Middle Georgia Technical College

MGTC's Artesia Brown Named TANF Student of the Year

Warner Robins - Texas native Artesia Brown moved to Georgia in November 2006. As a young mother, she had met with many struggles in her life, but has worked hard to overcome those obstacles. Now, at the age of 21, she is being recognized for her efforts and perseverance in accomplishing her goals.

After being nominated by Middle Georgia Technical College, Brown has been recognized by the Technical College System of Georgia as the TANF (Temporary Assistance to Needy Families) Student of the Year. She received her award at a luncheon held October 9 in conjunction with the Fall Literacy Institute in Atlanta. This is a professional development conference held yearly for Adult Education faculty and staff across the state of Georgia.

Cynthia Criss, an adult education instructor for Middle Georgia Technical College, nominated Brown. She met all of the criteria for the TANF Student of the Year award, which includes being a graduate of the GED program, participation in the TANF program, and being successful after the program

"I took a chance on the nomination this year," said Criss. "I have nominated students in the past but this is the first time I have had a winner. I am so excited for Artesia and I am really pleased she will be recognized at the state level."

Brown, formerly a TANF recipient, was without a job and high school diploma. After moving to Georgia, she decided to pursue her GED. In March 2007, she completed requirements for her GED and participated in the graduation ceremony in June.

Since completing her GED, she has been successful at securing a job and helping others realize their goals. Formerly, Brown was employed with Foster and Associates in Warner Robins helping break the barriers for single mothers on TANF. She also taught classes that helped enable and empower adults without dependents.

However, Brown is now working toward another goal. She is currently pursuing a degree in Social Work from Grand Canyon University. In addition, she hopes to return to MGTC one day to further her education even more.

For now, Artesia is working to be a good mother to her young daughter, Te'Asia Woods, 2.

"I am grateful for the opportunity that MGTC has given me," Brown said. "I am glad to know that my instructor thinks enough of me to nominate me for this award and I am so excited about accepting it in Atlanta."

For more information about the GED program or other Adult Education programs at Middle Georgia Technical College, call 478.929.6789 or log on to www.middlegatech.edu.

Artesia Brown