The University of South Carolina Salkehatchie hosted its annual Scholarship Recognition Luncheon on October 3, celebrating the academic achievements of its student recipients and the deep commitment of its generous donors. The event, which brought together donors, students, faculty, staff, the Western Carolina Higher Education Commission, and Palmetto College leadership, also served as the inaugural recognition ceremony for the John Winthrop Sr. Legacy Society.
"This luncheon is a powerful moment to witness what happens when generosity meets potential,” said Dr. April Cone, Campus Dean at USC Salkehatchie. "The Legacy Society not only celebrates Mr. Winthrop's incredible impact on our students but serves as a testament to the power of philanthropy in transforming the educational landscape of the communities USC Salkehatchie serves."
The Society is named in honor of Mr. John Winthrop Sr., a philanthropic leader whose support has established academic awards in history and archeology, and recognizes donors across four giving levels: Platinum Legend ($100,000+ Donation), Gold Champion ($50,000 - $99,999 Donation), Silver Partner ($25,000 - $49,999 Donation), and Bronze Supporter ($10,000 - $24,999 Donation).
The heart of the luncheon was the individual recognition of student scholars. This year, 62 students received a combined total of $91,800 in life-changing scholarships.
“Congratulations to all our scholarship award winners,” said Dr. Eddie Howard, Assistant Dean for Enrollment Management and Student Success. “You have truly earned these scholarships, and we are incredibly proud of your hard work and determination. Your success is the best return on investment our generous donors could ever ask for.”
This year's scholarship recipients include:
| Elisha Baker | Gracie Dyer | Melanie Lawson | |
| Jeremiah Barlow | Jana Elliott | Amelia Long | |
| James L. Bass | Emily Erickson | Mayra Luna-Mejia | |
| Baley Bazzle | James Freeman | Sandra Luna-Mejia | |
| Cori Belton | Jodi Galloway | Samuel O’Quinn | |
| Austin Berninger | Heaven Green | Hayden Pierce | |
| Alley Bertram | Malinda Green | Jarvis Pruitt | |
| Brandyn Boatwright | Kyle Hancock | Gavin Reynolds | |
| Lillian Boyert | J’Naisha Hayward | Joseph Rumfelt | |
| Loreli Brobst | Malayisha Hayward | Jaevin Santos | |
| Dalashia Brunson | Joel Horn | Madison Scott | |
| LeeAnn R. Bryan | Taylor Hutchinson | J-Dan L. Shaw | |
| Ashlyn Byrd | Mickayla Jackson | Jeremiah Stephens | |
| Caitlyn Byrd | Gracie Jones | Madison Tauber | |
| Kanari Cohen | Francisco Jorcely | Naomi Vega | |
| Providence Colucci | Aliona Kinard | Ashton Walling | |
| Bailey Cox | Bryce Kinard | Charisma Williams | |
| Brett R. Creel | Krystall Krajeski | Meagan Zieman | |