Congratulations to the following students for being named to the Thomas University President’s and Dean’s Lists for Spring 2026. President’s List students are undergraduate students attending TU full-time and have a Spring 2026 GPA of 4.0. Dean’s List students are undergraduate students attending TU full-time and have a Spring 2026 GPA of 3.5 to 3.99.
Spring 2026 President’s List
Zequiel Abraham, Palm Coast, FL
Elsebeth Andersen, Brædstrup, Denmark
Mason Ard, Bainbridge, GA
Tomas Arriaza, Havana, FL
Tonja Arrington, Thomasville, GA
Chelsea Ausmus, Cairo, GA
Mary Avila-Garduno, Culloden, GA
Carlos Baker, Thomasville, GA
Daniel Baldino, Helena, GA
Joslyn Barrs, Branford, FL
Rylie Batcheller, Tallahassee, FL
Tristan Beck, Inverness, FL
Dominic Bell, Carrollton, GA
Bobby Blasingame, Hampton, GA
Bryce Bodiford, Boston, GA
Lindsay Brinson, Bainbridge, GA
Bruce Brott, Adairsville, GA
Kason Brown, Columbus, GA
Jeffry Buffington, Gillsville, GA
John Burnsed, Bryceville, FL
Colin Bussard, Tifton, GA
Yvonne Cerna, Honolulu, HI
Andrew Clayton, Bainbridge, GA
Montel Cleaver, Covington, GA
Cameron Clontz, Marietta, GA
Seth Cole, Hamilton, GA
Jathan Cox, Locust Grove, GA
Maria Cox, Lawrenceville, GA
Kristina Cromer, Griffin, GA
Tyler Lau Cumming, Paisley, United Kingdom
Olivia D’Ambrosio, Canton, GA
Nikia Daniels, Tallahassee, FL
Tavares Daniels, Stockbridge, GA
Lorenzo Davis, Babson Park, FL
Luis Del Carmen Diaz, APO, AP
Emily Dukes, Quitman, GA
Christopher Dunn, Adel, GA
Casey Fair, Lake City, FL
Samuel Ferguson, San Antonio, TX
Damien Fortin, Shippagan, New Brunswick, Canada
Derek Fryman, Trenton, OH
Joel Futch, Valdosta, GA
Isabelle Gabrielsson, Hindas, Sweden
Pelayo Gafo Zapico, Villanueva del Pardillo, Madrid, Spain
Thomas University (TU) announced today that it has begun processing new undergraduate and graduate Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) scholarships for students of Southwest Georgia.
“We are so pumped about The RSA grant scholarships,” said Dr. Pauline Patrick, Chair of the Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences at TU. “Working in the field of vocational rehabilitation is such a noble profession. And there are a lot of jobs out there for those who choose this career path. The RSA grants are available to help promote the career aspirations for students who are passionate about helping individuals with disabilities.”
“This is a big deal,” Patrick added. “There are a lot of potential recipients of the RSA grant scholarship throughout South Georgia. Not many high school students or those in two-year degree programs know about this rewarding career. Those who are care about helping others often consider the vocational rehabilitation path once they are introduced to it.”
According to Patrick, there are two kinds of RSA Scholarships, one for undergraduate and one for graduate school. Qualified students majoring in Rehabilitation Studies at TU receive over $10,000 for tuition in their senior year and are then fast-tracked for the full ride scholarships in the masters degree program in rehabilitation counseling. The graduate school scholarships, Patrick said, can amount to well over $35,000 for tuition.
“Both undergraduate and graduate programs in rehabilitation studies are fully online,” Patrick continued. “What a terrific opportunity to pursue a meaningful career while not turning your life upside down to get there.”
Vocational Rehabilitation offices throughout the region are looking for graduates from Thomas University, Patrick emphasized. While there is uncertainty in the labor market these days due to AI, there are many high-paying jobs in the rehabilitation field across the country. “We’re now hoping to spread the word,” said Patrick. “Those interested are encouraged to contact our office as soon as possible.”
Those who wish to know more or to apply for a grant scholarship should contact rsagrants@thomasu.edu.
