Festivities also included two special recognitions and a presentation by former MSCC student and current Richland Elementary School teacher Takelia Carter.
During his opening remarks, MSCC President Dr. Glen Fenter described the Scholarship Luncheon experience as “one of the most powerful ones that we have on campus on a regular basis. It gives our students an opportunity to thank people who have essentially changed the course of their lives.”
“In today’s economy in this world, finding the resources to attend college is becoming more and more of a challenge. And for our students, in almost every instance, the money that you are providing them, the support that you’re giving them, and the opportunity that you are creating for them is a life-changing occurrence.”
“Phillip left a great mark on this community, so we are certainly honored that his family has chosen to touch this institution with this endowed scholarship,” Dr. Fenter said. “Mike had a strong belief that everyone deserved an opportunity to access educational programming, and it is a great honor for our institution to have this endowed chair.”
Patti Coleman, MSCC director of Advancement, read a note from Foundation Board Chair Franklin Fogleman.
“Each year the Foundation Board takes note of the increased demand for scholarships and financial assistance,” Fogleman wrote. “Amazing heroes step up each time. Our donors are always there when we need them, and are to be commended for making such a huge difference in the lives of these students.”
Coleman mentioned the 72 scholarships in the event program and told participants that two new awards had been added since the program had been printed. The scholarships represent more than $2.4 million in donations to the Foundation. At the first Foundation Scholarship Luncheon in 2003, the college honored 10 donors, and the number has grown every year since.
“Investments of this magnitude will be multiplied many times over as we work together to improve our community and our region. It is through the generosity and foresight of our scholarship donors that we are changing the landscape of the Delta through education.”
Carter, who graduated from MSCC in 2009 and earned her teaching degree from Arkansas State University through the University Center, praised the scholarship donors for their benevolence.
“Your generosity and your support are immeasurable,” she said. “You don’t always know the length or the depth that your kindness reaches. I am an example of what your kindness means and what your kindness does. Your kindness has affected my life tremendously but not just my own. College is a regular dinner table discussion at my house now. I have six children that I have to get to MSCC.”
“You are really changing and richly affecting lives, and now I get to pass it on by encouraging my students every day. I am so grateful; I am so grateful; I am so grateful.”
For information on establishing a scholarship or contributing to an existing award, please contact Coleman at (870) 733-6764 or pdcoleman@midsouthcc.edu. Students interested in applying for scholarships may call MSCC’s Financial Aid office at (870) 733-6729 or email finaid@midsouthcc.edu.
No comments:
Post a Comment