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Meet the Faculty

Julia Cohen, Ogeechee Technical College English Instructor Felicia Barefoot, ASN, RN, CLC
Nurse Aide Program Director & Practical Nursing Instructor

Office: Rm 312 | Joseph E. Kennedy Bldg.
912.688.6011 | fbarefoot@ogeecheetech.edu

Felicia Barefoot began teaching at Ogeechee Technical College as an adjunct instructor in August 2014 and joined the full-time Health Science faculty in January 2016. She transferred into her current role as Nurse Aide instructor in January 2018. Felicia became an LPN in 1986 after completing her program of study through Swainsboro Technical College. She furthered her degree in nursing at Darton College and became a Registered Nurse. She has worked in Long Term Care and Public Health in her past nursing career, including grant-funded programs in Tuberculosis Nursing, Breastfeeding, and Emergency Preparedness through the Georgia Department of Public Health. Felicia holds certifications as an AHA instructor, Advanced Cardiac Life Support, Pediatric Advanced Life Support, and Board certification for the Academy of Lactation Practice.

Ariel Cagle, MSN, RN, BSPH
Associate of Science in Nursing Program Director & Instructor

Office: Rm 558 | Health Science South Bldg.
912.486.7617 | acagle@ogeecheetech.edu

Ariel Cagle is a dedicated nursing educator and healthcare professional with a strong foundation in both public health and pediatric nursing. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Public Health from Georgia Southern University and went on to complete a Master of Science in Nursing at Augusta University, specializing in pediatric care. With a passion for teaching and mentoring future nurses, she served for six years as a faculty member in the School of Nursing at Georgia Southern University. During her time there, she contributed to the development of student nurses through innovative instruction and a commitment to academic excellence. Currently, she serves as the Program Director of the Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program at Ogeechee Technical College, where she oversees curriculum development, faculty leadership, and student success initiatives. Her combined expertise in public health, pediatric nursing, and nursing education reflects a career devoted to improving healthcare outcomes through education and compassionate leadership.

Rhyne Collins, MSN-Ed, RN
Nursing Instructor

Office: Rm 564 | Health Science South Bldg.
912.871.8515 | rcollins@ogeecheetech.edu

Rhyne E. Collins, MSN-Ed, RN is a dedicated nurse educator with extensive experience in clinical instruction, simulation, and academic mentoring. She currently serves as an ASN Nursing Instructor at Ogeechee Technical College, where she is committed to preparing the next generation of nurses through engaging, student-centered learning environments.

Ms. Collins earned her Master of Science in Nursing Education from Chamberlain University and is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Nursing Education at University of West Georgia. Her academic foundation also includes a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Albany State University, along with earlier nursing credentials from Southeastern Technical College and Darton College.

Prior to her current role, Ms. Collins served as a Lecturer at Georgia Southern University School of Nursing, where she taught courses in pharmacology, nursing skills, and research while leading clinical, lab, and simulation experiences. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes professionalism, civility, and the development of clinical competence and confidence in nursing students.

In addition to her academic roles, Ms. Collins brings valuable clinical experience as a Registered Nurse, including work at East Georgia Regional Medical Center and ongoing practice at Candler County Hospital. She has also served in leadership as a Director of Nursing, further strengthening her commitment to excellence in patient care and nursing leadership.

Ms. Collins is actively involved in professional organizations such as the Georgia Association for Nursing Education and is a member of the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing. She was recognized with the Junior Teaching Excellence Award from the Waters College of Health Professions for the 2024–2025 academic year.

Her passion for nursing education centers on fostering lifelong learning, supporting student success, and advancing the nursing profession through quality education and mentorship.

Renea Durrence
Practical Nursing Instructor

Office: Rm 313 | Joseph E. Kennedy Bldg.
912.871.3769 | rdurrence@ogeecheetech.edu

Renea Durrence began teaching at Ogeechee Technical College as an adjunct instructor in August 2018 and joined the full-time Health Science faculty in March 2024 as a Nurse Aide Instructor. Renea became an LPN in September of 1998 after completing her program of study through Ogeechee Technical College. She furthered her education in nursing by earning her Bachelors of Science in Nursing degree at South University. In her past nursing career, she has worked in Medical Office Nursing, Forensic Nursing, Orthopedic Surgical Nursing, School Nursing, and Public Health nursing. She also has worked in Tuberculosis Nursing, and Emergency Preparedness Nursing through the Georgia Department of Public Health. Renea holds certifications as an AHA instructor and as a Certified School Nurse. Additionally, she has a special interest in diabetes care and education.

