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Chris Rzewnicki ’17, originally from Chicago, Illinois, chose to attend Thomas University to pursue both his academic goals and his passion for baseball. Seeking the opportunity to play in a warmer climate and further develop his skills, he found exactly what he needed at TU, both on the field and in the classroom.
What initially stood out to Rzewnicki was the university’s welcoming and supportive community. Despite being far from home, he quickly adapted thanks to the strong relationships he built with teammates, professors, and supportive members of the community. Their encouragement helped him find his footing and ultimately succeed. Through these experiences, he developed a deep appreciation for the Thomasville culture and the sense of belonging that defined his time at TU. |
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Rzewnicki majored in psychology, driven by a desire to help others navigate difficult moments in their lives. His academic experience strengthened his passion for supporting individuals who may feel stuck or without direction, an interest that continues to influence his outlook and professional approach.
Among his most meaningful memories at TU were team worship experiences with Goal Line Ministries. These moments provided encouragement in his faith and reinforced a sense of community, reminding him that no one faces challenges alone. Those experiences remain an important and lasting part of his time at Thomas University.
He reflects on TU as a place defined by its diversity, not only in its student body but also in its blend of academics, athletics, and culture. The university’s location offered the balance of a relaxed South Georgia lifestyle with proximity to Tallahassee, while its faculty instilled in him the belief that success is achievable in all aspects of life with dedication and perseverance. He learned the importance of setting goals to ultimately achieve larger aspirations.
Rzewnicki credits Thomas University with instilling a strong work ethic that he carried into his professional career, beginning with his first job at a local fuel company. A guiding principle he continues to live by comes from a mentor early in his career: “You will get everything you want in life if you help enough people get what they want.” This philosophy aligns closely with his view of Thomasville and Thomas University—communities rooted in helping others succeed, where success naturally follows.
Today, Rzewnicki continues to embody these values in his professional life following his promotion to Relationship Manager at Southwest Georgia Farm Credit, where he serves and supports the agricultural community across the region. |
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Thomas University Commencement |
Commencement speaker Austin Bryant |
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 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 Austin Bryant, acclaimed entreprenuer and former NFL player. |
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Dr. LeAnna Willison Honored with Professor of the Year Award |
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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. |
| | Dr. LeAnna Willison receives the 2026 Professor of the Year Award from Dr. John Meis, Provost. |
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Dr. Remigio Padilla-Hernandez Named Vulcan Teaching Excellence Award Winner |
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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. |
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| Dr. Remigio Padilla-Hernandez receives the Vulcan Excellence in Teaching Award from Dr. John Meis, Provost. |
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Matthew Bowman Named 2026 President’s Award Recipient |
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Thomas University has named Matthew Bowman of Walton, Indiana, as the 2026 President’s Award recipient, recognizing a student whose leadership, academic excellence, service, and character exemplify the highest ideals of the institution. Bowman was recognized at Saturday’s Commencement ceremony.
“When we think about what it means to truly embody the spirit of Thomas University—the commitment to excellence, to service, and to lifting others up—one name rises to the top: Matthew Bowman,” said TU President Kurt Stringfellow. “Matthew, this university is better because you are a part of it. It is our honor to present you with the 2026 President’s Award.” |
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| Matthew Bowman was recognized at the 2026 Commencement ceremony on May 2, 2026. |
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A lot of progress has been made as we prepare to open TU's new Woodlands Campus for Fall 2026. Several departments have begun moving offices and a number of TU students have visited the new location. Below are a few photos of the campus. |
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For a limited time, Thomas University is offering a 20% discount off the standard MBA tuition for students who begin the MBA program during the Summer 2026 semester. Key details of this opportunity include: |
- 20% tuition discount applied to the entire MBA program (not just the first semester)
- Online program designed specifically for working professionals
- Can be completed in as little as 12 months
- Summer 2026 start required to receive the discount
- Graduation as soon as May 2027
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We would welcome the opportunity to discuss this program further or provide materials you may share with your team. Please share this link with your team that outlines our 12 month program: thomasu.edu/majors/graduate-degree/business-administration-mba/.
Please have any of your interested team members fill out an application at thomasu.edu. |
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