Each year, the faculty in each division selects its top graduating students to be recognized for their outstanding academic achievements. The 2025 graduating honorees for the Outstanding Student Awards were:
Shayna Welch (Literature and Media) Undergraduate Award for the Division of Humanities and Interdisciplinary Studies
Mary Reed (Elementary Education) Undergraduate Award for the Division of Education.
Tia Hurley (Educational Leadership) Graduate Award for the Division of Education.
Daniel Salinas (Medical Laboratory Science) Undergraduate Award for the Division of Health & Sciences.
Geraldine (Geri) Hall (MSN MBA) Graduate Award for the Division of Health & Sciences.
Herman Algesson (Psychology) Undergraduate Award for for the Division of Social and Behavorial Sciences
Donnie Palmer, Jr. (Business Administration) Undergraduate Award for the Division of Business
Dagmar Kruik (MBA) Graduate Award for the Division of Business.
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Each year, the faculty selects one student to receive the President’s Award in recognition of their achievements. This year, Kiana Acol received this honor. Kiana earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology.
Kiana is one of the inaugural flag football players and has had a notable athletic career at TU. She has received various athletic accolades and has a personal story marked by trials. Kiana is a first-generation college student who initially planned to join the Air Force after high school, following her mother’s footsteps, who served in the Marines. Flag football provided her with a path to college, and she immediately felt at home at TU.
She exhibits values of honesty, responsibility, and empathy learned during her upbringing. Kiana shared a close relationship with her mother, who created a supportive environment for her. Her mother developed Aplastic Anemia while stationed at Camp Lejeune, experiencing health issues during Kiana’s first year in college. Despite her condition, she supported Kiana by watching games via livestream and sending texts of encouragement. During the initial flag football season, Kiana’s mother passed away. In the weeks following, she coped with the loss while continuing her classes and participation on the field.
Kiana has shown a strong work ethic and a desire to learn. She distinguished herself by submitting well-researched papers, demonstrating intelligence and analytical skills. She is a careful thinker with attention to detail with strong communication skills.
Kiana is recognized as a leader, building a sense of community during interactions. She leads without pretension and commands respect through her behavior.
Kiana has excelled academically and athletically, receiving honors such as Conference Offensive Player of the Year, National Tournament Blocker, and selection to the 2024 Sun Conference All-Academic Team.
Robin DePaola, Assistant Professor of English and Director of Learning Support, received the 2025 Vulcan Teaching Excellence Award during the undergraduate commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 3, 2025. She was honored with the distinguished award for her strong academic skills in the classroom and her leadership, and her exemplary leadership and support across various areas of the University.
“In the classroom, Professor DePaola is a masterful educator who consistently engages students with innovative teaching methods and a deep passion for composite. Her ability to make complex concepts accessible and stimulating has earned her the admiration and respect of both students and colleagues,” Dr. Pauline Patrick, Chair for the Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences, said. “Professor DePaola embodies the qualities that the Vulcan Award seeks to honor.”
As Director of Learning Support, DePaola established and oversees a variety of initiatives to assist students to succeed in their academic pursuit including tutoring services for both online and on-campus students. She consistently attends student events and has lead programming for the International Student Association. “She regularly tutors and mentors students, guiding them through academic and personal challenges with compassion and wisdom” Patrick said.
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Thomas University proudly recognizes Associate Professor Richard Curtis as the 2025 Professor of the Year. Curtis, who teaches Art at the university, received the honor during the commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 3, 2025. This prestigious award celebrates faculty members who demonstrate excellence in teaching.
This recognition highlights Professor Curtis’s outstanding contributions to academic excellence, his innovative teaching methods, and his unwavering dedication to fostering a dynamic learning environment. His profound impact on students and colleagues exemplifies the values of Thomas University, showcasing a commitment to education and community that defines the institution’s spirit.
Professor Curtis has pioneered creative approaches to service learning, benefiting organizations such as Hands-On Thomas County, Archbold Hospice, and the Georgia School for the Blind. By connecting academic pursuits with real-world applications, he has enriched the educational experience of Thomas University students while building meaningful community partnerships. His ability to inspire curiosity and connect students with impactful opportunities underscores his role as a cornerstone of the university’s academic community and its mission to empower learners while nurturing innovation.
