Gonzales to Speak at May Commencement
Posted on May 07, 2025 at 8:19 AM
Ogeechee Technical College alumna and 2024-2025 Bulloch County Teacher of the Year, Heather Gonzales, will provide the commencement address at OTC’s graduation ceremony slated for May 15 at 7:00 pm at Hanner Fieldhouse.
Gonzales began her educational path at Ogeechee Technical College, where she earned an associate degree in Early Childhood Care & Education. She continued her studies at the University of Alaska – Fairbanks as a ceramics major, later transferring to Georgia Southern University in 2004 to complete her bachelor’s degree in Art Education.
“Heather Gonzales embodies the spirit of Ogeechee Technical College. She is resilient, creative, and committed to making a difference. Her story is a powerful reminder to our graduates that every path is unique, and that passion and perseverance can lead to extraordinary impact,” said Christy Rikard, VP for Student Affairs.
Gonzales’ journey is one of resilience, creativity, and unwavering dedication to her students. Currently serving as a visual arts instructor at Southeast Bulloch Middle School, Gonzales brings 14 years of experience to the classroom, including 12 within Bulloch County Schools. Her commitment to nurturing young minds through artistic expression recently earned her the prestigious honor of Bulloch County Schools Teacher of the Year.
Her approach to teaching is deeply influenced by her personal experience with dyslexia. As a student who struggled in traditional academic settings, Gonzales found refuge and confidence through art. This early realization shaped her philosophy: that creativity can be a powerful tool for building self-worth and redefining success for students who face academic or personal challenges.
She launched her teaching career in 2008 at Mill Creek Elementary School, where she taught visual arts to Kindergarten through fifth-grade students. In 2015, she transitioned to Langston Chapel Elementary, and in 2018, she joined the faculty at Southeast Bulloch Middle School, where she continues to inspire students today.
In both her personal and professional life, Heather Gonzales is a model of strength and perseverance. As a cancer survivor, she brings a unique perspective on overcoming adversity—one that resonates deeply with the students she teaches. Beyond brushstrokes and clay, she equips her students with tools for self-expression, resilience, and confidence.
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
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