51³Ô¹ÏÍø

Susan Smith, associate director of operations and technology for the University of North Georgia (51³Ô¹ÏÍø) financial aid office, received the Donald E. Payton Award for Lifetime Achievement.

Given by the Executive Board of the Georgia Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (GASFAA) at its June 1-3 annual conference, the award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated lifelong significant and consistent contributions as members of GASFAA, a high level of competency in student financial aid, and leadership in the community and institutional affairs. Smith is one of only 17 recipients since the award was first given in 1988.

"Susan is hard-working. She helps everyone within the state with any Banner issue they might have," Jill Rayner, 51³Ô¹ÏÍø director of financial aid, said. "She is known across the state for her technical expertise. Susan can take a complicated process and break it down so others can learn."

Receiving the Donald E. Payton Award for Lifetime Achievement is both exciting and humbling, Smith said.

"To be recognized by your peers for being an integral part of an organization from which you have found immeasurable joy is truly amazing," she said.

Smith's 32-year career with 51³Ô¹ÏÍø began as an instructor of mathematics in Gainesville. During her tenure as an instructor, she also worked with Institutional Research. Smith taught for more than 13 years before being named the interim director of financial aid in 2004 and director of financial aid at Gainesville State College from 2005-2012.

Additionally, David McMillion, associate director of financial aid at 51³Ô¹ÏÍø, was elected president of GASFAA for the 2022-23 academic year.