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Ryan Smith was determined to make a difference when he returned to his alma mater, transitioning from student to employee at Georgia Gwinnett College. As a director in the school’s Student Housing division, he immediately connected with student residents.

When he assumed the role of assistant director of Student Life and Belonging, Smith launched exciting new initiatives that strengthened the campus community and student engagement, including GGC’s Grizzly Palooza Week, the school’s first Juneteenth celebration and its Sneaker Ball.

His impact earned him one of the schools’ top honors.

Georgia Gwinnett College (GGC) recognized Smith and along with six faculty and three other staff members during the 2024 Top Claw Awards Ceremony held Nov. 21.

“Our 2024 Top Claw Recipients are just a few examples of the many contributions of our faculty and staff across campus,” said GGC President Jann L. Joseph. “Without each of them, GGC cannot achieve excellence."

Top Claw Award winners consistently go above and beyond the call of duty, contribute to the success of GGC and their departments, support and reinforce the college’s mission and vision, and exemplify its core values of integrity, excellence, accountability and respect. Winners are selected from nominations from colleagues.

Along with Smith, this year’s Top Claw Award winners include:

• Dr. Kristi Amatucci, professor of literacy education in the School of Education
• Laura Brown, assistant director of Donor and Board Relations in Advancement
• Dr. Beth Cavalier, professor of sociology in the School of Liberal Arts
• Dr. David Dorrell, associate professor of geography in the School of Liberal Arts
• Dr. Jake Edwards, assistant professor of English in the School of Liberal Arts and director of the Honors Program
• Ben Hines, program engagement associate in the School of Business
• Dr. David Kerven, professor of information technology in the School of Science and Technology
• Dr. Rashad Simmons, associate professor of chemistry in the School of Science and Technology
• Huy-Ngoc Truong, administrative assistant II in the School of Science and Technology

Smith’s recognition at GGC’s Top Claw ceremony highlights not only his personal achievements but also his deep commitment to the student experience. 

“I understand what it was like to be a student at GGC,” Smith said. “Now, as an employee, my goal is to enhance the student experience and help build a sense of culture and pride in our school.”

View and download 2024 Top Claw Photos.