Georgia Southwestern State University will hold its Spring 2017 Commencement ceremony Thursday, May 4 at 3 p.m. in Convocation Hall of the Student Success Center. The commencement speaker will be South Georgia Technical College President John Watford.
 
After serving as an applications engineer for Cooper Lighting, Watford began his career in technical education, which includes 27 years at South Georgia Tech. He first served as an instructor before moving into administration. In April 2016, Watford became the president of South Georgia Technical College.
 
A GSW alumnus, Watford holds a B.S. in mathematics and an M.S. in administration. Watford received his specialist’s degree in education from Columbus State University and his doctorate in education from the University of Georgia. He is a graduate of the Executive Leadership Academy of the Technical College System of Georgia, a member of the Association for Career and Technical Education, the Society for Excellence in Business and Industry, the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, and a former co-chair of Leadership Sumter for the Sumter County Chamber of Commerce.
 
Faculty Senate President and Associate Professor of Mathematics Chadwick Gugg, Ph.D., will serve as the Macebearer during commencement. Professor of Nursing Bonnie Simmons, Ph.D., will be the Grand Marshal.
 
Over 256 students are expected to graduate. Limited seating will be available. Guests are encouraged to arrive early.