Foundation Press Releases

The following articles have been recently released by West Georgia Technical College:

City of Carrollton Receives WGTC Foundation Spirit of Giving Award
Little Big Town Concert Sells Out
WGTC Veteran Students Receive Assistance From Foundation
11th Anniversary Black Tie & Boots Will Headline Little Big Town
Powertech America Invests in WGTC Foundation
WGTC Trustee Becomes Board Certified
Sports Celebrities to Team Up to Help West Georgia Tech Raise Funds for Athletics at "Celebrity Casino Royale" Fundraising Event
WGTC Foundation Honors Newnan Hospital, Inc. with Spirit of Giving Award
WGTC 10th Anniversary Gary Allan Concert Sold Out
WGTC Foundation Announces 2011-2012 Leadership
Southtowne Motors Invests in WGTC Foundation
WGTC Foundation Launches Mini Campaign for Coweta Campus
Limited Number of Tickets Available for WGTC Black Tie & Boots
WGTC Cuts Ribbon to New Downtown Location
WGTC Breaks Ground on New Coweta Campus
WGTC Foundation Exceeds Goal at the Close of Major Gifts Campaign
WGTC to Cut Ribbon on Renovated Franklin Site
Ribbon Cutting for New Southwire Center for Manufacturing Excellence
Gary Allan Will Headline 10th Anniversary Black Tie & Boots
AT&T Invests $50,000 in Student Scholarships at West Georgia Technical College
WGTC’s Project CARE Gives Tons Of Food
WGTC Foundation Welcomes Four New Trustees
Coweta-Fayette EMC Supports New WGTC Coweta Campus
Newnan Hospital, Inc. Pledges $1 Million
YOKOGAWA Invests $40,000 In West Georgia Technical College Foundation
Piedmont Newnan Hospital Invests in WGTC Foundation
Greystone Power Wins WGTC Foundation Spirit of Giving Award
Josh Turner Tickets Sold Out!
WGTC Foundation Accepts Greenville Location
WGTC Foundation Accepts $1.55 Million Downtown Building
Josh Turner to Perform at 2010 Black Tie & Boots
Two Foundations Merge to Support Technical Education in West Georgia
WCTC Foundation Announces Redken Gift
WGTC Land Donors Win State Award
WCTC Foundation Receives Support from Tanner
WCTC Foundation Announces Leadership
Greystone Power Gives to WCTC Foundation
WCTC Foundation Gets Dollar General Donation

City of Carrollton Receives WGTC Foundation Spirit of Giving Award
Posted: August 26, 2012
CONTACT: Anitra Ellison, PHONE: 678-664-0523

The West Georgia Technical College Foundation has honored the City of Carrollton with the fifth annual Spirit of Giving Award. The award was presented by WGTC President Dr. Skip Sullivan August 25 at Black Tie and Boots, a sold-out fundraiser featuring famed country group Little Big Town.

The Spirit of Giving Award recognizes outstanding commitment and generosity to the West Georgia Technical College Foundation and technical education.

“We are honored to be able to recognize the City of Carrollton with this well-deserved award,” said West Georgia Technical College President Dr. Skip Sullivan. “Their commitment to the community and to our College truly exemplifies their spirit of giving.”

The City of Carrollton purchased the downtown Carrollton Adamson Square building and transferred it to the Carrollton Payroll Development Authority who then leased the building to the West Georgia Technical College Foundation. The property was appraised at $1.55 million, making it the largest building donation in West Georgia Technical College Foundation’s history.

The building serves as the administrative headquarters of West Georgia Technical College and officially opened in June 2011. The location is now home to the College’s Economic Development, Adult Education, and Institutional Advancement divisions as well as the senior leadership.

Newnan Hospital, Inc. was last year’s recipient of the Spirit of Giving Award. Newnan Hospital, Inc. invested $1 million towards the cost of construction of an allied health services building named the “Newnan Hospital, Inc. Allied Health Services Building” on the new Coweta Campus currently under construction.

