Augusta Technical College

Triyoko Boatwright is a dynamic leader, visionary coach, and purpose-driven communicator, and a proud Augusta Technical College alumna. She is the founder and CEO of Symply M.A.D., a coaching and consulting firm developing emotionally intelligent, mission-driven leaders.

She is Senior Manager of Talent Development at Textron Systems in Hunt Valley, MD, where she designs and facilitates transformative learning experiences, team initiatives, and leadership conversations. Known for her vibrant facilitation and authentic charisma, Triyoko is a sought-after speaker and respected thought partner in leadership development. She also serves as Associate Minister and iMPACT University Coordinator at Tabernacle Baptist Church in Augusta, GA, mentoring emerging leaders and equipping disciples for service.

Triyoko holds a Master of Arts in Theological Studies from Erskine Theological Seminary, a Master of Business Administration and Bachelor of Business Administration from Brenau University, and has completed postgraduate studies in Project Management. Earning her Associate of Applied Technology in Administrative Technology degree at Augusta Tech was a transformative decision, opening doors for her continued education and inspiring her children to strive for higher goals. She credits the instructors and supportive environment for helping her realize her potential and “to look beyond the immediate and aim higher.”

Deeply connected to her hometown of Thomson, GA, Triyoko treasures her faith and family. She is the mother of Marquis and Yasmine Cook and grandmother to her energetic grandson, Terrick.

Brent Butler began his educational journey in 2011 at Augusta Technical College to study Radiologic Technology, where he became a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and received his Associate of Applied Science Degree in Radiologic Technology. He joined the Radiologic Technologist team at University Hospital before becoming the Senior Radiologic Technologist of Augusta University Medical Center for almost a decade.

During his time at Augusta University Medical Center, Brent graduated magna cum laude with his Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences and his Master of Business Administration, both from ECPI University in Columbia, SC. Currently, Brent is the Clinical Manager of Imaging at Piedmont McDuffie Hospital. Brent is affiliated with several organizations, including the American Society of Radiologic Technologists, the Radiologic Technology Advisory Council at Augusta Technical College, and the McDuffie County Leadership Program.

When Brent is not working, he enjoys motocross, grilling, and is an avid music lover. Throughout his journey, Brent’s proud moments include completing his education and leading a multidisciplinary team of 18 professionals to deliver high-quality diagnostic imaging during one of “the hardest times in the healthcare industry in recent history,” the COVID-19 Pandemic. Brent credits Augusta Technical College for providing him with wonderful mentors in the field.

Kimone was born and raised in Orangefield, St. Catherine, Jamaica, and is a proud graduate of Charlemont High School. From an early age, she discovered her passion for hair care, which became both her career and calling. She is licensed as a cosmetologist in Florida and holds a master cosmetologist license in Georgia. She also served nearly four years in the U.S. Army as a Unit Supply Specialist before returning to beauty, health, and self-care.

In April 2020, Kimone launched Healthy Hair Healthy Scalp LLC, offering high-quality products that support scalp health, promote hair growth, and enhance overall wellness. To her, this work is more than entrepreneurship; it is a ministry, encouraging and empowering others through beauty and self-care. Her vision expanded in 2023 with the opening of Naturally Haircare Salon, the launch of a children’s haircare line, and her first children’s book. In 2024, she released a second book and joined the Cosmetology Advisory Board at Augusta Technical College to help guide and inspire future professionals.

Kimone holds an Associate of Science in Health Services Management from Broward College and an Associate of Applied Science in Marketing Management from Augusta Technical College. She plans to continue her education in health and wellness, blending it with her expertise in hair care to advocate for self-love, confidence, and personal growth.

Alongside her career and writing, Kimone mentors and volunteers with students and young women, encouraging them, offering guidance, and being a positive influence. Above all, she is most proud that her work in business, writing, and service shares one purpose: to uplift, inspire confidence, and remind people of their worth.

Reverend Cornell S. Harris, originally from North Augusta, SC, is a proud veteran of the U.S. Navy. A graduate of North Augusta High School, Augusta Technical College, where he earned three separate Electrical diplomas, and Luther Rice Seminary College, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Sport Management, graduating summa cum laude.

