The Technical College System of Georgia recognized 26 adult learners in Atlanta this week with the EAGLE Award for outstanding achievement in the state’s adult education program. The EAGLE Award is given each local EAGLE nominated by programs across the state. Central Georgia Technical College was represented by local EAGLE delegate, Jacqueline Guzman of Perry.
 
Guzman attended the three-day conference and took part in professional development workshops and networking sessions. Out of the 26 participants, she was selected as one of the top eight students and participated in a second interview session for the title of state winner. Guzman was selected to receive the EAGLE Spirit award which is voted on by her peers in the competition. Desmond Vaird, Lanier Technical College’s representative, won the top award of Georgia’s top student in Adult Education.
 
The awards were presented by Gov. Nathan Deal, TCSG Commissioner Gretchen Corbin and Beverly Smith, the TCSG assistant commissioner for Adult Education.
 
“Each and every one educated adult plays an important part in our workforce and in securing our state’s economic future,” said Gov. Deal. “These bright, motivated students are a shining example of the power of adult education to change lives, not only their own but those of others whom they inspire through their commitment and perseverance.”
 
Almost 500 guests applauded the students for overcoming obstacles that once stood in the way of their education and then excelling in the classroom while preparing for their GED credential.
 
Now in its 23rd year, the system’s EAGLE award acknowledges the outstanding accomplishments of Georgians who enroll in the TCSG’s adult education programs in order to study for and earn their GED credential. More than 44,000 men and women took part in Georgia’s adult education programs last year.