Georg Curnutt is at Southwestern College and hungry to learn. It beats being homeless and just plain hungry.
Curnutt, 45, an international business management major, has faced down the worst life can throw at a man and has persevered to earn the respect of his professors and peers. For his courage and dedication to learning, Curnutt was presented with the National Spirit Award.
While too many SWC students stumble around, complain or give little effort, Curnutt said he is grateful for every minute at SWC. An injured military veteran with multiple disabilities, anxiety and a brain disorder, Curnutt has not let misfortune stop him.
And he has seen misfortune.
While homeless and living at a boat ramp near Sea World, Curnutt was badly injured and knocked unconscious. A week later he woke up in a hospital in terrible pain with a severe head injury. Hospital staff said he was in no condition to think about attending school, but that did not stop him. After a brief stint in a crisis home, he "escaped" to attend classes at SWC.
Curnutt was told he was not capable of doing anything and should just kill himself. That he said, gave him inspiration to make a better life.
Curnutt said he is supported by "upright" people and at SWC, especially his friends on the debate team, whom he considers family.
SWC staff members describe Curnutt as a positive person who is looking ahead.
"Georg has a remarkable enthusiasm for learning," said business professor Elisabeth Shapiro. "He has an attitude of gratitude about the faculty and staff at Southwestern College."
Curnutt is a teacher too, said Gail Stockin, professor of business.
"Students can learn a lot from Georg," she said. "True grit, determination despite devastating circumstances, the ability to speak out about his situation in order for others to step up to the plate to help him."
Curnutt said SWC is a world of love and intelligence. He said he enjoys participating on the debate team and making music. He considers himself a true "punk rocker."
"I do not watch TV, listen to the radio or even play other peoples music," he said. "I make my own."
Curnutt said his professors guide him toward a more healthy and productive life.
"I can leave the bad behind me being at SWC and learning from the best," he said. "I would be starved to death already a long time ago if not for my school.
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