“West Georgia Technical College’s presence on Adamson Square would not have possible without the City of Carrollton,” said West Georgia Technical College Vice President of Institutional Advancement Dawn Cook. “With their partnership, we have a greater impact in our community and in our students’ lives. We are grateful to be able to honor them with this award.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 100 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 25 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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Little Big Town Concert Sells Out
Posted: August 9, 2012
Contact: Anitra Ellison, 678-664-0523

If you haven’t got the hottest ticket in town, you may be out of luck. Tickets for this year’s Black Tie & Boots concert featuring Little Big Town have sold out. The concert will take place August 25 at the Murphy Campus with the seated meal served at 7 p.m. and the concert beginning at 8 p.m.

“Our corporate sponsorships went faster than ever this year,” said Dawn Cook, Vice President of Institutional Advancement. “We cannot thank our sponsors enough for not only supporting the College, but also supporting our community.”

Little Big Town is headlining this year’s concert which marks the 11th anniversary of Black Tie & Boots at West Georgia Technical College. Little Big Town is known for their hits “Boondocks,” "Little White Church" and their newest single, “Pontoon.” Past country artists who have performed at the annual concert include including Blake Shelton, Sara Evans, Jo Dee Messina, Josh Turner and last year’s star, Gary Allan.

“Black Tie & Boots is one of the premiere events in the West Georgia area,” said Cook. “There has been a lot of buzz about this year’s concert and I think our guests will be pleased with what we have planned.”

Despite the celebrity entertainment, Black Tie & Boots is known for its community impact. Proceeds from the event go toward student scholarships, program improvements, facility upgrades and faculty development.

“The community embraces this event like no other,” said West Georgia Technical College President Dr. Skip Sullivan. “Black Tie & Boots is highly anticipated every year and we are proud to contribute to the fabric of our community.”

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WGTC Veteran Students Receive Assistance From Foundation
Posted: May 27, 2012
Contact: Anitra Ellison, 678-664-0523

When Jerry Wood, a veteran and married father of three children, decided to make a mid-life career change, Wood chose West Georgia Technical College to pursue a Registered Nursing degree.

"West Georgia Technical College offered a path to get back in the workforce quickly and had a good reputation in the area for their Health Sciences programs," said Wood who attends the Murphy Campus. "I considered re-enrolling at the University level, but the more I looked at what West Georgia Technical College had to offer, it just seemed like the perfect place to begin at this stage of my life."

As a Desert Storm veteran with four years in the United States Marine Corps, Wood was eligible for the Trinka Davis Foundation Assistance. West Georgia Technical College was awarded $10,000 by the Trinka Davis Fund, a component fund of the Community Foundation of West Georgia. The fund was created to help assist veterans or their spouses who are in need. This is the second year West Georgia Technical College has been awarded the funds. Last year, 444 veterans enrolled at West Georgia Technical College received VA Benefits.

"Veterans have many choices after and during their military service, and we are pleased that they have chosen to make West Georgia Technical College a part of their life," said West Georgia Technical College Veterans Affairs Coordinator Ruthie Wheeler. "I am always striving to find ways to make their time at our college a great success."

To be eligible for the Trinka Davis Foundation Assistance, West Georgia Technical College students must be a U.S. citizen; a resident of Carroll, Heard or Haralson County; a military service member, an honorably discharged veteran, or a spouse of a military service member or an honorably discharged veteran; must demonstrate financial need; must be making satisfactory academic progress; and must be enrolled in a credit program at West Georgia Technical College. Students who receive the assistance can get up to $500 and are required to write a thank you letter to the donor.

"We are proud of the commitment our students have made to our country and our College," said West Georgia Technical College President Dr. Skip Sullivan. "We are very grateful to the men and women who honorably served our country in the military."

For Wood, receiving the Trinka Davis Foundation Assistance has not only given him the financial boost he needed, but an emotional boost as well.

"West Georgia Technical College is a great place to pursue an education, and the willingness of the financial aid staff to identify those veterans in need and get them the help they deserve is nothing short of fantastic," said Wood. "We gave of ourselves to serve our country, and it is heartening to know that there is help available for enrolled veterans at West Georgia Technical College."

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state's 25 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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11th Anniversary Black Tie & Boots Will Headline Little Big Town
Posted: March 28, 2012
Contact: Anitra Ellison, 678-664-0523

The West Georgia Technical College’s premier fundraiser of the West Georgia area, Black Tie & Boots, heads into its 11th year with Little Big Town as this year’s headliner.

Little Big Town will now join the ranks of other country music stars that have graced the Murphy Campus including Sara Evans, Blake Shelton, Josh Turner and Gary Allen who was last year’s headliner. Little Big Town will be the first group to perform at Black Tie & Boots since Diamond Rio in 2005.

