From left to right: ABAC President Tracy Brundage, Jenna Williams and Vice President of the ABAC Alumni Association Carrie Crabtree at the spring 2026 commencement ceremony.
TIFTON, Ga. — When Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College graduate Jenna Williams crossed the commencement stage in May, she did so as one of the institution’s most accomplished students.
Williams received ABAC’s prestigious David and Kim Bridges Award, presented annually to the graduating senior who exemplifies academic excellence, leadership and service. She graduated with a perfect 4.0 GPA, earning a bachelor’s degree in biology with a minor in business. This fall, she will begin medical school at Mercer University.
Williams also addressed graduates at both spring commencement ceremonies.
“Don’t be afraid of the wilderness,” Williams said during her commencement address. “Don’t be afraid of the unpaved life. The world doesn’t need more people who know how to follow a map.”
Throughout her four years at ABAC, Williams built an impressive record of academic achievement and campus leadership.
“Through the opportunities I’ve been given, serving in leadership roles, engaging in research and building meaningful relationships, I’ve discovered my passion for service and medicine,” Williams said. “ABAC didn’t just prepare me academically. It shaped who I am and gave me a strong foundation for the future I’m about to begin.”
Williams’ success in the classroom also translated into widespread interest from medical schools. She was accepted to every medical school to which she applied, an achievement that did not surprise Dr. Joseph Falcone, dean of ABAC’s School of Nursing, Health and Natural Sciences.
“Jenna was an exemplary student in the classroom and consistently demonstrated the intellectual curiosity, discipline and dedication necessary to succeed in a rigorous academic environment,” Falcone said. “Given her academic accomplishments, leadership and commitment to her future in medicine, it is no surprise that medical schools recognized her potential and viewed her so highly. Jenna has distinguished herself in every aspect of her time at ABAC, and I am confident she will continue to excel as she begins her medical education.”
A Douglas native and graduate of Citizens Christian Academy, Williams became involved on campus shortly after arriving in Tifton. She joined the ABAC Ambassadors in 2022, was elected president of the organization in 2023 and, in 2025, received the Michael D. Chason Ambassador of the Year Award.
“She leads with humility, inspires with her work ethic and uplifts everyone around her,” Assistant Director of Admissions Sunny Ross Sparrow said. “Her impact on this program and on ABAC will be felt for years to come.”
Williams has often credited the ABAC Ambassadors with influencing her decision to attend the college.
“On my campus tour, an ambassador skillfully brought me out of my shell and sparked my interest in the college, ultimately influencing my choice to enroll here,” Williams said.
Her leadership extended across campus. Williams was crowned Miss ABAC in 2024, served as vice president of the Student Government Association before being elected president in 2025, led the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society as president and was the captain of the Golden Girls dance team.
“Great leaders leave a lasting impression not because of the titles they hold, but because of the people they inspire,” ABAC President Dr. Tracy Brundage said. “Jenna Williams has been an extraordinary example of servant leadership throughout her time at ABAC. She has elevated every organization she has been part of, encouraged others to become involved and demonstrated what it means to lead with purpose and compassion. Her legacy will continue to influence our campus long after graduation, and we are incredibly proud to call her an ABAC alumna.”
In addition to her academic and leadership accomplishments, Williams graduated debt-free through scholarships.
“As someone who always planned to pursue education beyond a bachelor’s degree, graduating debt-free has been an incredible advantage,” Williams said. “It has allowed me to enter medical school focused on my education and future patients rather than being burdened by financial stress from my undergraduate years.”
Williams will receive additional financial support during medical school through the Nathan Deal Scholarship. The scholarship is awarded to approximately seven students each year and covers most tuition costs. The scholarship also requires recipients to participate in rural health research and leadership development activities and, after completing residency, practice full-time in an approved medically underserved rural Georgia county for four continuous years. The scholarship is another reflection of the academic excellence and leadership she demonstrated throughout her time at ABAC.
About ABAC
Founded in 1908, Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College provides a personalized, hands-on learning experience for students across Georgia and beyond. With a strong focus on academic excellence, affordability and student success, ABAC offers more than a dozen bachelor’s degrees and is recognized for its leadership in agriculture, business, humanities, nursing, science and education. ABAC serves as a vital resource for the region, preparing graduates who are ready to lead their communities and careers.