Cindy McKanna
Nurse Aide Instructor

Office: Rm 575 | Health Science South Bldg.
912.486.7620 | cmckanna@ogeecheetech.edu

Cindy McKanna graduated in 1999 from Ogeechee Technical College with a Practical Nursing Diploma. Following graduation, she worked as a geriatric care nurse at Eagle Health and Rehabilitation. In 2005, she worked as a nurse in a family practice clinic for seven years. In 2012, she was hired as Nursing Supervisor at Reliance Treatment Center, where she worked for 12 years prior to becoming part of the Nursing faculty here at Ogeechee Technical College in the Nursing Assistant department in January 2025. Cindy has been a License Practical Nurse for 25 years. She currently holds certifications in BLS and American Heart Association First Aide. Additionally, she has an Associate of Arts Degree from East Georgia College. Her special interests include: Geriatric Nursing, Literature, English and Nursing Education.

Courtney Reed, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC
Associate of Science in Nursing Instructor

Office: Rm 565 | Health Science South Bldg.
912.486.7653 | creed@ogeecheetech.edu

Courtney Reed attended Georgia Southern University and graduated with her Bachelors of Science in Nursing in 2018. She worked as an emergency department nurse at St. Joseph's Hospital and East Georgia Regional Medical Center. Courtney obtained her Masters of Science in Nursing in 2022 from The University of Alabama. Upon graduation, Courtney decided to follow her passion into education. She joined the Ogeechee Technical College faculty as an Anatomy and Physiology instructor before joining the nursing faculty in 2023.

Angel Shuman, RN, BSN
Practical Nursing Program Director & Instructor

Office: Rm 314 | Joseph E. Kennedy Bldg.
912.486.7651 | ashuman@ogeecheetech.edu

Angel Shuman attended Swainsboro Vocational Technical School in 1983, receiving a diploma in Practical Nursing. She began her nursing career at Bulloch Memorial Hospital, working on the medical-surgical unit. In 1986, she transitioned to intensive care/critical care. While working full-time in the ICU, Mrs. Shuman returned to school at Georgia Southern University, where she earned a Bachelor of Business Administration Management in 2003. Mrs. Shuman returned to school once again and graduated from Armstrong State University’s advanced placement for LPNs, receiving her Bachelor of Science Degree in 2014. After 32 years of hospital experience, she joined the Practical Nursing faculty at Ogeechee Technical College. She is a member of the Georgia Association for Nursing Education.

Mikay Wiggins, MSN, RN
Nursing Clinical Coordinator

Office: Rm 559 | Health Science South Bldg.
912.486.7807 | mwiggins@ogeecheetech.edu

Mikay Wiggins is a Nursing Clinical Coordinator with a Master of Science in Nursing and is a registered nurse. In this role, she works closely with clinical partners to coordinate and schedule clinical experiences for nursing students, helping ensure they receive meaningful, hands-on learning opportunities. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology from Georgia Southern University and went on to complete a Master of Science in Nursing at Augusta University. Prior to her current position, she spent three years at the Children’s Hospital of Georgia working in a specialized pediatric unit caring for hematology, oncology, and trauma patients, where she developed a strong foundation in pediatric specialty nursing. Passionate about nursing education, she is committed to supporting the next generation of nurses and creating positive clinical learning experiences that promote growth, confidence, and professional development.

Accreditation - Associate of Science in Nursing

The Associate of Science in Nursing program at Ogeechee Technical College has full approval by the Georgia Board of Nursing, 237 Coliseum Dr., Macon, GA 31217, Phone: 478-207-2440.

Effective January 11, 2024, the Associate of Science in Nursing program at Ogeechee Technical College located in Statesboro, GA is a candidate for initial accreditation by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. This candidacy status expires on January 11, 2026.

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400
Atlanta, GA 30326
(404) 975-5000
https://www.acenursing.org/

Note: Upon granting of initial accreditation by the ACEN Board of Commissioners, the effective date of initial accreditation is the date on which the nursing program was approved by the ACEN as a candidate program that concluded in the Board of Commissioners granting initial accreditation.

ASN Program Effectiveness Data

Accreditation - Practical Nursing Diploma

The Practical Nursing program is regulated by the Georgia Board of Nursing, 237 Coliseum Dr., Macon, GA 31217, Phone 478.207.2440.

Accreditation - Nurse Aide Certificate

The Nurse Aide program is approved by Alliant Health Solutions, 1455 Lincoln Parkway, Suite 800, Atlanta, GA 30346 or P.O. Box 105753, Atlanta, GA 30348, Phone 678.527.3100.

