Thomas University is proud to 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.
DECATUR, Ga. – Thomas University has been recognized by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) with a Torch Award for Student Support & Completion, honoring institutions that demonstrate leadership in supporting student persistence, progression, and successful completion.
The Torch Awards recognize SACSCOC member institutions that show strength across multiple indicators related to student support and completion, reflecting a sustained commitment to student-centered practices and measurable improvement. Thomas University’s recognition reflects performance across indicators tied to long-term student progress and completion outcomes.
Specifically, Thomas University demonstrated strength across the following student support and completion measures:
10-year change in full-time student retention
Eight-year change in full-time student completion
Eight-year change in part-time student completion
Eight-year change in Pell student completion
Together, these indicators highlight Thomas University’s focus on sustained improvement in student outcomes and its commitment to supporting students throughout their educational journey, from enrollment through completion.
“TU is committed to transforming lives through education,” said Kurt Stringfellow, President of Thomas University. “This award reflects our faculty and staff’s unwavering dedication to supporting students from the moment they enroll to the moment they cross the finish line. The Torch Award recognizes the heart of our mission and the work our team does each day to ensure our students thrive.”
Torch Awards do not represent institutional rankings. Rather, recognition reflects leadership and measurable progress across multiple indicators, acknowledging excellence within diverse institutional missions and contexts.
About the SACSCOC Torch Awards
The Torch Awards recognize colleges and universities that demonstrate meaningful, data-informed impact in the areas of affordability, student support and completion, and post-college success. Drawing on publicly reported data, the awards elevate institutional practices that support access, quality, accountability, and continuous improvement.
About Thomas University
Located in the historic city of Thomasville, Georgia, 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 approximately 30 miles north of Tallahassee, Florida, the University offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and education specialist degrees at its main campus and online. More information is available at www.thomasu.edu.
About SACSCOC
The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) is an institutional accreditor for quality assurance in higher education. SACSCOC accredits institutions that award associate, baccalaureate, master’s, or doctoral degrees, including those offered via distance and correspondence education, and direct assessment within these institutions. It serves as the common denominator of shared values and practices among its members in the United States and international institutions of higher education approved by the SACSCOC Executive Council, Board of Trustees, and the Appeals Committee of the College Delegate Assembly.
The mission of SACSCOC is to assure the educational quality and improve the effectiveness of its member institutions.
Thomas University hosted its annual Forbes Society Awards Dinner at Glen Arven Country Club, gathering supporters, alumni, faculty, and community leaders to honor those whose generosity and vision continue to shape the future of TU and its students. The event underscored the profound impact philanthropy has on student opportunity, institutional resilience, and the advancement of higher education.
In his address, President Kurt Stringfellow reflected on the shared experiences that inspire generosity.
“All of us in this room have something in common,” he began. “At some point in our lives, someone reached out a hand to help us… None of us arrived where we are today entirely on our own. We stand on a foundation built by others—by their support, their belief, their kindness.”
He emphasized that giving to Thomas University goes far beyond financial support:
“When you give to TU, you are passing forward the very kind of help that shaped your own journey. You are ensuring that a young person—perhaps just as uncertain, hopeful, ambitious, or overwhelmed as you once were—gets the chance to keep going.”
President Stringfellow also highlighted TU’s momentum during a period of institutional transition.
“Colleges are living institutions,” he said. “In times of transition—whether in leadership, vision, or direction—what matters most is the strength of the people who continue to believe in the mission. That strength comes from you.”
Looking ahead, he reaffirmed the university’s commitment to innovation and educational thought leadership. “We are designing programs that prepare students to be innovators for challenges we cannot yet imagine. Education should not just respond to the future, but shape it.”
TU senior and scholarship recipient Jonah Hendricks also spoke at the event. He chronicled his journey at TU and emphasized the impact donors’ generosity has had on his life. Hendricks echoed President Stringfellow’s words, proving that giving is transformational, not transactional.
