer service and is helpful beyond the call
of duty to the public and to her peers.
She received a $100.00 check and a personal parking space of
her choosing for a full year.
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WGTC's Rick Perkins Award Winner for
2007
Posted: July 19, 2007
 The
Rick Perkins Award for Excellence in Technical Instruction honors
the Technical College System of Georgia’s most outstanding
instructors. The award has been an ongoing statewide event since
1991 and is designed to recognize technical college instructors
who make significant contributions to technical education through
innovation and leadership in their fields.
This year’s Rick Perkins Award winner for West Georgia
Technical College is Dian Coulter.
The announcement was made at WGTC’s June 22 graduation ceremonies.
Mrs. Coulter is a mathematics Instructor and has been teaching
at WGTC for five years.
She will now go on to compete in the West Central Georgia Consortia
competition being held in Columbus in July. If she wins at this
level, she will go on to compete in Augusta in September for the
title of State Teacher of the Year.
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Mother of nine gets degree
From Staff Reports, LaGrange Daily News
Posted: June 29, 2007
 Helen
Stanley just graduated from West Georgia Technical College with
a degree in business office technology, but she’s no starry-eyed
beginner.
Stanley is 56, married and the mother of nine children, eight
of whom lived at the family home in Newnan at least some of the
time during the two years she commuted to LaGrange in pursuit of
her degree.
Stanley, in fact, is following in her children’s footsteps.
All of the children who are old enough have earned their college
degrees.
“My goal for life was to graduate from school, and this
was my opportunity to do what I wanted to do,” Stanley said
this week, reflecting on her Friday graduation.
She admits school would have been easier if she hadn’t
had a houseful of offspring. Tomika, 25; Tenefre, 24; Larry II,
23; Brenard, 21; Javana, 19; Kioka, 16; Brad, 14; and Lemuel, 13,
are the “still at home” children of Helen and Larry
Stanley. Jenell, 29, lives in Atlanta.
Helen Stanley’s husband is a correctional officer with
Metro State Prison in Atlanta and was her “backbone” while
she balanced working at Southern Mills in Senoia, attending West
Georgia Tech and taking care of her children.
The family’s support caught the eye of Kevin Cain, West
Georgia Tech’s director of institutional advancement.
“I was really impressed with how obvious it was that education
is top priority at her household when six children came to take
a picture at her graduation,” Cain said, “and in a
lot of households it isn’t top priority. She’s just
a very impressive lady.”
Stanley said her husband and children helped keep her motivated
and determined. Sometimes they had to cook dinner themselves or
give up having their mother around as much as they wanted.
“They wanted me to have this, so they sacrificed. It was
all right with them as long as I made my goal,” she said.
Her next goal is to find a job in the medical field “or
something like that.” Her degree prepared her to work as
a business office, legal office or medical office specialist, among
others.
Stanley said the staff at West Georgia Tech made her feel welcome,
and her age was a mixed blessing.
“Being older, you can’t function as much,” she said. “You
have to have more patience.”
Once she’s settled into a new job, she says she’ll
enjoy buying some of the things she couldn’t have before.
Wherever she ends up working, her life mission has been completed.
The black diploma cover has “West Georgia Technical College,
LaGrange, Georgia” etched onto it, and the diploma has her
name on it.
“It was 100 percent worth it.” Helen Stanley said. “I’m
complete now...With the help of God, we can do all things.”
Pictured: Helen Stanley is congratulates by
six of her nine children following her graduation last week
from West Georgia Technical College.
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WGTC PBL Wins FIVE National Awards
By: Jill Dollar, WGTC CIS Instructor & PBL
Advisor
Posted: June 29, 2007
 Our
local PBL chapter recently traveled to Chicago, Illinois for the
65th Annual National Leadership Conference and the Institute for
Leaders. For a relatively small technical college (when compared
to some of the 4-year universities), we made a big impact, winning
FIVE national awards.
The first two days of the conference were spent in workshops
with topics like career development, mastering officership, entrepreneurship,
and communication skills. During the opening session of the National
Leadership Conference our local chapter was awarded 3rd Place for
March of Dimes contributions.
The next few days were spent in the competitive events and workshops.
The entire conference was filled with workshops, campaign rallies,
and voting sessions. We had one free afternoon to explore the city
and we made the most of the opportunity. In one very tiring afternoon,
we explored The Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium, and Millennium
Park. We rode the famous Ferris wheel and the swings at Navy Pier
and took an architectural boat tour of the city’s most beautiful
buildings. Then we ended the evening with a visit to the Sears
Tower for a breathtaking view of the entire city at night. We learned
that the term “walking distance” was used by almost
everyone in Chicago and could mean one block or two miles. We traveled
by foot, train, bus, trolley, shuttle, plane, and even a Hummer
limo!
