Thomas University is proud to announce that its Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences has been awarded two competitive federal grants from the U.S. Department of Education’s Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA), totaling nearly $1.9 million over five years.
The grants officially went into effect on October 1, 2025, and TU is currently recruiting students who will begin receiving tuition stipends starting in January 2026.
The first grant, 84.129L – Undergraduate Education in Rehabilitation Services, provides $874,940 to support TU’s Rehabilitation Studies undergraduate program. This funding will offer tuition stipends for 11 students per year over five years, helping to expand access to education and training in rehabilitation services. The grant was written by Dr. Pauline Patrick, and the Principal Investigator (PI) is Dr. Matthew Michals-Voigt.
The second grant, 84.129B – Long-Term Training in Rehabilitation Services, awards $999,990 to support TU’s Master of Science in Counseling (MSC) program. This grant will provide tuition stipends for 13 graduate students annually for five years, strengthening TU’s capacity to prepare professionals in counseling and rehabilitation. Like the undergraduate grant, it was authored by Dr. Pauline Patrick, with Dr. Matthew Michals-Voigt serving as PI.
“These federal grants mark a transformative investment in Thomas University’s commitment to preparing the next generation of rehabilitation and counseling professionals,” said Dr. Pauline Patrick, grant author and Chair of the Division of Social & Behavioral Sciences. “By supporting both undergraduate and graduate students with tuition stipends and program enhancements, we are directly addressing workforce shortages and expanding access to quality care for individuals with disabilities across the country.”
Prospective students interested in applying for stipend-supported positions in either program are encouraged to contact TU’s Division of Social & Behavioral Sciences for more information.
Thomas University’s Master of Science in Counseling (MSC) program has earned national recognition for excellence in the field of rehabilitation counseling. TU has been designated as a Center of Excellence by the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification (CRCC), recognizing the university’s outstanding graduate program in rehabilitation counseling.
This prestigious recognition is awarded to programs that demonstrate excellence in curriculum alignment, faculty expertise, student outcomes, and commitment to professional credentialing. Thomas University earned the designation following a comprehensive curriculum review conducted by CRCC.
“The MSC program faculty have maintained a longstanding partnership with the CRCC, working collaboratively to expand the number of Certified Rehabilitation Counselors in the field,” said Dr. Pauline Patrick, Chair of the Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences at TU. “We are honored to receive this recognition from the CRCC and look forward to continuing—and deepening—our shared commitment to developing outstanding CRC professionals.”
To qualify as a Center of Excellence, programs must meet several criteria, including:
• A curriculum reviewed and approved by CRCCInstruction led by faculty with backgrounds in rehabilitation counseling or clinical rehabilitation counseling
• Encouragement of the CRC Exam as a comprehensive assessment
• Demonstrated student success, with an average pass rate of 65% or higher over two years
• Ongoing engagement between CRCC and students, faculty, and program leadership
Thomas University’s graduate program has exceeded these benchmarks, with a combined CRC Exam pass rate of 86% over the past three years. CRCC will continue to collaborate with TU through regular meetings with students and faculty to support continued success and professional development.
“This is a very exciting opportunity for our counseling program! This is something we have strived for, and I am so glad we were able to secure this recognition through our tireless work in the CRC program,” said Dr. Angie Anderson, Master of Science in Counseling Program Director. “Our students will greatly benefit from this honor!”
Thomas University offers a fully online MSC degree with four specialization tracks for students to choose from: Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling, Addictions Counseling, and Professional School Counseling. For more information about Thomas University’s graduate program in rehabilitation counseling, visit www.thomasu.edu.
Charter members of Thomas University’s chapter of the national membership program of Educators Rising Collegiate (ERC) held a school supply drive as a service project during the months of August and September. ERC provides university students with opportunities to develop as teachers through chapters on campus, national conferences, and competitions. It serves as a pipeline for cultivating a diverse and skilled future teaching workforce, extending the high school experience into college and the teaching profession.
Donations from the supply drive were delivered to Thomas County Schools’ Project LIFE student members. Project LIFE aims to empower students with specific learning needs to make informed choices about their futures and provides a bridge between school and work life, fostering self-confidence and independence. Members of Project LIFE were tasked with dispersing the classroom and student supplies to new teachers and student members of Backpack Buddies, a local program that provides students in need with non-perishable food items in discreet backpacks, providing food for the weekend when school meals are not available, which improves overall student health and learning abilities.
Chief among the major donors for the project were Thomas University’s men’s soccer team and TU’s Spirit Shop.
TU’s chapter of ERC plans to continue service endeavors throughout the school year, with multiple projects, including a fundraiser to benefit a local preschool’s efforts to obtain new playground equipment, and construction of a community “blessing box” in partnership with TU’s chapter of Kappa Delta Pi, a national honor society for educators. A blessing box is an outdoor cabinet filled with non-perishable food, operating on a “take what you need, leave what you can” philosophy to provide a dignified, anonymous support system for the community.
