Graham named 2026 GOAL Winner
Posted on Jan 21, 2026 at 8:55 AM
Caroline Graham, a student in Ogeechee Technical College’s (OTC) Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program, has been named the 2026 Georgia Occupational Award of Leadership (GOAL) winner. Graham and three other finalists were honored during a reception held Tuesday evening in the Jack Hill Building at OTC.
At the podium, Graham shared her powerful journey of addiction, homelessness, and recovery, framing her life as a story of second chances. This month, she celebrates five years of sobriety. She said she chose OTC because the class schedule allowed her to continue attending recovery meetings while pursuing her education.
“Ogeechee Tech has helped me become the student I never thought I could be,” Graham said. “The instructors have been caring and helpful throughout my whole journey. They’ve encouraged me, supported me, and helped me discover my own potential.”
Although she initially considered a career in Sonography, Graham realized her passion lies in Nursing. She reflected on how her recovery has shaped her path.
“The discipline, resilience, and compassion I’ve gained through recovery are the same qualities that make me the student, mother, and future nurse I am today,” she said.
GOAL runner-up honors went to Alecia Johnson (ASN), and finalists included Hannah Bradley (Dental Assisting) and Daelyn Pearson (ASN).
Following OTC’s nomination, Graham will advance to the regional GOAL competition in Tifton on February 24. If selected as one of three regional finalists, she will compete for the state title April 20–23 in Atlanta.
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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