THOMASVILLE, Ga. — Fifteen Thomas University students took the oath of enlistment into the Georgia Army National Guard during a special swearing-in ceremony held Saturday before the Thomas University Military Appreciation Football Game against Keiser University at Veterans Memorial Stadium.
Enlistees gathered on the field before kickoff to formally commit to serving their state and nation through the Georgia National Guard. The ceremony was conducted by Major Jeremiah Stafford, Commander of Bravo Company, Georgia Recruiting and Retention Battalion.
Students sworn into the Georgia Army National Guard were:
Lorenzo Davis of Babson Park, FL
David Gallon of Bradenton, FL
Kendal Hinton of St. Augustine, FL
Luis Mateo Martin of Cairo, GA
Triston Mitchell of Martinez, GA
Christian Reese of Mascotte, FL
Brandon Seward of Warner Robins, GA
Brody Stinson of Madison, AL
Joshua Taylor of Wrightsville, GA
William Taylor of Wrightsville, GA
Hunter Trotman of Tallahassee, FL
William Waddell of Albany, GA
Thomas Williams of Lake Butler, FL
Wytrevious Woodson of Orlando, FL
Aden Wright of Alma, GA
“Thomas University is proud of these students and their willingness to answer the call to serve,” said Josh Dean, Associate VP of Military and Corporate Affairs. “Their commitment reflects the values of leadership, responsibility, and service that are central to both the National Guard and the Thomas University community.”
As a Military Friendly® institution, Thomas University is committed to supporting veterans, active-duty service members, members of the National Guard and Reserve, and military families. Through flexible academic programs and dedicated student support services, TU helps military-connected students achieve their educational and professional goals.
Thomas University will host a Veterans Resource Fair on Thursday, October 15 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the University’s Woodlands Campus, located at 254 Woodlands Boulevard in Thomasville. Presented in collaboration with the North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System and the Carl Vinson VA Medical Center, the event aims to provide veterans, military families, and community members with access to valuable resources and support services.
Representatives from the Department of Veterans Affairs and partner organizations will be available to connect attendees with a wide range of services, including eligibility and enrollment assistance, Veterans Benefits Administration claims support, homelessness mitigation resources, military-to-VA transition assistance, suicide prevention services, women’s health resources, community nursing home information, and information about the Georgia War Veterans Home.
“Thomas University is honored to partner with the Department of Veterans Affairs to host this important outreach event,” said Josh Dean, Associate VP of Military and Corporate Relations at Thomas University. “Our university is committed to serving those who have served our nation, and we are excited to provide a space where veterans can connect with the resources, benefits, and support services available to them.”
The event is free and open to the public, and veteran status is not required to attend. Community members seeking information about available services or resources for family members and loved ones are encouraged to participate.
Hosting the Veterans Resource Fair reflects Thomas University’s longstanding commitment to providing veterans, active military, and military families with the educational opportunities, resources, and support services they need to achieve their personal and professional goals. These efforts have been recognized with Thomas University being designated as a 2026-2027 Military Friendly® School, ranking as the No. 4 Military Friendly® institution in its category, highlighting the university’s ongoing efforts to create pathways to success for military-connected students.
For more information about the Veterans Resource Fair, contact Keith Griffin, CDCE Chief, at Keith.Griffin@va.gov or 478-272-1210 ext. 72439.
Thomas University is pleased to announce the appointment of Casey Dollar as the University’s new Director of Student Life.
As Director of Student Life, Dollar will play a vital role in shaping the student experience at Thomas University. The position is responsible for developing programs, events, and leadership opportunities that foster student engagement, strengthen campus traditions, and cultivate a strong sense of belonging among Night Hawks.
Dollar graduated from Thomas County Central High School in 2018 before attending Georgia Southern University, where she studied Biology. With a background in athletics, leadership, and student involvement, she brings a passion for creating meaningful experiences that help students connect, grow, and succeed.
Throughout her years as a student, Dollar was actively involved in football, competitive cheer, and collegiate athletics. At Georgia Southern, she was a member of the All-Girl Squad, supporting football, basketball, and volleyball, as well as the university’s competitive cheer squad.