A central highlight of the evening was the presentation of the 2026 Forbes Society Awards, recognizing individuals and organizations for exemplary service, leadership, and support of Thomas University’s mission. This year’s honorees included:
W. Cameron Forbes Award Emily V. Wade
Emily V. Wade was posthumously recognized for her exceptional dedication to education and her distinguished support of Thomas University. Her longstanding commitment to TU’s mission reflects the values of leadership, service, and philanthropy embodied in this prestigious award. Mrs. Wade’s daughter, Jamie Comstock, received the award on her mother’s behalf.
President’s Award Hurst Boiler
Hurst Boiler was honored for its outstanding corporate partnership and generous commitment to advancing TU’s mission. The company’s support strengthens the university’s capacity to innovate and expand opportunities for students.
Vicey Harris Award Raymond B. Thompson
Raymond B. Thompson was celebrated for his leadership, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to the Thomas University community. His contributions exemplify the spirit of service that defines this award.
Ambassador’s Awards Lee Ty Turner Grayson Plunkett
Both awardees were recognized for their exceptional volunteerism, advocacy, and consistent efforts to elevate TU’s presence and impact in the community.
As the dinner concluded, guests were thanked for their ongoing commitment to Thomas University’s mission and for embodying the true meaning of philanthropy.
“Your generosity today becomes the seed of generosity tomorrow,” President Stringfellow noted. “We are deeply grateful for your belief in Thomas University and in the students whose futures you help shape.”
About the Forbes Society Awards Dinner
The Forbes Society Awards Dinner honors the individuals, families, and organizations whose generosity ensures that Thomas University continues to thrive as a place where students are supported, challenged, and empowered to define their futures. Each year, the event serves as a reminder of the community’s vital role in advancing TU’s mission of education, leadership, and service.
Carla Turner (l) Thomas University’s VP of Advancement and President Kurt Stringfellow (r) join 2026 Forbes Award winners Ray Thompson, Jeff Hurst of Hurst Boiler, Jamie Comstock on behalf of Emily V. Wade, Ty Turner, and Greyson Plunkett.
Thomas University(TU) proudly announces the induction of 13 outstanding students into Rho Chi Sigma, the university’s chapter of Chi Sigma Iota, the international honor society for counseling professionals. This prestigious recognition celebrates academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to the counseling profession.
The newly inducted members are:
• Maria Cunard
• Corey Nathaniel Oliver
• Lauren Maree Cook
• Kesiena Dennis Obienu
• Maria Koontz
• Jenny Judith Reyes-Gomez
• Lynn Marie Malone
• Brittnie C. Watson
• BréLynn Marie Cumby
• Carolina Lambert
• Courtney Brianna Edwards
• Whitney Anderson
• Dyonne LaMyia McClain
Chi Sigma Iota promotes scholarship, research, professionalism, and excellence in counseling. Membership in Rho Chi Sigma reflects these students’ dedication to ethical practice and service within the counseling field.
Congratulations to the newest inductees to Kappa Delta Pi (Phi Kappa Chapter), the National Professional Association and Honor Society for Educators. The induction ceremony was held on Thursday, December 4, 2025.
Kappa Delta Pi promotes excellence in education and recognizes outstanding contributions to the profession. Membership is reserved for individuals who demonstrate high academic achievement and a commitment to teaching.
