Gordon State College Extends Gratitude to Scholarship Donors at Annual Luncheon
By Karolina Philmon, GSC marketing manager
On May 3, Gordon State College hosted its annual Scholarship Luncheon at the Barnesville campus and extended special thanks to the scholarship donors for their support of GSC and its students.
“It’s so great to see this room full of students and donors,” said Natalie Rischbieter, GSC executive director of advancement and alumni relations. “Your contributions to Gordon State College have changed lives and continue to change lives. Your donation shows that you truly care about our mission and goals at Gordon, and we just want to say thank you.”
Rischbieter announced that 230 students were awarded scholarships from the GSC Foundation for the '23-'24 academic year totaling over $280K.
Donor and alumna Rhonda Toon, a first-generation college graduate from Gordon shared why she and her sisters decided to endow the Ray and Margie Brinkley Education Scholarship. Together, they aimed to honor the values their parents instilled in them, emphasizing the importance of lifelong learning. Toon expressed their desire to provide an opportunity to support someone in their pursuit of a college degree.
“My father credited the skills he learned at Gordon Military College high school division for his safe return from the Korean War,” Toon said. “Our family has had a personal connection to [Gordon] for four generations.”
Following Toon’s remarks, Mystery Walker, nursing major from Newton County and recipient of the University System of Georgia Foundation Scholarship, along with Ali Abou Hachem, nursing major from Monroe County and recipient of the Frances Wood Wilson Foundation Scholarship, shared their reflections on the impact their scholarships had on them.
“I have always been passionate about helping others and making a difference in people's lives,” Walker said. “I am determined to become a pediatric nurse and specialize in caring for children who are facing health challenges. This scholarship has not only provided me with the means to pursue my dreams but has given me the confidence to believe in myself and my abilities.”
GSC President Dr. Donald J. Green concluded the event with his closing remarks.
“There's a reason these individuals choose to give. They're not obligated, but they do so out of love, guidance, and a belief in a brighter future for the next generation. Their contributions not only change lives but also shape family trees. So, thank you to all our donors for making this possible,” Green said.