Gadsden State faculty and staff receive 2025 Chancellor’s Awards
Gadsden, Ala. — Gadsden State Community College is proud to recognize the 2025 recipients of the Alabama Community College System Chancellor’s Awards. These annual awards recognize outstanding employees across the state for excellence in leadership, teaching, and service. This year’s honorees from Gadsden State were recognized for their exceptional commitment to students, colleagues, and the college community.
“We are fortunate to have so many exceptional faculty and staff who generously share their time, talents, and dedication to enrich the lives of our students and enhance their educational experience.” said Dr. Tera Simmons, executive vice president.
Award recipients were recognized during the Alabama Community College Association Conference in Montgomery on November 23.
Chancellor’s Award for Administrator: Ricky Tillis
The 2025 Chancellor’s Award for Administrator was presented to Ricky Tillis, director of the Valley Street Campus. A former Valley Street student himself, Tillis leads with humility, integrity, and a strong commitment to serving students and colleagues. He is widely regarded as a natural problem solver who builds trust and consistently goes above expectations to support the campus community.
Tillis coordinates major outreach efforts and campus events, including the annual Tailgate Celebration and Black History Program. He is known for developing meaningful relationships with students and for creating experiences that foster engagement and belonging.
Reflecting on his work, Tillis shared: “Having a humble awareness that the position I currently hold is by God’s grace. As a steward of this grace, I must maintain a culture of excellence, be mission-focused, and provide altruistic leadership with a community approach toward transformation.”
Chancellor’s Award for Academic Faculty: Beth McGlaughn
The 2025 Chancellor’s Award for Academic Faculty was awarded to Beth McGlaughn, coordinator and instructor of the Paralegal Program. McGlaughn holds a bachelor’s degree in philosophy and religion from Birmingham-Southern College and a Juris Doctor from The University of Alabama School of Law. She brings years of litigation experience to the classroom, where she enriches instruction with real-world legal application.
McGlaughn is known for creating a dynamic learning environment centered on research, critical thinking, and professional preparation. She has expanded opportunities for her students by creating a professional clothing closet and establishing a transfer agreement with Samford University that provides a pathway to advanced legal studies and even law school.
“What I love most is working with the students,” she said. “Each one brings unique experiences and goals, and it is a joy to help them pursue careers in the legal profession.”
Chancellor’s Award for Technical Faculty: Dr. Evelyn Lightsey
The 2025 Chancellor’s Award for Technical Faculty was presented to Dr. Evelyn Lightsey, Simulation Coordinator for Gadsden State’s Nursing Division. Dr. Lightsey began her career at the College in 2007 and has since become a leader in simulation-based nursing education. She holds a BSN from Jacksonville State University, an MSN from UAB, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Samford University. She is also a certified nurse educator and certified health care simulation educator.
Colleagues describe her as both an exceptional instructor and an invaluable co-worker. One nominator stated, “She has touched the lives of countless students. She truly loves the profession of nursing and works tirelessly to train competent, compassionate nurses.”
Her commitment extends beyond instruction. A former student shared that Dr. Lightsey tutored her in math outside of normal class time—support that helped the student succeed academically and ultimately begin her nursing career.
Lightsey says her favorite part of the job is “helping students put the pieces of the puzzle together through simulation-based learning experiences,” and she values the close-knit, supportive GSCC work family.
Chancellor’s Award for Support Staff: Efferson Ellis, Jr.
The 2025 Chancellor’s Award for Support Staff was awarded to Efferson Ellis Jr., a dedicated security officer who has served Gadsden State for more than 16 years. Ellis is known for his professionalism, strong work ethic, and calming presence across campus.
Colleagues and students alike praise him for his reliability, sound judgment, and genuine warmth. One instructor said, “His presence brings a sense of security; we feel safe under his watch.” A student described him as someone who “brings a sense of safety and calm wherever he is.” His supervisor noted that Ellis “sets an outstanding example of serving with purpose and integrity.”
Ellis said he enjoys meeting new students, ensuring their safety, and working in an environment where coworkers feel like family.
For more information about Gadsden State Community College, visit gadsdenstate.edu.
