Deana Williams, a 1988 graduate of Mountain Gateway Community College, has been named the recipient of the 2025 Distinguished Alumni Award. A longtime elementary school teacher and advocate for student success, Williams will be honored and serve as the featured speaker during MGCC’s commencement ceremony on May 9.

Deana Williams Named MGCC’s 2025 Distinguished Alumni Award Recipient To Be Featured Speaker at Commencement   Clifton Forge, VA (April 29, 2025) — Mountain Gateway Community College (MGCC) is proud to announce that Deana Williams, a 1988 graduate of the college, has been named the recipient of the 2025 Distinguished Alumni Award. Williams will be recognized during the college’s commencement ceremony on Friday, May 9, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. in the Convocation Center on the Clifton Forge campus, where she will also serve as the featured speaker. Williams, who began her academic journey at MGCC—then Dabney S. Lancaster Community College—has dedicated over 26 years to inspiring and educating young minds as an elementary school teacher. Currently teaching at Mountain View Elementary School, she is widely recognized for her unwavering commitment to student success, her creative and engaging instructional methods, and her deep compassion for children. "Deana Williams embodies the values of Mountain Gateway Community College—service, lifelong learning, and community impact,” said Dr. John Rainone, MGCC President. “Her legacy as an educator reflects not only her professional excellence but also the power of education to transform lives.” Throughout her career, Williams has consistently gone above and beyond the call of duty—developing innovative lesson plans, creating a nurturing and inclusive classroom environment, and mentoring both students and fellow educators. Her influence extends far beyond her classroom, where she is known as a leader and advocate for student-centered initiatives. Williams earned her bachelor’s degree in education from Concord College in 1990. Her passion for teaching and commitment to enriching her community has made her a respected figure in local education and a role model for future teachers. The Distinguished Alumni Award recognizes former students of MGCC who have achieved notable distinction in their fields and made significant contributions to society. Williams’ selection for this year’s award honors not only her professional achievements but also the enduring impact of educators who dedicate their lives to shaping future generations. For more information about commencement, please visit mgcc.edu/commencement. About MGCC's Distinguished Alumni Award Established in 2017, this prestigious award recognizes MGCC alumni who have realized exemplary distinction in their professions and honors all those at the College who have assisted them on the path to success, ultimately enabling them to enrich their communities.

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