WALDORF, Md. — The Greater Waldorf Jaycees and College of Southern Maryland (CSM) Foundation celebrated a milestone 25th year of their partnership by awarding scholarships to 16 students at a ceremony on Wednesday. The ongoing collaboration has now supported 595 Charles County students with over $1.5 million in educational funds.
This year’s event introduced 11 new recipients of the scholarship: Savannah Dement, Elizabeth Holmes, Isabel Jefferson, Saniya Kelly, Grace Klaas, Jolie Lombardi, Najah Mayton, Jaiden Minor, Erica Nakalembe, Alexander Rieman, and MacKenna Zopelis. Additionally, five students had their scholarships renewed: Kamryn Carbonneau, Emma Curry, Haley Elliott, Corinne Mahaffey, and Joseph Rieman.
During the ceremony held in Waldorf, Kevin Wedding, president of the Greater Waldorf Jaycees Foundation, emphasized the role of these scholarships in making higher education more accessible. “These scholarships help students afford college and help you earn workforce credentials, micro-badges, or graduate from CSM and join the growing workforce here in Southern Maryland,” Wedding stated.
CSM President Dr. Yolanda Wilson highlighted the diverse backgrounds of the student body and the college’s commitment to serving as a beacon of social and economic mobility. “We are honored and privileged to serve students who seek a better future for themselves and their families,” Wilson said. She praised the college’s role in fostering educational achievement and community building.
The event was attended by various dignitaries, including elected officials and members of the CSM Board of Trustees. Dr. Wilson also acknowledged the significant contributions of college and career counselors from local high schools.
Kamryn Carbonneau, a renewed scholarship recipient, shared her aspirations and experiences with the attendees. “This year, I plan to join the Nursing Student Association that CSM offers. I chose CSM not only because it’s more cost-effective, but also because they have an outstanding nursing program,” Carbonneau explained.
Trey Proctor, vice chair of the CSM Foundation, described the foundation’s role as critical in raising funds to support student scholarships, academic programs, and new technology. “The CSM Foundation works very hard to raise money for scholarships, programs, and technology, and we are grateful to have a board dedicated to the mission of this college and its students,” Proctor said.
This scholarship initiative is more than just financial support for academic courses; it represents a vital investment in the future leaders of the community. “For our students, the scholarships they received as a result of the generosity of donors like the Jaycees is beyond what we can describe,” Proctor concluded.