This year’s new inductees are:
Reginald Amey – McDonough, GA | Graduate, Specialist in Teacher Leadership
Willie Brassell – Atlanta, GA | Graduate, Master of Arts in Teaching/Pedagogy
Ursula Clark – Lake Park, GA | Graduate, Master of Arts in Teaching/Elementary Education
Daisy Dumler – Lawrenceville, GA | Graduate, Education Specialist (Ed.S.) Program
Casady Evans – Decatur, GA | Graduate, Specialist in Teacher Leadership
D’Nee Freeman – Milledgeville, GA | Graduate, Teacher Leadership
Kijakazi Gayden – Valdosta, GA | Graduate, Educational Leadership, Tier II
Victoria Graff – McDonough, GA | Graduate, Master of Arts in Teaching/Elementary Education
Kim Leader – Decatur, GA | Graduate, Master of Arts in Teaching/Elementary Education
Schedavia Richards – McDonough, GA | Graduate, Master of Arts in Teaching/Special Education General Curriculum, Elementary Education
Roshanda Ross – Douglas, GA | Graduate, Master of Arts in Teaching/Special Education General Curriculum, Elementary Education
Brashai Simmons – Houston, TX | Graduate, Master of Education/Elementary Education with Math Endorsement
Ivy Tarver – Donalsonville, GA | Undergraduate, Bachelor of Science in Special Education General Curriculum/Elementary Education
(l to r) Jasmine Rainey (current member and Chapter President), Dr. Shannon L. Wood (Co-Faculty Sponsor), Dr. Lindsey Wingate (Co-Faculty Sponsor), Roshanda Ross, Ivy Tarver, Schedavia Richards, Victoria Graff, D’Nee Freeman, Casady Evans, Reginald Amey, Ursula Clark, and Anique Aguilar (current member and Chapter Secretary). Not pictured: Willie Brassell, Kijakazi Gayden, Kim Leader, Brashai Simmons.
Thomas University (TU) celebrated academic excellence in the biological sciences with the induction of new members into TU’s chapter of the Beta Beta Beta (TriBeta) Biological Honor Society. The ceremony, held on November 21, 2025 in Smith-Bonvillian Hall on TU’s Forbes Campus, recognized students who have demonstrated outstanding achievement and commitment to the study of biology.
This year’s new inductees are:
Alisette Baca – Biology, Eustis, FL
Joslyn Barrs –Exercise and Sport Science, Branford, FL
Jacob Bilancione – Exercise and Sport Science, Cape Coral, FL
Andrew Clayton – Exercise and Sport Science, Bainbridge, GA
Asher Cox – Exercise and Sport Science, Moultrie, GA
Niamh Curzons – Exercise and Sport Science, The Cotswolds, England
Nohemi Diaz-Ramos – Biology, Cairo, GA
Julian Garcia – Exercise and Sport Science, Jennings, Fla
Cole Haire – Exercise and Sport Science, Jacksonville, FL
Leilani Hichkad – Exercise and Sport Science, Macon, GA
Natalie Hiles – Exercise and Sport Science, Dunedin, FL
Rylee Hollifield – Exercise and Sport Science, Quitman, GA
Conner Hutto – Biology, Nashville, GA
Cayla Jeffery – Biology, Tallahassee, FL
Bradleigh Lott – Exercise and Sport Science, Colquit, GA
Katie McLeod – Biology, Navarre, FL
Noah Roberts – Biology, Valdosta, GA
Lucia Roca Rodado – Exercise and Sport Science, Palma de Mallorca, Spain
Anna Van derKeere – Biology, Tielt, Belgium
Landon Watts – Biology, Bainbridge, GA
Eli Willis – Exercise and Sport Science, Naylor, GA
TriBeta is a national honor society for students dedicated to improving the understanding and appreciation of biological study and extending boundaries of human knowledge through scientific research.