It was quite a trip, but the best part was the Awards of Excellence
ceremony. All three students that attended the conference placed
in the top ten at the National level. Thanks to all of you for
support of PBL. Without you, this would not be possible! Daniel
Stephens 2nd Place – Networking Concepts CMAP Outstanding
Chapter Award; Kathy Helms & Linda Clements 6th Place – Business
Report Chapter Award; Gold Seal Award of Merit Chicago Skyline
Chapter Award 3rd Place – March of Dimes.
Pictured (l-r): Kathy Helms; Jill Dollar, WGTC
CIS Instructor & PBL Advisor; Linda Clements and Daniel
Stephens.
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Tech Tip of the Week
Posted: June 25, 2007
 David
Arnold is shown filming Russ Cook, West Georgia Tech Automotive
Technology Instructor,
Richard Brunair and Ken Cadle, co-owners of Tech Tires in LaGrange.
Tech Tires was the set location for the first “tech tip
of the week,” a segment that will be featured each week on "The
Car Guys" television show which is part of NBC Channel 38
out of Columbus, Georgia.
This particular segment concerned safety tips regarding your
cars’ tires: tips on how to make sure your tires are inflated
at the proper pressure.
Pictured (l-r): David Arnold behind camera,
Russ Cook, WGTC Automotive Technology Instructor, Richard Brunair,
and Ken Cadle.
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WGTC Gets Accreditation
News is plus for students, employers
By Trey Wood Staff writer, LaGrange Daily News
Posted: June 22, 2007
West Georgia Technical College’s three-year pursuit of accreditation
ended with a phone call Thursday.
The message? “Yes!”
The college on Fort Drive was granted full Level I accreditation
by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, joining more
than 35 other accredited community colleges in the state.
“ Literally, it has been about a three-year project to get
to this point,” college President Daryl Gilley said. “You
have to make an application, you’re admitted to candidacy
and then, a year and a half later, you’re admitted to membership.”
Accreditation is good news on several fronts, he said. Students
and employers can be confident in the rigor of the curriculum and
qualifications of the faculty, for example. The two-year associate’s
degrees granted by the college in 16 areas of study will have higher
credibility.
And it will be easier for West Georgia Tech students to transfer
their earned credits if they move on to senior colleges and universities.
Becoming accredited means that West Georgia Tech is in accordance
with the principles of accreditation set by the Commission on Colleges
of SACS. Those principles are standards that a school must meet
before it can become accredited.
Although accreditation is a plus, the goals of the college remain
essentially the same.
“We still want to remain true to our core mission, and that’s
to attract students to pursue their two-year associates degree,” said
Kevin Cain, the college’s director of instituional advancement.
Some of the more significant standards West Georgia Tech handled
were identifying students’ post-educational outcomes, the
base of knowledge the college provides and the overall effectiveness
of the college.
“We’re very proud of the work the faculty and staff
have done in getting ready for this,” Gilley said.
The accreditation was the second bit of good news for West Georgia Tech
this week. The college’s official move into its new campus, the
former Raytheon Systems building in LaGrange Industrial Park, got under
way.
The adult literacy/GED program will be the first to begin operation
in the building currently being renovated on Orchard Hill Road.
“We’re just excited about the fact that we’re
actually moving,” Cain said. “This is something that’s
been on our radar screen for the last year and a half.”
The new building “has a lot more room than we had in the
C Building,” Cain said.
Applications are being taken for the program for classes to be
taught at the new campus.
Trey Wood can be reached at (706) 884-7311,
Ext. 230.
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Mentors play vital role in nursing
By: Debbie Durrance, Lifesytle Editor -
LaGrange Daily News
Posted: May 31, 2007
 Sandra
Burke knows the power of a good mentor.
When she was a student in the licensed practical nursing program
at West Georgia Technical College, her instructor was Pam Parmer.
“Pam was always there, encouraging and working with me and
my classmates,” she said. “She not only taught me the
theory of nursing, but she taught me to be a safe and compassionate
nurse.”
And Parmer knows the power of nursing.
She has been a nurse since 1970 and said it was something she
always wanted to do.
“My mother always told me that being a nurse was all I ever
wanted to be even as a small child,” she said. “I had
two aunts who were registered nurses in the Army during World War
II and were delighted that I chose nursing.”
After completing her training at Piedmont Hospital in Atlanta,
she returned to LaGrange to work at City County Hospital (now West
Georgia Medical Center) to pay back her Sims scholarship.
She worked in public health for seven months, then took the position
to teach in the practical nursing program at West Georgia Tech
in September 1974.
“I enjoyed the hands-on nursing in the hospital, but I also
knew that I wanted to share what I knew about nursing with others
so that they too might make a difference in the care that patients
received.”