“We have a lot of surprises in store this year for our guests,” said Vice President of Institutional Advancement Dawn Cook. “I think our guests will be blown away with what we have planned.”

Founded in 1998, Little Big Town is comprised members Karen Fairchild, Kimberly Schlapman, Jimi Westbrook and Phillip Sweet. Fairchild and Schlapman first met in college at Samford University in Birmingham, Ala., while Fairchild and Jimi Westbrook had known each other from other touring bands. Soon after, the trio met Sweet through a writer/friend of Fairchild’s. When all four of them first sang together in Schlapman’s living room, they knew that they were supposed to make music together.

"At its core, the vocal blend is the same today as it was sitting in that living room when we first all four sang together," Schlapman recalls.

Not only does their vocal blend set them apart from other groups, but also the fact that Little Big Town has not one, but four lead singers.

"Each person has their own individual style, so the face of the band changes with whoever's singing," Westbrook explains. "It gives us the ability to have a wide range of what our music is."

Little Big Town, known for their hits “Boondocks,” "Bring It On Home" and "Little White Church" have charted 12 songs on the Billboard Hot Country Songs charts and have sold over 1.5 million records and garnered three Grammy nominations, including The Road to Here’s nomination for album of the year.

Black Tie & Boots includes a seated meal at 7 p.m. and the concert at 8 p.m. and is the West Georgia Technical College Foundation’s largest fundraiser of the year. Past Black Tie & Boots events have sold out, Cook said. A limited number of individual and group tickets will go on sale July 2 at $125 per person or $950 per table, but corporate sponsorships which include tickets are available now.

“Black Tie & Boots is one of our premier fundraising events of the year,” said Cook. “The proceeds go toward student scholarships, program improvements, facility upgrades and faculty development.”

WGTC President Skip Sullivan said this event has been essential to the community.

“This event has definitely become something the community and our sponsors look forward to each year,” said Sullivan. “It is because of the Foundation and its support that we are able to make a difference in the lives of our students, faculty and staff and in our communities.”

For more information about becoming a sponsor, contact Cook at dawn.cook@westgatech.edu or 678-664-0515.

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 25 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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Powertech America Invests in WGTC Foundation
Posted: February 13, 2012
CONTACT: Anitra Ellison, PHONE: 678-664-0523

Powertech America is donating $5,000 to The West Georgia Technical College Foundation for renovations to the Callaway Conference Center on the LaGrange Campus.

“We are extremely thankful for the support of Powertech America,” said West Georgia Technical College President Dr. Skip Sullivan. “Their support of the College shows the importance of technical education in Troup County.”

WGTC Provost Perrin Alford, WGTC Calloway Conference Center Coordinator Jenny Ledford, and WGTC President Dr. Skip Sullivan with Jason Ransbottom and Darren Lucas of Powertech America.

Powertech America is a Kia supplier located on the Kia site in West Point and is a part of the parent company Hyundai Powertech. The company builds automatic transmissions for the Kia plant. The West Point factory is Powertech’s first U.S. facility.

The check will be used to help renovate the Callaway Conference Center, a 30,000 square foot venue that holds graduations, pinning ceremonies and continuing education classes for West Georgia Technical College as well as offering a space for various community and local business events.

“On behalf of the students we serve, I want to thank Powertech America for their generosity,” said Dawn Cook, WGTC Vice President of Institutional Advancement. “The West Georgia Technical College Foundation is tremendously grateful for their support of technical education and our students.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 25 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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WGTC Trustee Becomes Board Certified
Posted: November 17, 2011
CONTACT: Anitra Ellison, PHONE: 678-664-0523

WGTC Board of Directors member Mike Lee receives board certification.

West Georgia Technical College Board of Directors member Mike Lee was recognized as a certified board member by the Technical College Directors Association (TCDA) at its Annual Leadership Conference in Savannah.

The TCDA’s purpose is to build the capability of the local boards of directors to effectively increase the real and perceived value of technical and adult education in Georgia. The organization was formed in 1990 as an educational non-profit organization and supports the technical colleges in having board members who are “work-ready.”

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve West Georgia Technical College and the board,” said Lee who is a business owner in Douglas County.

