Gadsden State Community College has recognized four employees with its 2026 Chancellor’s Awards, honoring their contributions to student success, leadership and service to the college.
The annual awards recognize employees in four categories: Academic Faculty, Technical Faculty, Administrator and Staff Member. Recipients are selected for their dedication to excellence and their impact on students and the Gadsden State community.
Academic Faculty: Dr. Danny Wilborn
Dr. Danny Wilborn, a mathematics instructor with more than 26 years of service to Gadsden State, received the Chancellor’s Award for Academic Faculty.
Throughout his career, Wilborn has taught students across multiple Gadsden State campuses and instructional sites, earning a reputation for his dedication to teaching and student success.
He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Jacksonville State University, an Educational Specialist degree from The University of Alabama and a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration.
A former student credited Wilborn with changing their perspective on mathematics and providing the encouragement needed to complete their education.
“He genuinely cares about his students and their success. He truly strives for excellence,” the former student said.
Wilborn said he is motivated by the opportunity to use his talents to serve students. Outside the classroom, he is an award-winning photographer and lifelong singer.
Technical Faculty: Wesley Beecham
Wesley “Wes” Beecham, an electrical instructor and Technical Division chair in Workforce Development, received the Chancellor’s Award for Technical Faculty.
During his seven years at Gadsden State, Beecham has focused on connecting classroom instruction with hands-on learning to prepare students for careers in the electrical industry.
He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Career and Technical Education from Athens State University. His professional credentials include Alabama electrical contractor licenses, NCCER Instructor certification and NC3 Greenlee Trainer certification.
Beecham said some of his most rewarding moments come when students master a new skill and begin to recognize their potential. He also values hearing from former students about how their education helped them succeed in the workforce.
A colleague praised Beecham for consistently going above and beyond to support students academically and personally, contributing to strong retention, completion and job placement outcomes.
Administrator: Lynn Patterson
Lynn Patterson, director of Student Life, received the Chancellor’s Award for Administrator.
During her four years at Gadsden State, Patterson has become known for her enthusiasm, student-centered leadership and commitment to creating a positive campus experience.
A graduate of Athens State University with a degree in management, Patterson approaches her work with a passion for helping students feel connected and supported throughout their college experience.
“I pull into this campus every day smiling because I cannot believe I get paid to do this job,” Patterson said.
A colleague described Patterson as an employee who consistently demonstrates Gadsden State’s core beliefs of service, excellence and integrity, noting her willingness to go above and beyond to support students and improve the college experience.
Staff Member: Misti Morgan
Misti Morgan, administrative assistant IV in Student Services, received the Chancellor’s Award for Staff Member.
With 18 years of service to Gadsden State, Morgan supports student services, recruitment efforts, student life activities and campus events.
Morgan said one of the most rewarding parts of her job is participating in commencement ceremonies, where she gets to see students celebrate their accomplishments alongside family and friends.
Although much of her work takes place behind the scenes, Morgan recognizes the importance of providing dependable support that contributes to student success. Her personal motto, “Be someone others can count on,” reflects the approach she brings to her work.
“If there is one individual who exemplifies excellence, commitment, and impact at the highest level, it is Misti,” a colleague said. “Her work makes this institution better every single day.”
The Chancellor’s Awards recognize employees whose service and commitment support Gadsden State’s mission of providing accessible, quality education and opportunities for student success.
For more information about Gadsden State Community College, visit gadsdenstate.edu.