Thomasville, Ga. — Thomas University (TU) announces that Carla Turner has been appointed Executive Assistant to the President. Turner transitions into the role after serving as Vice President for Advancement, where she led fundraising strategy, cultivated relationships with donors, and supported capital campaigns and endowed giving initiatives. She previously served as Associate Vice President for Advancement and Director of Development at Thomas University, building a strong track record of cultivating relationships, strengthening alumni and donor engagement, and advancing institutional priorities through fundraising and outreach efforts. She has worked at TU since 2019. With more than two decades in advancement, marketing, and leadership, her background includes extensive experience working with executive leadership and boards, coordinating strategic initiatives, and managing complex projects and communications. In her new role, Turner will provide high-level administrative, operational, and executive support to the President and Board of Trustees. “Carla brings a deep understanding of Thomas University and a proven record of leadership and collaboration,” said President Kurt Stringfellow. “Her experience, professionalism, and commitment to excellence make her exceptionally well-suited to support the President’s Office and advance the mission of the University.” Turner holds a Bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Management from Georgia Southwestern State University and has remained actively engaged in community and professional organizations throughout her career. An Americus, GA native, she has lived in Thomasville since 2011. She and her husband, Ty, have two grown daughters, Hallie and Anna Lane.
Thomas University has named Matthew Bowman of Walton, Indiana, as the 2026 President’s Award recipient, recognizing a student whose leadership, academic excellence, service, and character exemplify the highest ideals of the institution. Bowman was recognized at Saturday’s Commencement ceremony.
“When we think about what it means to truly embody the spirit of Thomas University—the commitment to excellence, to service, and to lifting others up—one name rises to the top: Matthew Bowman,” said TU President Kurt Stringfellow. “Matthew, this university is better because you are a part of it. It is our honor to present you with the 2026 President’s Award.”
Bowman came to Thomas University as an inaugural member of the university’s football program, not just joining the team, but helping build the program from the ground up. A United States Marine Corps veteran, Bowman served as a team captain for all three years of his collegiate career, providing steady leadership to a developing program.
Academically, Bowman has excelled, earning a 3.66 GPA, Cum Laude recognition, and placement on both the Dean’s List and President’s List. He has also been named twice to the Sun Conference All-Academic Team. In addition to his academic success, Bowman tutors younger teammates, mentors freshman players, and consistently models discipline and accountability in the classroom.
Bowman’s impact extends well beyond the football field. As a veteran, he actively supports fellow service members and those considering military service by sharing his experiences and guidance. He is a committed member of Thomas University’s Student Veterans of America (SVA) chapter, helping ease the transition from military life to higher education for student veterans across campus. He also volunteers as a flag football coach and regularly assists with military-affiliated events, offering support with planning, preparation, and execution.
In recognition of his extraordinary contributions, Bowman was named the 2024 Student Veteran Athlete of the Year by Viqtory Media and Military Friendly®, honoring his achievements as both a student-athlete and veteran leader.
Bowman graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Exercise & Sport Science on May 2, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, service, and compassion.
Matthew Bowman was recognized at the 2026 Commencement ceremony on May 2, 2026.
Thomas University recognized Dr. LeAnna Willison with the Professor of the Year Award during its 71st Commencement Ceremony on May 2, 2026, honoring her exceptional teaching, scholarly engagement, and service to the University and the broader community.
An Associate Proefssor of Biology, Dr. Willison joined Thomas University in 2018. Known for her innovative and engaging teaching methods, she integrates cutting‑edge scientific practices into the classroom, including forensic genealogy, CRISPR technology, and peer‑reviewed case studies to deepen student understanding and spark interest in science careers.
Beyond the classroom, Dr. Willison demonstrates a strong commitment to student success and campus service. She serves on multiple university committees and is the Faculty Advisor for Beta Beta Beta (Tri Beta) Biological Science Honor Society.
Dr. Willison is also deeply engaged in research and scholarship, supporting undergraduate research through microbiology projects on antibiotic resistance and discovery that contribute data to public scientific databases. She evaluates manuscripts for the Journal of STEM Education: Innovations and Research and remains active in professional development related to STEM education and emerging technologies.
Her service extends well beyond campus through active roles on local school advisory boards, environmental organizations, STEM outreach initiatives, and community education programs. She is also an accomplished scientific photographer, earning multiple national awards through the American Rose Society National Digital Photography Contest.
“Dr. Willison exemplifies the values of Thomas University through her dedication to teaching excellence, student mentorship, scholarship, and service,” said Dr. Kim Cribb, Chair of Health & Sciences. “Her work positively impacts not only our students and faculty, but also the wider community.”
