Albany Technical College celebrates the recipients of the 2024 Goal Student and the Rick Perkins Instructor of the Year awards

ALBANY, Ga. – Albany Technical College celebrate the recipients of the 2024 Goal Student and the Rick Perkins Instructor of the Year awards.

Albany Technical College proudly shines the spotlight on its exceptional achievers, honoring this year’s Georgia Occupational Award of Leadership Student, Zavian Simpson, and the college Rick Perkins Instructor of the Year, Timothy Nelson.

“My initially reaction was in disbelief. When my instructor, Dr. Gamini, first nominated me for this award, I didn’t think I was going to win. That’s just me, but I was in disbelief that I was nominated to represent Albany Technical College,” said Zavian Simpson, 2024 Goal Student, recipient.

“I would say I was initially surprised. But, it really got to me and got to my emotions with the reaction of the crowd. I heard this big roar in the background and it just gave me chills,” said Timothy Nelson, Rick Perkins Instructor of the Year, recipient.

The Goal Student and RPA Instructor of the Year were carefully chosen through a competitive presentation and interview process conducted last year. This year’s competition consisted of seven nominees in the instructor of the year category and nine nominees in the student of the year category.

Among the shining stars, Zavian Simpson, an exceptional student in electronic technology. As a dedicated veteran, Simpson’s journey is marked by triumph over adversity, showcasing not only academic excellence, but leadership within the classroom and the community.

“I’m a United States Marine Corps vet. I was in the United States Marine Corps for about, almost close to 22 years. At that time, I was wounded by a roadside bomb in Afghanistan, and I chose to stay in the military to continue my career. So, one thing that the Marine Corps teaches you is, “adapt and overcome.” Instead of my injury slowing me down, I adapted to it. It was a difficult journey, but it made me who I am today. I did some college classes in the military, but I never did take a full opportunity to do college classes. But, since I retired, this is all I want to do. I want to get my college degree. That’s my one dream that I have,” said Simpson.

Introducing the college Rick Perkins Instructor of the Year, Timothy Nelson, a Business Management Instructor at Albany Tech. Nelson’s commitment to student success goes beyond the norm, as attested by his nominator. Described as someone who exceeds expectations, Nelson extends support, not only to students within his program, but to all those in need across Albany Technical College.

“Well, when I initially got to Albany Tech, I worked in an academic achievement center prepping students to take the entrance exams. Everyone deserves an opportunity to pursue their dreams, and it’s up to me as a resource to help them get there. Making sure that they are aware of all the resources necessary. Making sure that they have someone in place that they know cares about them, sees them as a person, and is genuinely trying to help them achieve their goals,” said Nelson.

De’Andra Jacobs reporting.

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