MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Dear Friends, The celebration of our 50th anniversary has provided an extraordinary opportunity to focus on the value of Virginia’s Community Colleges to the commonwealth. When a dozen unwavering volunteers, statewide leadership from former and current governing and foundation boards accompanied by 23 devoted community college presidents, many enthusiastic student leaders, and one committed chancellor come together– success happens. In short, the 50th anniversary gala was grand! And through the support of our partners and investors, we will transform the lives of Virginians and the communities of the commonwealth. Through your efforts: • More than $2.4 million was raised to benefit students. • Ben and Betty Davenport invested $1 million to create the Davenport Institute for Early Childhood Development, enhancing the quality of life for children, families and communities in Southern and Southwest Virginia. • Fifty veterans will receive a scholarship to support attainment of a workforce credential, thanks to Dominion.
• Ten fellowships were created by Inova to support leadership development in the Northern Virginia region. • Carilion Clinic provided start-up funds for workforce credentialing programs. • Leadership gifts were made to support VFCCE programs such as Great Expectations and the Rural Virginia Horseshoe Initiative. These are but a few examples of the support inspired and initiated by the beginning of our second half-century. And we are not finished yet. Through the generosity of lead donor and former State Board member Joe Daniel, who co-chaired the 50th Anniversary Steering Committee, every gift made after the gala event will be matched by him, up to $100,000, to complete our anniversary year. Supporters like these open limitless opportunities for our future. Our visibility is high. With your help, we will build on the momentum of the past 12 months, celebrate the progress of our first 50 years, and ensure that we secure the resources to fulfill the promise of our next 50 years. With deep thanks and high hopes,
Jennifer S. Gentry 3