Donor appreciation event highlights community impact and commitment

The Aiken Technical College Foundation’s donor appreciation event drew dozens of donors and supporters to the college campus on Thursday, October 2, to celebrate community and commitment.

“The ATC Foundation plays a vital role in removing barriers that prevent students from accessing and completing their education. By providing scholarships, emergency assistance, food support, and resources, the foundation ensures students can focus on their studies and achieve success,” said ATC Foundation Director Kym Johnson, CFRE. “Donors directly contribute to this mission by investing in the futures of students, their families, and the greater Aiken community. Their generosity fuels workforce development, community growth, and life-changing opportunities.”

Attendees heard firsthand from students who have been supported through the ATC Foundation and from college representatives about the impact donor support has on student success.

One such student testimonial came from Shantel McLeod, who moved to the U.S. from Jamaica three years ago and decided to enroll at Aiken Tech.

“I came to the United States with nothing but a dream in my pocket and a hope for a better future,” said McLeod. “I wanted to be someone of integrity and character, someone who would contribute positively to society.”

The decision to pursue her dream has also presented financial and emotional challenges, but she credits the ATC Foundation and the Office of Student Success and Retention staff for helping her through them to keep her on track.

“They lifted that weight off my shoulders so I could focus on my academics. I received scholarships, support from the food pantry, and even emergency assistance when I needed it most. Those blessings reminded me that I was not alone,” shared McLeod, who is enrolled in the Associate in Applied Science: Nursing program at Aiken Tech.

It is important to show donors the power of their support and what happens after they make a donation, said Johnson.

“Witnessing student success stories, campus growth, and community impact helps donors feel personally connected to the mission. This experience strengthens relationships, builds trust, and inspires continued and increased support. In short, it allows donors to see the tangible difference they make in transforming lives,” Johnson stated.

The event also included golf cart tours of the campus, showcasing the campus’s ongoing construction and renovation projects, a silent auction, and food and beverages from various local restaurants and caterers.

Sponsors for the event included:

• Platinum Anchor Lead Sponsor: Savannah River Nuclear Solutions

• Harbor of Hope Student Transformation Sponsor: The Ryberg Family

• US Patriots’ Pitmasters BBQ Sponsor: Veterans of Foreign Wars

• Cruising Champions Capital Projects Tour Sponsor: Savannah River Mission Completion

• River Spirits Beverage Sponsor: Compass 5 Partners, A LaBella Company

• Lowcountry Melodies Entertainment Sponsor: Security Federal Bank

• Keys to the Spoils Getaway Travel Sponsor: SRP Federal Credit Union

• Guiding Currents Mission Support Sponsor: PD Newsom Private Capital