South Georgia Technical College (SGTC) faculty and staff gathered in the Pope Center recently for a full day of professional development, featuring keynote speaker Dr. Karah Sprouse, who led an engaging workshop on understanding and communicating across generations—especially with Gen Z students.
Katrice Martin, SGTC Director of Institutional Effectiveness and Grants Coordinator, introduced Dr. Sprouse, describing her as a dynamic speaker she had previously heard at a national conference.
“I think you all will enjoy this,” Martin said. “It gave me a lot of insight into some of the things that younger generations do that we may not understand.”
Dr. Sprouse’s keynote took participants on a humorous and thought-provoking “stroll down memory lane,” using nostalgic images—like 8-track tapes, VCRs, and smart phones—to illustrate the generational divide in workplace communication and expectations.
Sprouse, a Generational Engagement Consultant and also an Assistant Professor of Business at Cumberland University, encouraged attendees to view generational traits not as labels, but as lenses for better understanding.
“Connection equals credibility for Gen Z,” Sprouse said. “They want to be seen, heard, and supported—not just checked up on, but checked in with.”
Using extensive research from interviews with multigenerational workplace teams, Sprouse highlighted key differences in communication, leadership expectations, collaboration, and conflict management between Gen Z and their older colleagues. She urged SGTC employees to build rapport and create personal connections to better engage today’s students.
“Sometimes formality is mistaken for inauthenticity,” she said. “Gen Z values transparency and sincerity.”
Sprouse’s workshop included group discussions, real-world examples, and practical strategies for fostering connection, offering constructive feedback, and motivating students who have grown up in a rapidly changing digital environment.
In the afternoon, SGTC hosted a Lunch and Learn featuring LaPaul Shelton with TRANSFR, who demonstrated virtual reality tools for education and workforce development. The day wrapped up with a session on AI tools for educators led by Heidi Goodin and Tonya Barrett of Chattahoochee-Flint RESA, followed by updates from Human Resources, Academic Affairs, and information on upcoming SACSCOC and QEP initiatives.
The event provided valuable insights and tools for instructors and staff to better connect with SGTC’s diverse student population and kick off the new academic year with renewed focus.
South Georgia Technical College is creating opportunities for every generation with over 200 program options leading to an associate degree, diploma or technical certificate of credit. Apply for admission online at www.southgatech.edu and get started on a path to a rewarding career.