STC Names EAGLE Delegate And Teacher of The Year
mrandolphadvance@gmail.com
Southeastern Technical College has announced the selection of Alyssa Gailey as the College’s 2026 EAGLE Leadership Institute Delegate and Senecca Underwood as the Adult Education Teacher of the Year.
The Dinah Culbreath Wayne Exceptional Adult Georgian in Literacy Education (EAGLE) Leadership Institute is a two-day event that recognizes and honors students who have demonstrated superior achievement in adult education programs across the state. During the two-day event, EAGLE delegates are celebrated for their accomplishments and are able to attend professional development sessions focused on increasing leader- continued from page
ship, communication, and life management skills.
To be named an EAGLE delegate, students must be nominated by a teacher and selected by their College to serve as the institution’s representative. Selection criteria include student character, attitude, attendance, leadership and community involvement and activities.
Alyssa Gailey was nominated to serve as an EAGLE delegate by Adult Education Instructor Senecca Underwood; Adult Education Instructional Lead and Southeastern Technical College EAGLE Coordinator Allison Barr helped to solidify the selection.
“Adult education serves as a catalyst for social and economic mobility by equipping individuals with the skills and credentials necessary for meaningful participation in the workforce and higher education. The impact of adult education extends far beyond the classroom—it strengthens families, communities, and the broader economy,” Underwood emphasized. “It has been a privilege to witness Mrs. Gailey's growth—not only academically, but in confidence, self-efficacy, and purpose. She inspires others through her strong work ethic, positive attitude, and willingness to support her peers in the learning process.”
Galley earned her General Education Development (GED) degree in July 2025, and is currently a President’s List student within the college’s business management program, as she is working to become a certified addiction recovery specialist.
“Obtaining my GED enabled me to pursue this goal,” remarked Gailey. “I currently work at a nonprofit organization, where I continue to grow professionally while giving back to the community.”
The EAGLE Award was the first statewide program in the nation to recognize and reward excellence among students enrolled in adult education. Since its inception in 1993, the program has recognized more than 1,600 outstanding students. In 2021, the Technical College System of Georgia State Board renamed the award the Dinah Culbreath Wayne EAGLE Award in memory of longtime adult education supporter and state board member Dinah Culbreath Wayne.
Adult Education Teacher of the Year Senecca Underwood has been named STC’s 2026 Adult Education Teacher of the Year.
Underwood began teaching at the college fullcontinued from page
time four years ago, after having served two years as an adjunct instructor in the adult education department. She teaches all High School Equivalency (HSE) subjects and English as a Second Language (ESL). She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Multidisciplinary Studies with minors in ESL and Bilingual Education, as well as a Master of Teacher Education. Fluent in Spanish, Underwood plays a vital role in expanding access to education for non-English- speaking individuals throughout the College’s service area.
“Adult education plays a critical role in advancing workforce readiness, educational equity, and lifelong learning across our communities,” Underwood commented. “Supporting adult learners is both a professional responsibility and a profound privilege. Education is not defined by one’s starting point, but by one’s willingness to persist, adapt, and grow. I am honored to have been selected as the Adult Education Teacher of the Year. It’s an honor to be recognized for the positive impact that High School Equivalency (HSE) makes in the lives of students.”
Southeastern Technical College Adult Education Executive Director Susan Cross spoke on Underwood and Gailey’s accomplishments. “Our Adult Education Teacher of the Year and EAGLE student represent the very heart of Adult Education. Ms. Underwood’s dedication, compassion, and belief in every learner create pathways to success, while our EAGLE recipient, Alyssa Gailey, reminds us that perseverance, courage, and a commitment to growth can change the course of a life. Together, they reflect what is possible when dedicated educators and determined students come together to pursue opportunity, purpose, and lifelong learning,” she emphasized.
For more information about Adult Education at Southeastern Technical College, visit the college’s website or call (912) 5383100 or (478) 289-2200. With multiple ways to obtain a High School Equivalency, students may enroll in an Adult Education program at any time.
