Leaders of today
College student, alumni, and donors help pave the way for others to succeed in their communities
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
Helping students grow
Olante Douglas (B.S.Ed. ’24) did not always plan on becoming a teacher. But after gaining classroom experience as a substitute teacher and tutor, it became his passion.
“I started college with a major in cybersecurity, and after my experiences substituting and tutoring, I received a calling to teach, and from there on, there has been no turning back,” Douglas says. “As a matter of fact, I have been inspired to do more, and my aim is to continue advocating for education for all.”
- Hometown: Spent formative years in Jamaica, then relocated to Buford, Georgia, to finish high school
- Degree objective: B.S.Ed. ’24 in elementary education
- Expected graduation: Fall 2024
What made you choose to attend UGA?
I chose to attend the University of Georgia because of its renowned reputation for cultivating a challenging academic environment that encourages personal growth and academic expansion, which all align with my own personal aspirations. UGA provides a sense of community within the University and the Mary Frances Early College of Education. Additionally, attending UGA allowed me to remain close to family members who also live in Georgia.
What have been your favorite classes in the Mary Frances Early College of Education?
This is a difficult question to label a class as my favorite, as I have enjoyed all my classes and all my professors in the College. I, however, feel like one class made a more significant impact on my educational journey—EDEL 4015: Integrated Creative Arts in Elementary Education with College doctoral student Elizabeth Spaulding (B.S.Ed. ’05, M.Ed. ’15, Ph.D. ’25). Spaulding was able to build a bridge between the importance of creative arts in the classroom and how to effectively implement different pedagogies in our classroom using different forms of creative arts. She was able to cement the importance of cultivating creative minds and incorporating play in the classroom. However, I have been enjoying all my classes in the College, and all the professors have made a positive impact on my life by challenging my academic thinking.
How have your tutoring and substitute teaching experiences prepared you to become a teacher?
My substitute teaching and summer tutoring experiences have definitely helped prepare me to be a more effective educator. Being a substitute is very different than leading a class as the main teacher or as a student teacher—you're walking into a classroom, and you have no idea what to expect. This experience allowed me to learn and use different classroom management strategies, work with a diverse range of students, and, most importantly, build relationships in the school community. As a summer tutor, I can work under great teacher mentors as I learn and implement different educational pedagogies.
You were recently interviewed by 11Alive about becoming a teacher despite challenges in the field. Why are you passionate about becoming an educator, and why at the elementary level specifically?
Despite the challenges, I remain passionate about my journey to become an educator. Elementary education is one of the most important levels of education for childhood development, and being an educator allows me to inspire the future generation, creating a lasting positive impact on students. Growing up, I was never a huge fan of school, and it was not until I had an amazing fourth-grade teacher that my interest in school sparked. I want to provide this same feeling for my future students. I want to inspire growth in my future students and create a classroom that provides enjoyment of learning. I am a profound advocate for education in society, as Nelson Mandela said, “Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.”
What are your plans following graduation?
I plan on completing the master’s portion of my Double Dawgs program and then teaching in metro Atlanta.
Every year, dozens of hardworking students receive scholarships and need-based aid from the Mary Frances Early College of Education to help remove financial barriers that make it difficult for them to focus on achieving their academic dreams.
Please consider contributing to the College of Education General Scholarship Fund or the Abigail Reddic Student Teaching Emergency Fund with a gift of any size to ensure our students achieve their goals no matter their background or financial standing.
For more information, contact Molly Thomas, senior director of development and alumni relations, at 706-542-2893 or molly2@uga.edu.
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHTS
Meet our community leaders
Seven alumni of the Mary Frances Early College of Education were recently named to the University of Georgia’s 40 Under 40 Class of 2023. The program celebrates the personal, professional, and philanthropic achievements of UGA graduates who are under the age of 40.
This year, the College’s honorees are Tiffany Barney (B.S.Ed. ’09, M.S. ’10, M.A.T. ’15, M.Ed. ’18, Ph.D. ’17), Collier Collier (A.B. ’10, B.S.Ed. ’10), Ray Fulcher (B.S.Ed. ’08, M.Ed. ’10), Lawrence Harris (B.S. ’12, Ph.D. ’21), R. Allen Ligon Jr. (B.S.Ed. ’08), Delishia Pittman (Ph.D. ’12), and Fernando Velasco (B.S.Ed. ’08).
All honorees exemplify leadership in their industries and communities and uphold the Pillars of the Arch, which are wisdom, justice, and moderation. The Class of 2023 will be recognized during the 13th annual 40 Under 40 Awards Luncheon on campus this fall.
