VSU Alumni Association Names 2026 Alumni Award Recipients

VALDOSTA, Ga. -- The Valdosta State University Alumni Association is proud to announce the recipients of its 2026 Distinguished Alumni Awards and Graduate of the Last Decade (GOLD) Award, recognizing alumni who have achieved exceptional success in their professions and made meaningful contributions to their communities.

The Distinguished Alumni Award honors one graduate from each of VSU’s six colleges. Selected by the Valdosta State Alumni Association Board of Directors, these individuals exemplify excellence, leadership, and service while reflecting the values and impact of a Valdosta State education.

The 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award recipients are:

• Graduate of the Last Decade (GOLD) - Dr. Kory Burns
• College of the Arts - Brittany Sjogren
• Langdale College of Business Administration - Ryan Warren
• Dewar College of Education and Human Services - Dr. Jermaine Whirl
• College of Humanities and Social Sciences - Aurielle Brooks
• College of Mathematics and Science - Dr. George “Sid” Staton
• College of Nursing and Health Sciences - Christopher Boyd

Recipients are selected through a nomination process open to VSU faculty, staff, administrators, alumni, and community members, with final selections made by a vote of the Valdosta State Alumni Association Board of Directors.

The 2026 Distinguished Alumni Awards Dinner will be held on Friday, Oct. 23, 2026. Additional event details will be announced at a later date.

The Valdosta State University Alumni Association congratulates these outstanding alumni and looks forward to celebrating their accomplishments this fall.