TCSG Announces 2026 Adult Education Student and Teacher of the Year Award Winners

TCSG Announces 2026 Adult Education Student and Teacher of the Year Award Winners

Southern Regional Technical College student and West Georgia Technical College teacher take top honors

Atlanta, Ga.-The Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) has announced the recipients of its 2026 statewide adult education honors, recognizing a student and instructor whose dedication reflects the life-changing impact of adult learning programs across Georgia. Trinity Griffin of Southern Regional Technical College has been named the 2026 Adult Education Student of the Year and recipient of the Dinah Culbreath Wayne Exceptional Adult Georgian in Literacy Education (EAGLE) Award, while Trisha Pomerville of West Georgia Technical College has been named the 2026 Outstanding Adult Education Teacher of the Year.

"Adult education plays a critical role in opening doors for Georgians who are working to build better futures for themselves and their families," said TCSG Commissioner Greg Dozier. "Trinity's determination and commitment to reaching her educational goals, along with Trisha's dedication to supporting and guiding her students, demonstrate the powerful role adult education programs play in communities across our state."

The EAGLE Award recognizes an adult education student who has demonstrated outstanding determination, leadership, and academic achievement while pursuing educational goals. As the state's 2026 EAGLE Ambassador, Griffin will represent Georgia's adult learners throughout the coming year, sharing her educational journey and highlighting the importance of literacy and workforce training opportunities available through adult education programs. In addition to statewide recognition, Griffin will receive a full scholarship to attend the technical college of her choice. The scholarship also includes assistance with books and related expenses through the Brenda Wise Scholarship Fund.

"We are incredibly proud of Trinity and the determination she has shown throughout her educational journey," said Southern Regional Technical College President Jim Glass."Her commitment to improving her future through education is inspiring, and she truly reflects the perseverance and hard work that define so many of our adult education students."

This year's runner-up for Adult Education Student of the Year is Shaw Orange from West Georgia Technical College. A total of 25 adult learners were honored during the event, celebrating their success in overcoming educational barriers.

The Outstanding Adult Education Teacher of the Year Award, now in its fifth year, honors an educator who demonstrates exceptional commitment to student success and innovation in adult education. Trisha Pomerville of West Georgia Technical College was selected for the statewide honor in recognition of her dedication to helping adult learners overcome barriers and reach their educational and career goals. Erin Hinman from the Cobb County School District was named runner-up.

"There are many special individuals who give of themselves to help others overcome hurdles many of us will never truly understand," said West Georgia Technical College President Dr. Julie Post. "Trisha has a gift. She shines in the classroom, offer extraordinary experiences for learning and is amazing with students. We are blessed that she works in our communities and proud of her for winning this well-deserved award."

The awards were presented during the Dinah Culbreath Wayne EAGLE Institute, held March 10-11 at the Crowne Plaza Atlanta Perimeter at Ravinia. TCSG State Board Chairman Buzz Law, TCSG Commissioner Greg Dozier, and TCSG Assistant Commissioner for Adult Education Dr. Serena Walker joined in celebrating this year's honorees.

To learn more about TCSG's Adult Education programs, visit www.GeorgiaOpportunities.com.

About the Technical College System of Georgia

The 22 colleges of the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) are Georgia's top resource for skilled workers. TCSG offers world-class training in more than 600 associate degree, diploma and certificate programs to students who are trained on state-of-the-art equipment by instructors who are experts in their fields. The system also houses Georgia's Office of Adult Education, which promotes and provides adult literacy and education programs, including the GED® testing program, throughout the state. In addition, TCSG partners with companies through Quick Start, the nation's top customized workforce training program, and through its individual colleges, who work with local industry to provide workforce and training solutions. For more information, visit www.TCSG.edu

Contact:

Mark D'Alessio - Executive Director of Communications Technical College System of Georgia [email protected]