Barney, who serves as director of the Cobb Innovation and Technology Academy in the Cobb County School District, has seven degrees in total with five of them from UGA’s Mary Frances Early College of Education.
Her degrees range from kinesiology and workforce education to mathematics education and exercise and sport science. After working as an athletic trainer for several years, Barney transitioned into education to combine her love for sports medicine with her passion for education. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and participates in a host of community service initiatives.
“As an educator, you always wonder if you are doing enough,” says Barney. “Am I doing enough for the teachers that I serve? Am I doing enough for the students that we are entrusted to support? Am I doing enough to truly make a difference? Being named one of UGA’s 40 Under 40 was validation. It was a moment in time where I stopped questioning the impact that I have had. It reminded me that I am truly making a difference. I am humbled and grateful to be a part of this class.”
Collier received her bachelor’s degree in social studies education and is the director of state board operations for the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG). Prior to joining TCSG, she served as director of operations and constituent services in the Office of Governor Nathan Deal. During this time, she also worked as Deal’s education policy advisor and policy and legislative affairs coordinator.
“Being a member of UGA 40 Under 40 is a huge honor,” says Collier. “When you love what you do, it doesn’t seem like work. Staying involved with UGA through the Young Alumni Leadership Council has been so rewarding, and I would encourage everyone to stay involved and give back to the best university in the world.”
Fulcher, who received both his bachelor’s degree in social science education and master’s degree in recreation and leisure studies from the Mary Frances Early College of Education, is an award-winning artist and songwriter based out of Nashville, Tennessee. After graduating from UGA, he pursued his dream of country music and eventually signed a writing deal with Riverhouse Artists in 2016. Since then, Fulcher has written five number one songs on the country music airplay chart and has signed with Universal Music Publishing Group Nashville and Black River Records.
In partnership with the Music Health Alliance, Fulcher established the Pretty Good Ball fund, which helps musicians obtain access to mental health services, including counseling, therapy, and screenings. Additionally, he plays at charity events throughout the year to help raise money for nonprofit organizations.
Harris, who received his master’s degree in educational administration and policy, is the chief impact officer of KIPP Metro Atlanta Public Schools. He started his career in education as a college counselor before becoming the chief executive officer of the Athens Community Career Academy in 2015. In 2019, he was promoted to assistant superintendent with the official title chief of community engagement and strategic partnerships.
“For me, being named to UGA’s 40 Under 40 symbolizes the power of determination and the importance of having a strong and supportive circle,” says Harris. “It's a testament to my unwavering commitment, resilience, and passion for making a difference in our community. This accolade emboldens me to keep pushing beyond boundaries, embrace challenges, and believe in the possibilities ahead. I'm inspired to continue to strive for excellence, uplift others, and leave a lasting impact on our youth and the world.”
Ligon Jr. is a pediatric and adult congenital interventional cardiologist at Children’s Heathcare of Atlanta Cardiology. After receiving his bachelor’s degree in exercise and sport science, Ligon Jr. attended medical school and completed sub-specialty fellowships in pediatric cardiology, congenital interventional cardiology, and adult congenital heart disease.
"I am incredibly humbled by this honor,” says Ligon Jr. “I am blessed to have numerous people who have supported and mentored me in every step of my personal and professional life. I'll always be so proud of being a Dawg and grateful for spending four very formative years of my life in Athens. There is no doubt that it made a massive impact on where I am today."
Pittman received her doctoral degree in counseling psychology from the College and currently serves as an associate professor at The George Washington University in Washington, D.C. During her decade-long academic career, she helped shape the future of mental health service delivery by increasing the number of clinicians equipped to provide culturally sensitive and responsive care to members of global communities.
“The University of Georgia holds a very special place in my heart,” says Pittman. “But more than that, UGA was in many ways a launching place for much of the professional success I’ve enjoyed over the past 10 years, and to have my work honored in this way is humbling. To be joining the ranks of such a distinguished and accomplished group will certainly be a personal and professional highlight for many years to come.”
Velasco received his bachelor’s degree in health and physical education from the College and is currently the director of player engagement for the Atlanta Falcons. During his time at UGA, he was a member of the football team and, after graduation, played professional football for several teams, including the Tennessee Titans, the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Carolina Panthers, and the Buffalo Bills.
“Being selected for UGA’s 40 Under 40 is an immense honor that leaves me both humbled and grateful,” says Velasco. “This recognition represents the culmination of my growth and development at UGA, which has shaped me holistically. I am thankful for the invaluable experiences and education provided by this esteemed institution, as they have played a pivotal role in preparing me for success in my career and personal life.”