His dedication to ensuring students have access to creative opportunities is further exemplified through his involvement in the “Alternative Drawing Techniques for Students with Disabilities” workshop. This initiative reflects his passion for bringing art into the lives of students with diverse abilities, fostering an environment where creativity and expression are accessible to all. Through such efforts, Professor Curtis continues to expand the horizons of academic and artistic engagement at Thomas University.
Professor Curtis’s profound influence on students and colleagues alike embodies the core values of Thomas University, showcasing an enduring dedication to education and the community that defines its spirit.
Thomas University celebrated the academic achievements of nearly 425 students during its 70th Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 3, 2025 at the Forbes Campus. Degrees were conferred upon graduates in their caps and gowns marking a milestone in their educational success at TU.
Each year, the faculty in each division selects its top graduating students to be recognized for their outstanding academic achievements. This year’s honorees for the Outstanding Student Awards were:
Shayna Welch (Literature and Media) Undergraduate Award for the Division of Humanities and Interdisciplinary Studies
Mary Reed (Elementary Education) Undergraduate Award for the Division of Education.
Tia Hurley (Educational Leadership) Graduate Award for the Division of Education.
Daniel Salinas (Medical Laboratory Science) Undergraduate Award for the Division of Health & Sciences.
Geraldine (Geri) Hall (MSN MBA) Graduate Award for the Division of Health & Sciences.
Herman Algesson (Psychology) Undergraduate Award for for the Division of Social and Behavorial Sciences.
Donnie Palmer, Jr. (Business Administration) Undergraduate Award for the Division of Business.
Dagmar Kruik (MBA) Graduate Award for the Division of Business.
The University also awards the President’s Award to an outstanding graduate and is the highest honor given to a TU student. The 2025 President’s Award was given to Kiana Acol. (undergraduate).
Faculty members were also honored with awards.
Richard Curtis, Associate Professor of Art, was named Thomas University’s 2025 Professor of the Year.
Robin DePaola, Assistant Professor of English and Director of Learning Support, received the 2024 Vulcan Teaching Excellence Award.
Thomas University is excited to announce an engaging and educational event, “Explore Athletic Training: A Sports Medicine Experience,” designed for high school juniors and seniors interested in the dynamic field of athletic training. This immersive clinic will take place on Friday, March 28, 2025, for a comprehensive program from 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM.
Participants will be introduced to the field of athletic training and sports medicine and perform hands-on experiences to simulate the role of an athletic trainer. Workshops on injury evaluation, emergency response skills, taping and wrapping, and information regarding a pathway to this career will be held.
Each student will receive a registration kit including a clinic agenda, Athletic Training career resources, notebook, and supplies such as taping materials, foam rollers, and resistance bands. Lunch will be served on-site, offering a valuable networking opportunity with faculty and students.
“We are thrilled to offer this unique opportunity for high school students to explore the exciting field of athletic training. Our goal is to provide a hands-on experience that not only educates but also inspires the next generation of athletic trainers,” said Sam Lunt, MS ATC, Assistant Professor for Exercise and Sport Science at Thomas University. more
Comments Off on TU Named to Top 10 List of Colleges in Georgia!
Thomas University is proud to announce its recognition in the annual college rankings, highlighting its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and student success.
Based on a comprehensive evaluation of factors such as academic reputation, graduation rates, faculty resources, student satisfaction, and post-graduate success, Thomas University has been acknowledged for its outstanding contributions to higher education.
“Thomas University is dedicated to providing a personalize, quality educational experience for our students,” said Dr. John Meis, Provost. “We are thrilled to be recognized for our efforts and the positive impact we have on our students’ lives.”
Recent achievements at Thomas University include:
High Academic Standards: Thomas University students consistently achieve high academic success, with many making it to the President’s List and Dean’s List.
Distinguished Faculty: Dr. Ingee Lee, Professor of Mathematics, was named Thomas University’s 2024 Professor of the Year, and Dr. Gale Neal received the 2024 Vulcan Teaching Excellence Award.
Celebrating Graduates: Thomas University celebrated the academic achievements of nearly 600 students during its 69th Commencement Ceremony, with graduates receiving Division Awards for their outstanding contributions.
Each year Thomas University honors its exceptional supporters with the annual Forbes Society Awards.
The Ambassador’s Award is given to individuals in appreciation of exceptional volunteer commitment to Thomas University. These individuals’ selfless contribution of their time and energy has been vital to the activities of the University.
This year’s award went to John Rainey, Founder of Goalline Ministries, Bill Tillman, Volunteer Assistant Coach for Thomas University’s Men’s Basketball Team (Received on his behalf by his wife, Stephanie Tillman, Wife and Chief Legal Counsel, Flowers Foods), and Barberitos Thomasville (Jessica and Todd Jones, Owners).