The Professor of the Year Award is Thomas University’s highest faculty honor, presented annually to a member of the faculty who demonstrates outstanding performance in teaching, scholarship, and service.
Dr. LeAnna Willison receives the 2026 Professor of the Year Award from Dr. John Meis, Provost.
Dr. Remigio Padilla‑Hernandez was presented the Vulcan Teaching Excellence Award during Thomas University’s 71st Commencement Ceremony on May 2, 2026, in recognition of his outstanding dedication to teaching, student success, and service to the University.
Dr. Padilla‑Hernandez has served Thomas University for more than a decade and is widely recognized for his exceptional ability to make complex mathematical concepts accessible, engaging, and relevant for students at all levels. His courses are thoughtfully designed to support student learning, incorporating real‑world applications, structured practice opportunities, and innovative instructional strategies, including excellence in online mathematics instruction.
Currently serving as Director of Mathematics, Dr. Padilla‑Hernandez plays a key role in shaping both the general education mathematics curriculum and upper‑division mathematics programs that prepare future educators for teacher certification in Georgia. His commitment to pedagogical excellence extends beyond his own classroom, as he mentors colleagues and supports the development of high‑quality online and in‑person instruction across the discipline.
In addition to his teaching, Dr. Padilla‑Hernandez has made significant contributions through leadership and service. Over his tenure, he has held numerous faculty governance and committee roles. Dr. Padilla‑Hernandez is also actively engaged in fostering student involvement outside the classroom. He recently helped establish a Math and Science Club, which has hosted multiple chess tournaments to encourage community, strategic thinking, and student‑faculty engagement.
“Dr. Padilla‑Hernandez is an exceptional educator whose passion for teaching and commitment to students exemplifies the mission of Thomas University,” said Dr. Susan Lynn, Professor and Chair of the Division of Education. “He is deeply respected by students and colleagues alike for his clarity, compassion, and leadership.”
Sponsored by Vulcan Materials Company, the Vulcan Teaching Excellence Award recognizes an outstanding faculty member who demonstrates strong academic skills in the classroom and provides leadership and support in the other areas of campus life. The recipients are faculty who assist the institutions in nurturing an academic climate which fosters teaching and who provide leadership to enhance the campus community. Dr. Padilla‑Hernandez’s selection reflects his enduring impact on students, programs, and the Thomas University academic community.
Dr. Remigio Padilla-Hernandez receives the Vulcan Excellence in Teaching Award from Dr. John Meis, Provost.
Thomas University celebrated its 71st Commencement exercises on May 2, 2026, conferring over 400 degrees collectively during four ceremonies held on the Magnolia Campus.
The undergraduate commencement ceremonies, held at 8:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., honored undergraduate degree candidates and featured Austin Bryant as the undergraduate commencement speaker. The graduate commencement ceremonies followed at 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., recognizing graduate candidates for their academic achievements.
Together, the ceremonies honored graduates from across Thomas University’s academic divisions and celebrated the culmination of years of dedication and scholarship.
A highlight of the day was the inspirational address delivered by commencement speaker Austin Bryant, acclaimed entreprenuer and former NFL player.
As part of the commencement celebrations, Thomas University recognized outstanding faculty members with two of its highest academic honors:
Professor of the Year Award was presented to Dr. LeAnna Willison, Associate Professor of Biology, for exemplary teaching, scholarship, and service to the University community.
The Vulcan Teaching Award, recognizing excellence and innovation in teaching, was awarded to Dr. Remigio Padilla-Hernandez, Associate Professor of Math. Established in 1991, the Vulcan Teaching Excellence Awards annually recognizes one outstanding faculty member who demonstrates strong academic skills in the classroom and provides leadership and support in the other areas of campus life.
The President’s Award, the highest honor bestowed upon a TU student, recognizing exceptional academic achievement, service, and leadership, was presented to Matthew Bowman, who received a Bachelor of Science in Exercise & Sport Science at the undergraduate ceremony.
Additionally, every year the faculty of each of the University’s divisions selects its top graduating undergraduate student and graduate student to be recognized for their outstanding academic achievements during the commencement ceremonies. This year’s recipients are:
Division of Behavioral and Social Sciences: Ashlyn Powell (Undergraduate), Dr. Sakia T. Franklin-Jones (Graduate)
Division of Business: Jaxon French (Undergraduate), Luke Blanton (Graduate)
Division of Education: Mason Ard (Undergraduate), Andrew Messer (Graduate)
Division of Health and Sciences: Margaret Colgan (Undergraduate), Melissa Edwards (Graduate)
Division of Humanities: Jonah Hendricks (Undergraduate)
Thomas University congratulates the Class of 2026!
