CLARKESVILLE, Ga. — North Georgia Technical College has named Barbara “Barbie” Gallimore as its 2026 Employee of the Year during the college’s annual service awards holiday luncheon.
Gallimore, a student success coach at NGTC’s Currahee Campus, has worked at the college since August 2022. She holds a Bachelor of Science in business administration from the University of Arkansas. Coworkers nominated Gallimore for the honor, citing her commitment to students and colleagues, her willingness to go above and beyond, and her effectiveness and involvement across campus.
“I am proud to be part of North Georgia Tech, where we work together improving lives through technical education,” Gallimore said. “This award reflects the positive work environment we’ve all built together. It’s exciting to see students complete our programs and make an impact in our communities.”
Dr. Vinson Burdette, NGTC vice president of student affairs, said Gallimore consistently prioritizes student needs and uses her skills to make a positive difference for both students and the college.
Gallimore lives in Toccoa with her husband, Warren. They have three children. Her interests include swimming, traveling, hiking and family gatherings.
NGTC President John Wilkinson also presented 2026 Employee Service Awards, recognizing faculty and staff for years of service to the college and the Technical College System of Georgia.
Five-year service award recipients were Blake Conner, Summer Day, Matt Moon and Chris Vaughn of Toccoa; Katie Johnson of Mount Airy; Matthew Mashburn of Blairsville; Jason McElwaney of Dahlonega; Mandy Moss and Cameron Smith of Demorest; Connie Mull of Clarkesville; Erin Nieves of Blairsville; Augusto Roca of Martin; and Heather Terrell of Alto.
Recognized for 10 years of service were Fernando Arenas of Walhalla, South Carolina; Laura Ferguson, Amy Hulsey, Kelly Moody and Trudi Schubring of Clarkesville; Vicky Frankum of Cleveland; and Lisa Ramsey of Toccoa.
Fifteen-year service certificates went to Joe Banks of Alto; James Benn of Toccoa; and Pamela Segers of Clarkesville.
Alexander Bladowski of Toccoa was recognized for 20 years of service. Honored for 25 years were Ronnie Ayers of Toccoa; Terry Edwards of Clarkesville; Leslie Foster of Cornelia; and Buddy Raper of Alto. Shelby Ward of Demorest was recognized for 30 years of service.
“I am proud to work with so many outstanding individuals who are committed to serving our students and communities,” Wilkinson said. “It was an honor to present Barbie with the Employee of the Year award and to recognize others for their dedication to the college.”
