Savannah Technical College (Savannah Tech), the leading provider of career-ready technical education and workforce development in Coastal Georgia, has named Dr. Jessica Horne, DBA, as its 2025 Alumni of the Year. Dr. Horne is being honored for her exceptional career in higher education. Her work reflects a deep commitment to student success across the Technical College System of Georgia and the University System of Georgia. She currently serves as a Business Technology instructor at Southeastern Technical College in Vidalia, Ga. 

A 2014 graduate of Savannah Tech, Dr. Horne earned her Associate of Applied Science in Business Administrative Technologies. Her experience at the college began a decade-long professional journey defined by academic achievement, leadership, and service. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Business Administration from Columbia College in 2017, followed by a Master of Business Administration in 2019 and a Doctorate of Business Administration in 2022, both from South University.  

Each year, the Technical College System of Georgia’s 22 colleges and the TCSG Foundation recognize distinguished alumni who exemplify the mission of Georgia’s technical colleges: providing innovative education and workforce training that drives economic growth and opportunity across the state.  

“I am grateful for the legacy Jessica continues to build at Savannah Technical College. Her story is a powerful example of how our alumni lift others, create opportunity, and show our current students what is possible,” said Dr. Ryan W. Foley, President of Savannah Technical College.  

Dr. Horne began her higher education career at Savannah Tech, serving in the college’s Adult Education department. She went on to hold roles at Savannah State University and Georgia Southern University, where she supported students, faculty, and institutional operations through positions including database administration, research services, and budget management.  

In 2023, Dr. Horne joined Southeastern Technical College as a Business Technology and Business Healthcare Technology instructor. While there, she founded The Pantry at STC, an initiative created to address food insecurity and provide essential resources for students facing hardship.  

“I’m humbled to have earned this recognition. It means so much to me because Savannah Tech played an important role in shaping the foundation of my education and career. I’ve been blessed to work across multiple institutions serving students, supporting academic growth, and giving back to my community. I am deeply grateful for my family and my close friends who have supported me every step of the way. Education is not only my career. It is a passion and a purpose that motivates me daily,” said Dr. Horne. 

Dr. Horne also remains actively engaged in professional and community service, including advisory committee work supporting business and technology programs and leadership roles with the Georgia Association of Women in Higher Education.