David Chastain Board Member | Cobb County School District
David Chastain Board Member | Cobb County School District
Patria Brown, recognized as the 2024-2025 Outstanding Adult Learner of the Year by the Coalition on Adult Basic Education (COABE), embodies the transformative power of perseverance and education. Her story began with challenges, having undergone 19 surgeries by the age of nine due to physical disabilities. Despite leaving school in ninth grade to focus on family, Brown encouraged her children to graduate while nurturing her own educational aspirations. In 2022, she achieved her dream by earning a GED through Cobb’s Adult Education Center in eight months.
This prestigious award acknowledges adult learners overcoming significant obstacles while demonstrating leadership and inspiration. Brown received her award at the 2025 COABE National Conference in Dallas, Texas, where she was celebrated with a $2,000 prize for her outstanding contributions to adult education.
Previously honored as the Adult Education Student of the Year by the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG), Brown served as Georgia’s Dinah Culbreath Wayne EAGLE ambassador, promoting literacy and lifelong learning across the state. TCSG Commissioner Greg Dozier noted, “Patria’s success demonstrates the power of adult education and its impact not only on individual lives but on families and communities."
Currently, Brown pursues an associate degree in Business Management at Chattahoochee Technical College, with a future goal in real estate. Dr. Cayanna Good, TCSG Assistant Commissioner for Adult Education, stated, "Seeing her recognized on this national stage is truly an honor."
As a staff member of Cobb County's Adult Education program, Brown motivates others to follow in her footsteps. Dr. Ehsan Kattoula of Cobb County School District remarked, “Patria is now motivating others to follow in her footsteps and complete their GED through her inspiring story.”
Brown’s journey is a testament to the mission of adult education programs, aiming to provide access to education and training for meaningful careers and lifelong success. Her story continues to inspire adult learners across Georgia and beyond.
For more information on the Cobb County Adult Education Center, visit their website.
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