GADSDEN– Gadsden State Community College has honored four employees with 2026 Chancellor’s Awards. The recognition celebrates their contributions to teaching, student success, and campus life.

The recipients are Dr. Danny Wilborn, academic faculty; Wesley Beecham, technical faculty; Lynn Patterson, administrator; and Misti Morgan, staff member. Together, they represent work in mathematics, workforce training, student engagement, and the daily support that helps students complete their education.

The annual awards also recognize service, leadership, and excellence across four employee categories.

Dr. Danny Wilborn: Academic Faculty

Wilborn is a mathematics instructor with more than 26 years of service. He has taught across multiple Gadsden State campuses and instructional sites.

For example, a former student cited in the announcement credited Wilborn with changing their perspective on mathematics and helping them complete their education.

“He genuinely cares about his students and their success. He truly strives for excellence,” the former student said.

Wilborn earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Jacksonville State University. He also holds an Educational Specialist degree from The University of Alabama. His credentials include a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration.

Outside the classroom, he is an award-winning photographer and lifelong singer. Meanwhile, his motivation as an educator comes from using his talents to serve students.

Wesley Beecham: Technical Faculty

Wesley “Wes” Beecham serves as an electrical instructor and Technical Division chair in Workforce Development. During seven years at Gadsden State, he has connected classroom instruction with practical training for electrical careers.

He earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Career and Technical Education from Athens State University. In addition, his credentials include Alabama electrical contractor licenses, NCCER Instructor certification, and NC3 Greenlee Trainer certification.

Beecham said he finds satisfaction when students master a skill and begin recognizing their potential. He also values hearing how former students use their education in the workforce.

Lynn Patterson: Administrator

Patterson, director of Student Life, received the administrator award after four years at Gadsden State. According to the college, her work centers on helping students feel connected and supported throughout their campus experience.

She holds a management degree from Athens State University. Her enthusiasm also comes through in how she describes arriving at work.

“I pull into this campus every day smiling because I cannot believe I get paid to do this job,” Patterson said.

A colleague also praised her commitment to the college’s core beliefs of service, excellence, and integrity.

Misti Morgan: Staff Member

Morgan, an Administrative Assistant IV in Student Services, has served Gadsden State for 18 years. Her responsibilities also support student services, recruitment, student life activities, and campus events.

Although much of that work happens behind the scenes, commencement gives Morgan an opportunity to see its results. She said watching students celebrate their accomplishments with family and friends is among the most rewarding parts of her job.

Her approach also reflects a personal motto: “Be someone others can count on.”

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