Last Thursday evening in Nashville, the Tennessee Board of Regents conducted its Seventh Annual SOAR Awards, a ceremony recognizing the state's community and technical colleges' most exceptional students, faculty, staff, and patrons. According to a release by the Tennessee Board of Regents, Dyersburg State Community College achieved the Community College of the Year, while Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) Nashville was awarded Technical College of the Year.
Honored by TBR Chancellor Flora W. Tydings, Dyersburg State's President Dr. Scott Cook, and TCAT Nashville's President Nathan Garrett accepted their respective College of the Year trophies, crediting their victory to the concerted dedication of faculty and staff. Running in conjunction with college and regional evaluations that spotlighted 18 finalists across various categories, winners were announced during an evening that celebrated education and service.
Student of the Year accolades went to Carolina Kelly from Volunteer State Community College for the community college sector and McKinley Snow from TCAT Nashville for the technical college sector. Dr. Caroline Rogers from Chattanooga State Community College and Andrew Aydelott from TCAT Harriman emerged as Faculty Members of the Year. Staff recognition was bestowed upon Dr. Nicole Cardwell-Hampton from Walters State Community College and Camilla Gambrel from TCAT Jacksboro. "Our students are at the heart of everything we do," Board of Regents Vice Chair Emily J. Reynolds stated, as they prepared to transfer to four-year institutions or step directly into a career, they were aware of the hands-on, quality education they've received.
The SOAR Student Virtual Art Gallery awarded its top three honors to artworks ranging from drawing to ceramics, while the evening also recognized important contributors to the College System of Tennessee with awards like the Volunteer Award for Dan Caldwell, Nissan's Senior Regional Workforce Development Lead. Cummins Inc. received the Philanthropy Award for its significant support to students in diesel technology programs. A notable local collaboration was highlighted as the Tennessee Road Builders Association and TCAT Knoxville won the Partnership Award, designed to strengthen workforce development and expand opportunities for students.
The occasion offered more than just award presentations, featuring performances from the Vol State Community College Faculty Band and highlighting educational excellence across the state. With Governor Bill Lee extending congratulations through a video appearance, the celebration underscored the commitment and achievements of Tennessee's educational community. The release noted other events like a Student Honors Luncheon and meetings with legislators at the State Capitol as part of the two-day SOAR extravaganza.
Backed by an array of sponsors, from Ayers Foundation Trust to First Horizon, the SOAR Awards stood as a testament to the partnerships and community engagement driving Tennessee's higher educational institutions. As seen on the screens during the event, Chancellor Tydings took a moment to honor military veterans and active-duty personnel, affirming a sense of gratitude and recognition that extended beyond the bounds of academia.
