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.
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.
Thomas University will celebrate its 71st Commencement ceremonies on Saturday, May 2, at the University’s Forbes Campus, honoring the achievements of nearly 500 graduates who have completed undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
The University will hold two ceremonies. The undergraduate commencement ceremony will begin at 8:30 a.m., followed by the graduate commencement ceremony at 6:00 p.m. This year’s ceremonies will be the final commencements held on the Forbes Campus. As Thomas University prepares for its transition to the Woodlands campus, the ceremonies serve as both a celebration of student achievement and a meaningful farewell to a campus that has played a central role in the institution’s history. The move to the Woodlands represents the next chapter in Thomas University’s growth, expanding opportunities for students while honoring the legacy built at Forbes.
This year’s commencement speaker will be Austin Bryant, a native of Pavo, Georgia, whose journey exemplifies leadership, perseverance, and service. Bryant distinguished himself early as a standout scholar-athlete at Thomas County Central High School, graduating with a 4.0 GPA and induction into the National Honor Society. He went on to attend Clemson University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Management with a minor in Athletic Leadership, while achieving remarkable success on the football field, including two All-American honors and two national championships.
In 2019, Bryant was selected in the fourth round of the NFL Draft, embarking on a six-year professional football career with the Detroit Lions and San Francisco 49ers. Today, he is a real estate developer, investor, and angel investor based in Nashville, Tennessee. Through his foundation, Bryant remains deeply connected to his roots, returning annually to Thomas County Central High School to host youth sports camps focused on mentorship, character development, and community empowerment.
Now dedicated to service beyond athletics, Bryant’s message emphasizes faith, discipline, and the belief that success comes from lifting others as you rise—values that align closely with Thomas University’s mission.
Thomas University’s 71st Commencement ceremonies will recognize graduates earning associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees and mark a significant milestone as they transition into professional and civic leadership roles.
For additional commencement details, visit www.thomasu.edu.
Thomas University is proud to announce that it has earned the 2026-2027 Military Friendly® Schools Designation being recogized as the #4 Military Friendly® institution in its category.
Institutions earning the Military Friendly Schools® designation were evaluated using both public data sources and responses from a proprietary survey. Over 3,200 companies participated in the Military Friendly® survey. Methodology, criteria, and weightings were determined by Military Friendly®, in consultation with the Military Friendly® Advisory Council, a group of independent leaders in the military community. Final ratings were determined by combining an organization’s survey score, public data, and an assessment of the institution’s ability to meet and exceed thresholds for student recruitment, retention, academic progress, graduation rates, career placement, and support services for veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses.
The designation reflects TU’s commitment to evolving services to meet the needs of current and future students who have served or are serving our nation. According to Josh Dean, Thomas University’s Director of Military and Corporate Relations, “The 2025-2026 school year saw the Center for Military Life expand its veteran support services to include a dedicated lounge and assistance center. This added resource center ensures that qualified students can gain access to their earned military education benefits.”
“As a former service member, this particular recognition means a lot,” said Thomas University President Stringfellow. “I am proud of Josh Dean and his team for continuing to make our veterans a top priority at TU.”
“Earning the Military Friendly® designation is more than a badge of honor; it is a reflection of an institution’s deep-rooted values and strategic commitment to those who served. These schools don’t just open doors for veterans and military spouses, they build sustainable pathways for academic success and long-term impact. Their support is transformative, proving that investing in military-connected students is both a moral imperative and a standard for educational excellence.” said Kayla Lopez, Military Friendly® Vice President of Memberships.
Thomas University will be showcased in the 2026-2027 Guide to Military Friendly Schools® in the April issue of G.I. Jobs ® magazine and on MilitaryFriendly.com. Military Friendly® is the standard that measures an organization’s commitment, effort, and success in creating sustainable and meaningful benefits for the military community. Over 3,200 organizations compete annually for the Military Friendly Schools® designation. Military Friendly® is a service-disabled, veteran-owned small business. Military Friendly® is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Department of Defense or the federal government. Results are produced via a rules-based algorithm.
The data-driven Military Friendly® lists and methodology can be found at https://www.militaryfriendly.com.
