Joyce Wagner
In Motion Staff Writer
Lance Rothwell/In Motion
Café 101 in the Hosseini Center was the setting for a luncheon to recognize, thank and honor donors and student recipients of foundation scholarships. Guests were seated so that students had the opportunity to meet and converse with those who had made contributions, some to the specific scholarship the student had been awarded.
With the cost of everything going up, many students find they need a little extra help in order to continue their education. Grants, loans and working several jobs become part of the norm for many seeking to better their education. Even then, it is difficult if not impossible to afford the luxury of a diploma, degree or certificate. Generous donors help bridge the financial gap.
Kim Medley, recipient of the George C. Nunamann Scholarship, opened the program with “I want to take this moment to welcome and thank each of you for taking time from your day to attend this luncheon.”
Payroll deduction by Daytona State College employees is one way for contributions to be made. Scott Reed, with IT, Information Technology department, has been using payroll deductions for about 10 years to make contributions to the foundation. Having six kids and putting them through school, gives him insight into how difficult it can be for a college student. Reed said, “I wanted to give back, every paycheck. It’s a small amount, but then you realize how much it’s accumulated.”
Judy Haight who works for the Foundation overseeing the scholarship program said, “You’re here because we wanted to say thanks. Without you and your donations to the foundation, we wouldn’t be here. Our students are so appreciative of your support. You are investing in our student’s future.”
A few statistics about the scholarship program were shared by Dr Eaton. She said, “In the last ten years, the foundation has given out about $7.5 million. Each year we try to give a little bit more. This past year we gave out nearly $1 million to about 1200 students. The not so good news is that there are almost 2800 students who applied. I invite you today to help us think about other donors, other people out there who would benefit as you have benefited. The benefit for you is knowing that you have changed peoples’ lives. You have touched students who would not be able to be here if it were not for your investment in their future.”
Recipient of the American Association of University Women Scholarship, Daytona Beach Branch, Patricia Berger, shared a little about herself with the crowd. She is working toward an Associate of Science degree in Early Childhood Education. “I was lucky enough to receive a scholarship, she said. “Without the generosity of each and every one of you here today, my successes would not have been possible.
I would have had to spend more time searching for other grants, taking out additional student loans, and taken time away from my studying.” She is also a graduate of the Fresh Start program at DSC.
Columbian born Melissa Diaz plans to be a civil lawyer. She said, “If it wasn’t for the scholarship, I wouldn’t be here today. I wouldn’t be able to live my dream.” Diaz is a recipient of the Bill Chappell Scholarship.
Following the luncheon, Head Chef Costa Magoulas, gave a tour of Café 101. The lunch was prepared by DSC Culinary students and award-winning chefs. Café 101 is a teaching café and kitchen, giving students the opportunity to learn all aspects of running a restaurant. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 386-506-3859. Gratuities are appreciated and go toward funding student scholarships.
Every semester, students have the option of applying for a scholarship. The application can be completed online. There are numerous scholarships within the foundation that are available. Students must meet the requirements to be eligible. More information on how to donate, or to apply for a scholarship, can be found at the Daytona State College Scholarship online web page.