She taught full time in the practical nursing program until 2003,
when she became the director of the patient care assisting program
and the instructor for the dual-enrollment program in the high
school.
She said one of the most satisfying parts of her job is the ability to
teach and guide new nurses. Even more than that, she loves seeing former
students becoming educators like herself. Burke was one of those students.
When Burke decided to go to nursing school after completing her
LPN at West Georgia Tech, Parmer was there, encouraging her every
step of the way.
“She even wrote a letter of reference for me,” Burke
said.
Several years later, Parmer contacted Burke and asked if she
would be interested in working with nursing students in a clinical
setting.
“I couldn’t at the time because I was working on my
master’s degree in nursing, but she planted the idea that
I could educate nursing students,” Burke said. “I went
into hospital education instead, but the idea was there.”
Finally, she decided to get into nursing education, and signed
up to help with clinical education at West Georgia Tech to teach
a class in medical terminology.
“Pam let me know she was there in case I needed help or
advice,” Burke said.
She interviewed for a fulltime position and eventually was hired
full time. She now works alongside her former teacher, educating
a new generation of nurses.
“Pam has continued to offer me what ever assistance I need,
even after all these years,” Burke said. Every six months,
I get a new class of nursing students. Each time, I let them know
that many years ago I sat where they sit now and have walked in
their shoes as I am a graduate of this same program. I encourage
them to take nursing as far as they want to, just as Pam did to
me all those years ago.”
Debby Durrence can be reached at ddurrence@
lagrangenews.com or at (706) 884-7311, Ext. 229.
Pictured: Pam Parmer, seated, director of the
patient care assisting program at West Georgia Technical College,
works with former student Sandra Burke, who now teaches practical
nursing at the college.
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Career Expo 2007 held at WGTC
Posted: May 16, 2007
Career Expo 2007 was held on April 24th in the Callaway Conference
Center on the West Georgia Technical College campus. The event
was hosted by the West Georgia/LaGrange Employer Committee, Georgia
Department of Labor/LaGrange Career Center, and West Georgia Technical
College. There were approximately 50 area employers who participated
in the event -- making it a huge success.
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The Car Guys visit WGTC
Posted: May 16, 2007
 Mr.
Jim Biagi, Industrial Mechanical Systems instructor at West Georgia
Technical College, was recently featured on "The Car Guys" television
show. The show is part of NBC Channel 38 out of Columbus, Georgia,
and features Scott Sargeant and Charlie Filkins as the hosts. The
show was filmed on campus at WGTC and highlighted Mr. Biagi with
his 1958 pink Cadillac.
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Accelerated Learning Program Launched
at West Georgia Technical College
Posted: May 15, 2007
 Targeting
industry needs in West Georgia, this pilot program, a part of Georgia’s
Certified Work Ready Community program, is being implemented to
quickly move motivated students to a work ready status. Qualified
students focus on quickly obtaining their GED and receiving a Work
Ready Certificate preparing them for Georgia’s growing job
market. Two tracts are available for students to follow.
 Pictured
are job seekers taking the WorkKeys Assessment and are enrolled
in the Georgia Work Ready Program at West Georgia Tech. Scores
from this assessment provide information about the level of skill
an individual has attained in a specific skill area. Higher score
levels indicate your ability to perform more complex skills.
Once certain scores are attained on the WorkKeys Assessment,
the job applicant has demonstrated skills in Applied Mathematics,
Locating Information and Reading for Information and will receive
a Georgia Work Ready Certificate. These skills are considered crucial
by all employers and the Georgia Work Ready Certificate is good
evidence that the job candidate has them.
For more information about the Georgia Work Ready Program at West
Georgia Tech, contact Dianne McConnell at 706-837-4242.
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WGTC Launches Three New Programs for
Summer Quarter
By: Dr. Darryl Harrison, WGTC VP for Academic
Affairs
Posted: May 15, 2007
What’s new at West Georgia Technical College? Three new
educational programs which will launch summer quarter including:
Cosmetic Esthetician
Are you interested in makeup and make overs? If so, then the Cosmetic
Esthetician technical certificate of credit is designed for you. Estheticians
may find employment in a variety of settings including beauty salons,
spas, health clubs, cosmetics stores as well as plastic surgeons' and
dermatologists' offices. They also are eligible to work as a salon
or day spa esthetician, medical esthetician, makeup artist, manufacturer’s
representative, salesperson or sales manager, cosmetics buyer, esthetics
writer or editor, educator, and state licensing inspector or examiner.
Graduates of the program are eligible to sit for the Georgia State
Board of Cosmetology Examination to obtain a license to work as an
esthetician. This program is 48 credit hours and may be completed in
one year.
