Milledgeville, GA – When Malachi Dorns graduated in May he accomplished a historic first for Central Georgia Technical College’s (CGTC) Adult Education Division (AED); the first student to earn a high school equivalency diploma as a resident of Central State Hospital.
His achievement marks a powerful milestone in the College’s ongoing partnership with the mental health facility.
Dorns’ success is a testament to perseverance, commitment, and the transformative power of education. A student of CGTC’s Milledgeville/Baldwin County Adult Education classes, he began his educational journey eight years ago. From his earliest days attending classes, Dorns’ demonstrated an unwavering commitment to learning, gradually increasing his engagement through in-person and virtual instruction while overcoming personal challenges.
Through continued collaboration with the New Hope program of the hospital, Dorns transitioned to attending in-person classes more frequently at CGTC’s Milledgeville Campus. This shift allowed him to work directly with a team of instructors, including Lisa Thomas and Ashley Brenda, who recognized his potential and coordinated additional academic support. Kimberly Hicks-Grable, a site manager of the Baldwin County Adult Education program, closely supported his then faster-moving progress.
Each passing exam toward his credential brought increasing excitement. When the final exam score arrived, confirming he had officially graduated, it was a moment of collective pride and achievement from those closest to him.
“When he received his passing scores, I told him he now has the opportunity to do whatever you want to continue your education,” said Ashley Brenda, Adult Education Instructor at CGTC. “Malachi’s achievement inspires hope and highlights the importance of providing second chances and educational access to all individuals, regardless of circumstance.”
Dorns’ groundbreaking accomplishment stands as a testament to the power of education and the impact of accessible learning opportunities in nontraditional settings.
The collaboration between CGTC and Central State Hospital demonstrates the College’s commitment to community-based education, literacy, and its mission to deliver lifelong learning that transforms lives. The AED remains focused on equipping learners across Central Georgia with the skills they need to succeed and to reimagine their futures.
“This achievement serves as a beacon of what is possible when opportunity meets determination,” said Dr. Brittany Lucas, Vice President for the Adult Education Division at CGTC. “Mr. Downs’ success is not only a personal victory, but also a reminder that education can truly transform lives. We are proud of him and the partnership that made this milestone a reality.”
Dorns’ path has not been without difficulty. Originally from New York, he relocated to Georgia as a child, eventually settling in Milledgeville. While in high school, a misunderstanding involving a violation of school policy led to his expulsion, an event that coincided with the onset of a mental health diagnosis. Lacking continued access to treatment, his condition worsened, resulting in legal troubles and his eventual placement at Central State Hospital.
Despite these challenges, Dorns’ never lost hope. His dedication to self-improvement and education, coupled with the structured support of CGTC’s AED, paved the way for his graduation and a renewed sense of purpose.
When asked about his future, Dorns expressed a desire to pursue writing and creative work—interests reinforced by his teachers and mentors who have witnessed his talents in music, mechanical skills, and storytelling.
“It was a great opportunity—truly a once-in-a-lifetime chance to better myself and earn my diploma,” he said “Now, I’m just ready for the next step: getting out, finding a career, starting a family, building a life—and keeping God first every step of the way.”
Dorns’ success symbolizes personal triumph, but also opens the door for future students at Central State Hospital and similar institutions to pursue academic goals once thought out of reach.
For more information about CGTC’s Adult Education programs and initiatives, please visit www.centralgatech.edu or contact the Office of Adult Education at https://www.centralgatech.edu/adult-education/high-school-equivalency