DOLLARS FOR SCHOLARS

Gala celebrates reaching $300,000 for scholarships

A Wally Allen Ballroom full of attendees braved parking issues caused by several nearby events for Philander Smith College's second annual President's Scholarship Gala, a fundraiser held Sept. 23 at the Statehouse Convention Center in Little Rock.

Dinner music was by saxophonist Michael Eubanks. The Philander Smith Collegiate Choir also performed during the program.

Sericia Cole, interim vice president of institutional advancement for the college, welcomed guests, while Michelle Green-Lewis, president of the Student Government Association, offered pre-dinner remarks. A quartet of previous scholarship recipients shared their Philander Smith stories and career aspirations via video.

A brief speech by state Sen. Linda Chesterfield preceded final remarks by college President Roderick L. Smothers, who said he wants the college community to "dream big with me." Crediting that phrase to Liberian president Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, he explained that, "I asked the Philander Smith College community to dream so big for Philander that it would scare you and them. And it has scared quite a few folks.

"But tonight is evidence of what Philander's big dreams can do," Smothers added, referencing the realization of his goal to raise $300,000 for scholarships.

Gwatney Chevrolet was the gala's presenting sponsor with a $50,000 contribution. Smothers presented trustee, sponsor and alumnus Robert Blue and his wife, Carolyn, with a plaque. He also recognized several dignitaries including alumna Dr. Joycelyn Elders, the namesake for Philander's new School of Allied Public Health. Presentations consisted of two President's Gala scholarships of $2,500 each to Jasmine DeHart and Dennis Grissett; the $5,000 Young Women in Excellence Scholarship to Monique Levvi; and the $7,000 Ozell Sutton Leadership and Service Scholarship to George C. Taylor scholar Tarai Rolle of Nassau, Bahamas.

The evening ended with a short concert by Grammy-nominated R&B recording artist Chante Moore.

-- Story and photos by Helaine R. Williams

High Profile on 10/02/2016

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