Athens State University’s reach goes beyond the individual student. It extends to generation after generation, and Diane Hudson’s family is a testament to the legacy of this great institution of higher learning.
Hudson is a 1979 graduate from the College of Education. She earned her bachelors of science in education with a concentration in music. She went on to another institution to obtain a masters in specific learning disabilities in 1980. She earned an educational specialist degree in 1990, and in 1993 she earned a doctorate in instructional leadership. She devoted her career to education and inspiring others to pursue their goals.
During her successful career in education, Hudson served as a gifted education teacher, learning disabilities specialist, Director of the EAGLE Academy Alternative program, and spent 10 years at Athens State as a Professor in the College of Education. In 1995, she was offered a full-time secondary education professorship in the College of Education. Hudson received the honor of Outstanding Commitment to Teaching award in 2003. In 2004, Hudson retired from Athens State as a Distinguished Professor Emeritus. In 2012, Hudson was inducted to the Athens State Teach Society Hall of Fame. Throughout her education and career, she never missed an opportunity to give back. Hudson returned to Athens State for four years to serve on the Alumni Board of Directors.
As a student, Hudson was incredibly engaged on campus and received the Who’s Who award during the 1978-1979 academic year. The full schedule that Hudson maintained had purpose and direction because of her three children: Garrett W. Ennis, Romayne Ennis Soler, and Nathan Myles Ennis. Hudson’s children were toddlers when she completed her degree at Athens State.
Years after her own graduation, Hudson’s three children, daughter-in-law, and granddaughter have chosen to further their education at Athens State University. Hudson and her family represent three generations of Athens State graduates. Combined, she and her family hold seven different degrees from all three of the Athens State colleges: Arts and Sciences, Business, and Education.
Recently, the family gathered at Founders Hall to recall memories, classes, and even the rumored ghost stories of Athens State. Laughter filled Glasgow Parlor as Diane Hudson sat proudly listening to her children share about their memories. Each family member shared one word to describe Athens State University.
Diane Hudson: “Life-Changing”
College of Education, Class of 1979
Nathan Ennis, son: “Home”
College of Arts and Sciences, Class of 2000
Garrett Ennis, son: “Transformative”
College of Business, Class of 2001
Romayne Ennis Soler, daughter: “Tradition”
College of Business, Class of 2009
Angela Ennis, daughter-in-law: “Convenient”
College of Business, Class of 2014
Lindsey Soler Nelson, granddaughter: “Success”
College of Arts and Sciences, Class of 2022