The Emmanuel Agriculture Department’s graduating class was celebrated, and local farm families were honored on Tuesday, April 16 in the John W. Swails Center at the 8th Annual Founding Farmer’s Gala.
The event served as a thank you to the members of the Northeast Georgia community who have been instrumental in the early success of the agriculture program.
Event sponsors included Emmanuel University, Pinnacle Bank, Old Corner Hardware Store, and Bar-H BBQ.
Emmanuel President, Greg Hearn presented King Farms with the Excellence in Agriculture Award. King Farms is a multi-generation farm that has been at its current location in the Shoal Creek community since 1910.
Agriculture Program Chair, Owen Thomason, Professor, Wayne Randall, Emmanuel Clay Target Coach, John Shealy, and Adjunct Agricultural Instructor, Dr. Wanda Thompson then recognized the 2024 graduates from the program. Graduates include –
Easton Lindus
Emily Hanson
Ashlyn Liner
Jonathan Manibusan
Preston Dyer
Reagan Britt
Emily Hanson was presented with the Outstanding Agriculture Student award. This award recognizes a student who has shown leadership, personal growth, and dedication to the Agriculture Department.
Wyatt Chandler, Madison Nimmons, and John Calloway received the Dr. Leslie Hart Fordham Scholarship. The endowed scholarship began in the fall of 2022 after the passing of Dr. Fordham. She made a huge impact on the students and university during her teaching career. Her husband, Randy Fordham presented the scholarship.
At the event, a silent and live auction took place to raise money for the scholarship fund and provide more opportunities for students to study agriculture at Emmanuel. Many local businesses and craftsmen donated items to the event. The program appreciates the continued support of local businesses.
“The Emmanuel Agriculture Department appreciates the fantastic support our community gives to our students and this event,” said Department Chair, Owen Thomason. “Our local producers willingly open up their farms and agribusinesses for labs, internships and student learning on a regular basis. The silent and live auction donors and supporters continue to amaze us as the numerous items and that were of high quality. Most importantly, those who attend and become cheerleaders for our seniors is heartwarming. The quality of our graduates continues to get better each year. This year’s class were exceptional in the classroom and laboratory. A big thank you to all for supporting Emmanuel Agriculture!”
2023 Agriculture Graduate, Zoe Walraven spoke at the event, sharing about her time in the Agriculture Department.
“This place holds so many great memories and has brought so many wonderful people into my life,” she said. “I’m thankful for my time in the Emmanuel Agriculture Department for helping me grow my passion and knowledge of the agriculture industry.” The Middle School Agriculture teacher then shared a message with the graduating seniors.
“Do all of the things you said you were going to do since you got here,” she said. “I know the next few weeks will be busy, but don’t let them pass you by. Live in the moment and do something that will bring you joy each and every day.”
