Toccoa Falls College Honors Retirees

Toccoa Falls, Ga. (May 27, 2026) – Toccoa Falls College recently honored several longtime faculty and staff members whose combined years of service span over a century and whose impact will continue to be felt far beyond campus.

Kelly Vickers has devoted 40 years to Toccoa Falls College as Registrar and truly leaves a legacy. His dedication to the betterment of the College is marked by faithful commitment. Known for his deep historical knowledge and steady presence, Mr. Vickers helped shape the Toccoa Falls community into what it is today.

Dr. Jon Penland served TFC for 26 years in the Global Ministries Department impacting countless lives of students. Respected scholar, leader and mentor, Penland earned two Ph.D.’s while maintaining excellence as dean and professor. After years of faithful service at TFC, Dr. Penland leaves a lasting impression of wisdom and Christ-centered leadership.

Vickie Nisewonder has been a steady and trusted presence at Toccoa Falls College for nearly 25 years. Known for her diligence and dedication to excellence, Vickie’s attention to detail has been the backbone of the Maintenance Department.

Attending TFC as a student, Katie Thorne became a full-time Resident Director in 2015 after graduating. She later became the Director of Housing and Resident Life and was named Vice President for Student Affairs in 2023. Katie will leave TFC having served hundreds of students with a caring spirit.

The legacy of these retiring faculty and staff members is woven into the story of Toccoa Falls College. Their years of dedication and service have left a lasting mark on the institution and all those they served.