AT&T Foundation donates $10,000 to 13 community colleges in Tennessee

In August the AT&T Foundation donated $10,000 to 13 community colleges in Tennessee, aiming to provide scholarships to underserved and minority students who are facing unemployment or underemployment. Representatives from AT&T say that the donations are part of the company's commitment to higher education in Tennessee and will help develop a more highly-skilled workforce in the state, meeting the needs of employers.

AT&T Tennessee President Joelle Phillips was quoted in multiple news releases from the colleges, saying, "AT&T is focused on developing a 21st century workforce that can promote continued prosperity and a stronger economy across Tennessee. We are excited to continue our support of Chattanooga State Community College to help more students gain the education necessary to compete for quality job opportunities and to empower more students to reach their highest potential."

At Chattanooga State Community College, the $10,000 donation will be available to students working toward industry-recognized credentials. CSCC President Rebecca Ashford said in a news release, "We are grateful to AT&T and its continued support of public higher education and our students, who will benefit greatly from the company's generosity. Our students have many financial needs, and this support will help remove barriers on their path to higher education – particularly as they pursue a non-traditional path to their education."

Nashville State Community College will use the donation from AT&T to reduce the cost burden to students of attending college, helping with things like books, childcare, and transportation, according to its news release. "We appreciate AT&T and its support of Nashville State Community College students. This generous scholarship fits into the College's plan of providing students with support beyond tuition-assistance so they can be successful throughout and after their college experience," said Vice President of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, Dr. Carol Martin-Osorio.

State Representative Scott Cepicky commented on the donation to Columbia State Community College in a news release from the school. "Higher education often creates a pathway to prosperity for those looking to quickly enter the job market and today's announcement aims to enrich that opportunity for more students. AT&T's investment in programs like this exemplifies its commitment to furthering education in Tennessee," Cepicky said.

A news release from Dyersburg State Community College states that the donation from AT&T will be used to supplement financial aid for students, helping to cover the extra costs associated with attending college, like books and transportation. State Senator Ed Jackson emphasized the impact that the donation will have on the state economy. "We have worked hard to create a climate that is welcoming of new business which can be seen in the record growth Tennessee is experiencing. With this growth comes the need for a high-skill workforce and through programs like those offered at Dyersburg State, graduates will be prepared to succeed in a modern workplace," Jackson stated.

The other community colleges that received $10,000 each were Cleveland State Community College, Jackson State Community College, Motlow State Community College, Northeast State Community College, Pellissippi State Community College, Roane State Community College, Southwest Tennessee Community College, Volunteer State Community College, and Walters State Community College.