Thomas University has always and will continue to be thankful for the support of its community and is grateful for the opportunity to be able to give back to its greatest supporters.
Thomas University is pleased to announce the appointment of Warren Ballard as Vice President of Finance. In this strategic leadership role, Ballard will oversee the University’s financial operations, budget development, and long-term fiscal planning. His work will be central to ensuring that TU grows on a strong, sustainable financial foundation.
“We are proud to welcome Warren Ballard to Thomas University,” said Kurt Stringfellow, Interim President. “His extensive experience in financial strategy and operational leadership will be a tremendous asset as we strengthen our financial infrastructure and position the University for continued success. Warren’s insight and expertise will help ensure that our resources are aligned with our mission and our future.”
Ballard brings nearly two decades of financial leadership and experience in public accounting and the private sector. Most recently he has served as the Chief Financial Officer of a regional commercial development company in addition to providing fractional CFO and advisory services to businesses throughout South Georgia and North Florida.
“I am honored to join Thomas University,” said Ballard. “I look forward to ensuring that our resources are managed in ways that strengthen the student experience, support our faculty and staff, and expand the University’s impact in the community we serve.”
A Certified Public Accountant, Ballard holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting. He is a member of the Georgia Society of CPAs and has held leadership roles in community organizations including Rotary International and the Thomasville Community Resource Center.
Thomas University has been recognized in the newly redesigned 2025 Carnegie Classifications as an Opportunity College and University, a designation that highlights institutions providing both high access to underserved student populations and strong post-graduation earnings for their alumni. TU is one of only 479 institutions that have been identified as Opportunity Colleges and Universities, which is about 16% of all U.S. colleges and universities that are in the Student Access and Earnings Classification.
This prestigious classification reflects Thomas University’s deep commitment to serving the educational and economic needs of its region. The university stands out for enrolling students who mirror the demographics of the communities it serves, including high percentages of Pell Grant recipients and students from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups. In addition, TU graduates are earning competitive wages compared to peers in their local job markets, demonstrating the university’s success in preparing students for meaningful careers.
“This recognition affirms what we’ve long known at Thomas University,” said Kurt Stringfellow, Interim President. “We are not only expanding access to higher education, but we are also equipping our students with the tools they need to thrive professionally and contribute to the vitality of our region.”
The Opportunity College and University designation is part of the Carnegie Foundation’s newly launched Student Access and Earnings Classification, which evaluates institutions based on how well they reflect the communities they serve and the economic outcomes of their graduates. Thomas University’s classification places it among a select group of institutions nationwide that are models for fostering student success through inclusive access and career readiness.
Thomas University’s approach is rooted in meeting the needs of Southwest Georgia and North Florida. With a focus on career-aligned academic programs, personalized support services, and community partnerships, TU continues to be a catalyst for transformation, empowering students and fueling regional development.
Thomas University is proud to announce the appointment of Jessica Barfield as the new Vice President of Enrollment Management. In this role, Barfield will lead strategic initiatives in student recruitment, enrollment, retention, and academic advisement.
“TU is excited and grateful to have someone with Jessica’s experience and passion,” Kurt Stringfellow, Interim President said. “There is no doubt she will make an immediate impact in the lives of our students.”
Barfield brings extensive experience in higher education leadership. Most recently, she served as Professor, Lead Faculty, and Quality Enhancement Champion at Tallahassee State College. Throughout her career, she has played a pivotal role in developing and implementing Quality Enhancement Plans, an essential component of SACSCOC accreditation, for Southwest Georgia Technical College, Southern Regional Technical College, and Tallahassee State College. She also held the position of Executive Director of Advisement and Professional Development at Southern Regional Technical College.
“I am truly honored to join Thomas University as Vice President of Enrollment Management,” said Barfield. “I look forward to building on the strong foundation already in place and working alongside dedicated colleagues to expand opportunities for students to grow and thrive at TU. Together, we will not only boost enrollment, but also strengthen our community through the power of education—transforming lives and creating a lasting impact for generations to come.”
Barfield holds a B.S. in Education from the University of Georgia and an M.Ed. in Early Childhood Education from Valdosta State University. She is currently a Doctoral Candidate in Curriculum and Instruction at Valdosta State University.
Her professional recognitions include being named Professor of the Year by the Technical College System of Georgia and Thomasville Times Enterprise Teacher of the Year. She is also an active member of several professional organizations and has led numerous educational workshops and conference presentations.
“Thomasville has always been home for me, and I deeply love this community.” said Barfield. “I am grateful for the chance to give back to the community that has given me so much, as we work together to change lives through education and mentorship at Thomas University.”
