UPDATE: Katie Lin Ortmeyer has been honored with the prestigious Fall 2025 President’s Award for Academic Excellence at Valdosta State University (VSU), a recognition that underscores her exceptional achievements in the College of Nursing and Health Sciences. This award is presented to high-performing graduates across VSU’s six colleges.
Ortmeyer will be celebrated for her remarkable accomplishments during VSU’s 240th Commencement ceremony, scheduled for 5 p.m. on December 13, 2025, on the Main Campus Front Lawn. Graduating summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences, her academic journey reflects dedication and hard work.
“I am profoundly appreciative of this award,” Ortmeyer stated. “Looking back on my time here, God’s guidance has been so evident in every moment. My college years are even richer because of my fantastic professors, friends, and family members. This award affirms that my time here was well worth it.”
As a Georgia HOPE Scholar and a seven-time Dean’s List honoree, Ortmeyer is recognized not only for her academic excellence but also for her deep commitment to community service. She played an active role at Northside Baptist Church, managing social media and graphic design for the Young Adult Ministry, while also volunteering for mission trips in Savannah and Boston. Her diverse contributions extend to leading youth groups and participating in the Night to Shine event, a Tim Tebow Foundation initiative, showcasing her passion for helping others.
Her dedication has earned her multiple scholarships, including the 2022 Colquitt EMC Scholarship and the 2022 Accepting the Challenge of Excellence (A.C.E.) Award. After graduation, Ortmeyer plans to pursue a Master of Health Science in Occupational Therapy at Augusta University’s College of Allied Health Sciences. She expressed her eagerness to serve future patients with dignity and empathy, stating, “Ultimately, my goal is to become an occupational therapist. I truly look forward to seeing where this career takes me.”
Ortmeyer’s journey has been supported by her family, including her mother, Kim Ortmeyer, father, Tim Ortmeyer, and brother, Jack Ortmeyer. Her story is not just about academic success; it is a testament to the power of community, faith, and perseverance.
As VSU prepares to honor Ortmeyer and her fellow graduates, the excitement surrounding the upcoming commencement underscores the impact of education and the bright futures that await these accomplished students. Stay tuned for more updates on this inspiring story.
