CLARKESVILLE, Ga. — North Georgia Technical College has selected four students as finalists for the 2026 Georgia Occupational Award of Leadership, an annual honor recognizing academic excellence and leadership among technical college students across the state.
The finalists are Amber Adams, a Practical Nursing student from Commerce; Julie Amara, a Practical Nursing student from Blairsville; Ryan Anderson, a Business Technology student from Cleveland; and Melissa Klopschinski, a Registered Nursing student from Blairsville. Each was nominated by an instructor in their respective program.
The four students will compete Jan. 15 before a panel of business, civic and industry leaders, who will choose NGTC’s 2026 GOAL winner. The winner will advance to regional and state competitions representing the college.
Other nominees for this year’s award include Felicia Cantrell of Cleveland; Marie Culver of Carnesville; John Dalton of Blairsville; Kenneth Jinks of Alto; Cecil Mullan of Athens; Lauren Taylor of Alto; Nathan Thompson of Alpharetta; and Joan Vanderzouwen of McCaysville.
“On behalf of North Georgia Technical College, we congratulate these outstanding GOAL nominees for their hard work and dedication to pursuing excellence in their chosen fields,” said Madison Hopkins, NGTC’s GOAL coordinator. “Each nominee did a tremendous job stepping out of their comfort zone and sharing their personal story and perspectives on the importance of technical education. We look forward to naming our college winner in January.”
More information about NGTC programs and admissions is available at northgatech.edu or by calling 706-754-7700.