The Thomas University Board of Trustees, led by Board Chairman Clint Kadel have announced the appointment of Kurt Stringfellow as the interim President of Thomas University.
“Kurt brings a wealth of leadership experience and a deep commitment to Thomas University and its students,” said Board Chairman Clint Kadel. “His passion for our mission and proven record of success make him the right leader at this important time.”
“This appointment is the culmination of countless hours from dedicated friends and colleagues,” Stringfellow said. “I am deeply grateful to each of them.”
Located in the beautiful historic city of Thomasville, Ga. Thomas University is a regionally accredited, non-profit university whose mission is to provide an educational experience that explores and develops each student’s full potential. Situated on 75 acres, about 30 miles north of Tallahassee, Florida, TU offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and education specialist degrees at our main campus and online. In 2025 TU celebrates its landmark 75th anniversary while it also graduated nearly 425 students in its 70th commencement ceremony.
Stringfellow brings decades of business acumen and almost a decade of leadership experience in higher education to Thomas University. He joined the university in August of 2017 as Director of Development before being promoted to Vice President of Institutional Advancement in May of 2018, he later added the role of Director of Athletics in the fall of 2023.
Prior to his role at Thomas University, Stringfellow was a CEO at several YMCAs across the southeast from 2001 to 2017, where he helped each YMCA fundraise millions of dollars, build partnerships with communities and oversaw renovations of several YMCA facilities.
“I am truly honored by the Board of Trustees to have considered and have offered me this opportunity,” Stringfellow said. “I look forward to leading the university especially as we celebrate this 75th anniversary. My motivation is based in the belief that non-profit organizations don’t have needs people do, the organization’s role is to serve the people.”
“We are confident that Kurt will continue to guide Thomas University with vision and heart as we enter this historic milestone year,” Kadel added.
Stringfellow served in the US Marine Corps. He is a University of Georgia graduate.
Thomas University is proud to announce that it has received a 4-star rating in Money magazine’s 2025 list of Best Colleges in the United States. This recognition places Thomas University among the top institutions nationwide for delivering exceptional value in higher education.
The 4-star rating reflects Thomas University’s commitment to academic excellence, affordability, and student success. Money evaluates colleges based on educational quality, affordability, and student outcomes, including graduation rates and alumni earnings.
“We are honored to be recognized by Money as one of the best colleges in the country,” said Dr. James Sheppard, President. “This rating affirms our mission to provide a high-quality, accessible education that empowers students to thrive in their careers and communities.”
According to Money, Thomas University has the 3rd lowest estimated full price for 2025–26 of all public and private institutions in Georgia and the seventh lowest estimated price when calculating the average financial aid. TU ranked first among Georgia’s private colleges in both categories.
Academic Excellence Across Disciplines
Thomas University offers a diverse array of academic programs designed to meet the needs of today’s workforce. Students can pursue associate, bachelor’s, and graduate programs degrees in fields such as Business, Education, Counseling, Exercise and Sport Science, Data Intelligence, and Criminal Justice. Programs are offered on-campus as well as online to accommodate working professionals and adult learners. “At Thomas University, we are committed to offering programs that are both academically rigorous and deeply relevant to today’s workforce,” said Dr. John Meis, Provost. “Our faculty and staff work tirelessly to ensure that every student receives a personalized, high-quality education that prepares them for success in their chosen field.”
TU has also been awarded a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grant to support the development of an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) program. This initiative expands TU‘s commitment to workforce development.
A Vibrant Campus and Competitive Athletics
Located in Thomasville, Georgia, Thomas University’s campus is home to the Night Hawks, a competitive athletics program that reflects the university’s commitment to fostering student-athletes who excel both on the field and in the classroom. The university fields teams for both men and women in a variety of sports including basketball, soccer, swimming, track and field, cross country, baseball and softball.
Nationally Recognized Military Transition Football Program
TU is home to the nation’s first-of-its-kind Military Transition Football Program, designed specifically for veterans, reservists, and members of the National Guard. This innovative initiative uses collegiate football as a platform to support service members transitioning to civilian life while earning a college degree. The program integrates mentorship, structure, and teamwork with access to TU’s nationally accredited counseling and career services, ensuring holistic support for military-affiliated students.
“Our Military Transition Football Program is more than a team—it’s a mission,” said Stephen Ferguson, Vice President of Military and Corporate Relations. “We are proud to support veterans and service members by providing a structured, purpose-driven environment where they can pursue their education, build community, and prepare for life beyond the uniform.”
The team includes players from nearly every branch of the military. TU’s commitment to veterans is further reflected in its designation as the nation’s #1 Military Friendly and Military Spouse Friendly School.
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.
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.
