My name is Cameron Hutchins, and I currently serve as the Principal at Buford Senior Academy. As a fifth-generation Buford resident and graduate, I have lived in this town my entire life and am thankful for the traditions and people that make this place home. I graduated from Buford High School in 2009, where I was on the wrestling team all four years and an active member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. I obtained a bachelor’s degree in Middle-Level Education from the University of Georgia, a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Georgia Southern, and a specialist degree in Educational Leadership from the University of North Georgia. My wife, Nicole, and I attend Christ Place Church and love serving in the three-year-old preschool class on Sundays. Outside of work, I enjoy being in the outdoors, cheering on the Wolves or Dawgs, and spending time with family and friends.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
My wife, Nicole, is a NICU nurse at Northeast Georgia Hospital in Gainesville. We have a precious two year old daughter, Piper, and a 6 year old Vizsla named Emmy.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I have been in education since 2014. I was an 8th-grade science teacher for seven years and also coached wrestling, cross-country, bass-fishing, and lacrosse during that time. I moved into administration at Buford Middle School for two years, then transitioned to BSA in 2023. The great teachers, coaches, and mentors I had in high school such as David Snell, Lisa Cole, Gary McCroskey, Bobby Nix and many others, inspired me to pursue my passion for making a difference in the life of students and people. I believe education is a calling and God has placed me exactly where I need to be in order to serve students, teachers, and the Buford community. Each day is an opportunity to influence and inspire and that’s my mission in education.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Rico’s, Bare Bones Steakhouse, and Bravo.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I’ve been here all my life, 33 years.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
It’s hard to name just one. Growing up and still being here, I’ve met a lot of folks so it’s hard to single one out. I enjoy meeting and talking to people, hearing their stories and passions.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
New Zealand. It’s always attracted me with it’s beautiful beaches and views of the Southern Alps.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
Movie: Top Gun; TV Show: Suits
Q: What advice would you give to people?
The Golden Rule: In everything, do to others as you would have them do to you.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
I would love to take an upland bird hunting road trip for 3-4 weeks through South Dakota, Montana, Idaho, and Oregon.
Q: What is your go to band when you can’t decide what to listen to?
NEEDTOBREATHE, Eric Church, George Strait
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
People’s Bank. It has served the community for 40 years and I love that you’re not just another person, but that they know their customers personally. That’s what makes Buford a special place and I’m thankful for their commitment to our community.
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
Tim Tebow or Jocko Willink. Having lunch with either one of these two would be filled with great conversation and lots of wisdom. Tim Tebow is an icon for having a passion to serve and love others well. Jocko brings a unique perspective on how to lead with humility and discipline from his time in the SEALs.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
In Buford, it is the people who give it a distinctive and extraordinary character, primarily because of the powerful sense of community that unites us. Whether new or old, we are all dedicated to achieving excellence, and I believe that is what sets us apart from others.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
My goal and prayer is to still be living in Buford, raising my family, and serving the community through school leadership.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I trained my dog to achieve the title of AKC Master Hunter by the time she turned 3 years old. This feat required us to conquer thirteen demanding hunt tests, ranging from the Junior to Master level, with a mere two failures along the way. This journey included trips across Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. Now, I enjoy taking her on hunting trips where she gets to do what she loves while creating memories with friends and family.
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
Tulum, Mexico
Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
Month: November Holiday: Christmas Single Day: June 8th
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
A Great American Cookie Double Doozie
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My faith in Christ is the foundation for who I am. What He did for me fuels my passion and purpose to love, lead, and serve others.
Q: What is one or two of your favorite smells?
Campfire and Fresh Cut Grass
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Family. Comfort. Love.