Cornell is the husband of Karla Collins-Harris, and together they have five children. Faith is central to his life, and he serves at Gospel Water Branch Baptist Church as a Director and Youth Leader. He is also the Founder of Augusta United Graduate Academy, a nonprofit that mentors youth through sports, where he has coached and guided young people for 24 years. Many of those he has mentored have gone on to college and professional success.

He serves on the staff of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and works for the City of Augusta-Richmond County Recreation and Parks as Athletics Program Manager. He is also the Head Football and Head Basketball Coach at Episcopal Day School in Augusta.

He credits Augusta Tech as the place where he discovered his identity and direction in life. His passion is rooted in people, community, and education through sport, and he believes in instilling accountability, discipline, and a work ethic in youth to help them reach their full potential.

Dr. Lushunda Hurst earned her Doctor of Health Sciences, focusing her research on job satisfaction among female and male Physician Assistants. She also holds a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Nebraska Omaha and a Bachelor of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from the Medical College of Georgia. Her academic journey began at Augusta Technical College, where she earned a diploma in Business with a concentration in Medical Secretary studies.

Her career has spanned OB/GYN, urgent care, occupational health, and primary care. She now serves as a Physician Assistant in the Women’s Health Clinic at the Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center in Augusta, GA, where she considers it an honor to care for veterans and their families. She is also a member of the Georgia Association of Physician Assistants.

Beyond her profession, Lushunda is a dedicated community leader. She has served as Choir Director, Health Ministries Leader, and Deputy Director of the Pathfinders youth program. As a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, she continues her commitment to service locally and internationally. Her honors include the Eta Theta Zeta Scholarship, Who’s Who Among America, Youth Leader of the Year, Master Guide Leader of the Year, and the Star Award at the Augusta VA.

Lushunda enjoys singing and playing basketball. She is married to her high school sweetheart, Isiah Hurst, and is the proud mother of Aundrea, Brianna, Cameron, and Kalea, mother-in-law to Charvez, and grandmother to Caiden. She finds her greatest joy and strength in her faith, guided by her favorite scripture: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” — Philippians 4:13

Stephanie King Ivery, a native of McDuffie County, graduated from the McDuffie County School System in 1981. She began her education in cosmetology, earning credentials from Paige’s University of Cosmetologists and the Kenneth Schuler School of Cosmetologists. In 2017, she expanded her studies at Augusta Technical College, earning degrees in Construction, Catering, Culinary Arts, and Business Management. She is a Board-Certified Hair Stylist, holds a Master Cosmetologist Certification, and is a member of the National Technical Honor Society.

An active community leader, Stephanie serves on several local boards, including the Thomson Historic Preservation Commission, the Thomson Downtown Development Authority, and the Executive Board of Commissioners for the East Georgia Housing Authority Partners. She is also a member of the Thomson Chamber of Commerce and has twice received the Outstanding Community Service award from American Legion Post 312.

A successful entrepreneur, Stephanie has owned a hair salon for 42 years, Ivery’s Restaurant for 27 years, and a property management company. She is the proud mother of three sons, grandmother of ten, great-grandmother of four, and a member of Springfield Baptist Church, where she serves as a Deaconess and Prayer Warrior.

Stephanie enjoys mentoring young women, working with children and the elderly, and spending time with God through Bible study. Engaged to Dennis West, she credits Augusta Technical College with teaching her to believe in herself: “It doesn’t matter how old you are, you can accomplish any task and anything you set out to do.”

Dr. Tamara Simmons serves as the Contract Compliance Officer for the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office in Decatur, Georgia, ensuring contracts meet legal and regulatory standards.

She previously spent over two decades in higher education at Georgia Tech, UNC Charlotte, Mercer University, Spelman College, Georgia State University, and Augusta Technical College. She earned a Doctor of Philosophy and a Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership, a Master of Science in Administration, a Bachelor of Science and an Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education, as well as diplomas in Paralegal Studies and Information Office Technology and a Certificate in Business Office Systems from Augusta Technical College. She plans to pursue a Juris Master's in Legal Risk Management, Contracting, and Compliance at Florida State University in 2026.

