JACKSONVILLE, AL — The Jacksonville State University Foundation honored the impact of philanthropy and education at its annual Scholarship Luncheon on Friday, Feb. 21, at the Jax State Recreation and Fitness Center. The event brought together more than 200 attendees, including scholarship recipients, donors, and members of Jax State’s administration and staff, celebrating the transformative power of student support.
The luncheon provided a platform for students to share how scholarships have shaped their educational journeys and allowed donors to witness the impact of their generosity firsthand.
Jax State President Dr. Don C. Killingsworth, Jr. expressed his deep appreciation for the university’s benefactors, highlighting how their contributions open doors for students who might otherwise struggle to pursue higher education.
“Every scholarship awarded represents more than financial assistance—it represents an opportunity, a dream, and a future made possible,” Dr. Killingsworth said. “Because of our donors, students who might have faced obstacles in pursuing higher education are now on their way to achieving their goals. Your generosity is turning dreams into realities.”
The impact of these scholarships continues to grow. In 2024, Jax State added 10 new annual scholarships, totaling $31,940, and 24 new endowed scholarships, contributing an impressive $1,131,647.21. For the 2024-25 academic year, 333 students have been awarded Jax State Foundation Scholarships, with a total of $643,020 distributed—an increase from 330 recipients and $596,290 awarded in the previous year.
For donors, the Scholarship Luncheon is a heartfelt reminder of the significance of their contributions. Kay Brown and Barry Penny, founders of the Barry Penny and Kay Brown Scholarship, emphasized their commitment to helping students succeed.
“We love Jacksonville and Jax State,” said Brown, a 1982 graduate. “We want all young people who aspire to go to college to have that opportunity and to experience the kinds of successes that Barry and I have been fortunate to enjoy.”
Penny highlighted the emotional connection he feels each year when meeting first-generation college students.
“It’s always amazing to hear them say, ‘I am a first-generation college student,’” Penny said. “Not just them, but their entire family. That always gives me a feeling of wanting to help as much as possible.”
For Dale Wilson, whose family funds the EC and Maddie Wilson Scholarship, the event holds personal significance.
“My parents were schoolteachers, and JSU played a crucial role in shaping their futures,” Wilson shared. “After my father passed, my mother started this scholarship, and after she passed, my sister and I continued it. Seeing firsthand who benefits from our scholarship makes this event truly special.”
Among the students benefitting from donor generosity is Lauren Sechrest, recipient of the Gene Padgham Memorial Scholarship.
“I’m actually a transfer student, and I wasn’t able to receive the full transfer scholarship,” Sechrest shared. “This scholarship really helps me afford my education, and I’m so grateful for that opportunity.”
For Casey Kimochu, a recipient of the Ken and Jenny Howell Scholarship, the financial assistance has been life-changing.
“My parents have been paying for my school fees, so now I’m actually able to help them out,” he said. “It really means a lot to me and my family.”
Brown noted how emotional the event can be, emphasizing that even small donations make a meaningful difference.
“I think it’s very emotional every time we come. I come away having cried after hearing stories about how much a scholarship means to a person. And then the other thing that I take away from it is that even as little as $500 makes a significant difference in deciding whether to stay in school.”
For those inspired to support students through scholarships, the JSU Foundation offers numerous giving opportunities. Students interested in applying for scholarships can also explore available awards and eligibility criteria through the foundation’s website.
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