Newton County Schools (NCS) proudly recognized Piedmont Newton as its 2026 Partner of the Year during the district’s annual Partners in Education Celebration and Chamber of Commerce Coffee Call held Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at Newton College & Career Academy (NCCA).
The award honors one outstanding business or organization each year for demonstrating exceptional commitment, support, and partnership with Newton County Schools and its students.
Piedmont Newton, a longstanding partner of Newton College & Career Academy since the school first opened its doors, was selected for its extraordinary and sustained investment in students, career development opportunities, and workforce readiness initiatives.
“This partnership represents what happens when education and industry come together with a shared purpose,” said Superintendent Dr. Duke Bradley, III. “Piedmont Newton has gone far beyond simply supporting a school. They have created opportunities for students to explore careers, gain hands-on experience, develop employability skills, and build a future right here in Newton County.”
One of the most impactful aspects of the partnership is Piedmont Newton’s Summer Junior Volunteer Program, which introduces students to careers in healthcare through hands-on experiences and mentorship opportunities. Students who complete the program are then eligible to participate in internships and Work-Based Learning opportunities during the school year.
The partnership has helped create a sustainable pipeline of future healthcare professionals, with students gaining exposure to a wide variety of career pathways and departments including imaging, infusion services, respiratory therapy, surgical services, pharmacy, labor and delivery, emergency services, women’s diagnostics, NICU, wound care, and more.
Students also benefit from hospital tours and biotechnology-focused experiences that align directly with STEM and CTAE curriculum pathways.
“It is truly an honor to partner with Newton College & Career Academy to open doors for students and help them envision meaningful futures in healthcare—right here in the community they call home,” said Lindsey Petrini, chief executive officer of Piedmont Newton Hospital. “Their curiosity, energy and compassion inspire us every day. We are proud to invest in these emerging professionals and look forward to welcoming many of our Junior Volunteers and Work-Based Learners back to Piedmont Newton as colleagues who will shape the future of care and make a positive difference in every life they touch.”
According to NCCA Principal Chad Walker, Piedmont Newton’s involvement has had a transformational impact on students and programs alike.
“Piedmont Newton has been an incredible partner since the very beginning of Newton College & Career Academy,” said Walker. “Their staff members are consistently present in our building helping to create learning experiences that simply would not be possible otherwise. Because of this partnership, we have seen growth in our healthcare pathway programs, increased numbers of students earning CNA certifications, and more students pursuing careers that directly impact the wellbeing of our community.”
In addition to internships, job shadowing opportunities, classroom speakers, mentorship, and externships for teachers, Piedmont Newton also supports students through scholarships and community engagement initiatives. What once began as two annual scholarships has now expanded to ten $1,500 scholarships for students pursuing future educational and career goals.
The organization also actively participates in the school’s College and Career Expo, annual networking luncheon, Lunch and Learn sessions, healthcare advisory committee, and HOSA blood drives—initiatives that not only provide valuable experiences for students, but also directly benefit the broader community.
Debbie Harper, President of the Newton County Chamber of Commerce, praised Piedmont Newton for its leadership and commitment to education.
“Piedmont Newton exemplifies the very best of partnership in education,” said Harper. “Their investment in students is impactful and community-focused. They are not only helping students prepare for future careers, but they are also helping address workforce needs right here in Newton County. We are incredibly proud to celebrate them as the 2026 Partner of the Year.”