News Summary
Georgia Highlands College and the GHC Foundation successfully raised over $75,000 during their recent Scholarship Gala and Day of Giving. The events celebrated the positive impact of scholarships on students in Northwest Georgia. Attendees enjoyed dinner and a silent auction, while GHC President Mike Hobbs highlighted the importance of community investment in education. With notable contributions from local restaurants and heartfelt testimonials from students, the events underscored the commitment to supporting educational opportunities in the region.
Rome, Georgia – Georgia Highlands College (GHC) and the GHC Foundation secured over $75,000 during the recent Scholarship Gala and Day of Giving events, aimed at bolstering student scholarships and enhancing educational opportunities. The events underscored the significant impact GHC has on students and the surrounding communities across Northwest Georgia.
The Scholarship Gala, held at the Forum in downtown Rome, attracted nearly 400 guests. The evening included dinner, dancing, and a silent auction, providing an engaging atmosphere for attendees. Former Atlanta Braves player Sid Bream served as the keynote speaker, sharing insightful stories from his athletic career while emphasizing the importance of scholarships in transforming lives.
During the event, GHC President Mike Hobbs highlighted the importance of scholarships by noting the commitment of attendees, as 25 guests pledged new gifts to the “Ready to Start” scholarship fund. This fund is designed to assist students in initiating their college journey, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder aspiring students from pursuing their educational goals.
President Hobbs also noted that over 84% of GHC graduates choose to remain in Northwest Georgia after completing their studies, indicating the college’s crucial role in retaining talent within the region. A recent economic impact study revealed that bachelor’s degree holders from GHC are expected to earn $1.4 million more in lifetime earnings compared to individuals without a degree. This finding reinforces the necessity of community investment in scholarships to drive economic growth in the area.
To commemorate the evening, GHC unveiled a new 7-foot sculpture created by alum Jeremy Smith. The sculpture, carved from a heritage oak that once stood on campus, depicts a student proudly raising a diploma—a symbol of achievement and educational success.
The Day of Giving featured various restaurant partners, including Texas Roadhouse, Chick-fil-A, and Jimmy John’s, which contributed to the efforts of fundraising. This collaborative initiative highlighted the community’s commitment to supporting education and making scholarships more accessible to students seeking higher education.
In addition to the financial contributions, the event showcased a video presentation featuring students whose academic journeys have been positively influenced by scholarships. Josie Tolsma, the GHC student government president, addressed the diverse demographics of the student body. This includes various backgrounds, such as veterans and single mothers, all of whom are pursuing their educational ambitions despite facing significant challenges.
Reaffirming his dedication to educational support, President Hobbs shared his personal commitment by donating $500 monthly towards scholarships, honoring his mother, who played a pivotal role in his education. The collaborative efforts during the events reflect the commitment of individuals and organizations toward enhancing the educational landscape in Northwest Georgia.
In summary, the recent Scholarship Gala and Day of Giving not only raised essential funds for the “Ready to Start” scholarship fund but also emphasized the crucial impact of educational investments in fostering regional growth and community development.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Coosa Valley News
- WGRA News
- MDJ Online
- Northwest Georgia News
- Grice Connect
- Wikipedia: Scholarship
- Google Search: Georgia Highlands College
- Google Scholar: Georgia Highlands College scholarship
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
- Google News: Georgia Highlands College Scholarship Gala
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