While members of the local board of directors of the state’s 25 technical colleges are automatically members of TCDA, extra steps are taken to become board certified by the TCDA. To receive certification, Board members must attend New Board/Governance, Community Advocacy, Elected Officials and Budget workshops and visit at least one class session being taught by their respective technical college as required by the TCDA.

In addition to the workshops, board members can also go on a tour of the technical college conducted by the President or a Vice President, attend at least one graduation at the technical college, or represent the technical college in collaborative efforts with other groups or with the media among other selected activities.

“We are honored to have highly qualified members of our community on our board,” said West Georgia Technical College President Dr. Skip Sullivan. “Their service in leading our community and our College are unmatched.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 25 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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Sports Celebrities to Team Up to Help West Georgia Tech Raise Funds for Athletics at "Celebrity Casino Royale" Fundraising Event
Posted: October 31, 2011
CONTACT: Dawn Cook, PHONE: 678-664-0515 or dawn.cook@westgatech.edu

CARROLLTON, Ga. – The West Georgia Technical College Foundation announced plans to bring several notable sports celebrities to its “Celebrity Casino Royale” fundraiser, scheduled for January 27th, 2012, in Douglasville. The event is being billed as the largest single gathering of famous sports stars to come to this area in years.

The following sports figures are scheduled to appear at the casino night event to help raise money for West Georgia Technical College athletics: Former UGA head football coach and athletic director Vince Dooley and his wife Barbara, Braves skipper Fredi Gonzalez, Braves pitching coach Roger McDowell, current New York Yankee and former Brave Andruw Jones, Falcons fullback Ovie Mughelli, and former Falcon Billy “White Shoes” Johnson.

“This is going to be a much-anticipated night for our college as well as for the local communities,” said West Georgia Technical College President Dr. Skip Sullivan. “Where else are you going to be able to rub elbows and meet these renowned sports figures than at this event? We are very appreciative of them for their commitment to helping us raise much-needed funds for our student-athletes, and we want to invite the entire community out to help us with this cause.”

All proceeds will support the athletic programs at West Georgia Technical College. West Georgia Tech started its athletic program in 2006 with volleyball and has since added men’s and women’s basketball, cheerleading, baseball and, most recently, fast pitch softball.

Individual tickets will go on sale January 3rd and are priced at $150 each or $250 per couple. Corporate sponsorships are available now with levels ranging from $1,500 to $5,000. Corporate sponsors and their guests will be invited to attend a private VIP dinner prior to the casino night and will have the opportunity to mix and mingle with the celebrities in a more intimate setting.

“Celebrity Casino Royale” will be held at The Centre at Arbor Connection, located on Douglas Boulevard in Douglasville. The main portion of the evening begins at 6:30 p.m.

The night’s festivities will include gaming with fake money at various casino tables such as blackjack, craps, poker and roulette, where attendees will have an opportunity to play the games with one of the sports celebrities serving as a guest dealer. Attendees will also be treated to hor d’ouevres, a cash bar, a DJ, door prizes, and a silent auction which will include several sports memorabilia pieces and other high-demand items.

West Georgia Tech’s Vice-President of Institutional Advancement, Dawn Cook, said she anticipates high demand for tickets and corporate sponsorships.

“With this incredible line-up of sports celebrities we anticipate a lot of interest from the corporate sponsor community, as well as from the public for individual tickets,” Cook said. “We would encourage everyone to act fast to ensure a spot at this event. This will be the first time we have undertaken a fundraiser of this magnitude for our athletic programs, and we are looking forward to joining forces with our friends in the community and our celebrities to raise much-needed funds which will go directly to helping our local student-athletes achieve their goals.”

For more information on “Celebrity Casino Royale” or to inquire about purchasing individual tickets and/or a corporate sponsorship, please contact Dawn Cook at 678.664.0515 or dawn.cook@westgatech.edu. You can also visit www.westgatech.edu for more information.

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WGTC Foundation Honors Newnan Hospital, Inc. with Spirit of Giving Award
Posted: August 30, 2011
CONTACT: Anitra Ellison, PHONE: 678-664-0523

The West Georgia Technical College Foundation awarded its annual Spirit of Giving Award to Newnan Hospital, Inc. at the 10th Anniversary Black Tie & Boots Fundraiser on August 20th. The Spirit of Giving Award recognizes outstanding commitment and generosity to the West Georgia Technical College Foundation and technical education.

