Aiken Technical College held its annual scholarship breakfast, bringing together donors who contribute to the program and the students who benefit.
The scholarships are one of the assistance programs coordinated by the Aiken Technical College Foundation. Director Kym Johnson said the funding provided by the donors lessens the financial burden for students who receive scholarships. That support can mean the difference in a student’s ability to complete their education.
“The most important message that you’ll hear, is that, yes, we are so appreciative of our students and their hard work. Yes, we are so appreciative of our donors and their generosity. What we’re really appreciative of is when someone achieves success in their life, no matter where that is, what they’re doing, that they turn around and they give back in some form, in some fashion,” she told ABD.
Will Williams, Executive Director of Western SC Economic Development Agency and a member of the Foundation’s Board of Trustees agreed.
“I look at it as paying it forward,” he said. “Whether or not you had a similar opportunity growing up, if you have the ability to do it now, you’re investing in your future or someone else’s future, in the community’s future.”
Among the donor companies is one of Aiken County’s largest employers.
“There’s a lot of kids in our community whose family may not be able to afford some of the expenses that come with school, and we think every child should have an opportunity to pursue their career,” said Monica Key, senior manager of human resources at Bridgestone Americas Aiken PSR plant. “It also benefits Bridgestone because we want highly skilled workers to come into the workforce. So, it’s a win-win. It’s helping somebody else, but also, we’re building our workforce for the future.”
In December 2022, the Gene Haas Foundation, created by Haas Automation, contributed $10,000 to ATC. The company is one of the largest machine tool manufacturers in the United States and sponsors teams for NASCAR and Formula One races. The money was earmarked for students in the machine tool training programs.
“It helped me get into college. Without it, I don’t think I would be here,” said Ericka Newton of Orangeburg, who is enrolled in a program supported by the donation. “I study general technical maintenance, stuff like that. Basically, I want a little bit of everything, knowledge-wise, that way I could go anywhere, and do what I want. And if anyone needs assistance, someone to help on the job, then I can cover that.”
Key said that tangible impact is what keeps Bridgestone a partner with the ATC Foundation.
“It’s one thing to see a name on a paper or even read an essay, but when you see the faces and you hear the real stories and the real challenges that some of the students in our area face, it’s just encouraging, and it’s just confirmation that you know you’re doing the right thing. It just gives you encouragement for the future.”
In the past year, the Foundation has awarded more than 200 scholarships totaling more than $175,000. Johnson said some donors make annual contributions, but even a one-time donation is appreciated.
For more information, and to donate online, go to www.atc.edu/Foundation
