Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College recognized its Students of Distinction, J.G. Woodroof Scholar, and 4.0 Medallion recipients during the annual Honors Day program on May 1.
The awards highlight academic achievement and leadership among ABAC students. According to the official website, Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College stands out for its affordable tuition and first-class facilities, participates in eight intercollegiate sports, promotes community involvement with hands-on learning opportunities in healthcare and business, features facilities such as the J.G. Woodroof Farm and Georgia Museum of Agriculture and Historic Village, recognizes outstanding alumni annually through awards like the Distinguished Alumnus Award, and has counted former President Jimmy Carter as an honorary alumnus according to the official website.
ABAC President Tracy Brundage said, “These students exemplify the very best of Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College. Their achievements reflect not only academic excellence but also leadership, perseverance and a commitment to making a difference.”
Owen Russell was named Student of Distinction for the School of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Russell is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in horticulture with a concentration in crop production while maintaining a 4.0 GPA. He served as president of the Agronomy Club among other roles. “One of my favorite events is the biannual AET Truck and Tractor Pull, where the Agronomy Club runs the concession stand,” Russell said. “For the past year and a half…helping coordinate…is rewarding to see all club members working together.”
Jenna Williams received recognition as Student of Distinction for Nursing, Health & Natural Sciences as well as being named this year’s J.G. Woodroof Scholar—an honor reserved for those earning or nearing a 4.0 GPA along with exceptional achievement at ABAC. Williams said: “To be selected…is an honor that means more to me than words can fully express…ABAC has truly changed the course of my life by giving me opportunities to grow as a leader and scholar…No matter where life takes me I will always carry ABAC with me.”
Lionela Gutierrez Nava was honored by Social Sciences, Education & Arts for her work ethic and ambition including completing an internship in Washington D.C., saying: “Throughout my internship I attended meetings with constituents…It was an incredible experience because I not only learned how a congressional office operates but also expanded my knowledge…” Evelyn Carreno from Fitzgerald earned distinction from Stafford School of Business; she described her favorite advertising medium: “My favorite type…is social media because it creates direct engagement…”
Students receiving 4.0 Medallions included Alexis Callejas (Ashburn), Lilly Canevari (Lake Placid), Hayden Crook (Reynolds), Levi Crook (Reynolds), Roberto Fernandez (Norman Park), Kaylin Pridgen (Fitzgerald), Owen Russell (Luverne), Cesaleigh Snider (Buena Vista), Haigen Walker (Chula), Sarah Ward (Tifton), Jenna Williams (Douglas) and Tyson Yates (Doerun).
The event underscored both individual student accomplishments across disciplines at ABAC as well as broader institutional commitments to leadership development.