“Casey’s enthusiasm for student engagement and her commitment to building community make her an excellent addition to our team,” said Dr. John Meis, TU Provost. “At Thomas University, we are committed to creating an environment where students can thrive academically, personally, and professionally. A strong student life program plays an important role in that mission.”
“I am excited to join the Thomas University family and help create an engaging student experience for our Night Hawks,” said Dollar. “College is about more than earning a degree. It’s about finding your place, building relationships, and discovering your potential. I look forward to creating opportunities that help students feel connected, develop a sense of belonging, and make the most of their time at TU. My goal is to help students grow as leaders, build lasting friendships, and prepare for success long after graduation.”
Thomas University officially celebrated the opening of its new Woodlands Campus with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Public Open House on Thursday, September 3, welcoming over 200 students, alumni, donors, community leaders, supporters, and friends of the university to explore the new campus and commemorate a significant milestone in the institution’s history.
Hosted in partnership with Imagine Thomasville’s Business After Hours, the event featured remarks from Thomas University President Kurt Stringfellow and Ray Thompson, Chairman of the Thomas University Board of Trustees, followed by an official ribbon-cutting ceremony with representatives from Imagine Thomasville. Guests then toured the campus, including its classrooms and residence halls, while enjoying refreshments and visiting with university representatives and students.
“This milestone would not have been possible without the support of our community,” said Stringfellow. “The Woodlands Campus represents more than a new location. It is an investment in our students, our community, and the future of South Georgia. This campus will expand opportunities for learning, foster regional growth, and help prepare graduates to make a meaningful impact throughout our state and beyond. We are grateful to everyone who joined us to celebrate this exciting new chapter.”
VP of Advancement, Jenny Dell, echoed President Stringfellow’s appreciation for community support, saying, “In July, we launched our Woodlands 100 campaign to encourage donors to invest in our new campus. In just two months, the campaign raised over $105,000. To say we are thankful is an understatement — we are beaming with pride and humbled with gratitude.”
Dell noted that the campus is already enhancing the student experience and fostering a stronger sense of community among students, faculty, and staff.
“Thomas University is proud to play a role in bringing new life to the Woodlands of Thomas County,” said Dell, “It’s a joy seeing our students congregate in the new residence halls, common areas, rec spaces, and cafeteria at The Woodlands, and having all of our buildings now connected by sidewalk has created a refreshed sense of community and TU spirit.”
The Thomas University community gathered on August 14 in the Smith-Bonvillian Gymnasium to celebrate the start of the 2026-2027 academic year during Student Convocation, welcoming students into a new year of learning, growth, and opportunity.
The Convocation program featured remarks from university leadership, a faculty address from Dr. LeAnna Willison, Professor of the Year, and a student perspective from Mia Mauro, offering encouragement and insight as the newest members of the Thomas University community begin their academic journeys.
A highlight of the ceremony was the featured address by Stephanie Tillman, J.D., M.B.A., B.S. Ed., Chief Legal Counsel and Corporate Secretary of Flowers Foods, Inc. A distinguished alumna (M.B.A, ’02), accomplished attorney, corporate leader, and community advocate, Tillman shared lessons of perseverance, leadership, and service from her inspiring personal and professional experience.
As the 2026-2027 academic year begins, Thomas University looks forward to the achievements, discoveries, and opportunities that lie ahead for every student.
View the photo gallery below for highlights from Student Convocation 2026.
The public is invited to celebrate the opening of Thomas University’s new Woodlands Campus during a special Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Public Open House on Thursday, September 3, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at 254 Woodlands Blvd., Thomasville, Georgia.
Hosted in partnership with Imagine Thomasville’s Business After Hours, the event will mark an exciting milestone for Thomas University as it officially welcomes visitors into its new campus location.
The evening will begin with remarks from Thomas University President Kurt Stringfellow and TU Board of Trustees Chairman, Ray Thompson, followed by the official ribbon cutting ceremony alongside representatives from Imagine Thomasville. Following the ceremony, guests will have the opportunity to tour the new facilities, including classrooms and residence halls. Light refreshments will be served. The first 25 guests will receive a complimentary gift bag.
