10/28/2026
South Georgia Technical College Accounting student Joden Richards of Leslie was named the college’s latest Student of Excellence during a recent recognition ceremony on the Americus campus.
Academic Dean Brett Murray welcomed students, instructors, family members and guests to the ceremony, while Academic Dean Ashley Dukes explained the significance of the Student of Excellence recognition. Dukes said the honor recognizes students for outstanding work ethic, academic achievement and commitment to success. The monthly winner receives a letter of recommendation from SGTC President Dr. John Watford, a $50 monetary award, a plaque, recognition on the college’s digital marquee and a Student of Excellence T-shirt.
Richards was nominated by Accounting instructor Brenda Hudson Boone, who praised his dedication, discipline, responsibility and willingness to persevere through challenges.
“What makes Joden exceptional is not only what he has accomplished, but how he has accomplished it,” Boone said. “Through hard work, discipline, respect and responsibility, he serves as an example to classmates and others.”
Richards began taking classes at SGTC while still in high school through dual enrollment and later returned to pursue Accounting. He said he quickly discovered that the field was a strong fit for him.
“I started, and I fell in love with the work,” Richards said. “Picking accounting was one of the best decisions I’ve made.”
Richards has balanced his studies with full-time employment and recently completed an internship working with accounting and payroll for a school system. Boone said she was impressed by his performance from the beginning, noting that even as an online student, he consistently participated in optional Webex sessions and demonstrated a strong command of the material.
Other Student of Excellence nominees were Judy Glover of Americus, Business Technology, nominated by instructor Sharon Smith; Brien Palmer of Perry, Computer Information Systems, nominated by instructor Veronda Cladd; Qwantavis Milledge of Americus, Marketing Management, nominated by instructor Mary Cross; and Lily Fotu of Americus, Sports and Fitness Management, nominated by Chris Ballauer, Men’s Basketball Coach and Sports & Fitness Management instructor.
Glover was recognized for maintaining a 4.0 GPA while completing multiple credentials in Business Technology. Palmer was praised for his determination, academic performance and ability to adapt his goals after an injury changed his original plans. Milledge was recognized for his involvement in student activities, leadership and willingness to help others while balancing school with full-time employment. Fotu was praised for her work ethic as both a student and athlete, maintaining a strong GPA while meeting the demands of college basketball.
Murray congratulated all of the nominees and recognized the instructors who nominated them, noting that the students’ experiences demonstrated the different paths individuals can take toward success at SGTC.
South Georgia Technical College offers over 200 diplomas, degrees, and technical certificates of credit in a variety of programs plus many opportunities to get involved in campus life beyond the classroom.
During November, SGTC is waiving the application fee. Just enter the discount code NOVFREE27 when you apply online.
