CPTC Cosmetology Instructor Honored at Retirement Luncheon
An ensemble of well-wishers gathered recently to celebrate Ollie Harkleroad’s successful teaching career at a retirement luncheon in her honor. Among those joining Ollie (2nd from left) were several of her department colleagues, including cosmetology instructors Debra Moody (L to R), Margaret Brunson, Alisha Sumpter,; JoAnn Stanford, and Katherine Ellis. Also on hand to congratulate Ollie was Patsy Wilkerson (2nd from rt.) Dean for Academic Affairs and Jerrell Bednar, retired cosmetology instructor.
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Waycross, GA – Ollie Harkleroad, cosmetology instructor at Coastal Pines Technical College (CPTC), was recently honored at a retirement luncheon for her twenty-six years of service to technical education. Family, friends, colleagues, and former students joined her for the special occasion and enjoyed the delicious lunch prepared by CPTC faculty and staff.
Harkleroad began her career at Coastal Pines Technical College in 1989, when the College was Okefenokee Technical Institute. During her tenure, Harkleroad received the 1997 Rotary Vocational Service Award, an award that recognizes employees of the College who best exemplify the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self.” Additionally, she received the 1998 Rick Perkins Instructor of the Year award, which honors the Technical College System of Georgia’s most outstanding instructors. These awards are indicative of Ms. Ollie’s dedication to education, as well as her desire to help others.
Ms. Ollie also was an advisor for the National Technical Honor Society (NTHS) for a number of years. Through her work with students, clients, club members, and co-workers, Ms. Ollie touched the lives of thousands throughout her many years of service.
Affectionately referred to as Ms. H. or Ms. Ollie by her students, Harkleroad will surely be missed. Her vast knowledge of the cosmetology curriculum, the world of beauty products, and people made her a great instructor. Her enthusiasm for the program and love of teaching was contagious, leaving a positive mark on the cosmetology profession through her graduates. The staff at CPTC wish Ms. Ollie Harkleroad the best as she enters a new chapter of her life.
Ollie shared with friends and family her love for teaching, co-workers, students, and the college. She gave sage advice to the rookie instructors and encouraged others to be mindful of blessings and, most importantly, remain passionate about what they do.
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