“We could not have reached this moment without the support of the community, and for that, we are truly grateful,” said Kurt Stringfellow, President of Thomas University. “We would like to invite everyone to celebrate the beginning of this exciting new era, tour the campus, and see how the Woodlands Campus will enrich the lives of students and strengthen our region for years to come.”
The event is free and open to the public, and attendees are encouraged to stop by, meet university representatives, visit with students, and explore the new campus environment.
Event Details
What: TU’s Woodlands Campus Ribbon Cutting & Public Open House
When: Thursday, September 3, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Where: TU’s Woodlands Campus, 254 Woodlands Blvd., Thomasville, GA
Co-Host: Imagine Thomasville
Admission: Free and open to the public
Thomas University (TU) has been ranked No. 4 among Georgia’s Top Private Universities in Niche’s 2027 college rankings, placing the institution among the state’s leading private higher education providers. TU also earned the No. 15 overall ranking among colleges and universities in Georgia.
Niche, one of the nation’s leading college ranking and review platforms, evaluates institutions using a comprehensive methodology that combines data from the U.S. Department of Education with millions of reviews from current students and alumni. The Top Private Universities ranking considers academic quality, value, faculty excellence, campus quality, diversity, student life, safety, and student satisfaction. Academic quality and value carry the greatest weight in the rankings, accounting for nearly 70 percent of the overall score.
“Being ranked among the top private universities in Georgia is a tremendous honor and validates the hard work of our faculty, staff, and students,” said Thomas University President Kurt Stringfellow. “Our vision is to be recognized as a premier private university in Georgia. Every decision we make is focused on delivering outstanding academic quality, exceptional value, and life-changing opportunities for our students. This recognition from Niche affirms that we are moving in the right direction, but we are not finished. Our best days are still ahead of us.”
In addition to its overall ranking, Thomas University received recognition in several categories across Georgia, including #3 Safest College Campuses and #8 for Value in Georgia.
Thomas University also earned high marks for diversity and safety, reflecting the University’s commitment to fostering an inclusive learning environment where students can thrive.
For more information about Thomas University and its academic programs, visit thomasu.edu.
Thomas University (TU) and Southern Regional Technical College (SRTC) have signed a series of articulation agreements that create clear academic pathways for SRTC students to continue their education and earn bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Thomas University. Signed on August 5, 2026, the 24 agreements span criminal justice, education, business, nursing, and social work, providing students across multiple career fields with an affordable, clear route to advanced education and career success right here in Thomasville.
The agreements allow students who complete select Associate of Science and Associate of Applied Science degrees at SRTC to transfer directly into corresponding bachelor’s and master’s programs at Thomas University, with credits recognized toward their next degree.
These agreements significantly expand educational opportunities for students throughout southwest Georgia by providing a seamless transfer process that enables students to begin their higher education journey at SRTC and continue toward a bachelor’s or master’s degree at Thomas University without leaving the region.
“At Thomas University, we believe that higher education transforms lives,” said Kurt Stringfellow, President of Thomas University. “We are proud to partner with SRTC in providing students a seamless transition into their next level of study. This opportunity ensures students do not have to leave southwest Georgia to access a stellar education to equip them for promising career and workforce development opportunities locally and regionally. We are truly excited about the impact this partnership will bring to our community.”
The articulation agreements are designed to help students save both time and money by ensuring that eligible credits earned at SRTC transfer directly into Thomas University degree programs. Students can complete an associate degree with confidence, knowing they have a clearly defined pathway to continued academic achievement and career advancement.
“These articulation agreements open the door for our students in a real and lasting way,” said Jim Glass, SRTC President. “A student can start here at SRTC, stay close to home, and know from day one exactly how their credits will carry forward to Thomas University. Whether they’re pursuing a career in criminal justice, nursing, education, or business, this partnership gives them a clear and affordable path all the way to a bachelor’s or master’s degree.”
For more information about Thomas University’s transfer opportunities and enrollment options visit thomasu.edu, or contact the Office of Admissions at 844-862-6978 or email admissions@thomasu.edu.