(Left to Right): Landon Watts, Alisette Baca, Natalie Hiles, Katie McLeod, Rylee Hollifield, Bradleigh Lott (new inductees), Margaret Colgan (current member and Co-Vice President), Haleigh Joslin (current member), Elsebeth Anderson (current member and Co-Vice President), Niamh Curzons, Andrew Clayton, Asher Cox, Conner Hutto (new inductees)
Not pictured: Jacob Bilancione, Nohemi Diaz-Ramos, Julian Garcia, Cole Haire, Leilani Hichkad, Cayla Jeffery, Madelyn Musgrove (current member and serves as President), Noah Roberts, Lucia Roca Rodado, Anna Van derKeere, Eli Willis, Joslyn Barrs, Julian Garcia
Biology Majors (Left to Right) Dr. LeAnna Willison (Associate Professor of Biology), Haleigh Joslin, Katie McLeod, Margaret Colgan, Landon Watts, Elsebeth Anderson, Alisette Baca
Softball Team/ TriBeta members (Left to Right): Katie McLeod (new inductee), Natalie Hiles (new inductee), Rylee Hollifield (new inductee), Margaret Colgan (current member and Co-Vice President), Bradleigh Lott (new inductee)
On Monday evening, TU students, faculty, and staff gathered for one of our most cherished traditions—Thanksgiving Dinner with our TU family. This annual event, held in the TU gym, is more than a meal; it’s a celebration of community, gratitude, and togetherness.
This year’s feast featured mouthwatering traditional Thanksgiving fare catered by Climmie’s H&M Barbeque, complemented by fresh fruit, crisp salads, and decadent desserts provided and served by faculty and staff.
The event has become something truly special, reminding us that TU is not just a university—it’s a family.
Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at Thomas University!
Thomas University (TU) marked a historic milestone with its 75th Anniversary Reception, honoring decades of educational excellence and community partnership. The event, held in Smith-Bonvillian Hall on TU’s Forbes campus, brought together alumni, donors, faculty, staff, and friends of the university to celebrate TU’s enduring mission of transforming lives through learning.
The evening included remarks from Kurt Stringfellow, President of TU, and Clint Kadel, Chairman of TU’s Board of Trustees. Rosemarye Boykins, the first African American graduate of Birdwood Junior College—now Thomas University—also shared her inspiring personal journey and how her achievement paved the way for generations of students to follow.
The celebration honored TU’s proud legacy while looking ahead to an exciting future. Thomas University continues to grow and thrive, shaping a bold future. Thanks to the unwavering support of donors and community partners, TU stands as a beacon of opportunity and a driving force for progress for generations to come.
Thomas University (TU) hosted its annual Cairo Scholarship Soirée on Thursday, October 2 at Collins Place Venue in Cairo, Georgia, marking another successful evening in support of the Grady County Scholarship Fund.
Guests enjoyed a lively performance of “Pirates Without a Ship” by the Syrup City Players, a comedic whodunit that kept the audience guessing. The event also featured a silent auction, with a wide variety of items generously donated by businesses and individuals from Grady County and surrounding communities.
The funds raised will directly support Grady County students attending Thomas University, helping to reduce financial barriers and promote academic success.
“We are appreciative of the support from our sponsors in helping Thomas University carry out its mission,” said TU’s Interim Vice President of Advancement. “This year twenty-four Grady County students received scholarship funds. Their generosity is truly life-changing in helping our students secure a brighter future and improved quality of life.”
Another highlight of the evening was heartfelt comments by Gage Schafer, a scholarship recipient and TU baseball team member, who shared how the Grady County Scholarship has positively impacted his educational journey.
“I am grateful to have received the Grady County Scholarship because of the extra support it provided me in working towards my future career goals,” Schafer said. “With the support of my community through this scholarship, I look forward to returning the favor and investing back into my community and other young athletes as a coach right here in Cairo.”
The event was made possible through the generous support of sponsors, including premiere sponsor Big Bend Agri Services, and the dedication of the planning committee, chaired by Chelsea Cosby. Other committee members included Hansell Bearden, Taylor Gilliard, Jennifer Jarvis, Linda Drew Johnson, Brande Strickland, and Katie Williams.
Thomas University extends its sincere thanks to the sponsors, planning committee, the Syrup City Players, Collins Place Venue, and Performance Foodservices-Powell for making the event possible. TU remains committed to supporting students and strengthening its partnership with the Grady County community.
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.
