(Clarkesville, GA) – Each year North Georgia Technical College recognizes Alumni who have excelled in their professions. This year, four outstanding alumni have been selected to receive awards including Hall of Fame, Career Achievement, and the first-ever Bridge Builder Award.
At this year’s Alumni Lunch and Awards celebration on June 13, 2015, Jane Simmons Pitts and Lydia Wilkinson will receive Career Achievement Awards, Jerry Ivester will be inducted into the Hall of Fame, and Leon Osborne of Osborne Wood Products will be the first recipient of the Bridge Builder Award.
Career Achievement Awards are given to graduates of NGTC working in the field for which they studied at the college. The winners must have distinguished themselves in their careers and be respected by fellow employees and by citizens of their community.
Ms. Pitts, Vice President for Oconee Federal Bank, graduated from the North Georgia Tech business program in 1974. Beginning as a secretary in a variety of bank settings, she has been recognized as a top-level producer through the years. In addition, she serves in a variety of civic and volunteer roles including Toccoa Stephens County Girls and Boys Club, Optimist Club, March of Dimes, Relay for Life and several church related committees.
Ms. Wilkinson, Clinical Laboratory Technology Instructor at North Georgia Technical College, graduated from the Medical Laboratory Technology program in 1978. Working in the industry for more than 30 years, she has held positions such as shift supervisor, department supervisor, and laboratory supervisor, all while pursing advanced degrees. She received her master’s degree in June this year.
Mr. Osborne was selected to receive a very special award introduced this year. The Bridge Builder Award recognizes individuals who tirelessly commit themselves and their organizations to the goal of bridging education and skills to workplace environments.
Mr. Leon Osborne, owner of Osborne Wood Products, Inc., has been a steadfast and loyal supporter of both the college and more specifically the Engineering Technology program. His commitment to local civic and social organizations is outstanding, and his support and dedication to the college is exemplified in his enthusiasm for hiring graduates.
The Hall of Fame Award is bestowed on a deserving alumnus who graduated from North Georgia Tech at least 20 years prior to nomination. The candidate must have distinguished himself/herself in his/her professional life.
Mr. Jerry Ivester of Clarkesville was a graduate of several programs at North Georgia Tech including Automotive Technology, Electronics, Electronic Construction, Masonry, and Management. He was also a certified Boiler/Chiller Mechanic. Mr. Ivester worked for the Georgia Department of Transportation before serving as Facilities Director for the college from 2001-2009.
“Jerry understood maintaining old buildings and constructing new facilities was really about creating an environment for students to learn and grow,” said nominator Mark Ivester. “Many times Jerry would find ways to get students involved in real life situations by providing campus projects in heating and air, horticulture, electrical construction, and even automotive.”
The Alumni Lunch and Awards will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2015, in the Ramsey-Hunter Dining Hall Annex on the Clarkesville Campus. For more information or to RSVP, please contact Cynthia Brown, 706-754-7714, [email protected].