Dr. John Meis (TU Provost), Mr. Kurt Stringfellow (TU President), Mr. Jim Glass (SRTC President), and Mr. Mason Miller (SRTC Vice President of Academic Affairs)
Thomas University has named Cory Wise as University Chaplain and Director of Spiritual Life, a newly created position designed to expand spiritual life programming and support for students across campus.
While the title is new to Wise, he is already a familiar and trusted presence within the Thomas University community.
As Executive Director of Goalline Ministries, Wise has spent years mentoring TU students, providing spiritual guidance, leadership development, and opportunities for personal growth.
As University Chaplain and Director of Spiritual Life, Wise will provide spiritual leadership across campus, offering support, mentoring, and programming for students, faculty, and staff while working to foster a welcoming and encouraging campus community.
“Cory Wise brings a unique combination of pastoral experience, educational leadership, and genuine care for people,”said Thomas University President Kurt Stringfellow. “His heart for service and his commitment to helping students grow spiritually and personally make him an excellent fit for this role.”An Air Force veteran, Wise first became involved in pastoral ministry while serving in the military. Since then, he has dedicated 30 years to ministry leadership, including service as a pastor, headmaster of a Christian school, and as Executive Director of Goalline Ministries.
A graduate of Thomasville High School, Wise holds a Bachelor of Arts in Pastoral Ministry from Dallas Baptist University and a Master of Education in Higher Education Leadership from Liberty University.
Wise also serves as head coach of Thomas University’s intercollegiate club pickleball team. He leads the competitive tier of the program, drawing on his background in tennis, player development, and competitive pickleball instruction. He also serves as a trainer with the Thomasville Dinkers and is pursuing his Level 2 coaching certification through Pickleball Coaching International (PCI), a program endorsed by USA Pickleball.
“I count it a privilege to serve as the University’s Chaplain and Director of Spiritual Life, and I look forward to continuing to invest in the lives of the students at Thomas University,” Wise said. “Being able to expand the ministry within the Night Hawk community is a real blessing. My aim is to cultivate an atmosphere where faith in God can be nourished and meaningful relationships are built.”
A Thomasville native, Wise and his wife, Niki, an advisor at Thomas University, are the parents of four grown children and grandparents to eight grandchildren.
Thomasville, GA — Thomas University (TU), is excited to announce plans to expand access to an outstanding private education through a new comprehensive scholarship program designed to reward achievement and remove financial barriers for outstanding students.
Leading the new offerings is the Talon Scholarship, Thomas University’s most prestigious academic award. This full-ride scholarship, covering tuition, room, and board, will be awarded annually to one exceptional student who demonstrates outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and community engagement. Recipients will be selected through a competitive application process that includes a personal statement and interview.
In addition to the Talon Scholarship, Thomas University will offer tiered merit-based scholarships to incoming first-year students based on academic performance:
$7,000 annual scholarship for students graduating with a 3.9+ GPA
$5,000 annual scholarship for students with a GPA between 3.7 and 3.89
$3,000 annual scholarship for students with a GPA between 3.5 and 3.69
These scholarships are renewable each year, provided recipients maintain the required GPA standards.
“At Thomas University, we believe talented students deserve opportunities to pursue their goals and reach their full potential,” said Kurt Stringfellow, President of Thomas University. “These scholarships recognize hard work, academic achievement, and leadership while helping more students take advantage of the exceptional educational experience available at Thomas University.”
TU was recently ranked the 6th best university in Georgia by Research.com and was recognized by Newsweek as one of the Best Colleges for Women, reflecting the university’s commitment to delivering a high-quality educational experience and strong student outcomes.
Thomas University also recently launched a new Honors Program, providing high-achieving students with enhanced academic opportunities through enriched coursework, faculty mentorship, research experiences, and leadership development.
Prospective students are encouraged to apply early and explore scholarship opportunities as part of the admissions process.
For more information about Thomas University scholarships and admissions, visit thomasu.edu or contact the Office of Admissions at 844-862-6978 or admissions@thomasu.edu.
