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AMERICUS, Ga. (May 8, 2026) — Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW) held its annual Faculty and Staff Awards Ceremony on Thursday, April 30 in the Storm Dome.
GSW President Michelle Johnston, Ph.D., addressed the room at the start of the ceremony. “Every person here has contributed to the growth and development of Georgia Southwestern, and your dedication is deeply appreciated,” she said. “The awards and honors that will be presented today highlight the exceptional talents and contributions of individuals who go above and beyond in their roles.”
Staff Excellence in Achievement and Performance
Chelsea Collins, director of marketing and communications in the Department of University Relations, was recognized for Staff Excellence in Achievement and Performance. This award recognizes staff who make exceptional contributions to the essential work of GSW. Recipients consistently exceed expectations, performing above and beyond their assigned responsibilities while making a significant impact within their departments and across the University. They demonstrate outstanding dedication, professionalism, and commitment to supporting the institution’s mission.
Since stepping into her role, Collins has played a key role in shaping how the University is presented and experienced. Through strategic leadership, she has strengthened institutional brand identity while supporting marketing, fundraising, and community engagement and partnerships. Known for her attention to detail and high standards, she ensures quality and consistency across communications while mentoring her team and guiding campus partners. She manages complex initiatives with efficiency and serves as a trusted advisor and leader, contributing to the University’s reputation and success.
Staff Excellence in Customer Service and Personal Interactions
Krystal Whittaker, web content strategist in the Department of University Relations, was recognized for Staff Excellence in Customer Service and Personal Interactions. This award recognizes outstanding contributions to customer service across the University. Recipients foster a positive, collaborative environment and demonstrate professionalism, responsiveness, and genuine care in every interaction. Through strong communication and commitment to service, they create supportive experiences for faculty, staff, students, and campus partners.
Whittaker exemplifies these qualities through her work managing the University’s most visible digital systems. She combines technical expertise with a clear, approachable communication style, ensuring partners feel supported and confident. Whether guiding website updates, assisting with digital form management, or mentoring students, she approaches every interaction with patience and respect. Her contributions to accessibility and campus-wide initiatives, along with her positive energy and collaborative spirit, have made a lasting impact across the University.
Faculty Excellence in Advising
Sally Merritt, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Department of Psychology and Sociology, was recognized for Faculty Excellence in Advising. This award recognizes faculty who demonstrate outstanding student advising at the undergraduate and/or graduate level. Honorees go beyond course selection and administrative tasks, guiding students through challenges, helping them make informed decisions, and fostering confidence in their ability to succeed. Their commitment, care, and impact define excellence in advising.
Merritt exemplifies these qualities through her unwavering support of students. Whether formally assigned or not, she consistently takes the time to provide guidance, answer questions, and offer reassurance. Her dedication reflects a deep commitment to student success and advocacy, making a lasting impact on the GSW community.
Faculty Excellence in Teaching
Annie Laurie Nichols, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Department of Communication of Emerging Media, was recognized for Faculty Excellence in Teaching. This award recognizes faculty who demonstrate sustained excellence in the teaching-learning process. Recipients show a strong commitment to student success through effective instruction, innovative teaching practices, and meaningful contributions to their discipline and the University’s mission.
Nichols exemplifies these qualities through their dedication to teaching and instructional innovation. Their work reflects a lasting impact on student learning and engagement, as well as on their colleagues and the broader campus community.
Faculty Excellence in Scholarship
Surya Amarachintha, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Department of Biology and Thomas Distinguished Biology Chair, was recognized for Faculty Excellence in Scholarship. This award recognizes faculty who demonstrate an established or growing record of excellence in research, scholarship, and creative activity. Recipients advance knowledge in their field while strengthening academic programs and creating meaningful opportunities for student engagement and discovery.
Amarachintha exemplifies these qualities through his research on complex biological processes related to liver disease in infants. He actively mentors undergraduate students, guiding them to present award-winning research at conferences and contribute to peer-reviewed publications. His dedication to scholarship and student mentorship has strengthened the University’s academic reputation and impact.
Faculty Excellence in Service
Michele McKie, Ed.D., assistant professor in the College of Education and Assessment Director, was recognized for Faculty Excellence in Service. This award recognizes faculty who demonstrate meritorious service beyond their assigned responsibilities and a deep commitment to caring for others. This award honors a faculty member whose leadership, generosity, and dedication have made a lasting impact on students, colleagues, programs, and the broader community.
McKie exemplifies service in its fullest sense. She has provided thoughtful leadership in assessment and accreditation, strengthened academic programs, and guided colleagues through complex processes with care and expertise. Known for her student-centered advising and support, particularly for students with disabilities, she pairs knowledge with empathy in every interaction. Her service extends across campus and into the community through mentorship, retention efforts, and leadership of GSW Special Olympics, as well as professional contributions at the state and national levels.
Professor of the Year
Robert Bennett, Ph.D., professor in the College of Business and Computing, was named Professor of the Year. This award, presented annually by the GSW Alumni Association since 1980, honors a faculty member who demonstrates exceptional dedication and commitment to student success. Nominated by graduates from the preceding year, this award reflects the lasting impact a faculty member has on their students’ academic and personal journeys.
Faculty members recognized for promotion and tenure were:
Faculty members recognized for earning emeritus status were:
Faculty and staff recognized for milestone years of service to GSW were:
Find the full photo album from the ceremony on GSW’s Facebook page.