"It’s an honor to recognize Newnan Hospital, Inc. for their dedication to the College, the Foundation and our students,” West Georgia Technical College President Dr. Skip Sullivan said. “Their unwavering commitment to education makes this award well-deserved.”

At the April 2011 groundbreaking ceremony for the College’s new Coweta Campus, Tom Moat, President of the Board of Directors of Newnan Hospital, Inc. presented the Foundation with a $1 million check. The investment was the largest cash gift made in the West Georgia Technical College Foundation’s inaugural major gifts campaign and will be used exclusively to fund a portion of the cost of construction of an allied health services building named the “Newnan Hospital, Inc. Allied Health Services Building.”

Tom Moat, President of the Board of Directors of Newnan Hospital, Inc.

“We are grateful for the support Newnan Hospital, Inc. has shown to the Foundation,” West Georgia Technical College Vice President of Institutional Advancement Dawn Cook said. “Their investment in the future of healthcare education and the future of our community’s workforce has been unmatched.”

The award was accepted by Mark Whitlock, CEO of the Central Educational Center (CEC) and Foundation Trustee on behalf of Newnan Hospital, Inc. The CEC, which is the current location of the College’s Coweta Campus, is a collaborative venture between business and industry, the Coweta County School System, and West Georgia Technical College.

“The West Georgia Technical College Foundation has been instrumental in our community,” said Whitlock. “Their impact on technical education will have a lasting impression.”

GreyStone Power Corporation was last year’s recipient of the Spirit of Giving Award. GreyStone Power, headquartered in Douglasville, invested $250,000 in the West Georgia Technical College Foundation’s inaugural major gifts campaign. Newnan Hospital, Inc. is the fourth recipient of the Spirit of Giving Award.

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 120 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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WGTC 10th Anniversary Gary Allan Concert Sold Out
Posted: August 10, 2011
CONTACT: Anitra Ellison, PHONE: 678-664-0523

For those who have not secured their ticket for the most anticipated concert in West Georgia, you are out of luck. West Georgia Technical College announced that tickets to see Gary Allan at the 10th Anniversary Black Tie & Boots are sold out.

Gary Allan

“We have sold the most corporate sponsorships for this event this year,” said Dawn Cook, Vice President of Institutional Advancement. “We cannot thank our sponsors enough for not only supporting the College, but also supporting our community.”

Country star Gary Allan is headlining the 10th anniversary concert. Allan, known for his hits “Her Man,” “Man to Man,” “Tough Little Boys” and “Nothing On but the Radio,” boasts three certified platinum albums and 24 singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs charts, including three that reached Number One. Past country artists who have performed at the annual concerts include Blake Shelton, Sara Evans, Jo Dee Messina and last year’s star, Josh Turner.

Black Tie & Boots is the West Georgia Technical College Foundation’s biggest fundraiser of the year. In addition to the seated meal served at 7 p.m. and the concert that begins at 8 p.m., guests are given the full red carpet treatment.

“As our 10th anniversary, this will be our best year to date,” said Cook. “Our guests are in for a treat.”

Despite the celebrity entertainment, Black Tie & Boots is not all about red carpets and country super stars. Proceeds from the event go toward student scholarships, program improvements, facility upgrades and faculty development.

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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WGTC Foundation Announces 2011-2012 Leadership
Posted: July 25, 2011
CONTACT: Anitra Ellison, PHONE: 678-664-0523

The West Georgia Technical College Foundation announces its leadership officers for the 2011-2012 year.

Kali Boatright

Kali Boatright, Douglas County Chamber of Commerce President and CEO, replaces retired Utility Service Corporation executive, Malcolm Jackson as Foundation President. Don Moore, a retired Bonnell Manufacturing executive, will resume his position as Vice President. Senior Vice President of Tanner Health System, Larry Steed, will also continue as Foundation Treasurer.

“We are proud to have these outstanding professionals as our leadership team,” said West Georgia Technical College President Dr. Skip Sullivan. “Their expertise and commitment to our Foundation will be a great asset as we work to accomplish next year’s goals.”

Don Moore

Boatright, a 20 year resident of Douglasville, also serves as the President and CEO of the Douglas County Chamber of Commerce. She has held numerous leadership posts within the Foundation board including chairing the bylaw committee during the merger and chairing several nominating committees. In addition to her duties in the Foundation, Boatright currently serves as an officer of the Georgia Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives as well as chairwoman of both the Wellstar Hospital Regional Health Board and the College and Career Institute.