Bookkeeping Specialist
Do you like dealing with money? The Bookkeeping Specialist technical
certificate program is designed for individuals interested in employment
as a bookkeeper. This 28 credit hour program provides a fast track
to marketable bookkeeping skills. .Emphasis is placed on sound accounting
practices and communication skills. Program graduates are qualified
for entry level positions as a bookkeeper in a variety of business
and industry settings.
Associate of Applied Science in Technical
Studies
Do you have a diploma in a technical field but would like to earn an
associates degree? The Associate of Applied Science in Technical Studies
degree program allows a student who has earned a diploma in a technical
field to earn a degree by taking an additional 6 degree level general
education classes. This track is open to anyone who has completed a diploma
in a variety of technical fields including Automotive Technology, Culinary
Arts, Machine Tool Technology, Mechanical Control Systems Technology,
and Welding and Joining Technology.
All of the above programs are HOPE eligible and begin summer quarter.
Demand is expected to be high and waiting lists are possible. Call
West Georgia Technical College today to reserve your place in the
program of your choice.
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WGTC's 2007 GOAL Winner Announced
Posted: April 23, 2007
 Rickea
Myrick was named the 2007 GOAL student on Thursday, April 19th
at the annual GOAL luncheon held in the Callaway Center. She is
a Radiologic Technology student and was nominated
by Wanda Barbee.
The Georgia Occupational Award of Leadership was first given
in 1971. GOAL focuses on student excellence in technical education
by focusing on academic excellence and personal achievement. Myrick
will go to state-level competition in May where a panel of judges
will select the state winner. That student will serve as the statewide
student of the year and ambassador for technical education in Georgia.
Myrick was one of four finalist for the honor at West Georgia
Technical College. They are:
Heather Langiotti, a Practical Nursing student
nominated by Sandy Burke; Caroline Lukano, a Practical
Nursing student nominated by Elizabeth Stargell; and Jennifer
Sollars, a Medical Assisting student nominated by Frances
Talley.
Other nominees were Dusti Akin, Octavia Brown, David Carter,
Allison Chevela, Glenita Holloway, Pamela Jackson, Debbie McIntyre
and Rose Pellett.
Pictured Standing from left to right: Rose
Pellett, Management & Supervisory Development; Glenita
Holloway, Business Office Technology; Debbie
McIntyre, Business Office Technology; Heather
Langiotti, Practical Nursing; David
Carter, Air Conditioning Technology; Allison
Chevela, Medical Coding; Octavia
Brown, Practical Nursing; Dusti Akin, Radiologic
Technology; and Pamela Jackson, Practical
Nursing. Seated from left to right: Rickea Myrick, Radiologic
Technology and Jennifer Sollars, Medical
Assisting. Not Pictured: Caroline Lukano, Practical
Nursing.
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Nursing Program Pinning Ceremony Held
Posted: April 18, 2007
West Georgia Technical College's Practical Nursing
Programs held its Bi-Annual pinning ceremony on Thursday, April
12th in the Callaway Conference Center. The Guest speakers were:
rising senior nursing student, Denise Richardson; rising senior
nursing student, Miracle Lovelace; graduate, Paula Eastridge and
graduate, Jacqueline Baker.
The program graduated 15 students. At each ceremony, Academic
and Clinical excellence awards are awarded to deserving students.
Awards were given for Academic Achievement to Pamela Jackson, Denise
Richardson, and graduate, Caroline Lukano. Clinical Excellence
awards were awarded to Teresa Bailey, Heather Langiotti, and graduate,
Jennifer Riley.
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WGTC's PBL wins at Georgia State
Conference
Posted: April 16, 2007
 West
Georgia Technical College’s Phi Beta Lambda (PBL) Chapter
recently won statewide Phi Beta Lambda Chapter of the Year for
the second year in a row at the Annual PBL Banquet in Atlanta,
Georgia. This was the first state conference attended without WGTC
BOT Instructor, Ms. Pam Hawkins. To honor her memory, the Chapter
of the Year Award has been renamed “The Georgia PBL Pam Hawkins
Chapter of the Year Award.” This award is the ultimate goal
for every PBL chapter and the most coveted award of the conference.
Individual Awards
Computer Concepts – Daniel Stephens – 4th Place
Economic Analysis & Decision Making – Phyllis Jackson – 2nd
Place
Marketing Analysis and Decision Making – Kathy Helms - 5th Place
Networking Concepts – Daniel Stephens – 1st Place
Chapter Awards
The Pam Hawkins Chapter of the Year Award
The Floy McGarity Silver Seal Chapter Award of Merit
Foundation Sponsorships – 3rd Place
Interaction with FBLA – 3rd Place
March of Dimes – 1st Place
Local Chapter Annual Business Report – 1st Place (prepared by Linda
Clements & Kathy Helms)
Other Awards and Recognition
CMAP Director Level – Linda Clements & Charlie Davidson
CMAP Executive Level – Kathy Helms, Phyllis Jackson, & Daniel
Stephens
Congratulations to all of these students.
