Katie Lin Ortmeyer, a student from Valdosta, has been awarded the Fall 2025 President’s Award for Academic Excellence by the College of Nursing and Health Sciences at Valdosta State University (VSU). This prestigious accolade is presented to the top graduating student from each of VSU’s six colleges, recognizing outstanding academic performance.
The award ceremony will take place during VSU’s 240th Commencement on December 13, 2025, at 17:00 on the Main Campus Front Lawn. Ortmeyer is set to graduate summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences.
Reflecting on her achievement, Ortmeyer expressed her gratitude, stating, “Receiving this award feels unreal, and I am profoundly appreciative of it. Looking back on my time here, God’s guidance has been so evident in every moment.” She emphasized the importance of her professors, friends, and family in enriching her college experience, adding that the award validates her efforts at VSU.
Throughout her academic career, Ortmeyer demonstrated a commitment to excellence. As a Georgia HOPE Scholar, she has been recognized on the Dean’s List seven times, with an eighth recognition anticipated after graduation. Her dedication to community service is evident through her involvement with Northside Baptist Church, where she served as social media manager and graphic designer for the Young Adult Ministry. She also participated in mission trips to Savannah, Georgia, and Boston, Massachusetts, and volunteered for various church activities, including leading youth camps.
Her academic and service contributions earned her several scholarships, including the 2022 Colquitt EMC Scholarship and the James Eunice Legacy Scholarship. These honors reflect her commitment to both her studies and her community.
Looking ahead, Ortmeyer intends to pursue a Master of Health Science in Occupational Therapy at Augusta University’s College of Allied Health Sciences. She believes her experiences at VSU, both in academia and through her volunteer work, have equipped her with the skills necessary to serve her future patients with dignity and empathy. “Ultimately, my goal is to become an occupational therapist,” she stated. “I truly look forward to seeing where this career takes me.”
Ortmeyer’s family, including her parents Kim and Tim Ortmeyer, along with her brother Jack Ortmeyer, have been supportive throughout her academic journey, contributing to her success and achievements.
