Generous $125,000 Gift Removes Barriers for CCTC Students in High-Demand Programs
Sumter, SC (05/07/2025) — A generous $125,000 gift from an anonymous donor will provide critical support to incoming students at Central Carolina Technical College (CCTC) this fall, helping them begin training in high-demand fields without the financial burden of essential program materials.
The one-time gift will cover the cost of welding kits-valued at approximately $2,300 each-for all new welding students enrolling full-time in Fall 2025 at both the Sumter and Kershaw campuses. The donation will also fund nursing kits for new nursing students and provide one pair of scrubs for each new student enrolling in CCTC's health sciences programs, which include Nursing, Pharmacy Technician, Medical Assisting and Surgical Technology.
"We are incredibly grateful for this transformative gift," said CCTC President Dr. Kevin Pollock. "It sends a powerful message to prospective students-that their success matters and that our community is invested in their future."
The initiative is designed to reduce entry costs and support recruitment for the college's technical and healthcare programs, which are critical to meeting workforce needs in the region. Kits will be provided through the CCTC Campus Store. The donor would like students to know that "there is opportunity in America if young people learn a skill, work hard and are productive."
"This gift is more than financial support-it's a statement of belief in our students and the life-changing power of education," said Misty Hatfield, vice president for Institutional Advancement.
To be eligible, students must be enrolled and registered for Fall 2025 classes at CCTC and must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the Titan Tech Scholarship affidavit. Welding students must be enrolled full-time. This opportunity is available for Fall 2025 only.
"When students walk into class on the first day fully equipped and ready to go, it changes everything," said Bert Hancock, dean of Industrial Engineering and Technology. "It boosts confidence and sets the tone for success."
More information about CCTC programs and how to apply is available at cctech.edu. Fall classes begin August 19, 2025.