A Heart for Gordon Gala Raises $230,000 for Student Success
By Karolina Philmon, GSC marketing manager
Gordon State College hosted its annual A Heart for Gordon Gala on Saturday, Feb. 7, welcoming nearly 480 guests and raising more than $130,000 in support of student scholarships.
The sold-out evening opened with a cocktail hour and silent auction before guests were welcomed by Kenny Coggins, co-chair of the GSC Foundation Events and Recognition Committee. Coggins highlighted a streamlined, mobile-friendly bidding platform that allowed attendees to place bids, purchase tickets and make donations directly from their phones throughout the 2026 gala.
GSC President Dr. Donald J. Green followed with remarks welcoming guests and celebrating the impact of their continued support.
“Gordon State College has a proud history of serving this region, and tonight we are surrounded by the impact of that legacy,” Green said. “We are connected by one common thread: Gordon. Each of us can strengthen that story by supporting a clear vision of preparing tomorrow’s workforce and fueling economic growth in our community. Your support creates opportunity for our students and strengthens this region for generations to come. Thank you for believing in Gordon State.”
The evening continued with dinner and a video presentation highlighting GSC scholarship recipients and the impact of donor support on their success.
“As you’ve seen in the video, your support means the world to our scholarship recipients,” said Natalie Rischbieter, GSC executive director of advancement and the GSC Foundation. “When you give to [GSC], you are not only supporting today’s students, you are building a lasting legacy.”
Rischbieter then returned the program to Coggins, who surprised attendees, including Green, with the presentation of a $100,000 gift from Upson County resident and Coggins’ family friend Ralph Ross. Ross, who has longstanding ties to Thomaston, shared his belief in the role GSC plays in shaping opportunity for students across the region, particularly in communities like his own where many graduates begin their journey at Gordon State.
With Ross’ contribution and additional support throughout the evening, the fourth annual gala raised more than $230,000.
The program transitioned into the recognition of distinguished service honorees and closed on a high note with dancing to live music by the Full Circle band.
The 2026 A Heart for Gordon Gala recognized Dr. Valerie Calhoun, lecturer in the School of Education, Arts and Humanities, with the Dedicated Service Award. Taylor Smith of Upson County, economic development director for the city of Thomaston, received the Outstanding Young Alumnus Award, and Thomas “Tog” Goss of Baldwin County, chief operating officer at Atrium Health Navicent, was honored as Outstanding Alumnus. The GSC Foundation presented its highest distinction, the Legacy Award, to Joe and Pat Edwards of Lamar County in recognition of their lasting impact on the college.
Upson Regional Medical Center served as the presenting sponsor of the evening. Silver sponsors included Piedmont Henry, United Bank, Wellstar Health System, The Blackstock Family Foundation, Inc., Piedmont Green Power, Wealth Intelligence, and Raymond James. Bronze sponsors included Georgia Power, James Bates Brannan Groover, Mauldin & Jenkins, and City of Hope.
Silent auction sponsors included the Atlanta Falcons, Ameritex Dumpsters, Tidal Wave Auto Spa, K1 Speed, Atlanta Ballet, Sheila Kern and Sue Gilpin, Southern Rivers Energy, Kenny and Janie Coggins, Little Barnyard Soaps and Candles, Sara Moon Artwork, Joanne Ardovini, Elior Dining, The LookShop, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Georgia Aquarium, Donald and Cathy Green, Joel Fuller, PetroSouth Energy, Kiera Benson Artwork, Illuminarium, Newnan Country Club, ASW Distillery, Georgia Power, Harney and Sons, Zoo Atlanta, Sugar Shack Farms, Beat the Bomb Atlanta, Home Depot, Old Hudson Plantation, Big Red Oak Plantation, Blue Eyed Dog Creations, Andretti Indoor Karting, Fun Spot America, Great Wolf Lodge, and Atlanta Botanical Gardens.
Guests also had the opportunity to win a 2025 Evolution Classic 4+ golf cart, which was displayed at the event, through an exclusive raffle.
The gala reinforced GSC’s commitment to expanding access to education by providing students with critical financial support to complete their degrees. This investment not only empowers individual students but also strengthens workforce development and fuels long-term economic growth across the region.