Thomas University’s annual fundraising event, Dining for Education Drive‑Thru Dinner, was held on March 16, 2026, at The Plaza Restaurant. This year’s event achieved a historic milestone, becoming the largest fundraising event in TU’s history.
Event sponsors included Ambassador Personnel (Talon Sponsor), Flowers Foods, and Hurst Boiler (Birdwood Sponsors). More than 70 sponsors showed their support this year, with proceeds directly benefiting student scholarships. The overwhelming participation demonstrated the region’s deep commitment to expanding educational opportunity.
In keeping with this year’s theme, Under an Aegean Moon, sponsors enjoyed a Greek‑inspired, chef‑prepared meal from The Plaza. Committee members and student volunteers greeted sponsors as they arrived to pick up their dinner baskets.
“This year’s Dining for Education surpassed every expectation,” said Carla Turner, Vice President of Advancement. “The generosity of our sponsors, the dedication of our committee, and the support of our community made it possible for TU to surpass its record‑breaking fundraising goal. These funds will have a transformative impact on our students’ lives.”
Dining for Education committee members included Janna Crane (Chair), Jill Carraway, Raquel England, Caroline Flowers, Martha Hanway, Marlow Hawkins, Alane Kadel, Leah Merschman, and Eve Rumble. Event chair Janna Crane said, “Serving on the Dining for Education Committee over the past several years has been truly rewarding. It’s inspiring to work alongside others who share a commitment to supporting Thomas University students and expanding opportunities through education. When we invest in these students, we’re investing in the future of our entire community.”
Student volunteers also played an important role in the event’s success. TU student Hannah Henriksen spoke about what the experience meant to her. “I enjoy volunteering to show my gratitude and give something back. This event really shows that the community cares about their students.” Funds raised through Dining for Education directly support scholarships, academic programs, and essential student‑success initiatives—opening doors for learners across the region and strengthening TU’s role as a vital educational resource.
Thomas University is deeply appreciative of all who contributed to this landmark achievement and looks forward to continuing the tradition of community collaboration and student support.
Congratulations to the following students for being named to the Thomas University President’s and Dean’s Lists for Fall 2025. President’s List students attend TU full-time and have a GPA of 4.0. Dean’s List students attend TU full-time and have a Fall Semester 2023 of 3.5 to 3.99.
President’s List:
Zachariah Abraham, Miami, FL
Zequiel Abraham, Palm Coast, FL
Elsebeth Andersen, Brædstrup, Denmark
Mason Ard, Bainbridge, GA
Tonja Arrington, Thomasville, GA
Mary Avila-Garduno, Culloden, GA
Alisette Baca, Eustis, FL
Carlos Baker, Thomasville, GA
Alfredo Banos, Thomasville, GA
Rylie Batcheller, Tallahassee, FL
Bobby Blasingame, Hampton, GA
Bryce Bodiford, Boston, GA
Pamela Bowens, Dawson, GA
Lindsay Brinson, Bainbridge, GA
Kason Brown, Columbus, GA
John Burnsed, Bryceville, FL
Trevor Bush, Vilonia, AR
Colin Bussard, Tifton, GA
Luca Valentino Carlos Tona, Caldas da Rainha, Portugal
Cole Castle, Lithia, FL
Ryan Chapman, Stuart, FL
Andrew Clayton, Bainbridge, GA
Montel Cleaver, Covington, GA
Cameron Clontz, Marietta, GA
Margaret Colgan, Jacksonville, FL
Morgan Copeland, Cairo, GA
Maria Cox, Lawrenceville, GA
Shawn Cox, Blakely, GA
Kristina Cromer, Griffin, GA
Tyler Lau Cumming, Paisley
Olivia D’Ambrosio, Canton, GA
Kobe Dawson, Adel, GA
Thalea Doe, Adel, GA
Emily Dukes, Quitman, GA
Christopher Dunn, Adel, GA
Casey Fair, Lake City, FL
Derek Fryman, Trenton, OH
Joel Futch, Valdosta, GA
Isabelle Gabrielsson, Hindas, Sweden
Pelayo Gafo Zapico, Villanueva del Pardillo, Spain
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.
