The Georgia Forestry Foundation (GFF), in partnership with Huber Engineered Woods, is proud to recognize 36-year agriculture education veteran, Richard Gill of Brantley County High School in Nahunta, Georgia, as the 2025 Georgia Forestry Teacher of the Year.

This prestigious award honors a Georgia classroom educator who has demonstrated exceptional dedication in teaching students about the importance of Georgia’s forests to our environment, economy and our heritage. Providing $41.3 billion in annual economic impact and more than 143,000 good paying jobs, Georgia is ranked as the number one forestry state in the nation, leading all other states in commercially available timberland, annual harvest volume, forest product exports and tree planting.

“It’s a true honor for me to be recognized with this award,” said Richard Gill, Brantley County High School Teacher and recipient of the 2025 Georgia Forestry Teacher of the Year Award. “Forestry is my passion, and I love nothing more than sharing it with others. My goal is for students to have a deep appreciation for and understanding of the important role the forestry and natural resources industries play in our daily lives.”

Gill was recognized for his achievement at the annual Georgia Forestry Association (GFA) 2025 Annual Conference and Forestry Expo, which was held July 25-27 at the Jekyll Island Convention Center. Attendees, which included over 700 GFA members and stakeholders who work in all parts of the forestry supply chain, celebrated his contributions to forestry education and recognized his role in shaping the future of forestry in Georgia.

"Mr. Gill’s interactive teaching methods provide valuable and engaging opportunities for students to immerse themselves in forestry,” said Matt Hestad, senior vice president of the Georgia Forestry Association and Foundation. “He works hard to connect his students directly to Georgia's forestry industry - through partnerships with local landowners and forest-products companies, giving students hands-on skills and exposure to real careers. Many of Richard's graduates go on to pursue forestry degrees and careers - a testament to the influence of great teaching on the future of our industry.” 

“Huber understands the importance of industry partnerships in supporting education and we are pleased to sponsor the Georgia Forestry Teacher of the Year Award, stated John Mullis, wood procurement manager, Huber Engineered Woods. “We congratulate Mr. Richard Gill for his commitment and tireless efforts to create a passion for forestry in the next generation.”

The Forestry Teacher of the Year award highlights the critical work being done by educators across the state to foster a deeper understanding of forestry among students. This award, sponsored by Huber Engineered Woods, recognizes the accomplishments of educators who most effectively communicate the significance of and our connection to Georgia’s 22 million acres of working forests. Applications for agriculture teachers open in the spring. More information can be found at https://gffgrow.org/toty.