Community mourns the loss of Dr. Anthony Parker

Dr. Parker was the longest serving president for Albany Technical College, taking on the position back in 1995.

ALBANY, Ga. – Many in the Good Life City were awoken Monday morning to the passing of longtime Albany Technical College President, Dr. Anthony Parker.

Dr. Parker was the longest serving president in the school’s history. According to Albany Tech, Dr. Parker passed early Monday morning saying, “…he will be missed for his mentorship, friendship, and leadership.”

Parker took on the role back in the mid 90s serving as president for more than 25 years. In a statement sent out Monday Albany Tech cited Parker’s top priority, the interests of his students. Dr. Parker was a leader in adult education, and helped graduating GED students shifts into a technical college program.

He was also the first technical college president to raise 1 million dollars in private funding in support of capital improvements at Albany Tech. South Georgia Television News Reporter Quinlan Parker caught up with Lorenzo Heard soon to be Dougherty County Commission chairman and friend of Dr. Parker about his passing.

“It’s heartbreaking news to hear about Dr. Parker. I had the privilege to talk with him recently, to hear his love for Albany Technical College, and his love of his students, and he contributions that he made.” said Heard.

Heard concurs with Albany Tech about Dr. Parker having a top priority for the interest of his students.

“Every student, he knew their whole story. Where they were from, the challenges they faced, the hurdles that they overcame.” said Heard.

When we recently spoke to Heard, he talked about bridging Albany Tech and Albany State together so that the City of Albany and Dougherty County could become more like a college town. Heard says although it will bring a challenge not having Dr. Parker here, the foundation he has already laid out will make it all possible.

Dr. Parker was 69-years-old. Final arrangements are pending that this time, and will pass them along as they are made available.

South Georgia Television News sends our sincerest condolences to Dr. Parker’s family, Albany Tech faculty, staff, students, and all those who knew and loved him.