Victoria “Ida” Nelson has been selected as the 2020 Savannah Technical College Exceptional Adult Georgian in Literacy Education (EAGLE) recipient.

“Ida is an inspiration to other students,” said STC’s Adult Education Instructor Allison Correll. “She strives to do her best and encourages others to always focus on the big picture.”

Nelson earned her GED in October 2019 and is now enrolled in the Emergency Medical Services diploma program at the College. Her goal is to become a coroner. Currently, she works in the food and beverage industry.

She was able to enroll in the EMS program while preparing for the GED tests through Fast Forward. This program allows students to begin career training prior to earning their high school equivalency certification.

Nelson will represent the College at the EAGLE Leadership Institute March 9-11, 2020, in Atlanta, Ga. The EAGLE Institute recognizes and honors those students who have demonstrated superior achievement in adult education classes. Selection criteria include student character, attitude, attendance, leadership and community involvement and activities. From this group, one student is selected to represent the local program at the state EAGLE Leadership Institute. The Institute provides workshops in leadership topics to build on the strong leadership characteristics the student already exhibits.

EAGLE is the first statewide program in the nation that recognizes and rewards excellence among students enrolled in adult education programs. This student recognition program is designed to create greater awareness of educational opportunities available in local communities across the state and to foster greater involvement in lifelong learning pursuits.

Every EAGLE delegate is considered an ambassador and spokesperson for literacy serving local communities and the state by promoting lifelong learning. Since its inception in 1993, the EAGLE Award program has recognized more than 1,600 outstanding students across the state. In additional to serving as volunteer role models for family members, friends, neighbors and co-workers, EAGLE delegates serve as mentors, peer tutors, and recruiters of other students into local adult education programs. The Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) through its Office of Adult Education sponsors the annual EAGLE Leadership Institute.