President’s Award This award is given to a corporation or foundation that consistently supports the Thomas University mission and that has consistently fostered the continued growth of all aspects of the University.
This year’s award was presented to Flowers Foods (Received by Steven Moulds, Assistant General Counsel and Director of Governmental Affairs.
The W. Cameron Forbes Award is named in honor of one of TU’s founders. It is given to an individual who displays a life-long commitment to education and to Thomas University.
This year’s award recipient is Thomasville High School (Received by Jeremy Rayburn, Athletic Director and Virtual Coordinator, THS).
Comments Off on TU Recognized for Excellence in Education and Student Success
Thomas University is proud to announce its recognition in the annual college rankings, highlighting its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and student success.
Based on a comprehensive evaluation of factors such as academic reputation, graduation rates, faculty resources, student satisfaction, and post-graduate success, Thomas University has been acknowledged for its outstanding contributions to higher education.
“Thomas University is dedicated to providing a personalize, quality educational experience for our students,” said Dr. John Meis, Provost. “We are thrilled to be recognized for our efforts and the positive impact we have on our students’ lives.”
Recent achievements at Thomas University include:
High Academic Standards: Thomas University students consistently achieve high academic success, with many making it to the President’s List and Dean’s List.
Distinguished Faculty: Dr. Ingee Lee, Professor of Mathematics, was named Thomas University’s 2024 Professor of the Year, and Dr. Gale Neal received the 2024 Vulcan Teaching Excellence Award.
Celebrating Graduates: Thomas University celebrated the academic achievements of nearly 600 students during its 69th Commencement Ceremony in May 2024, with graduates receiving Division Awards for their outstanding contributions.
Job Summary: The Financial Aid Counselor performs various duties necessary to support the delivery of financial aid to students in a diverse campus environment. The Financial Aid Counselor is responsible for counseling a caseload of students and parents on the financial aid process and can communicate complex financial aid information clearly and concisely. Program responsibilities include day-to-day processing of Federal Direct Loans, Federal Pell grants, and Georgia Grant. The Financial Aid Counselor will assist with coordination of internal procedures and efforts to ensure timely delivery of financial aid funds to students and exercise professional judgment under the supervision of the director to determine treatment of exceptional circumstances.
Specific Responsibilities:
Provide timely, accurate, and comprehensive counseling and advisement to all current and prospective students and families by video, phone, in person, text, and email to deliver exceptional service
Works closely with Admissions to ensure all prospective students have completed files and are properly awarded
Provide advice to students and their family regarding the financial aid process, including financial aid eligibility, award of financial aid packages, balance owed on the student’s account, how to set up payment plans, applying for additional loans, and other payment options
Responsible for timely responses and process of the Student Financial Aid email box
Responsible for answering all incoming calls to the Financial Aid Office and timely response to voice mail
Review of student’s account for adjustments to financial aid because of discrepancies with credit load, housing, budget, etc.
Research pending aid
Oversee scholarship awards and state-funded programs (HOPE, GTEG, etc.)
Reviewing a variety of the required verification documents, federal tax documents, and other documents that the financial aid office may request with the student data listed on the FAFSA and making the necessary corrections.
Follow up with students to complete financial aid files.
Work with students who are at or near aid limits regarding options to complete their education.
Counsel families and students regarding verification changes, the effects on their financial aid award, and the appeals process
Promoting an image of efficiency and courtesy throughout the university community and consistent with the department’s mission, attending staff meetings and training sessions as requested, communicating effectively with supervisors concerning pertinent departmental and university matters
Perform related duties as necessary to support the Thomas University mission
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree
Intermediate skills in Microsoft Office, specifically Access, Excel, and Word.
Exceptional customer service, problem solving and communication skills.
Preferred:
Experience working at a college/university, preferably in financial aid and with Adult Learners.
Understand financial aid awarding and Title IV eligibility for undergraduate and graduate students, the verification process, and Cost of Attendance components.
Knowledge of Title IV federal regulations.
Experience with Higher Education software platforms desired; knowledge of CAMS and CampusLogic preferred
Skills:
Must be detail-oriented
Excellent customer service skills
Professional oral and written communication skills
Excellent organizational skills
Process information quickly and accurately
Able to work independently and prioritize multiple tasks in a high-volume environment
