I am extremely honored to have been named the 2024 Georgia Library Media Specialist of the Year by the Georgia Library Media Association. It still feels surreal, and I am in awe to have been given this distinction. Just being considered for the award among so many other amazing library media specialists makes this recognition beyond special. I feel so blessed to work in Georgia where we have so many talented and passionate library media specialists selflessly working to serve the literacy needs of our students.
I am thankful to our Georgia library media community and to my whole school library PLN for their support through the years. Being a part of the incredible community that is school librarians has allowed me to forge some very special forever friendships that I will cherish always. As library media specialists, we have a special bond. We support each other by freely sharing ideas and knowledge, by encouraging each other, and by celebrating each other. We are truly better together.
School libraries matter. School librarians matter. The work we do is important, so I will continue to advocate for school libraries and urge everyone to advocate for school libraries and school library programs for our students. Speak your support to your family, friends, neighbors and at school board meetings, in emails, and phone calls to your state representatives. Let our communities and community leaders know how much we love school libraries and why they are essential. Thank you all for your incredible support! 
