Thomas University hosted the Georgia School Counselor Association (GSCA) Region 6 Mini Conference on Friday, February 27.
Region 6 represents a wide area of Southwest Georgia, including Sumter, Randolph, Terrell, Lee, Crisp, Turner, Worth, Dougherty, Calhoun, Clay, Tift, Early, Baker, Mitchell, Colquitt, Miller, Seminole, Decatur, Grady, Thomas, Wilcox, Ben Hill, Irwin, Berrien, Cook, Lowndes, and Brooks counties. For the past two years, Dr. Katrina Steele, Associate Professor of Counseling and Psychology and Coordinator of the Professional School Counseling concentration at Thomas University, has served as the GSCA co liaison for this region helped welcome attendees to campus.
This year’s conference theme, Next Level Counseling: RAMP Strategies, focused on guiding school counselors in developing and implementing Recognized ASCA Model Program (RAMP) frameworks in their schools. Deidre Williams of the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) led the training, offering practical strategies and hands on planning sessions to help counselors strengthen their programs and better support students across the region.
Counselors attending the conference also participated in a curriculum swap, designed to provide a spring refresh with new lesson ideas, resources, and best practices to take back to their schools.
Universal Technical Institute (UTI) generously sponsored catered lunches for all attendees, supporting the professional development of school counselors throughout the state.
Thomas University is honored to partner with GSCA and ASCA in hosting this important regional professional development event. By supporting school counselors, TU continues its commitment to strengthening educational pathways and serving the broader Southwest Georgia community.
Thomas University is proud to once again participate with the IRS‑sponsored Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) initiative to offer free tax preparation. TU students, trained and certified by the IRS, are offering no‑cost tax filing services to eligible South Georgia residents throughout tax season.
Under the leadership of Bonnie Berggren, adjunct professor of Accounting and site coordinator for TU’s VITA program, participating students gain valuable hands‑on experience while helping local families keep more of their tax refunds.
“This is the VITA tax site, and it’s a program sponsored by the Internal Revenue Service to help taxpayers making $69,000 or less with their taxes,” Berggren explained. “Students learn tax law, become certified, and then work directly with community members under supervision. It’s an opportunity to serve others while gaining real‑world experience.”
For many TU students, the VITA program is their first opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in a real‑world setting.
The experience not only strengthens students’ confidence and career readiness, but also fulfills an important community need.
The free VITA service is especially valuable for seniors and low‑income earners who may otherwise struggle to afford tax‑preparation fees.
“Many people feel more confident coming in and having someone do their taxes for them,” Berggren said. “Some have difficulty navigating technology or tax software. The process has become more complex, and we’re glad to help.”
Free VITA tax preparation is available on Wednesdays from 12:00–5:00 p.m. at Thomas University’s Forbes Campus, now through April 15.
Clients should bring:
Social Security card
W‑2 forms
A valid photo ID
Thomas University is proud to support the community through programs that strengthen student learning while providing meaningful, accessible services to local residents.
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.
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.
A Thomas University education will be more affordable for students thanks to the record-breaking generosity of the community and sponsors of the annual Dining for Education Drive-Thru Dinner.
The “Thomasville Traditions” themed drive-thru dinner was held on March 10 at The Plaza Restaurant in downtown Thomasville. It was supported by over 60 sponsors, including local corporations, businesses, and individuals, whose philanthropic gifts eclipsed funds raised for the second straight year.
The monetary gifts are designated for general student scholarships, ensuring that students can successfully graduate from Thomas University and pursue flourishing careers.
“We are so appreciative of the community and our sponsors for making TU’s Dining for Education a record-breaking event again this year. All funds raised go directly to student scholarships,” said Carla Turner, Associate VP for Advancement. “Scholarships are a vital in improving our students’ career opportunities and ultimately their quality of life.”
Thomas University Junior, William Nye, one of several TU students who volunteered at the event, expressed his gratitude: “I chose to volunteer so I could show my gratitude and appreciation for those who support and sponsor us.”
“The success of ‘Thomasville Traditions’ would not be possible without the hard work of our planning committee,” Turner added. “We are so grateful to have volunteers who believe in the mission of Thomas University and realize the impact that a degree can have on an individual’s path in life.”
The planning committee members include Janna Crane (chair), Christa Carter, Raquel England, Caroline Flowers, Martha Hanway, Alane Kadel, Leah Merschman, Eve Rumble, and Marcy Sizemore .
“I have thoroughly enjoyed serving the past three years on the TU Dining for Education fundraiser. We have the best committee and are committed to enhancing accessibility to college for students and enriching the lives of our TU students. My husband and I are so passionate about this mission that we also contribute as annual sponsors,” said Janna Crane, chair of the planning committee.
Dining for Education Committee: Carla Turner, Martha Hanway, Raquel England, Caroline Flowers, Marcy Sizemore, Christa Carter, Alane Kadel, Leah Merschman, and Eve Rumble- not pictured Janna Crane
Thomas University hosted its annual Forbes Society Awards Dinner on February 6, 2025, at Glen Arven Country Club, recognizing individuals and organizations whose contributions have had a lasting impact on TU’s mission and community. The evening brought together distinguished guests, faculty, and philanthropists to celebrate the power of generosity and commitment to education.
In his remarks, President James A. Sheppard highlighted TU’s ongoing success in navigating the challenges facing higher education, emphasizing the importance of philanthropy and partnerships in sustaining the university’s growth. “Where some only saw the outward tools of military, athletics, and curriculum, you saw the value of human dignity worth saving,” the president stated.
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Forbes Society Awards, which recognize individuals and organizations for their outstanding service and support of Thomas University. This year’s award recipients are:
Dr. Robert Bohman – W. Cameron Forbes Award: Given to an individual who has displayed a life-long commitment to education and to Thomas University, significantly impacting the institution and its community. Recognized for embodying lifelong learning, Dr. Bohman began his career at TU, left to teach and serve in administrative roles at other universities, including a presidency, and returned to TU in retirement to build the university’s student life and athletic units.
Michelle Kimbler – Ambassador’s Award: Presented in appreciation of exceptional volunteer commitment to Thomas University, recognizing an individual’s selfless contributions of time and energy. Honored for her exceptional advocacy, Michelle Kimbler has rallied community members to attend TU-hosted lectures, played a key role in the creation of the Armed Services Institute, and served on the Board of the Center for Military Life since its early years.
Network Technology Solutions (NTS) – President’s Award: Awarded to a corporation or foundation recognized for outstanding support of the Thomas University mission, fostering the university’s continued growth. Recognized as an outstanding corporate partner, NTS provided crucial technical expertise and support when TU experienced a serious cyber event last year, enabling the university to recover and continue its work.
As AI continues to influence education and industry, the president also underscored TU’s commitment to embracing technological advancements responsibly. “At TU, we do not fear AI. We are embracing it. In the coming year, we are working with government and industry partners to establish a Human-Machine Interaction Lab, ensuring that those in high-risk occupations can use these tools safely. But our mission remains unchanged – to seek wisdom and to love one another as we are loved.”
The evening concluded with expressions of gratitude for the guests’ ongoing support and a reaffirmation of TU’s commitment to fostering a community of philanthropy and excellence. “Philanthropy means a love for humanity,” the president remarked. “It is what you express through your gifts and what you do to help people cultivate their inner life.”
The Forbes Society Awards Dinner once again served as a testament to the power of generosity, vision, and the shared commitment to the future of education.
L to R: Dr. Robert Bohman, Scott Smith (NTS CEO), Jack Tuten (NTS Senior Network Engineer), Sam Reynolds (NTS President), Michelle Kimbler.
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
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).
