ACWORTH – Chattahoochee Technical College has received national recognition for its commitment to serving military veterans. In addition to being designated as a national top ten Military Friendly School for 2024, the college’s Director of Veteran Services, Michael Payne, has been honored with the national 2024 Veteran Champions of the Year in Higher Education award.

Payne is one of just 31 individuals nationwide to receive this recognition from the Military Friendly organization. This award celebrates those who go above and beyond in advocating for the advancement and success of student veterans in higher education.

“Supporting our nation’s veterans as they navigate their educational journeys is often a labor of love that goes unrecognized,” said Dan Fazio, awards program manager. “Military Friendly is delighted to shine a spotlight on these selfless professionals.”

The 2024 Veteran Champions of the Year in Higher Education were selected for their unwavering dedication to creating and nurturing sustainable services and programs that support veterans’ success in higher education. They frequently serve as mentors and work tirelessly to address the unique needs of student veterans.

There are currently 455 veterans enrolled at Chattahoochee Tech. The Superior Plumbing Veterans Education and Career Transition Resource (VECTR) Center, which is located at the college’s Marietta Campus, provides a supportive environment for these veterans and military-affiliated students.

As one of only two VECTR Centers in the state, it serves as a place to help veterans translate military skills and experience into training programs for high-demand and meaningful careers. It also provides active and retired veterans with a place to assist them as they transition into the civilian workforce and into post-secondary education institutions.

The Military Friendly Schools awards program has come to set the standard for higher education institutions to provide the best opportunities for military service members, veterans and their families. The Military Friendly program was founded in 2003 by VIQTORY, a service-disabled, veteran-owned business.

More information about Chattahoochee Tech is available at www.ChattahoocheeTech.edu.

About Chattahoochee Technical College

Chattahoochee Technical College awards certificates, diplomas and associate degrees in programs of study for students to become highly skilled professionals in some of the nation’s fastest-growing, high-demand career fields.

A Unit of the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG), Chattahoochee Tech has nine campus locations serving some of Georgia’s most dynamic counties. The college offers real-world training that helps students quickly start, change or accelerate their careers.

The college also offers customized workforce training, continuing education classes, and adult education programs that include free GED and HiSET preparation. More information is available at www.ChattahoocheeTech.edu.