Program Goals - Associate of Science in Nursing

Provide education which acknowledges individual differences and respects the right of individuals to seek fulfillment of educational needs.
Provide an environment which encourages the individual to benefit and contribute as a partner in the economic progress, development, and stability of Georgia.
Provide education which develops the potential of each student to become a productive, responsible, and upwardly mobile member of society.
Provide quality patient care education in an atmosphere that fosters interest in and enthusiasm for learning.
Prepare graduates to function as accountable and responsible members within their field of practice.
Prepare graduates to function as safe and competent practitioners in the nursing field.
Prepare graduates with the highest level of competence possible given the constraints of the interests and ability levels of the individual.
Provide educational and related services without regard to race, color, creed, ethnic or national origin, religion, sex, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, academic disadvantage, or economic disadvantage.
Foster employer participation, understanding, and confidence in the instructional process and the competence of the Associate of Science in Nursing program graduates.
Prepare students to function as accountable and responsible members of a health care team concerned with therapeutic, rehabilitative, and preventative care for people of all ages and cultural diversities in various stages of dependencies.
Allow students to use the nursing process to meet the physical and psychosocial needs of the health consumer and adhere to the legal and ethical guidelines of the nursing profession.
Prepare graduates to function within the definition and framework of their role specified by the Georgia State Board of Registered Nursing.
Prepare graduates to function as safe, competent practitioners in various health care settings, and possess necessary knowledge to successfully become a Registered Nurse.
Educate students to maintain their physical and emotional health.

Program Goals - Practical Nursing Certificate

Provide education which acknowledges individual differences and respects the right of individuals to seek fulfillment of educational needs.
Provide an environment which encourages the individual to benefit and contribute as a partner in the economic progress, development, and stability of Georgia.
Provide education which develops the potential of each student to become a productive, responsible, and upwardly mobile member of society.
Provide quality patient care education in an atmosphere that fosters interest in and enthusiasm for learning.
Prepare graduates to function as accountable and responsible members within their field of endeavor.
Prepare graduates to function as safe and competent practitioners in the nursing field.
Prepare graduates with the highest level of competence possible given the constraints of the interests and ability levels of the individual.
Provide educational and related services without regard to race, color, creed, ethnic or national origin, religion, sex, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, academic disadvantage, or economic disadvantage.
Foster employer participation, understanding, and confidence in the instructional process and the competence of the Practical Nursing program graduates.
Prepare students to function as accountable and responsible members of a health care team concerned with basic therapeutic, rehabilitative, and preventative care for people of all ages and cultural diversities in various stages of dependencies.
Allow students to use the nursing process to meet the physical and psychosocial needs of the health consumer and adhere to the legal and ethical guidelines of the nursing profession.
Prepare graduates to function within the definition and framework of their role specified by the Georgia State Board of Practical Nursing.
Prepare graduates to function as safe, competent practitioners in various health care settings, and possess necessary knowledge to successfully become a Licensed Practical Nurse.
Educate students to maintain their physical and emotional health.

Program Goals - Nurse Aide Certificate

Prepare graduates with the highest level of competence possible given the constraints of the interests and ability levels of the individual.
Provide educational and related services without regard to race, color, creed, ethnic or national origin, religion, sex, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, academic disadvantage, or economic disadvantage.
Foster employer participation, understanding, and confidence in the instructional process and the competence of the Nurse Aide program graduates.
Prepare students to function as accountable and responsible members of a health care team concerned with basic therapeutic, rehabilitative, and preventative care for people of all ages and cultural diversities in various stages of dependencies.
Allow students to use the nursing process to meet the physical and psychosocial needs of the health consumer and adhere to the legal and ethical guidelines of the nursing profession.
Prepare graduates to function within the definition and framework of their role specified by the Georgia Health Partnership.
Prepare graduates to function as safe, competent practitioners in various health care settings, and possess necessary knowledge to successfully become a Nurse Aide.
Educate students to maintain their physical and emotional health.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

PracticalNursing.org: https://www.practicalnursing.org/

Happenings

George W. Strickland Jr. Foundation Signs Endowment Worth $1.5 Million to Fund ASN Program

The Honorable Jan B. Tankersley Endowed Nursing Scholarship

21 Students Receive Practical Nursing Pins

OTC adds Nurse Aide Accelerated Technical Certificate

This is a Non-Traditional Program

A non-traditional program is a program where one gender makes up less than 25% of the workforce. At OTC we work diligently to support our students as they as they pursue careers in these fields. Some additional resources and information can be found below:

American Association for Men in Nursing
The Men's Association of Nurses "The Man"

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“Ever since I started my college journey I’ve had to work full-time, and this scholarship has provided me with the assistance where that no longer has to happen and now I can focus and push on through.”

Emily Boswell
Radiologic Technology Student

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