Berry College Earns National Career Readiness Award

Berry College has received national recognition for its commitment to preparing students for successful careers, earning an honorable mention from the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) for career readiness excellence.

College officials said the award recognizes Berry’s distinctive LifeWorks program, which provides students with meaningful paid work experiences and professional development opportunities throughout their college careers. More than 90 percent of Berry students participate in the program, which offers over 1,000 paid student jobs across more than 180 campus departments.

According to Berry College, 85 percent of graduating seniors credit their student work experiences and supervisors with helping them achieve their career goals. The college also reports that 99 percent of graduates have achieved a positive career outcome within six months of graduation for the past six consecutive years.

Dean of Personal and Professional Development Marc Hunsaker said the recognition reflects the college’s efforts to embed career readiness throughout the student experience, while President Sandeep Mazumder noted that the program helps students connect learning with leadership and future career success.

Chattooga High Senior Earns Prestigious Spirit Award

Chattooga High School is recognizing senior Kasen Elsberry after he was named a recipient of the Dolores Hardison-Hayes Spirit Award.

School officials said Elsberry, who participates in the school’s Work-Based Learning program, was nominated by Work-Based Learning Coordinator Lisa Hughes for his dedication, strong work ethic, and commitment to success both inside and outside the classroom.

The Dolores Hardison-Hayes Spirit Award honors outstanding work-based learning students who reflect the mission of connecting students, schools, and businesses to help build a strong and skilled workforce. Kasen is one of only three students selected to receive the honor.

One of the three award recipients will ultimately be chosen to receive a $5,000 scholarship. Chattooga High School said it is proud of Elsberry’s accomplishment and wished him the best as the final scholarship announcement approaches.