Seven distinguished graduates were recognized Tuesday evening as the Putnam County School District celebrated the Product of Putnam Class of 2026 during a reception at The River Center in downtown Palatka.
Established in 2019, the Product of Putnam Award honors graduates whose achievements, leadership, and service reflect the lasting impact of a Putnam County education. Honorees are nominated by community members and selected by representatives from the Putnam County School District, the Palatka Daily News, and the Putnam County Chamber of Commerce.
The annual recognition program celebrates alumni who have excelled in their professions while making meaningful contributions to their communities.
During the reception, Superintendent Dr. Rick Surrency reflected on the significance of the award and the powerful connection each honoree shares.
"Every Product of Putnam began as a graduate of the Putnam County School District," Surrency said. "Their stories have unfolded differently, but all began with the same opportunity to learn, grow, and dream. Today, they serve as examples of what is possible for the students sitting in our classrooms."
The 2026 Product of Putnam Honorees represent a broad range of professions, experiences, and accomplishments, yet each shares a commitment to service, leadership, and making a difference in the lives of others.
Agriculture: Jerry Mullins
A 1982 graduate of Interlachen High School, Jerry Mullins has spent his career advancing the agricultural industry while investing in future generations.
As owner of Gulf Coast Cattle, Mullins has become a respected leader in the cattle industry, helping improve operations across the country while maintaining a deep commitment to youth development. Throughout his career, he has coached multiple state and national championship livestock judging teams and has served as a mentor to countless FFA and 4-H students.
One nominator described Mullins as someone who has "sold hundreds, if not thousands, of show cattle" while continuing to volunteer his time and expertise to students pursuing careers in agriculture.
His influence extends far beyond the cattle industry. Through mentorship, employment opportunities, and hands-on learning experiences, Mullins has helped shape the next generation of agricultural leaders.
Business: Charlie Douglas
A 2000 graduate and valedictorian of Palatka High School, Charlie Douglas has dedicated his career to serving and strengthening the community he calls home.
As Managing Partner of Douglas Law Firm, Douglas has built one of the region's most respected legal practices. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he has invested heavily in community development, local businesses, historic preservation, and civic engagement throughout Putnam County.
Nominators praised Douglas for his commitment to improving the quality of life in the community and his willingness to support projects that create opportunities for future generations.
One nominator wrote that Douglas is "not only a graduate of Putnam County schools—he is a steward of its history, a champion of its present, and a builder of its future."
Community Service: Luz Guerrero
A 1997 graduate of Crescent City High School, Luz Guerrero has spent more than two decades serving students and families throughout Putnam County.
Currently serving as an instructional coach with the Putnam County School District, Guerrero has dedicated her career to helping students succeed both academically and personally.
Outside of her professional responsibilities, she co-founded Aspire and Inspire Youth Development and has helped lead initiatives focused on mentorship, literacy, leadership development, and community engagement.
Known for her compassion and commitment to helping others, Guerrero has become a trusted mentor and advocate for young people throughout the community.
One nomination described her dedication as "a work of heart."
Education: Joe H. Pickens
A 1976 graduate of Crescent City High School, Joe Pickens has spent a lifetime expanding educational opportunities for students across Northeast Florida.
After returning to Putnam County as an attorney, Pickens served in the Florida House of Representatives before becoming President of St. Johns River State College in 2008.
Under his leadership, the college transitioned from a community college to a state college, expanded bachelor's degree offerings, strengthened workforce training programs, increased dual enrollment opportunities, and completed significant campus improvements.
Although Pickens was unable to attend the ceremony due to a family emergency, his impact on education was celebrated throughout the evening.
One nominator noted that countless students have benefited from opportunities created through Pickens' leadership, describing him as someone whose work has helped shape the future of education across the region.
Healthcare: Brandi Traxler
A 2005 graduate of Interlachen High School, Brandi Traxler has established herself as a respected healthcare leader dedicated to serving patients and families with compassion and excellence.
As Director of Nursing Operations at HCA Florida Putnam, Traxler leads clinical teams while focusing on patient safety, quality care, and professional development.
Her leadership extends beyond hospital operations. Through mentoring staff and developing future healthcare leaders, she continues to strengthen healthcare services for the entire community.
Nominators highlighted her commitment to patient-centered care and her ability to lead with both professionalism and compassion.
One nomination praised her for consistently going above and beyond to ensure patients receive exceptional care.
Industrial Manufacturing: Delton D. Nealy, Sr.
A 1994 graduate of Palatka High School, Delton D. Nealy, Sr. exemplifies leadership both in the workplace and throughout the community.
With more than two decades of service at Georgia-Pacific, Nealy has earned the respect of colleagues through his dedication, professionalism, and commitment to excellence. A graduate of St. Johns River State College's Engineering Technology Program, he has continued to grow as both a leader and mentor throughout his career.
Outside of work, Nealy serves as a minister, mentor, coach, and community leader, investing his time and talents in helping others achieve personal and professional success.
One nominator described Nealy as someone who embodies "the values of character, dedication, and service" and praised his commitment to strengthening the community through leadership and mentorship.
Public Service: Jarvis F. Wright, Sr.
A 2007 graduate of Palatka High School, Jarvis F. Wright, Sr. has devoted his life to serving others.
His work spans education, ministry, mentorship, healthcare, and community leadership. Wright serves as a Student Life Skills and College Success Instructor at St. Johns River State College, Pastor of New Saint Paul Church, Associate Pastor of Mt. Tabor Baptist Church, President of the Central Putnam Ministerial Fellowship, mentor through Take Stock in Children, and hospital chaplain.
Through each role, Wright has remained committed to helping others overcome challenges, discover opportunities, and reach their full potential.
One nominator wrote, "Some people leave their hometown to find purpose—Jarvis Wright chose to stay and serve with purpose."
Another described him as someone who doesn't simply contribute to the community but helps strengthen its foundation.
As the evening concluded, the seven honorees gathered for a group photograph, joining a growing list of distinguished graduates recognized through the Product of Putnam program.
"Their success is measured not only by professional accomplishments, but by the lives they have touched and the communities they have strengthened," Surrency said. "Each honoree reminds us that leadership can take many forms and that there is no single path to success."
The district extends its appreciation to Douglas Law Firm and Georgia-Pacific for sponsoring the reception and to the Putnam County Chamber of Commerce and the Palatka Daily News for their partnership in the nomination and selection process.
Congratulations to the Product of Putnam Class of 2026.
To view photos from the event and learn more about the Product of Putnam program, visit the Product of Putnam webpage: https://www.putnamschools.org/page/product-of-putnam
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