Tamara is an Amazon best-selling author under the pen name Tam Yvonne. She enjoys reading, writing, traveling, cooking, music from the '70s–’90s, and time with her husband, children, and their Shih Tzu. She is active in Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc. and Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., reflecting her dedication to service, mentorship, and leadership.

Her proudest achievement is raising her daughter and son. She credits Augusta Technical College for laying the foundation of her career and shaping her confidence, work ethic, and long-term success through caring instructors and hands-on learning

Adam Stroup has a 25-year record of achievement in developing and directing strategic construction initiatives. He has led project teams for community hospitals, tertiary hospitals, and academic medical centers through planning, funding, regulatory approval, team selection, implementation, and occupancy on projects ranging from $200,000 to over $200 million.

Adam began his education at Augusta Technical College, earning a diploma in Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. He went on to earn an Associate of Science in Business Marketing from Southern Wesleyan University, a Bachelor of Science in Health Administration from Georgia Southern University in Savannah, and a Master of Business Administration from Georgia Southern University in Statesboro.

He is President of the Board for the Marigold Collective and has been an engaged volunteer for a decade, helping local non-profits build foundations for success. Adam applies his talents to benefit his community, whether building hospitals or helping someone whose air conditioning failed on a hot day.

In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his wife Rebecca, cooking and being a dad to his daughter. He credits Augusta Technical College with laying a solid foundation for his career in construction, teaching him that teamwork and mutual respect are vital to building something sustainable and successful.

Jessyca Utley is a dedicated leader, quality professional, and community advocate. Born and raised in Augusta, Georgia, she graduated from Harlem High School. She earned her Associate of Science in Chemical Technology from Augusta Technical College in 2017, followed by a Bachelor of Applied Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Project Management from Southern New Hampshire University in 2025.

She currently serves as Laboratory Supervisor at BASF’s Edgar site, overseeing laboratory operations, quality initiatives, and team development. A Lean Six Sigma Green Belt-trained professional, she has led large-scale capital projects, lab renovations, and process improvements that have enhanced efficiency and safety.

Jessyca helped establish an African American Employee Group chapter, served as Membership Chair of the Women in BASF Employee Resource Group, and completed BASF’s FLAME program and WIM’s Empowering Women in Production program. She also launched a campaign

providing organic feminine hygiene products across three BASF sites in Georgia and was recognized as a 2024 Change Maker for her contributions to workplace improvement and sustainability.

She is most proud of using her education and career to make a lasting impact on others. Jessyca credits Augusta Technical College for laying the foundation for her career, providing both technical skills and confidence, and teaching the value of applied learning and community support.

Dr. Vicki D. Vandervelde is Department Head of Accounting in the School of Business, Cyber, and Design at Augusta Technical College, where she began her 25th year in June. A first-generation technical college graduate, she is a student-focused and passionate facilitator who believes in seeing potential in students that they may not yet recognize in themselves—”Just like others saw it in me,” she says.

A recognized authority in community college education and online learning, Vicki has served as a Content Area Expert in Accounting at several colleges and universities and contributed to numerous task forces and committees. Her work has earned awards, including “Facilitator of the Year” and the 2024 Distinguished Alumnus Award from the Georgia Region of Phi Theta Kappa.

Vicki earned three associate degrees at Augusta Technical College, a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and a Master of Business Administration in Accounting from Brenau University, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Accounting with an advanced certification in International Business from Argosy University in Sarasota, FL. She also completed an Associate of Science in Cybersecurity in 2019 and then created Augusta Tech’s Accounting Cybersecurity Associate degree, the only one of its kind in the region.

She is the proud parent of Jeremy Garrison, Amber Garrison, Jessica Sanchez, and bonus son Salvador Sanchez, and grandmother to three grandchildren. In her free time, she enjoys reading, writing, painting, drawing, and gardening, and takes pride in giving back to students, helping them believe in themselves, gain confidence, and grow into future leaders.