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WGTC's Video Production division wins
Telly award
Posted: April 9, 2007
 The
video production division of West Georgia Technical College has
received a bronze Telly award for 'outstanding achievement in the
Internet education program category' for its work on 'Road Trip.'
The Telly awards go to outstanding local, regional and cable TV
commercials and programs; video and film productions; and web commercials,
videos and film.
The 12-episode series airs into the state's public schools via
Georgia Public Broadcasting's satellite network. "Road Trip'
showcases the educational opportunities offered by the 34 colleges
that make up the Technical College System of Georgia.
Pictured (l-r): Nancy Norred, graphic design;
Trish Ivey, supervising producer; David Arnold, producer; and
Kathy Johnson, associate producer.
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EAGLE Student Honored in Atlanta
Posted: March 27, 2007
 Chad
Jackson was chosen as this year’s EAGLE student by his instructor,
Jewel Albright.
The EAGLE award (Exceptional Adult Georgian in Literacy Education)
is given to a student who stands as a role model for his/her community
through accomplishments in adult literacy.
The EAGLE Award activities were held February 8 and 9 in Atlanta
and included delegates from all technical colleges in Georgia.
The student nominees were provided professional development sessions
focused on leadership and life management skills. The activities
culminated in an awards program where each student was honored
for his/her educational accomplishments. Congratulations, Chad!
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Phi Beta Lambda (PBL) - CMAP Winners
Posted: March 15, 2007
Congratulations to this year’s CMAP (Career and Membership
Achievement Program) winners! Our local PBL chapter has more CMAP
winners than any other school in the state!
Director Level Award:
· Robin Burks
· Linda Clements
· Charlie Davidson
· Sonya Dean
· Glenita Holloway
· Brian Irvin
· Frances Tindell
· Ronda Watson
Executive Level Award:
· Kathy Helms
· Phyllis Jackson
· Daniel Stephens
The Career and Membership Achievement Program (CMAP) is a comprehensive
membership recognition program encompassing PBL projects, goals,
and programs with special emphasis on career development and preparation
for the world of work. The awards focus on the words surrounding
the PBL Crest: Service, Education, and Progress.
The Director Award focuses on introductory community service,
career research, and PBL involvement at the local level.
The Executive Award focuses on developing job interview skills,
state and national PBL involvement, public relations activities
and leadership skills.
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 Funds
Raised for WGTC Library
Posted: March 8, 2007
Mr. Milton Edelson, Chairman of West Georgia Technical College
Foundation, Inc. presents a check for $13,800 to Barbara Knight,
Director of Library Services at West Georgia Technical College.
The funds will be used to purchase additional volumes for the school's
library.
The money was raised at the first annual West Georgia Technical
College/LaGrange Toyota Live Auction held in January at the Callaway
Conference Center.
Pictured ( l-r): Kevin Cain, WGTC Marketing
Director; Barbara Knight, WGTC Library Services Director and
Milton Edelson, WGTC Foundation Chairman.
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National Technical Honor Society Inducts
New Members
Posted: March 7, 2007
On Tuesday, March 6th, 26 students at West Georgia
Technical College were inducted into the National Technical Honor
Society. NTHS has a long history of recognizing outstanding career
and technical students. The society was founded in 1984 and continues
today to carry out its mission to lift up and publicly acknowledge
students committed to excellence, values, courage, and achievement.
Students inducted into NTHS are recognized as honest and responsible
student-citizens who have made a personal commitment to excellence
through academic, leadership and service achievements and contributions.
To become a member of the National Technical Honor Society you:
1. Must be enrolled in diploma/degree program.
2. Must have completed 20 consecutive quarter hours.
3. Must have a minimum cumulative 3.5 GPA in your current program.
4. Must be nominated by an instructor.
5. Must have at least a 2 in Work Ethics.
6. Must be involved in other campus organizations or church or community
work.
New inductees are: Jacqueline Brooks, Practical Nursing; Kimberly
J. Bryant, Business Office Technology; Robin S. Burks, Business
Office Technology; Jessie Mae Cameron, Business Office Technology;
Timothy J. Cross, Fire Science; Jolanda Michelle Curry, Business
Office Technology; Chris Everett, Fire Science; Rhonda Joyce Garner,
Business Office Technology; Kimberly S. Godfrey, Accounting; James
Donald Hale, Radiology; Marlo Shecoley Huguley, Practical Nursing;
Brian G. Johnson, Fire Science; Richard I. Kee, Fire Science; Jennifer
Lorraine Lawley, Business Office Technology; Rickea Denise Myrick,
Radiology; Michell Lynn Perdue, Practical Nursing; Heather Marie
Langiotti, Practical Nursing; Deborah P. McIntyre, Business Office
Technology; Miriam Oropeza-Ramos, Early Childhood Education; Trixie
Denise Richardson, Practical Nursing; Christopher Shane Smith,
Fire Science; George Ronald Smith, Fire Science; Joseph Carlton
Smith, Fire Science; Nancy E. Thornton, Early Childhood Education;
Natalie Renee Ware, Radiology and Nichole W. Webb, Networking Specialist.
