The Darton Health Professions Foundation recently announced more than $52,000 of scholarship awards for students enrolled for the fall 2024 semester at Albany State University. 

“We had 680 applicants seeking scholarship funding for the fall,” said Randae Davis, Executive Director of the Darton Health Professions Foundation. “It was a great group of applicants. While many applicants were health science or nursing majors, the committee awarded scholarships to students studying performing arts, education, business, biology, and other health-related fields of study that will impact the future of healthcare in our region. Our committee places great interest in the essays, which speak of the students’ obstacles, accomplishments, victories, and future aspirations.”

Frances Carr, board member and scholarship committee member said, “There were so many worthy applicants, and it’s admirable when students from our region want to live in SWGA and give back. Some applicants were already working for Phoebe or other healthcare providers but are continuing their education to improve their skillset and open doors for their future career development.” 

Most students returned a letter of gratitude to the Foundation and the donors. One student wrote, “As I embark on my studies at Albany State University, I am increasingly aware of the financial challenges that come with higher education. This scholarship will greatly alleviate some of the financial burdens of paying for school tuition, books, and additional fees and will enable me to focus more fully on my academic and career aspirations. Your generosity has made a profound impact on my life and it reinforces my commitment to contribute positively to my home town.”

According to Mr. Davis, 34 applicants were selected, but 2 did not enroll for the fall so their award will be distributed later or awarded to another student. “Financial support doesn’t just pay the bills, it enables students to focus on the things that matter most, like their education and family,” said Davis. “We distributed a little more than $52,000, and we had some funds left over for emergency needs scholarships.” 

Pam Simmons, Board Chairperson of the foundation said, “It is exciting to help these deserving men and women with their education. We read compelling stories of students who have never won anything and are not looking for a handout. These are working students, parents, and people who have the grit and determination to not only increase their professional capabilities but also to improve the lives of the people they serve while contributing to the quality of life in SWGA. We want to invest in those kinds of people.”

The Darton Health Professions Foundation does not just give scholarships to students. The Foundation, its board, and staff follow up with students and offer professional development guidance and academic and financial counseling. The Foundation is committed to helping students excel in their educational and professional endeavors. “We offer programs for high school students that help them identify local, regional, and national funding sources beyond our foundation. It is sad when we see the amount of debt that some of these students have accumulated when scholarship funding is available,” said Davis. 

Dr. Sarah Brinson, Dean of the College of Health Professions at Albany State University and Foundation board member said, “It is amazing to see the impact that the Foundation has on these students. The staff engages with the applicants and knows the recipients. These are not just transactional grants; they are developmental, and we get to see these students graduate and work in our communities.” 

The next scholarship cycle will be for the spring semester. For more information on the Foundation’s programs, and available scholarships, or to financially support student scholarships, visit www.dartonfoundaiton.org.