ABAC recognizes student excellence at Honors Day
Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College recognized its 2026 Students of Distinction, J.G. Woodroof Scholar, and 4.0 Medallion recipients during the annual Honors Day program May 1.
ABAC President Tracy Brundage spoke to the high level of achievement the awards represent.
“These students exemplify the very best of Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College,” Brundage said. “Their achievements reflect not only academic excellence but also leadership, perseverance and a commitment to making a difference.”
ABAC Students of Distinction are selected by faculty in each school from a pool of distinguished honor students, based on earned hours and grade-point averages at the end of the fall semester. Selection also considers involvement in engaged learning, participation in campus organizations, community service, peer leadership and strong interpersonal skills.
The Student of Distinction for the School of Agriculture and Natural Resources is Owen Russell of Luverne, Alabama. Russell is on track to complete a Bachelor of Science in horticulture with a concentration in crop production while maintaining a 4.0 GPA. He has served as president of the Agronomy Club and has been actively involved in Collegiate FFA, the Cattlemen’s Association, Agri-Life and Agri-preneurs. A multi-year scholarship recipient, Russell has demonstrated resilience, leadership and a commitment to excellence throughout his academic career.
Russell reflected on the gratification of leading others when asked about events he led during his time in those roles.
“One of my favorite events is the biannual AET Truck and Tractor Pull, where the Agronomy Club runs the concession stand,” Russell said. “For the past year and a half, I have had the honor of serving as president of the Agronomy Club, which came with the responsibilities of helping coordinate the setup and operation of the concessions. This event is special to me as it is rewarding to see all the club members and officers working together to make the concession stand a success.”
The School of Nursing, Health and Natural Sciences recognized Jenna Williams of Douglas, Georgia, as its Student of Distinction. Williams will graduate with a Bachelor of Science in biology and a minor in business, maintaining a 4.0 GPA while completing a premedical curriculum. She serves as president of the Student Government Association and has represented ABAC on the University System of Georgia Student Advisory Council. Williams is also a former Ms. ABAC, an ABAC ambassador and a member of the Golden Girl Dance Team, demonstrating exceptional leadership and service across campus.
Williams was also honored as the 2026 J.G. Woodroof Scholar. Named for ABAC’s first president, the Woodroof Scholar is also recognized during the University System of Georgia’s Academic Recognition Day. University System criteria for the honor include earning a 4.0 GPA, or nearly equivalent, along with demonstrating exceptional academic achievement at the institution.
When asked how it feels to be selected for both awards, Williams expressed appreciation for the support and opportunities she received during her college career.
“To be selected as the SONHNS Student of Distinction and the J.G. Woodroof Scholar is an honor that means more to me than words can fully express,” Williams said. “ABAC has truly changed the course of my life by giving me opportunities to grow as a leader and scholar, while surrounding me with mentors and a community that believed in me every step of the way. The experiences I have gained here have shaped who I am and prepared me for the journey ahead in medicine. No matter where life takes me, I will always carry ABAC with me, and I will forever remain a part of the ABAC family.”
The Student of Distinction for the School of Social Sciences, Education and Arts is Lionela Gutierrez Nava of Adel, Georgia. A double major with a strong academic record, Nava is recognized for her work ethic, ambition and intellectual engagement. She completed a prestigious internship in Washington and has been actively involved in campus and community initiatives. Faculty note her professionalism, leadership and ability to excel in challenging environments.
Nava explained how the internship provided valuable experience.
“Throughout my internship, I attended meetings with constituents and reported their concerns back to the office,” Nava said. “I also had the opportunity to speak with numerous constituents about the issues they hoped Congressman Austin Scott would address. It was an incredible experience because I not only learned how a congressional office operates, but I also expanded my knowledge of history while giving Capitol tours.”
The Stafford School of Business honored Evelyn Carreno as its Student of Distinction. Carreno, from Fitzgerald, Georgia, has demonstrated excellence in marketing through both academic performance and applied work across campaign formats such as billboards, social media and paid advertising. Known for her leadership and collaborative approach, she is highly regarded by peers and faculty for her professionalism, creativity and strategic thinking.
Carreno described her favorite type of advertising to produce.
“My favorite type of advertising is social media because of its ability to create direct engagement,” Carreno said. “During my internship with the City of Tifton in marketing and communications, I used it to connect with the community, which made the work especially meaningful and rewarding.”
Many students also received a 4.0 Medallion. The honor requires a 4.0 GPA, a minimum of 60 hours completed at ABAC and no record of academic integrity-related discipline. Students who received a 4.0 Medallion include: Alexis Callejas (Ashburn), Lilly Canevari (Lake Placid, Florida), Hayden Crook (Reynolds), Levi Crook (Reynolds), Roberto Fernandez (Norman Park), Kaylin Pridgen (Fitzgerald), Owen Russell (Luverne, Alabama), Cesaleigh Snider (Buena Vista), Haigen Walker (Chula), Sarah Ward (Tifton), Jenna Williams (Douglas) and Tyson Yates (Doerun).