Smith, a resident of Lawrenceville, was recently named Gwinnett Technical College’s Georgia Occupational Award (GOAL) of Leadership winner. The Registered Nursing student was one of 60 students nominated for the honor at Gwinnett Tech this year.
Smith, a working mom and student at Gwinnett Technical College has dreamed of becoming a nurse since she was a little girl. Ultimately Atlanta traffic is what led her to Gwinnett Tech, “I was commuting to work and sitting in traffic every day. I would sit on 316 in the middle of the morning and again during the evening rush and would see Gwinnett Tech. Seeing the school every day was a constant reminder to get into school and start my career path of becoming a registered nurse. One day I was sitting in traffic and decided to exit 316 at the Sugarloaf Parkway and get the ball rolling to my future.”
“Words cannot express my gratitude to the tremendous talent within the professors and staff at Gwinnett Technical College. I am so thankful that everyone I have encountered at school has unequivocally understood the needs of both traditional and non-traditional students. Gwinnett Tech has allowed me to fulfill a dream in an amazing field. I am proud to represent Gwinnett Tech in the 2022 GOAL competition and even more proud to represent technical education overall,” stated Smith. Smith’s life goal is to open a clinic in underserved communities.
Nominated by Dr. Margaret Long, Dean of General Education, Long states, “Letisha’s experience at Gwinnett Tech has been nothing short of exceptional. Her drive to succeed in her coursework was evident as she constantly strived to improve with every assigned task. What was unique about Letisha was that she quickly became a peer leader and role model to the other students, leading discussions and engaging everyone in the real-world application of the course material.”
The GOAL program is sponsored at the state level by the Technical College System of Georgia to recognize technical education’s importance. Students are nominated annually by their instructors. As the local winner, Smith will represent Gwinnett Technical College in the spring’s regional and statewide competitions. In addition, the state’s GOAL winner will serve as the student ambassador for technical education in Georgia.
Gwinnett Technical College offers more than 140-degrees, diplomas, and certificates that can be completed in two years or less. For more information, visit www.GwinnettTech.edu or call 770-962-7580.
