BUENA VISTA — South Georgia Technical College (SGTC) President John Watford, Ed.D.,  was the special guest speaker at the Marion County Chamber of Commerce meeting recently. He talked with officials about the rich history of the college and gave an overview of a new partnership effort with the Marion County School System that will enrich the lives of Marion County citizens.
“South Georgia Technical College has a great legacy,” explained Watford, adding, “but we are not about brick and mortar; we are about people. The impact that we have on the individuals who attend South Georgia Tech impacts that student as well as their families and our communities. We focus on what is good for students and the employers in our state and our area, because our mission is workforce development.”
“Making it Happen” is new marketing slogan for SGTC, but it also adequately describes the new partnership effort between Marion County officials and SGTC.
“We are working with Marion County Schools Superintendent Richard McCorkle and other local officials to provide your citizens with greater access to college courses and workforce development options,” explained Watford. “We want to offer the citizens of Marion County the opportunity for a better quality of life by bringing college classes to Marion County to help individuals obtain the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in today’s work force.”
Watford also revealed that a team of SGTC admissions officials would be available immediately following the chamber meeting to help individuals apply, enroll, and fill out financial aid forms to begin their journey for careers of a lifetime. Approximately 15 individuals have already signed up to participate in the first classes.
“We have over 200 different programs of study at South Georgia Technical College,” said Watford. “Marion County is one of the six counties in our service area and we want a larger presence in Marion County while also providing greater educational opportunities to the people who need it. Both of these classes are great first steps in becoming successful in whatever career you choose.”
Other items that Watford touched on during his talk to the Chamber of Commerce included the financial advantages of attending a technical college.
“There are currently nine different program areas at South Georgia Technical College that students receive extra grant funding for if they are HOPE Eligible,” he said. “That makes it almost tuition free to attend South Georgia Technical College.”
He also mentioned that SGTC’s licensed practical nursing program was just recognized as one of the top five programs in the state and that SGTC students were currently competing nationally in several different student clubs and organizational activities.
In closing, Watford, thanked the Marion County Chamber of Commerce for their support and awarded several door prizes to the individuals who correctly answered questions he covered during the talk.