The Friends of MCC Foundation welcomed more than 170 scholarship donors and recipients for an appreciation breakfast on Friday, February 9. The event was an opportunity to thank and honor the generous donors who make scholarships available to MCC students.
Foundation Board Treasurer Rob Getty spoke about why he supports the Foundation not only with his time, but also as an individual donor and corporate sponsor. As Treasurer of the Foundation and the Chief Financial Officer of American Community Bank & Trust, Mr. Getty shared that donors should take great comfort in knowing that their donations are being utilized in the most efficient and fair manner.
“Having seen the process, I can tell you there is painstaking detail put into ensuring that dollars are appropriately allocated,” he said. “The Foundation team does a great job of making this all happen.”
Among those receiving scholarships and speaking at the event were MCC students Evelyn Bustos Malvaez, Michael Popp, and Abby Tatosian.
“Receiving a scholarship helped me pursue my dreams,” said Bustos Malvaez. “It not only provided me with financial support, but also gave me a sense of encouragement. Knowing that someone believes in my potential enough to support me has been a great motivator.”
Popp, who received the Presidential Talent Scholarship, expressed his gratitude for the opportunities the scholarship has given him.
“Before high school, I never thought I’d be able to receive a scholarship like this,” he said. “I’ve worked hard and pushed myself to get good grades and try my hardest. And to see it pay off makes me very, very grateful.”
Scholarship donor Janice Jellicoe attended the event as a member of the Education to Empowerment (E2E) scholarship and mentorship program. She currently mentors Abby Tatosian, who received an E2E scholarship.
“Abby is such an incredibly capable young woman,” said Jellicoe. “It's been really fun to follow her on her journey of her second year here at MCC before she heads off to Northern Illinois University to finish her early education degree.”
“Janice’s help has been so beneficial to me,” said Tatosian. “She is so willing to help me on whatever I need. This scholarship has helped me make the most out of my MCC experience.”
The Friends of MCC Foundation awarded more than $760,000 in scholarships to 824 students in 2023 alone.
“We look forward to hosting this event every year to celebrate our scholarship donors and allow our scholarship recipients to express gratitude to those who give generously to make these opportunities possible,” said Brian DiBona, Executive Director of the Friends of MCC Foundation. “We’re truly inspired by our donors, and continually amazed by the hard work, dedication, and ambition of our students.”
The Foundation is currently accepting applications for Fall 2024 scholarships until April 3, 2024. Scholarship opportunities include a variety of criteria based on area of study, educational and career goals, GPA, extracurricular activities, financial need, and more. Interested students can apply today.