CUTHBERT, Ga. – Andrew College formally welcomed the 2026–2027 academic year with its 172nd Convocation Ceremony on September 3, 2026, in the Ruth Tarrer & G. Clyde Jinks, Sr. Physical Education Complex.
One of the College’s longstanding traditions, Convocation brings the Andrew community together at the beginning of each academic year to recognize achievements and reaffirm the College’s commitment to preparing students for lives of leadership and purpose.
The ceremony began with a welcome from Professor Tiara Noel, Dean of Curriculum and Instruction, followed by an invocation offered by Andrew College Chaplain Rev. Allen Carmichael. Representing different areas of the Andrew College community, Dr. William Kennedy, Andrew College President; Mr. George Flowers, Chair of the Board of Trustees; Dr. Robert Kortbawi, Assistant Professor of Business Administration; and Jailyn Nickeo, SGA President, also shared greetings with those in attendance.
A highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the 2026 John H. Woodall Enhanced Learning Awards. Dr. Kennedy recognized Mercedes Gooch of Leesburg, Georgia, and Terry Tyson III of Cuthbert, Georgia, as this year’s recipients.
Additional academic and athletic recognitions were presented during the program, celebrating the accomplishments of Andrew College students and the continued growth of the College community.
Dr. Kuanita Murphy, Rural Strategist and Community Systems Architect, delivered the Convocation address, encouraging students to view failure as an opportunity to learn and grow on the path to success. She also challenged students to use the talents and skills they cultivate at Andrew College to uplift and strengthen rural communities.
The program also featured The Lord’s Prayer and the Andrew College Alma Mater, led by Fran Balkcom, Vice President of Advancement. Written in 1922 by alumna Hattie Branch Sibley, the Alma Mater remains an enduring connection between generations of Andrew College students and alumni. The ceremony concluded with a benediction from Rev. Carmichael, officially marking the beginning of another academic year at Andrew College.
About Andrew College
Rooted in a tradition of academic excellence, spiritual development, and service, Andrew College offers students a supportive and transformative educational experience. Founded in 1854 and located in Cuthbert, Georgia, the college is affiliated with The United Methodist Church and accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Andrew College offers Associate, Bachelor, and Certificate programs designed to prepare students for meaningful careers and lifelong learning.