Georgia Trend magazine has selected Dr. Heidi Popham, president of Georgia Northwestern Technical College (GNTC), as one of the magazine’s most influential leaders.
This year marks the third that Popham has been profiled in the “annual publication that spotlights the most powerful leaders across major industries and organizations” who impact Georgia, according to Georgia Trend. Popham was appointed president of GNTC by the State Board of the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) in 2019; she has worked for GNTC for more than 28 years.
“I am honored to be included among the GEORGIA 500,” Dr. Popham said. “This recognition reflects the dedication and hard work of the entire Georgia Northwestern Technical College team, as well as the invaluable partnerships we have built with business and industry. Together, we are committed to supporting student success and growing a skilled workforce. I am proud to share this recognition with everyone who helps us achieve our mission.”
“We are incredibly proud of Dr. Heidi Popham for being recognized among Georgia Trend’s 500 Most Influential Leaders,” said Technical College System of Georgia Commissioner Greg Dozier. “This honor is a testament to her outstanding leadership and dedication to advancing opportunities for students and the communities served by Georgia Northwestern Technical College. Dr. Popham’s vision and commitment are driving forces in preparing a skilled workforce for Georgia, and her influence in the region is truly impactful. Congratulations to Dr. Popham on this well-deserved recognition.”
Dr. Popham began her educational career at GNTC in 1995 as executive assistant to the president. In 2007, she became the director of Institutional Effectiveness and was soon promoted to vice president of Institutional Effectiveness in 2009. In the latter role, she coordinated the development of GNTC’s strategic plan, program goals, objectives and standards. Dr. Popham also served as GNTC’s accreditation liaison.
In 2016, Popham was promoted to executive vice president of GNTC. As executive vice president, Popham was responsible for Academic Affairs, Adult Education, Institutional Effectiveness, Student Affairs and Student Success.
She serves on various boards and advisory committees, which include several of the region’s College and Career Academies. Dr. Popham is a graduate of the TCSG Executive Leadership Academy, Leadership Rome and Leadership Dalton. She is also an active member of the Rome Rotary Club.
Dr. Popham earned a bachelor’s degree in Organizational Management from Covenant College located in Lookout Mountain, a master’s degree from the University of Georgia and a doctoral degree from the University of Georgia.
Georgia Northwestern Technical College provides quality workforce education to the citizens of northwest Georgia. Students have the opportunity to earn an associate degree, diploma or a certificate in aviation, business, health, industrial or public service career paths. This past year, 12,241 people benefited from GNTC’s credit and noncredit programs. GNTC has an annual credit enrollment of 8,031 students and an additional enrollment of 4,210 people through adult education, continuing education, business and industry training and Georgia Quick Start. For more information about GNTC, visit us at www.GNTC.edu.