CCTC Holds annual Scholarship Luncheon to honor recipients and donors

Sumter, SC (03/27/2024) — The Central Carolina Technical College Foundation hosted its annual scholarship luncheon on March 20 to honor donors and recipients for the 2023-2024 academic year.

"It's an honor to celebrate those who value education in this region and those who benefit from that generosity," CCTC Foundation Board of Trustees Chair Bob Edwards said as he welcomed guests to the luncheon. "We are grateful for the support of the donors who make today possible."

The luncheon featured a video of three students who, like most at CCTC, face unique challenges as they navigate college, family and a multitude of other commitments and obligations.

Marilyn Sein was featured as a Human Services student seeking her degree in counseling. She currently serves as a translator for the court system and wants to help those who do not speak English as a native language navigate American cities. Sein volunteers to teach English twice a week to non-English speaking residents and collects items to help families in need. Kenneth Farmer is a mechatronics student who left a career in his late forties to pursue degrees in mechatronics and computer science. Nursing student Christina Ratzke spoke about pursuing her degree and the personal sacrifices she's made to work through the program.

"For 46 years, the CCTC Foundation has been dedicated to awarding scholarships, more than 3,500 in total, each with its own unique story and purpose," Misty Hatfied vice president for Institutional Advancement said. "Behind every scholarship lies the heartfelt motivation of our donors, whether it's honoring a loved one or investing in a field they're passionate about."

The luncheon also included a presentation of the 2023-2024 President's Partnership Award winner. Recently retired Assistant Director of Financial Aid, Elizabeth Lackey, was presented an award by CCTC President Dr. Kevin Pollock. Lackey was chosen based on her 30 years of service in the area of financial aid and her one-on-one attention to students in need. Previous Partnership Award winners include BD, Second Look Charities, Coca-Cola, McLeod Health, Herald Office Products and the Sumter Lee Clarendon Medical Alliance.

Donors include civic organization like the Rotary Club of Sumter and Kiwanis to private donors and businesses. The Foundation scholarship program awarded 92 scholarships in the amount of $86,300 for the 2023-2024 academic year. Scholarship awards typically range from $500 to $2,500 with most in the $1000 range and students will only be awarded one scholarship each.

Scholarship recipients were encouraged to remember the gift they received and pay it forward when they become successful in their careers.

For more information about the CCTC Foundation scholarship program, contact Development and Alumni at 803-774-7607 or development@cctech.edu.

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