Barney, who serves as director of the Cobb Innovation and Technology Academy in the Cobb County School District, has seven degrees in total with five of them from UGA’s Mary Frances Early College of Education.
Her degrees range from kinesiology and workforce education to mathematics education and exercise and sport science. After working as an athletic trainer for several years, Barney transitioned into education to combine her love for sports medicine with her passion for education. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and participates in a host of community service initiatives.
“As an educator, you always wonder if you are doing enough,” says Barney. “Am I doing enough for the teachers that I serve? Am I doing enough for the students that we are entrusted to support? Am I doing enough to truly make a difference? Being named one of UGA’s 40 Under 40 was validation. It was a moment in time where I stopped questioning the impact that I have had. It reminded me that I am truly making a difference. I am humbled and grateful to be a part of this class.”
Collier received her bachelor’s degree in social studies education and is the director of state board operations for the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG). Prior to joining TCSG, she served as director of operations and constituent services in the Office of Governor Nathan Deal. During this time, she also worked as Deal’s education policy advisor and policy and legislative affairs coordinator.
“Being a member of UGA 40 Under 40 is a huge honor,” says Collier. “When you love what you do, it doesn’t seem like work. Staying involved with UGA through the Young Alumni Leadership Council has been so rewarding, and I would encourage everyone to stay involved and give back to the best university in the world.”
Fulcher, who received both his bachelor’s degree in social science education and master’s degree in recreation and leisure studies from the Mary Frances Early College of Education, is an award-winning artist and songwriter based out of Nashville, Tennessee. After graduating from UGA, he pursued his dream of country music and eventually signed a writing deal with Riverhouse Artists in 2016. Since then, Fulcher has written five number one songs on the country music airplay chart and has signed with Universal Music Publishing Group Nashville and Black River Records.
In partnership with the Music Health Alliance, Fulcher established the Pretty Good Ball fund, which helps musicians obtain access to mental health services, including counseling, therapy, and screenings. Additionally, he plays at charity events throughout the year to help raise money for nonprofit organizations.
Harris, who received his master’s degree in educational administration and policy, is the chief impact officer of KIPP Metro Atlanta Public Schools. He started his career in education as a college counselor before becoming the chief executive officer of the Athens Community Career Academy in 2015. In 2019, he was promoted to assistant superintendent with the official title chief of community engagement and strategic partnerships.
“For me, being named to UGA’s 40 Under 40 symbolizes the power of determination and the importance of having a strong and supportive circle,” says Harris. “It's a testament to my unwavering commitment, resilience, and passion for making a difference in our community. This accolade emboldens me to keep pushing beyond boundaries, embrace challenges, and believe in the possibilities ahead. I'm inspired to continue to strive for excellence, uplift others, and leave a lasting impact on our youth and the world.”
Ligon Jr. is a pediatric and adult congenital interventional cardiologist at Children’s Heathcare of Atlanta Cardiology. After receiving his bachelor’s degree in exercise and sport science, Ligon Jr. attended medical school and completed sub-specialty fellowships in pediatric cardiology, congenital interventional cardiology, and adult congenital heart disease.
"I am incredibly humbled by this honor,” says Ligon Jr. “I am blessed to have numerous people who have supported and mentored me in every step of my personal and professional life. I'll always be so proud of being a Dawg and grateful for spending four very formative years of my life in Athens. There is no doubt that it made a massive impact on where I am today."
Pittman received her doctoral degree in counseling psychology from the College and currently serves as an associate professor at The George Washington University in Washington, D.C. During her decade-long academic career, she helped shape the future of mental health service delivery by increasing the number of clinicians equipped to provide culturally sensitive and responsive care to members of global communities.
“The University of Georgia holds a very special place in my heart,” says Pittman. “But more than that, UGA was in many ways a launching place for much of the professional success I’ve enjoyed over the past 10 years, and to have my work honored in this way is humbling. To be joining the ranks of such a distinguished and accomplished group will certainly be a personal and professional highlight for many years to come.”
Velasco received his bachelor’s degree in health and physical education from the College and is currently the director of player engagement for the Atlanta Falcons. During his time at UGA, he was a member of the football team and, after graduation, played professional football for several teams, including the Tennessee Titans, the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Carolina Panthers, and the Buffalo Bills.
