By JSCC,
As part of AT&T’s continuing commitment to supporting quality education across Tennessee, the AT&T Foundation has donated $10,000 to Jackson State Community College. The grant will provide last-dollar scholarships for minority and underserved students.
“We are grateful to AT&T and its continued support of public higher education and our students, who will benefit greatly from the company’s generosity,” said George Pimentel, President, Jackson State Community College. “Our students have many financial needs aside from the cost of tuition and this support will help them on their path to higher education.”
While Tennessee Promise and Tennessee Reconnect provide tuition-free access to the state’s community colleges, gaps remain that can create a barrier to entry for some students. The AT&T Last Dollar scholarships will aid students with the cost of attendance items such as books, childcare, transportation, and other costs associated with attending college that aren’t covered by other financial aid programs once tuition is paid.
“We have worked hard to create a climate that is welcoming of new business which can be seen in the record growth Tennessee is experiencing,” said State Senator Ed Jackson. “With this growth comes the need for a high-skill workforce and through programs like those offered at Jackson State, graduates will be prepared to succeed in a modern workplace.”
“Jackson State Community College does a tremendous job preparing students to enter the workforce with a strong foundation for future success,” said State Representative Chris Todd. “Thanks to their commitment to quality education, Tennessee has a first-class workforce ready to meet the needs of the rapidly evolving 21st-century economy.”
“Higher education often creates a pathway to prosperity for those looking to quickly enter the job market and today’s announcement aims to enrich that opportunity for more students,” said State Representative Johnny Shaw. “AT&T’s investment in programs like this exemplifies its commitment to furthering education in Tennessee.”
This donation is part of the AT&T Foundation’s $130,000 gift to the Foundation for the College System of Tennessee. Funding has been divided equally among Tennessee’s 13 community colleges to support students across the state.
“AT&T is focused on developing a 21st-century workforce that can promote continued prosperity and a stronger economy across Tennessee,” said AT&T Tennessee President Joelle Phillips. “We are excited to continue our support of Jackson State Community College to help more students gain the education necessary to compete for quality job opportunities and to empower more students to reach their highest potential.”