Dr. LeAnna Willison receives the Professor of the Year Award from Dr. John Meis, Provost Dr. Remigio Padilla‑Hernandez receives the Vulcan Teaching AwardMatthew BowmanAshlyn PowellDr. Sakia T. Franklin-Jones and Dr. Angie Anderson, MSC Program DirectorJaxon FrenchLuke BlantonMason ArdAndrew MesserMargaret ColganMelissa EdwardsJonah Hendricks
Phi Tau, Thomas University’s chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International (STTI), recently completed its annual community service project, focusing on providing support and comfort to patients receiving cancer treatments at two area healthcare facilities.
The project involved collecting donations commonly needed by patients undergoing infusion therapies. Items donated included blankets, socks, caps, and puzzle, coloring, and activity books, along with other similar comfort items.
Donations were delivered to two area healthcare facilities, Archbold Cancer Center in Thomasville, GA and Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute in Tallahassee, FL. Robin Mullins, BSN RN, Director of the Oncology Nursing Cancer Center and a graduate of the TU BSN program received the donations at Archbold Cancer Center. At Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute, Becton Blanton, MSN RN OCN CHPN CEN, EMPT-P, Area Director of Clinical Operations received the donations along with two oncology nurses.
The annual service initiative reflects Phi Tau’s ongoing commitment to community engagement, patient support, and healthcare advocacy while strengthening connections between Thomas University and regional healthcare organizations.
Robin Mullins, BSN RN, Archbold Cancer Center; Dr. Kim Cribb, Chair of Health & Sciences & Phi Tau President; Judy Hornsby, Administrative Asst. for DHS.
Becton Blanton, MSNRN OCN CHPN CEN,EMPT-P, Area Director of Clinical Operations atFL Cancer Specialists &Research Institute in Tallahassee, FL received thedonations along with twooncology nurses.
Phi Tau, Thomas University’s chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International (STTI), will host its annual Induction Ceremony on Thursday, April 23, 2026 via Microsoft Teams.
Sigma Theta Tau International is an international nursing honor society with members from around the world and more than 100,000 nurse leaders worldwide. Membership includes nursing students who rank in the top academic percentage of their graduating classes as well as nursing professionals who have demonstrated leadership in nursing practice.
The Phi Tau chapter has been established at Thomas University for nearly 20 years. Each year, the chapter inducts new student members, participates in research activities, and hosts events that support healthcare scholarship and leadership.
During the April 23 Induction Ceremony, new members will be formally inducted into the honor society. The event will also feature Lorin Powe, a Thomas University Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) graduate student, as the guest speaker. Powe will present her capstone project titled “Implementation of Virtual Nurse Triage and Support System in the Emergency Department.”
The BSN students to be inducted into Phi Tau are: Chelsea Ausmus Emily Bedwell Tracey Harrell Finnettra Lundy Sonya Showers
The MSN students to be inducted are: Ashley Cameron Melissa Edwards Lorin Powe
The ceremony highlights the chapter’s commitment to academic excellence, professional leadership, and the advancement of nursing practice.
Thomas University’s Division of Business hosted the Sigma Beta Delta International Honor Society Induction Ceremony the evening of April 16, 2026. The ceremony was conducted virtually via Microsoft Teams and celebrated the academic excellence and leadership achievements of outstanding business students.
Sigma Beta Delta is an international honor society that recognizes and encourages scholarship among students studying Business, Management, and Administration. Membership is extended to students who demonstrate superior academic achievement, with Thomas University inductees representing the top 20 percent of students enrolled in the University’s business programs.
The society is committed to ethical leadership, lifelong learning, and the pursuit of meaningful professional and personal goals.
The following students were inducted into Sigma Beta Delta International Honor Society at Thomas University:
Luke Blanton
Holly Bloodsworth
Kobe Dawson
Devin Gallagher
Luke Guerrier
Pham Huynh
Kierra Irvin
Courtney Loftis
William Nye Huynh Mai Khoi Pham
Averie Sheppard
Brian Tanner
Lisa Taylor
William Waddell
Seth Waltimyer
Benjamin Wingate
Jeremiah Winfrey
Jake Wright
Thomas University celebrates these outstanding students and their achievements.
