Katie Lin Ortmeyer, a dedicated 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 award recognizes high-achieving graduating students across VSU’s six colleges, including the Harley Langdale Jr. College of Business Administration and the College of the Arts.
Ortmeyer will be honored during VSU’s 240th Commencement ceremony on December 13, 2025, at 17:00 on the Main Campus Front Lawn. She is set to graduate summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences.
Reflecting on her achievement, Ortmeyer expressed her gratitude: “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.” Her appreciation extends to the supportive environment provided by professors, friends, and family during her academic journey.
Throughout her time at VSU, Ortmeyer has consistently demonstrated academic excellence. She is a Georgia HOPE Scholar and has made the Dean’s List seven times, with an eighth recognition anticipated following graduation. Beyond her academic achievements, she has actively engaged in her community through various roles at Northside Baptist Church, including serving as the social media manager for the Young Adult Ministry and leading mission trips to Savannah and Boston.
Her commitment to community service is further highlighted by her involvement in the Vacation Bible School for the Children’s Ministry and as a leader for the Youth Ministry’s summer camp. Additionally, she volunteered for the annual Night to Shine event, organized by the Tim Tebow Foundation.
Ortmeyer’s distinguished accomplishments have earned her multiple scholarships and awards, including the 2022 Colquitt EMC Scholarship, the Accepting the Challenge of Excellence (A.C.E.) Award, the R. Wayne “Bubba” Alexander Memorial Scholarship, and the James Eunice Legacy Scholarship.
Looking ahead, Ortmeyer plans 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 academically and through community service, have prepared her well for her future career. “Ultimately, my goal is to become an occupational therapist,” she stated. “I truly look forward to seeing where this career takes me.”
Ortmeyer credits her family for their unwavering support throughout her educational journey. She is particularly thankful for her parents, Kim and Tim Ortmeyer, and her brother, Jack Ortmeyer, who have encouraged her every step of the way.