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Several Georgia State Park and Historic Site employees were honored recently during the annual Managers Conference, with many recognized for their dedication following Hurricane Helene. Accomplishments include storm debris removal, protecting historic structures, leading outstanding ranger programs, customer service excellence and more. The awards ceremony celebrated those who make more than 60 State Parks and Historic Sites outstanding destinations across Georgia. Managers also attended training sessions and shared ideas on park operations within the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Below are this year’s award winners.
Group Photo, left to right: Director Angie Johnson, Todd Gibson, MJ Wardingley, Curtis Glass, Jeri Nokes, Royce Johnson, MiKayla Spencer, Chris Lockwood, Lauren Bryant, Morgan Attaway, Suzanne Passmore, Angela McAtee, DNR Commissioner Walter Rabon
Henry Struble Manager-of-the-Year Award
MiKayla Spencer, General Coffee State Park, Nicholls
Park Manager MiKayla Spencer showed exemplary leadership following last September’s Hurricane Helene. General Coffee was among the most damaged Georgia State Parks, yet it re-opened in just four months, much sooner than expected. Spencer quickly led her team in storm debris removal, caring for the park’s farm animals, and using creative solutions for operational challenges such as installing water valves to bypass leaks. She showed exceptional servant leadership by creating an onsite food bank and support space for her staff, boosting morale amid personal hardships. Her dedication and determination continue as General Coffee addresses ongoing storm impacts. For these reasons, she has earned the award named for one of Georgia’s most influential state park directors.
Most Outstanding Site Operation Award
Skidaway Island State Park, Savannah
This award honors a site which excels in customer service, ranger programs, personnel and resource management, fiscal accountability, housekeeping and maintenance. Under the leadership of Manager Jeri Nokes, Skidaway Island State Park has maintained outstanding operations despite staffing challenges while being one of Georgia’s most popular state parks. Skidaway Island is a leader in Junior Ranger Camp programming and shows high standards of customer service. Nokes’ collaborative approach ensures smooth park functions, and her efforts reflect exceptional leadership, teamwork and consistent operational excellence.
Customer Service Award
Royce Johnson, Manager of Jack Hill State Park, Reidsville
Jack Hill State Park Manager Royce Johnson exemplifies DNR’s “We Serve” motto through strong leadership, mentorship and team building. His dedication helps develop future park leaders, fosters a positive work environment and maintains high standards in golf operations and facility cleanliness. During Hurricane Helene, Johnson went above and beyond by hosting DNR response teams, managing cottage turnovers and coordinating daily meals. He also transformed the park’s group shelter into a hub for supplies and community resources, ensuring staff and their families were supported. His actions reflect a deep commitment to both operational excellence and internal team care.
Natural Resource Enhancement Award
George L. Smith State Park, Twin City
This small park in Emanual County was significantly damaged by Hurricane Helene in September 2024. Park Manager Morgan Attaway and Maintenance Ranger Keith Lumpkin manually raised all 16 gates on the park’s dam, preserving the historic mill and covered bridge. Following the 500-year flood, their team cleared extensive storm debris to quickly reopen trails. They also supported a prescribed fire, plus timber clearing to improve future forest management. Their efforts have ensured that George L. Smith State Park remains a popular destination for camping, kayaking, photography and fishing.
Cultural Resource Enhancement Award
Magnolia Springs State Park, Millen
Part of Magnolia Springs State Park includes land that was once a Civil War prison even larger than Andersonville. Its Camp Lawton History Trail was significantly damaged by Hurricane Helene last fall. The storm toppled 20 large trees, damaging historic breastworks. Park staff partnered with Georgia Southern University’s archaeology department to survey the site before restoration began. They oversaw the removal of trees and root balls, as well as debris burns. Their detailed, collaborative approach ensured the preservation of this culturally significant site.
Best Year-Round Programming Award
Kolomoki Mounds State Park, Blakely
Kolomoki Mounds State Park protects the oldest and largest Woodland Indian site in the Southeast, occupied by Native Americans from 350 to 900 C.E. With the recent addition of Naturalist Paige Love, the park offered more than 400 programs for more than 10,300 visitors. This was a significant increase over the 65 programs offered the previous year. One standout success was a sunset hike to the top of the tallest mound, drawing more than 500 attendees. The park also collaborated with groups like Georgia Native Plant Society and Quail Forever to host programs.
Retail of the Year Award
Victoria Bryant State Park, Royston
Victoria Bryant is a small state park that does not get as much visitation as more well-known destinations in northeast Georgia. As a result, gift shop sales are important to their budget, despite having a small area to display items. Park staff reconfigured workspaces to open up the visitor center and improve traffic flow. As a result, they were able to add more souvenirs and Georgia Grown products to their gift shop and increase sales.
Outstanding Golf Course of the Year Award
Arrowhead Pointe Golf Course, Richard B. Russell State Park, Elberton
Arrowhead Pointe Golf Course at Richard B. Russell State Park had an exceptional year, hosting major events like the Georgia High School Association Regional and State Championships and the Georgia State Parks Golf Cup. Under the enthusiastic leadership of new course manager MJ Wardingley, the number of annual rounds increased by more than 1,000, and Stay & Play packages were booked more than 100 times. Arrowhead Pointe was ranked #2 public course in Georgia by NBC Golf Pass and #8 best public course nationally by USA Today. Congressman Buddy Carter also honored Arrowhead Pointe in the Congressional Record for its impact on tourism and community well-being.
Above and Beyond Award
Chris Lockwood, SAM Shortline Excursion Train, Cordele
Chris Lockwood manages a unique attraction that rolls through southern Georgia communities of Cordele, Americus, Leslie and Plains. More than just transportation, the SAM Shortline Excursion Train offers unforgettable experiences that blend entertainment with heritage, such as Murder Mystery dinners, holiday-themed rides, and visits to the burial sites of President Jimmy and First Lady Rosalynn Carter. Hosting popular events like Day Out with Thomas and the Cordele Holiday Train, this “rolling state park” attracts thousands annually. Lockwood’s leadership helps the train make a deep community impact, turning every ride into a meaningful journey through Georgia’s rich history and culture.
Above and Beyond Award
Suzanne Passmore, Region 4 Manager
As a region manager, Suzanne Passmore guides employees in becoming better rangers, leaders, historians and land stewards. She serves as a DNR chaplain, offering compassion and steady leadership during difficult times. One of those was Hurricane Helene, where she delivered chainsaws, fuel and groceries to field staff – all while her own home was without power longer than most other homes. Passmore is a selfless servant leader, known for her high standards and integrity.
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