Local colleges, instructors and advisors pitch college and career pathways at Mayor's council meeting

Representatives from local colleges and a public-health scholar spoke to students and families at the Mayor's Chief Council meeting on Nov. 17, urging Douglas-area youth to take advantage of low-cost technical programs, dual-enrollment and campus supports to advance into postsecondary education and careers.

Mary Lou Clark, an admissions representative at Wiregrass Georgia Technical College, told attendees she began her own college journey with a GED and now helps students from low-income households find pathways into over 100 programs, from short technical certificates to associate degrees. Clark said the college’s courses are designed to transfer to four-year programs, that the institution participates in the statewide free-application month for November, and that dual-enrollment options begin in 10th grade. "When you come into my office, there is no judgment," Clark said, inviting students to pick up program lists and QR codes to start applications.

Jason Brewer, coordinator and welding instructor at Wiregrass’s Coffee campus, described growing local demand for welders and related trades, outlined plans to expand pipe-welding and ornamental ironwork instruction, and emphasized on-the-job pathways and competitions for high-school students. Brewer said some regional employers and unions are offering starting wages as high as "$60 an hour" for specialized positions in nearby markets and noted local apprenticeship and scholarship opportunities for students who compete in skills events.

Dr. Carlos Chapman, an assistant professor of sociology and public health, spoke by video about preparing for the transition to college. He emphasized time management, using the syllabus as a roadmap and communicating early with instructors when assignments are unclear. "Remember, the syllabus is the guide that gets you through that course," Chapman said. He cautioned that tools such as AI can be helpful but should not replace students’ own work.

The meeting’s community spotlight highlighted Shanti Gamble, a college and career advisor who said she works with FAFSA, scholarships and the University System of Georgia to arrange on-site admissions events. Gamble promoted an upcoming "instant decision day" with South Georgia State College in which eligible students can receive admission on the spot.

Dr. Greg Tanner, interim president of South Georgia State College, described the college’s local history and transfer-friendly curriculum, and encouraged students to consider dual enrollment as a way to earn college credit while in high school. Tanner noted that small-campus leadership roles and extracurricular activities can strengthen applications for professional programs. "South Georgia State College gives you that opportunity," he said, urging students to consider returning to Douglas after graduation.

Routine meeting business earlier in the session included approval of the agenda and previous minutes; both motions were approved by voice vote (motion to approve agenda: moved by Nayeli, seconded by Angelia Williams; motion to approve minutes: moved by Nayeli). The meeting continued with Q&A from students and community members about program start times, age ranges for enrollment, and how employers handle certification and on-the-job training.

Next steps noted during the meeting included distribution of program flyers and QR codes for applications, upcoming campus visits and competitions, and a promotion for the free-application month and the instant-decision event with South Georgia State College.