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.
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.
