CARROLLTON, GA – West Georgia Technical College (WGTC) admissions counselor Vickie Smith is set to retire at the end of December after 38 years of working in student affairs.
After enrolling in classes in what was then Carroll Technical Institute, Smith began working in the Financial Aid, Registrar and Admissions office beginning in September 1985.
During Smith’s tenure, she has seen WGTC’s growth firsthand. Since 1985, the College has opened four new campuses, undergone several name changes, and has added over 100 innovative programs and degrees to its curriculum.
WGTC Admissions Director Lori Basham, who has worked alongside Smith since 1997, said she has always been impressed with Smith’s ability to remember each student that she has helped over the years.
“At a recent graduation, a student asked me if I worked for WGTC in 1999,” said Basham. “I said yes, but I didn’t remember her, however Vickie immediately did and knew small things about her. That is what is so special about Vickie; she really cares and is so dedicated to WGTC.”
Aside from her ability to connect with students, Smith was regarded as the go-to person for any question about student affairs or WGTC. Smith’s colleagues said they could always rely on her to know the answer.
“She remembers significant changes or occurrences that happened years ago and can help those who have not been here as long,” said Basham. “She knows the history of why something is like it is.”
At the College’s recent professional development day, Smith was honored by WGTC President, Dr. Julie Post with a Dedication Award for providing exceptional service to her role, department, and college.
“Vickie has dedicated her entire career, 38 years, to West Georgia Technical College,” said Post. “Her commitment and profound impact have significantly shaped WGTC through her undeniable passion and expertise.”
The Dedication Award is one of five president’s awards given each year. Winners are chosen by Dr. Post from a pool of nominations by faculty and staff. This year, Smith received more nominations than anyone else – a true testament to the mark she’s leaving on her colleagues.
“I’ve met so many different people while working here that helped me along the way that I will miss,” said Smith. “I never applied for any other job during the past 38 years. I never wanted to work anywhere else.”
West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson, and Troup counties and class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers more than 120 associate degree, diploma, and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is one of the largest of the state’s 22 technical colleges. For more information, please visit www.westgatech.edu.