Congratulations to all of these students.
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All Pro Chevrolet Accepts the Challenge
Posted: February 27, 2007
Mr. Gene Silcox of All Pro Chevrolet has partnered with West Georgia
Technical College to offer training to young drivers in Troup and
the surrounding counties. Mr. Silcox and Dr. Daryl Gilley, President
of WGTC, discussed the need for formal training to assist young
drivers with the expectation of reducing the accident/injury rate
in the area.
 Chief
Lou Dekmar of City of LaGrange Police Department has endorsed this
partnership effort and anticipates only positive results for the
young people of Troup County. Chief Dekmar expressed the department’s
support of this effort by the college to provide this much needed
service to the community. “I believe this program is sound
educationally and has some of the most experienced instructors
available. The instructors include current and former police officers
and instructors who have passed strict local and state certifications.
But, the most important aspect of this training is to provide skill
sets to the young people of our community which will hopefully
prepare them to be more responsible drivers and protect their lives,” said
the Chief.
Another problem facing the parents of teenagers is a law passed
by the Georgia General Assembly requiring all 16-year olds to participate
in a driver’s education course or wait an additional year
to get their license. West Georgia Technical College has the instructors
and facilities ideally suited for this training.
Since Mr. Silcox is active in community projects, both personally
and professionally, he decided that supplying a vehicle was an
initiative he was willing to undertake. All Pro Chevrolet has provided
a 2007 Cobalt for this program. The Cobalt comes with anti lock
brakes, side air bags and all of the safety features parents want
with the look and feel of a sports car for their teenager. The
interior of this automobile is as sporty as its exterior.
Accessibility to a vehicle of this caliber will enable the college
to provide a pleasant driving experience for aspiring drivers while
offering a safe vehicle in which to learn defensive driving skills.
Mr. Silcox encourages other dealerships to participate by providing
a vehicle so that the program can be expanded to reach a larger
number of teenagers in a shorter period of time.
Dr. Gilley expressed his appreciation to All Pro Chevrolet for
their willingness to participate and to support this worthwhile
effort. ”It has been a pleasure to work with Mr. Silcox and
the All Pro Chevrolet staff. Their responsiveness and willingness
to actively participate in this program is very gratifying.”
The first class to begin using the new All Pro Chevrolet Cobalt
will be the class which began on February 24, 2007. The class is
currently full at 15 students. It will run for four Saturdays from
8:00am to 4:30pm concluding on March 17. On-the-road driving classes
will follow during the next two weeks including Saturdays. Also
included in the course of instruction will be routine maintenance
and vehicle safety checks.
The class schedule for the remainder of the year is:
April 7-28
May 12-June2
June 9-30
July 14-August 4
August 18-September 8
September 22-October 13
October 27-November 17
December 1-22
Fee for the course will be $325. This will qualify for an insurance
reduction. Contact Carol Schroeder at 706-837-4241 to schedule
a class.
Pictured (l-r): Gene Silcox, Debi Fortin, Linda
Jones, and Dr. Daryl Gilley.
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WGTC Student Serving in Iraq
Posted: February 14, 2007
 Brad
Deutsch graduated from Luverne High School, Luverne MN in 2004
with plans of attending the University of Minnesota. The State
of Minnesota and the federal government had other plans. Brad joined
the Minnesota Army National Guard in 2003 and completed Basic Training
and AIT the summer after he graduated from high school. He attended
one semester of college before he was deployed to Iraq with the
34th Infantry.
While stationed at Camp Scania, Iraq, he became good friends
with several of the non-military firefighters at the base, who
encouraged him to contact West Georgia Technical College about
the online Fire Science Degree Program. Brad also has a fire service
connection, as his father is the Luverne Fire Chief. He joined
the Fire Science program and is one of many military personnel
completing their degree online with WGTC.
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West Georgia Tech Partners with Business
Posted: February 14, 2007
 Georgia
PBL President, Phyllis Jackson, attended a board meeting of OneGeorgia
Authority on January 30, 2007, in Warm Springs, Georgia. OneGeorgia
Authority, created by the Governor and the Legislature, utilizes
the state’s tobacco settlement to assist economically challenged
areas. Funds are available, not only to Georgia communities, but
also to small businesses. (Visit www.onegeorgia.org for
more information.)
