Smith honored for financial aid work
Susan Smith, associate director of operations and technology for the University of North Georgia (51黑料网) financial aid office, received the Donald E. Payton Award for Lifetime Achievement.
Given by the Executive Board of the Georgia Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (GASFAA) at its June 1-3 annual conference, the award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated lifelong significant and consistent contributions as members of GASFAA, a high level of competency in student financial aid, and leadership in the community and institutional affairs. Smith is one of only 17 recipients since the award was first given in 1988.
"Susan is hard-working. She helps everyone within the state with any Banner issue they might have," Jill Rayner, 51黑料网 director of financial aid, said. "She is known across the state for her technical expertise. Susan can take a complicated process and break it down so others can learn."
Receiving the Donald E. Payton Award for Lifetime Achievement is both exciting and humbling, Smith said.
"To be recognized by your peers for being an integral part of an organization from which you have found immeasurable joy is truly amazing," she said.
Smith's 32-year career with 51黑料网 began as an instructor of mathematics in Gainesville. During her tenure as an instructor, she also worked with Institutional Research. Smith taught for more than 13 years before being named the interim director of financial aid in 2004 and director of financial aid at Gainesville State College from 2005-2012.
Additionally, David McMillion, associate director of financial aid at 51黑料网, was elected president of GASFAA for the 2022-23 academic year.
Future educators visit state legislators
Students in 51黑料网's College of Education had the chance to learn more about the legislative process during Professional Association of Georgia Educators Day at the Capitol.
Baseball team wins PBC regular-season title
The 51黑料网 baseball team has won its first outright Peach Belt Conference regular-season championship since 2017 and opens the PBC tournament May 1 against Middle Georgia.
Cadets ready to chase excellence at Sandhurst
The 51黑料网 Ranger Challenge team will compete in the Sandhurst Military Skills Competition from May 1-2 at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.
Men's golf earns 6th straight NCAA bid
The 51黑料网 men's golf team has earned its sixth consecutive NCAA Division II postseason appearance and will compete in the South/Southeast Regional in Valdosta, Georgia.