Gordon State College Alumnus Thomas ‘Tog’ Goss Honored at 2026 Regents’ Scholarship, Awards Gala
By Karolina Philmon, GSC marketing manager
Gordon State College alumnus and Foundation Trustee Thomas “Tog” Goss was honored with the Alumni and Distinguished Friends Award during the 2026 University System of Georgia Foundation Board of Regents’ Scholarship & Awards Gala. The event, themed “Sea of Dreams,” took place Saturday, Aug. 22, at the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta.
The annual Gala is the USG Foundation’s signature philanthropic event, bringing together business, civic and higher education leaders from across Georgia to support need-based scholarships for students attending the state’s public colleges and universities. The event also recognizes outstanding students, faculty, alumni, donors and supporters whose leadership and service advance public higher education throughout Georgia.
Goss was recognized in the State Colleges category for his longstanding commitment to Gordon State, healthcare education and expanding opportunities for students. A distinguished healthcare executive and GSC alumnus, Goss serves as a trustee of the Gordon State College Foundation and is the former chief operating officer of Atrium Health Navicent Baldwin. He currently serves as CEO of Putnam General Hospital.
“Tog Goss represents the kind of leadership and service that makes Gordon State College and our communities stronger,” said Dr. Russell Crutchfield, president of GSC. “His commitment to developing Georgia’s healthcare workforce, expanding opportunities for students and investing in the communities we serve reflects the very best of Highlander Nation. This recognition by the Board of Regents is well deserved, and we are proud to celebrate him.”
That commitment to Gordon State includes establishing an endowed scholarship supporting students in the College’s LPN/Paramedic Bridge to ASN pathway. The scholarship helps reduce financial barriers for non-traditional students while supporting the development of skilled healthcare professionals who can serve rural communities throughout the region.
Goss also provides strategic guidance through GSC’s Nursing and Health Sciences Advisory Board and regularly shares his experience with students through mentorship, speaking engagements and professional guidance. His continued involvement connects academic preparation with workforce needs while strengthening pathways into healthcare careers.
Through his philanthropy, professional leadership and advocacy, Goss has become a champion for healthcare access and a strong ambassador for GSC and the USG.
GSC’s participation in the annual Gala provides an opportunity to celebrate members of Highlander Nation whose contributions extend beyond the College while strengthening relationships with donors, corporate partners and state leaders who support public higher education.