“Being selected for UGA’s 40 Under 40 is an immense honor that leaves me both humbled and grateful,” says Velasco. “This recognition represents the culmination of my growth and development at UGA, which has shaped me holistically. I am thankful for the invaluable experiences and education provided by this esteemed institution, as they have played a pivotal role in preparing me for success in my career and personal life.”
The Mary Frances Early College of Education will host our annual Homecoming Tailgate before the UGA vs. Missouri game on Saturday, Nov. 4. Join us three hours before kickoff for Saucehouse Barbecue, fellowship, and fun!
Nominate outstanding alumni for
College’s 2024 Distinguished
Alumni Awards
Each spring, the Mary Frances Early College of Education presents Distinguished Alumni Awards to those who have exemplified excellence through professional
accomplishments, contributions, and service.
We encourage UGA alumni, faculty, staff, students, and friends to nominate undergraduate and graduate alumni in different stages of their careers.
Please visit our website for category descriptions and instructions on how to nominate outstanding alumni. Nominations are open from
September 1-October 31 at 11:59 p.m.
Please contact Molly Thomas, senior director of
development and alumni relations, at
coedar@uga.edu or 706-542-2893
for more information.
Nominate outstanding
alumni for College’s 2024
Distinguished Alumni Awards
Each spring, the Mary Frances Early College of Education presents Distinguished Alumni Awards to those who have exemplified excellence through professional accomplishments, contributions, and service.
We encourage UGA alumni, faculty, staff, students, and friends to nominate undergraduate and graduate alumni in different stages of their careers.
Please visit our website for category descriptions and instructions on how to nominate outstanding alumni. Nominations are open from September 1-October 31 at 11:59 p.m.
Please contact Molly Thomas, senior director of
development and alumni relations, at coedar@uga.eu or 706-542-2893 for more information.
DONOR SPOTLGHT
‘She was passionate about giving
back to others’
After graduating from Kennesaw State University, Kelli McGrail began working on her master’s degree in social studies education with the goal of teaching high school government and coaching softball. A former softball player herself, she received a bachelor’s degree in political science and was passionate about her faith and helping others.
After her sudden passing from a brain aneurysm on September 1, 2021, her parents, Patrick and Sandy McGrail, established the Kelli McGrail Memorial Award in her honor.
“It’s our hope and dream to continue this for as long as possible, forever, because that’s what our daughter would have wanted,” says Sandy McGrail. “She was passionate about giving back to others.”
Awarded in the fall and spring, the fund provides awards to students pursuing a Master of Arts in Teaching degree in the Mary Frances Early College of Education’s Department of Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies Education.
“Education is really important,” Sandy McGrail says. “It was important to Kelli, and therefore we’re trying to carry out her legacy by giving back just like she would have done.”
—Anika Chaturvedi
If you are looking for a way to help our students succeed, please consider making a gift to the College’s Student School Supply Closet. This outreach initiative provides donated school supplies to UGA students in need of financial assistance with school-related items, such as pens, pencils, highlighters, paper, binders, flash drives, etc., so they can succeed on campus.
Donating is simple and doesn’t require going to a physical store—you can shop online and have donations delivered directly to the Student School Supply Closet by viewing the initiative’s Amazon wishlist. You can also support the closet by donating via the button below.
If you are looking for a way to help our students succeed, please consider making a gift to the College’s Student School Supply Closet. This outreach initiative provides donated school supplies to UGA students in need of financial assistance with school-related items, such as pens, pencils, highlighters, paper, binders, flash drives, etc., so they can succeed on campus.
Donating is simple and doesn’t require going to a physical store—you can shop online and have donations delivered directly to the Student School Supply Closet by viewing the initiative’s Amazon wishlist. You can also support the closet by donating via the button below.
UGA Heritage Society
The UGA Heritage Society was established by the UGA Foundation Board of Trustees in 1995 to recognize the generosity of alumni and friends of the university who have documented a deferred gift to benefit UGA, including the Mary Frances Early College of Education.
Heritage Society membership is a superb avenue through which to support UGA students and faculty in perpetuity. Individuals are automatically welcomed into membership once they have documented a commitment through any of the following gift vehicles:
- Bequest;
- Retirement plan beneficiary designation;
- Life insurance beneficiary designation;
- Irrevocable life insurance gift;
- Charitable gift annuity;
- Pooled income fund;
- Charitable remainder unitrust;
- Charitable lead trust; or
- Life estate reserved (real property)
For more information on how to join the UGA Heritage Society by making a planned gift to the College, please contact Molly Thomas, senior director of development and alumni relations, at molly2@uga.edu or 706-542-2893.
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