‘Blessed to be Home’ on the Hill
“LaGrange College will be distinguished as a college that transforms the lives of its students and its communities.”
This vision aligns with our mission: to prepare students to become successful, responsible citizens who aspire to lives of integrity and moral courage.
No one thrives in isolation; we are all part of something bigger.
At LaGrange College, community engagement is woven into the fabric of education—but are students truly transforming their communities as intended?
To explore this, we looked at LaGrange College graduates who made an impact in our local community in 2024.
While Troup County offers just one example, alumni are making a difference far beyond—touching lives across the globe. Their journeys from the Hill illustrate the lasting influence of a LaGrange College education.
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1 Physician of the Year
Dr. Joy Baker ’02, OB-GYN, is the recipient of WellStar West Georgia’s 2024 Physician of the Year Award, given annually to one physician as chosen by peers. Her distinction exemplifies the passion and investment in a community that LaGrange College alumni embody.
20 Under 40
Peter "P.T." Alford Jr. '20 is second generation as both a lawyer and a LaGrange College alumnus. In 2024, he received the distinction of being named to the LaGrange Daily News' exclusive "20 Under 40" list of the most influential young Troup County residents. He studied law at Mercer and now works at The Alford Law Group, but he credits his undergraduate years at LaGrange College for helping him thrive, specifically thanking professors Dr. Jeff Lukken and Dr. John Tures.
“These two professors played an integral role in
not only my college experience but also helped me
to become a better person outside of the classroom.
We are still in touch today, and they still lend
advice and a helping hand whenever they can.”
—From LaGrange Daily News, "20 Under 40"
Joining Alford in the 2024 "20 Under 40" were alumni Sarah Holden Jones '08, LC Associate Professor and Chair of Nursing, and Marius Truitt M'15, Ed.S'17, principal of Clearview Elementary School.
13 Teachers of the Year
Kathey Sandiford M'23, a teacher at Long Cane Elementary School in Troup County, was named the 2023-24 Elementary School Teacher of the Year for the county and was one of three finalists for the school system's top Teacher of the Year. She credits LC with her success.
the classroom, and that’s how I attempt to tailor my approach
for my students. Without my master’s from LaGrange College,
I wouldn’t have been doing what I am now,
something I truly love.”
Kathey is not alone in the accolades she has received. Altogether, 13 of Troup County's school-level Teachers of the Year for 2023-24 are LaGrange College alumni. The others are:
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Countless Opportunities
The impact of a LaGrange College education reaches far beyond the classroom—it transforms lives and strengthens communities. Our students are not only preparing for successful careers but also learning to lead with integrity and purpose. The alumni highlighted above are just a sample of the transformative impact that our graduates have. Their influence begins on campus and extends into the world, shaping the future in ways both seen and unseen.
By giving to the LaGrange College Fund, you empower these students to continue their journey of growth, service, and leadership. Your support provides scholarships, enhances academic programs, and fuels the life-changing experiences that define a LaGrange education.
Won't you invest in the next generation of changemakers? When you give to LaGrange College, you give to a brighter future for us all.