Albany Tech adds pair to its leadership team

ALBANY — Albany Technical College announced strategic changes to its leadership to cater to the expansion in response to growing student numbers and the introduction of a new health care teaching location. This move sets the stage for the anticipated opening of the Living and Learning Community in the fall of 2024.

Two vital members of ATC’s leadership team have been announced by the college.

Lisa Stephens, the former dean of academic affairs for the Business & Healthcare Division, was promoted to associate vice president for Business and Healthcare, effective July 1. With her academic history, ranging from Central Georgia Tech to the Emory School of Medicine, and her active involvement in the Georgia Society of Radiologic Technologists and the American Society of Radiologic Technologists, Stephens is poised to continue fostering growth, innovation, and excellence at ATC, school officials said.

Stephens’ expanded role emphasizes ATC’s commitment to integrating business and health care, aiming to ensure a rounded education for its students and meet the growing needs of the southwest Georgia area.

Morris Bernard Clarington has been named the new dean of academic affairs for Nursing & Allied Health Sciences. Clarington possesses a doctor of chiropractic degree, post-graduate studies in physiotherapy, and a bachelor of science degree in Biology, coupled with 14 years of experience in the Technical College System of Georgia.

His teaching philosophy, Albany Tech officials said, reflects his dedication to students’ growth.

“I am pleased to witness the remarkable evolution in leadership at Albany Technical College,” ATC President Emmett Griswold said. “Ms. Stephens and Dr. Clarington embody the passion and vision we strive for at Albany Technical College.

“The collaborative project between Albany Tech and Phoebe Putney Health System is a testament to our commitment to advancing education and health care in southwest Georgia. With such pivotal strides, I am confident in the unparalleled success that lies ahead for our students, faculty and community.”

The partnership between Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital and Albany Technical College aims to redefine nursing education in the region. By transforming the former Albany High School building on North Jefferson Street to a living and learning center, this project will dramatically expand the number of nurse graduates in the area.

The 47,000-square-foot first floor will accommodate ATC’s nursing program, telehealth-enhanced classrooms, a health career education center, and other state-of-the-art facilities. The project also caters to student housing needs, offering 80 apartments across the second and third floors.

With nearly 50,000 square feet dedicated to learning and 80,000 square feet for living, the community expects to enroll 200 nursing program students annually.

The project timeline currently includes:

— January 2023: Groundbreaking

— June 2024: Construction complete

— July 2024: Apartments open

— August 2024: Classes begin

Albany Technical College remains committed to providing top-tier education and creating an environment where students can flourish. These recent developments highlight the dedication to adapting, innovating, and leading in technical education.

Special Photo: Albany TechSpecial Photo: Albany Tech