“An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.”
Benjamin Franklin
Building a solid educational foundation has long been considered to be one of the best means for getting ahead in the workplace. Instead of having to languish in entry-level dead-end jobs, college and technical school graduates often have better opportunities to pursue successful careers filled with financial security.
However, not everyone who desires to go to college can afford it. The ever-rising burden of required expenses, such as tuition and books, often serves as a deterrent that prevents many prospective students from continuing their educational journeys.
Fortunately, Sumner County is blessed to be the home for many kind and caring people who are eager to help out those in need, including struggling students. One of the best ways that they are able to help is by supporting the annual Women Empowering Education fundraising luncheon sponsored by Volunteer State Community College (Vol State).
Since 2008, donations to Women Empowering Education have funded scholarship awards totaling over $641,000 to 243 students to enable them to continue their college studies. These scholarships help students prepare for their future careers without worrying about the financial burden of college fees.
“While we have excellent state college assistance programs like Tennessee Promise and Tennessee Reconnect, the majority of our students don't qualify for them,” said Vol State Vice President for Advancement and Foundation Executive Director Karen Mitchell. “The Women Empowering Education scholarships make a tremendous difference in the lives of our students, and they help them build a path to a more secure future.”
This year’s luncheon was held at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church on Friday, March 26. Over 500 community leaders and friends of the college attended the fundraiser, which featured presentations by Vol State President Dr. Wendi Tostenson, Vol State student and scholarship recipient Kimberly Boles and special guest speaker and comedian Kristen Linder.
"The scholarships make a tremendous difference in the lives of our students."
Karen Mitchell