Governor Sonny Perdue presented members of the LaGrange-Troup
Chamber of Commerce Small Business Committee with their official
document stating LaGrange-Troup County’s designation as an
Entrepreneur Friendly Community. The City of LaGrange began steps
to achieve its designation in Spring 2005 and completed the process
in September 2006. The West Georgia Technical College (WGTC) PBL
chapter assisted the Chamber of Commerce by gathering information
from local business people, compiling the data collected from surveys,
and creating the presentation for the formal presentation before
the State of Georgia Review Team. This Partnership with Business
project earned an 8th place award at National Leadership Conference
last summer (2006) for the WGTC team.
Pictured (l-r): Governor Sonny Perdue and Phyllis
Jackson, Georgia PBL President.
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The Night Time is the Right Time!
- Evening Programs Boom at West Georgia Technical College
By: Dr. Darryl Harrison, WGTC
VP for Academic Affairs
Posted: February 14, 2007
Think you can’t complete your education or train for a new
job because your work prevents you from attending class in the
daytime?
Well, think again! Opportunities to complete a degree program
or train for a new job have never been greater for those who cannot
attend day classes.
According to a 2002 study by the National Center for Educational
Statistics, working adults are returning to the classroom in record
numbers. The study also noted that that most of these students
choose to enroll in a two-year college and attend at night. There
are three primary reasons adults go back to school – gaining
skills, earning a degree, and personal enrichment.
That trend is proving to be true at West Georgia Technical College
as well. The evening program at the college has grown substantially
in the last three years. In fact, the number of evening students
has grown so much that the number of evening programs was increased
to meet the demand. Programs offered at night on the campus include:
Accounting
Administrative Office Assistant
Air Conditioning Technology
Automotive Technology
Automotive Manufacturing
Barbering
Business Office Technology
CISCO Certification
CATIA Medical Assisting
Computer Networking
Commercial Truck Driving
Criminal Justice
Digital Media Technology
Drafting Technology
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Early Childhood Education
Electronics Technology
Health Care Assistant
Industrial Mechanical Systems
IT Support Technician
Licensed Practical Nursing
Machine Tool Technology
Management and Supervision
Medical Assisting
Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator
Patient Care Assisting
Plastics Technology
Social Work Assisting |
And these are just a few of the offerings.
Students who attend evening class are not left in the dark when
it comes to support services. Night classes are taught by qualified
faculty using the same textbooks, learning outcomes, and syllabi
as the daytime classes. Evening students also have access to the
same services as day student including the library, the Student
Success Center, job placement services, academic advisement, and
free tutoring.
Can’t always come at night? Check out WGTC’s weekend
and online offerings. There are ten different certificate options
that can be completed totally online. The Fire Science and Management
and Supervisory Development programs also have a number of online
courses for individuals who can’t always attend a traditional
classroom
If you have ever wanted to earn your degree, train for a new job,
or gain a new skill, the time has never been better. Call the WGTC
Student Services Center at 837-4273 to learn how to enroll in one
of the evening programs at West Georgia Technical College. Spring
quarter classes begin April 9th.
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West Georgia Technical College Conducts
Winter Commencement Ceremonies
By: Dr. Darryl Harrison,
WGTC VP for Academic Affairs
Posted: January 30, 2007
The West Georgia Technical College held its winter commencement
ceremony January 19, 2007 at the Callaway Center on the college
campus. The college awarded 24 associate of applied science degrees,
79 diplomas, and 134 technical certificate of credit to graduating
students.
 Two
of the graduating students brought the commencement address to
a packed house of family, friends, and well wishers. Jennifer Bleimeyer
(Practical Nursing graduate) and Alison Bolnick (Medical Transcription
/ Accounting Office Assistant graduate) made outstanding presentations
on how the education they had received at WGTC had made a positive
impact on their lives. They challenged the audience to consider
technical education as a way to enrich their lives and change their
futures.
During the ceremony, the college also recognized the Ray Benefield
(Commercial Truck Driving) as the WGTC 2006 Teacher of Excellence
and Kim Whitaker (Radiologic Technology) as the 2006 Lighthouse
Faculty member.
West Georgia Technical College has incorporated two graduation
ceremonies a year into the calendar in order to accommodate the
overflow crowds that come to the campus for this event. The spring
quarter commencement is scheduled for June 22, 2007.
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WGTC Childcare Center Does It Again
By: Linda Jones, WGTC VP for Economic Development
Posted: January 30, 2007
 In
December of 2006, the college was notified that the WGTC Childcare
Center was granted full accreditation again by the National Early
Childhood Program Accreditation (NECPA) Committee. The Center for
Child Development has taken its place among a select group of early
childhood care and education programs nationwide which have exhibited
an exceptional commitment to professional and programmatic quality
through accreditation.
