Graham and Twisdale Compete at TCSG Leadership Summit
Posted on Apr 30, 2026 at 15:18 PM
Caroline Graham, Ogeechee Technical College’s (OTC) 2026 Georgia Occupational Award of Leadership (GOAL) winner, and Michael Twisdale, OTC’s, 2026 Rick Perkins Award (RPA) winner represented the College at this year’s TCSG GOAL/RPA Leadership Summit in Atlanta, April 20-23.
Graham, a student in OTC’s Associate of Science in Nursing program, was named as one of nine statewide GOAL finalists at the conference’s celebration on Tuesday night. The following morning Graham had a round of interviews as part of the final competition to see who would be named this year’s statewide GOAL winner, and winner of a brand-new Kia Sportage.
“We are incredibly proud of Caroline and all the hard work that led up to this final stage of the competition,” said OTC President, Lori Durden. “Being named a state finalist is a significant accomplishment, and she exceptionally represented Ogeechee Tech. We’re also proud of Michael Twisdale and the way he represented the college throughout this process.”
Though Graham was not named the statewide winner, the entire experience has encouraged her to share her story in a greater capacity.
“The GOAL competition pushed me outside my comfort zone, especially in public speaking, but it ultimately helped me grow in ways I never expected,” said Graham. “Speaking at local events built my confidence and gave me opportunities to share my story of resilience in overcoming hardships in hopes of inspiring others in our community. Because of this exposure, I’ve been invited to speak at the Ogeechee Judicial Circuit Drug Court, which is a meaningful chance to give back and offer hope to those who may be where I once was.”
Twisdale, a Business Technology instructor and OTC’s RPA candidate, was equally as reflective on his journey through the competition.
“The TCSG Leadership Summit reminded me why we do what we do. Networking alongside 22 talented instructors from across the state, learning through impactful workshops, and experiencing this incredible journey has strengthened not only my skills but my sense of purpose,” said Twisdale. “Representing Ogeechee Technical College as Rick Perkins Instructor of the Year is an honor I will carry with me for a lifetime.”
The GOAL and RPA competitions are months-long involving multiple rounds of interviews, extensive preparation, and professional coaching. OTC’s RPA Coordinator, Tiffany Williams, and GOAL Coordinator, Sarah Beverley, played key roles in guiding and supporting both candidates throughout the competition.
In addition to formal interviews, the summit featured networking events, team-building activities, and professional development sessions designed to foster leadership growth and collaboration among participants.
About Ogeechee Technical College:
Ogeechee Technical College (OTC) is a unit of the Technical College System of Georgia. OTC provides student‐centered academic and occupational programs and support services at the associate degree, diploma, and certificate levels. OTC utilizes traditional and distance education methodologies in state-of-the-art facilities while supporting adult education, continuing education, and customized business and industry workforce training. Visit www.ogeecheetech.edu for more information.
Contact Information
Sean Payne
Executive Director for Public Relations & Marketing
912.871.8559 | spayne@ogeecheetech.edu
- Categories:
- News
- Press Releases
- Tags:
- GOAL
- Rick Perkins Award
- TCSG GOAL/RPA Leadership Summit