Gateway Technical College Foundation, at its annual award ceremony Feb. 4, awarded 224 scholarships totaling nearly $140,000 and benefiting 214 students by helping them fulfill their career and educational goals.

This year’s ceremony marked an increase in the number of students receiving a scholarship compared to last year, from 199 to 215.

 “We are grateful for the commitment of our donors to Gateway students and the community,” said Foundation Executive Director Jennifer Charpentier.

“So many of our students share with us that they would not be in college this semester but for the generous scholarship. Others tell us this is the first time they’ve been recognized for their hard work and persistence. The scholarship awards ceremony is a joyful celebration of students pursuing their educational dreams and the thoughtful donors who support them.”

Saturday marked the 50th year of awarding the Bessie Children Scholarship, an endowed scholarship from the estate of Bessie Children for students enrolled in the Nursing Associate Degree Program. The scholarship predates the establishment of the Gateway Technical College Foundation in 1977. Nicole Williams was awarded that scholarship this year.

One of the new scholarships awarded this year is the Paul J. Brandenburg Memorial Scholarship started by his family for new adult learners to help students returning to school to pursue their education. Brandenburg left high school at age 16 to work, and later earned his GED and bachelor’s degree. After years of working in the fluid power industry, Brandenburg taught Fluid Dynamics courses at Gateway. He was also very active in his community. Two students were awarded the scholarship this year, Christa Ricchio and Natalie LaForge.

For more information on the Foundation – including ways to contribute – please contact Charpentier at (262) 564-2866. Or, go to www.gtc.edu/foundation.

Photos of the event can be viewed at https://flic.kr/s/aHskNzxEaB.