The Center was originally granted accreditation in 2003. The staff at
the Center for Child Development has worked very hard to maintain the
high standards necessary to remain a part of this prestigious group.
This center is only one of a few in Georgia which have attained this
national recognition.
To maintain valid membership in the group, teachers must complete
rigorous continuing education units in fields related to the age
group with whom they interact daily. In addition the center must
adhere to a stringent record keeping system with programs which
are age specific learning opportunities and provide an environment
to encourage physical, intellectual and social growth.
The staff and faculty of this center work diligently to foster
an atmosphere of exploration and learning for the children in their
care. This is evident with every award and accolade they receive.
While this is a definite plus for the college, it also has a positive
impact on the young people in their care and leaders of our community
in the future.
Pictured (l-r): Jessie Huff, Felicia Harris,
Elaine Wolfe, Yutivia Godfrey, and Angela Jackson.
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WGTC, trucking firm team to
train drivers
Posted: January 28, 2007 - LaGrange Daily
News
 West
Georgia Technical College and Southeastern Freight Lines have reached
an agreement to train commercial truck drivers.
Rob Smith, manager of the company’s service center in Austell;
John Pryor, the company’s vice president of human resources; and
college President Daryl Gilley recently signed the agreement under which
West Georgia Tech will train drivers from across the state at the Austell
facility.
To ensure the success of the program, Southeastern has made a significant
contribution in equipment and facilities to West Georgia Tech, officials
said.
“We are excited about this partnership,” Smith said. “WGTC
faculty are the experts in training; we are the experts in freight. This partnership
allows both of us to do what we do best while producing a highly trained driver.
The graduates of this program will be experienced in both long-haul and city
driving.”
As a part of the agreement, students who complete the formal training
program also will participate in an apprentice driver program with Southeastern.
There they will be placed with a driver to experience the actual work
environment and typical workday.
The Southeastern/WGTC partnership is an innovative approach to industry-specific
training for this market segment, officials said. Because the average
age of the workforce in the truck driving industry is 58, it is becoming
increasingly important to use creative approaches to recruitment and
training, Smith said. The company is not only a leader in the industry
but also a futuristic thinker with regard to training, he said.
Under the agreement, individuals will be able to complete Southeastern’s
interview process at its service centers. They also will be able to apply
for admission to the West Georgia Tech’s commercial truck driving
program at the Austell center.
Georgia residents selected for the program may be eligible for the HOPE
grant so out of-pocket costs to students will be very low, officials
said.
The first class began last week.
Pictured: Officials from West Georgia Technical
College and Southeastern Freight Lines sign the training agreement.
From left are, seated, Rob Smith, service center manager of
Southeastern Freight Lines; John Pryor, Southeastern’s
vice president for human resources and safety; and college
president Daryl Gilley; back, Ray Benefield, director of the
school’s commercial truck driving program; and Dean Lang,
regional safety manager for Southeastern.
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Patient Care Assistant Pinning Ceremonies
held
Posted: January 17, 2007
Patient Care Assistant students in WGTC's dual enrollment classes
at LaGrange High School and Troup County Comprehensive High School
were recently honored at Patient Care Assistant Pinning Ceremonies.
Troup County Comprehensive High School's ceremony was held on
Monday, December 18th in the school's media center, and LaGrange
High School's ceremony was held on Tuesday, December 19th in the
school's cafeteria.
Students in this program learn about human anatomy as well as
patient care techniques, and are encouraged to pursue careers in
the healthcare field. Pam Parmer is the instructor for this program.
Pictured (l-r) with WGTC Instructor, Pam Parmer
are Troup County Comprehensive High School's Patient Care Assisting
Class of 2006 and LaGrange High School's Patient Care Assisting
Class of 2006.
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3rd Annual Fire Science Rookie School
Graduation held
Posted: January 17, 2007
 The
3rd Annual Fire Science Rookie School Graduation was held on November
21st in the Faith Baptist Church gym in LaGrange.
Graduates were: Mitch Andrews, Kerry Bennett, Michael Cosmah,Claude
(Tripp) Foster, Daniel Garner, Peyton Frew, Charles Mallory, Glenn
O’Reilly, Heather Rainey, Eric Rogers, Jacob Scott, Pete
Trujillo, Kyle Tucker, Joshua Whitley and Jonathan Williamson.
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RN Program Open Forum held
Posted: January 12, 2007
 West
Georgia Technical College and Columbus Technical College have formed
a partnership to bring Columbus Tech’s Associate Degree Registered
Nursing program to LaGrange. The program will be housed on the
West Georgia Tech campus.
Representatives were on hand Thursday, January 11, to discuss
the application process, entrance requirements and other information
pertinent to the RN program. Participants had the opportunity to
meet the instructor and ask questions about the program. The forum
was held in the Callaway Center on West Georgia Tech’s campus.
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