Valdosta, GA—Brenda Hooper of Lowndes County was named the Wiregrass Georgia Technical College 2024 Dinah Culbreath Wayne Exceptional Adult Georgian in Literacy Education (EAGLE) Student of the Year last fall. In January the college learned that Brenda had been named as a Regional finalist. In March the Technical College System of Georgia hosted the 30th 2024 Dinah Culbreath Wayne State EAGLE and Adult Education Teacher of the Year Week in Atlanta where Brenda was named State Runner-Up.
Brenda had this to say about her journey, “Quitting is not an option for me because it will never be my reality ever again! My journey through the GED® process and even up to my current status in college. Over the years I have had to battle with inadequacies and failures that made me feel that I was never good enough for anything. Because of this conditioned ideology, it became my safe space; "If it doesn't work out you can always quit." My message is that my missed season has now become my blessed season. God is faithful and just and He will create you your very own personal blessed season. God is not just the creator of heaven and earth but He is the creator of anything and everything you need!”
As state runner-up, she received a $1,000 check, an iPad, and a bag of college swag from the technical colleges in Georgia. Since completing her GED® Brenda has enrolled full-time with Wiregrass Tech and is working toward her Associate's Degree in Applied Science with a concentration in Education. She is scheduled to graduate in 2025 and will look at continuing her education to become an elementary educator.
“Wiregrass is so excited for Brenda and can’t wait to see what she conquers next,” shared President DeAnnia Clements. “We watched her accomplish so much since being here at Wiregrass and know she will excel in whatever she puts her mind to.”
The EAGLE Award program is a vital component of the Certified Literate Community Program of Georgia, an umbrella organization that brings all sectors of a community together with literacy providers to map out the best use of resources already available. It also seeks to acquire the additional resources necessary to meet local literacy needs.
Adult Education Instructor Darrell Hill nominated Brenda Hooper. The Adult Education program at Wiregrass is currently accepting new students. The program’s basic skills classes are free and available at sites throughout the college’s eleven-county service area. To learn more email adulteducationservices@wiregrass.edu.
