Valdosta State University Alumni Relations

05/30/2026

The Georgia Sigma chapter of Sigma Alpha Epsilon recently welcomed brothers from 1973–1983 back to Valdosta for a memorable reunion weekend. Around 100 brothers, spouses, and little sisters gathered to celebrate friendships, memories, and their shared VSU experience.

The Office of Alumni Relations is proud to support alumni gatherings like this and help create opportunities for Blazers to reconnect with one another and with campus.

Interested in planning a reunion or alumni gathering of your own? Reach out to [email protected] — we would love to help bring your group back together!

05/29/2026

Blazer Alumni Spotlight: Herb Reinhard ’12

We are proud to spotlight Herb Reinhard, a Blazer alumnus continuing to make an impact at the highest levels of collegiate athletics.

A 2012 graduate with a degree in Athletic Training, Herb recently joined the University of Tennessee as Senior Associate Director of Sports Medicine and head football athletic trainer. Looks like Rocky Top gained a Blazer!

Throughout his career, Herb has worked with several major collegiate football programs, including Wake Forest, East Carolina, Ole Miss, Troy, and the United States Military Academy at West Point. He also completed an internship with the Washington Redskins during the 2014 NFL season.

With years of experience in sports medicine, rehabilitation, and athlete performance, Herb continues to help support and care for student-athletes at the highest level of competition.

We love seeing Blazers making moves across college athletics. Congratulations, Herb!

05/27/2026

Blazer Owned Business Spotlight

This week we’re proud to highlight Only Options Valdosta, Perfect Settings, and R.L. Martin & Co - Valdosta, owned by Devan Martin (VSU Class of 2010, Langdale College of Business Administration) and Justin Martin (VSU Class of 2003, College of the Arts).

Together, these Valdosta staples offer something for everyone, from women’s fashion and accessories at Only Options, to bridal registry and gifts at Perfect Settings, to men’s suiting and sportswear at R. L. Martin. Their stores have become go-to destinations in the community for style, celebrations, and special moments.

Devan oversees the stores day-to-day and loves connecting with customers, planning seasonal events, and curating pieces for each shop. Justin, who also works as a financial advisor with South East Capital Investment Group, assists as a buyer for the men’s store and especially enjoys helping customers with custom suit fittings.

Passionate about Valdosta and supporting local businesses, Devan and Justin continue to make an impact through both their businesses and their involvement in the community.

Are you a Blazer who owns a business? Submit your business to the Blazer Owned Business Directory through the link below for a chance to be featured!
https://alumni.valdostastate.org/page/business-directory

05/26/2026

Congratulations to Meagan & Max Carter on their Blazer Baby!

Welcome to the world Asher Graham Carter, our newest Blazer Baby! 🔥👶

Born to proud parents Meagan & Max Carter, this little one's story is already deeply rooted in Blazer pride. Meagan completed both her undergraduate and master’s degrees in Speech Pathology at Valdosta State University, while Max earned his degree in Computer Information Systems. The two met during Meagan’s time in grad school—a Blazer connection that came full circle in the best way.

We’re proud to honor our partnership with VSU by highlighting born at SGMC Health. ❤️🖤

Got a future Blazer on the way? Share your story with us at the link in the comments!

05/25/2026

Today, we remember and honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. Their sacrifice and dedication will never be forgotten.

Valdosta State University will observe the Memorial Day holiday on Monday, May 25. Normal business operations will resume on May 26.

From all of us at Alumni Relations, we wish you a meaningful and safe Memorial Day.

05/23/2026

Blazer Nation!

The countdown to Homecoming 2026 is officially on! Mark your calendars for an unforgettable weekend as we celebrate all things VSU.

Homecoming Weekend
October 23–24, 2026

Friday, October 23
• VSU Alumni & Friends Golf Tournament
• Distinguished Alumni Dinner

Saturday, October 24
• President’s Tailgate: Homecoming Edition
• Homecoming Football Game & Festivities

We can’t wait to welcome you back to campus for a weekend full of Blazer pride, traditions, and memories. More information and event registration details coming soon!

05/22/2026

Blazer Alumni Spotlight: Jill Webb ’10

We’re proud to spotlight Jill Webb, a Valdosta State University alumna making a meaningful impact in mental health care.

Jill earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from VSU in 2010 and now serves as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at LifeStance Health. Since graduating, she has continued her education at Georgia College & State University, earning her master’s and post-master’s degrees and becoming double board certified as both a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

Jill is passionate about helping patients feel heard and understood, and she finds purpose in the profound impact quality mental health care can have on people’s lives. During her time at VSU, the College of Nursing and Health Sciences helped shape her strong work ethic, compassion, and commitment to making a difference.

While in nursing school, Jill faced her own health challenge after being diagnosed with epilepsy. With the support of VSU, she was able to return and continue her journey, an experience that further inspired her dedication to patient care.

Her advice to current students: find your “why” and let it drive you forward.

We’re proud to see Blazers turning their experiences into purpose.

05/20/2026

Blazer Owned Business Spotlight

This week we’re proud to highlight Vito’s Pizzeria , co-owned by Laura Yale (VSU Class of 2014, Interior Design – College of the Arts).

Originally opened in 2003 as Vito’s Rock ’n’ Roll Pizzeria & Lounge, the restaurant quickly became a local favorite with deep roots in Valdosta’s dining and music scene. After closing in 2011, the story didn’t end there. In 2024, Laura and her partners brought Vito’s back to life, honoring its legacy while creating a fresh, family-oriented atmosphere for a new generation to enjoy.

By combining their backgrounds in dining, facilities, and design, the team carefully rebuilt the experience from the ground up, staying true to the original menu and even bringing back the original pizza dough recipe. Laura also used her interior design expertise to shape the welcoming, community-centered space guests enjoy today.

In addition to Vito’s, Laura has expanded her impact on the local food scene with the opening of Fat Tony’s, offering soups, salads, and subs to the Valdosta community.

📣 Are you a Blazer who owns a business? Submit your business to the Blazer Owned Business Directory through the link below for a chance to be featured!
https://alumni.valdostastate.org/page/business-directory

05/19/2026

There’s still time to join us for one of our favorite alumni traditions, Blazers Back the Braves!

We’re heading to Truist Park on August 30 to watch the Atlanta Braves take on the Colorado Rockies, and we want YOU there with us!

From reconnecting with fellow alumni to enjoying great food, cool AC, and an exciting day at the ballpark, this is always a can’t-miss summer event.

Reserve your spot today:
https://alumni.valdostastate.org/e/2026-blazers-back-the-braves/

05/18/2026

Happy Monday from the newest Blazer Baby!

Welcome to the world, Cameron Johnson, our newest Blazer baby! 🔥👶

Proud parents Sara and CJ Johnson are celebrating their little one with a strong Blazer legacy. Sara is a two-time Valdosta State University graduate, earning degrees in both finance and accounting, following in the footsteps of her parents, Laura and Kevin Taylor who graduated back in 1990. Kevin also dedicated 26 years of service to VSU before retiring, so it’s safe to say school spirit runs deep in this family.

We’re proud to honor our partnership with VSU by highlighting born at SGMC Health. ❤️🖤

Got a future Blazer on the way? Share your story with us at the link in the comments!