Moore, a retired manufacturing executive, brings 38 years of experience in the manufacturing field to the Foundation including 11 years at Southwire Co. and 25 years at various levels of management with Bonnell Manufacturing Co. His last 12 years at Bonnell were as plant manager of the Newnan facility. Moore has been active in support of Douglas County’s College and Career Institute, which is a charter career academy providing classes for dually enrolled high school students as well as adult learners.

Larry Steed

Steed, a native of Carroll County, became a member of the West Georgia Technical College Foundation board in 2009. Currently serving as Foundation treasurer, he also serves on the executive and finance committees. Employed with Tanner Medical Center, Inc. since 1981, Steed currently serves as senior vice president with responsibility for Tanner Medical Center in Villa Rica, Willowbrooke at Tanner and Higgins General Hospital in Bremen.

“The West Georgia Technical College Foundation Board of Trustees are leaders in their industries and in their communities,” said Vice President of Institutional Advancement Dawn Cook. “We are grateful for their time and commitment to West Georgia Technical College and to the Foundation.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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Southtowne Motors Invests in WGTC Foundation
Posted: July 20, 2011
CONTACT: Anitra Ellison, PHONE: 678-664-0523

The West Georgia Technical College Foundation’s new campaign for the Coweta Campus is starting off right with a $10,000 gift from Southtowne Motors in Newnan, Ga.


	WGTC President Dr. Skip Sullivan (left) and WGTC VP of Institutional Advancement, Dawn Cook (center) accept $10,000 check from Southtowne Motors owner, Steve Mader.

“We are extremely thankful for the support of Southtowne Motors,” said West Georgia Technical College President Dr. Skip Sullivan. “Their support of the College’s new campus shows the importance of technical education in Coweta County.”

West Georgia Technical College has been a vital educational presence in Coweta County since 2000. The College is currently housed in the Central Educational Center (CEC), which opened as a collaborative venture between business and industry, the Coweta County School System, and West Georgia Technical College.

“The West Georgia Technical College Foundation is grateful for all of the support received for our newest campaign,” said Dawn Cook, West Georgia Technical College Vice President of Institutional Advancement. “With Southtowne Motors’ generous investment, we can expand our presence in Coweta County and fulfill the need of the community’s growing workforce.”

The West Georgia Technical College Foundation broke ground on the new campus on April 29, which will be ready for students in the fall of 2012. The campus will be built in phases, with the Foundation completely funding phase one and the state of Georgia budgeting $8.5 million for phase two of the campus. The new campus will offer a number of programs including general education classes, criminal justice, early childhood development, robotics, electronics, computer information systems and healthcare. The location will bring a stronger adult education and economic development presence to the area, as well.

“I have always been a firm believer in education,” said Steve Mader, owner of Southtowne Motors. “The new Coweta Campus is going to be hub for education. I want to feel like I’ve done my part to make it succeed.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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WGTC Foundation Launches Mini Campaign for Coweta Campus
Posted: July 7, 2011
CONTACT: Anitra Ellison, PHONE: 678-664-0523

The West Georgia Technical College Foundation isn’t resting on its laurels. Only months after closing a goal-smashing $11.4 million “Invest in the Next Generation” major gifts campaign, the Foundation today announced a Coweta Campus Campaign that aims to raise $5 million to help fund construction of the College’s new Coweta Campus.

On April 29, the Foundation broke ground on the new campus, which should be ready for students in time for Fall Semester 2012. The new campus will offer a number of programs including general education classes, criminal justice, early childhood development, robotics, electronics, computer information systems and healthcare. The location will also bring a stronger adult education and economic development presence to the area, as well.

“West Georgia Technical College is invested in Coweta County and we are poised to meet the growing needs of workforce development in the area,” West Georgia Technical College President Dr. Skip Sullivan said. “We are excited about the launch of this new campaign and the impact it will have on the future generations to come.”

The campus will be built in phases, with the Foundation completely funding phase one, the Newnan Hospital Inc. Allied Health Services Building. Newnan Hospital, Inc. secured the naming rights to the building with a $1 million gift last year.

The state of Georgia has budgeted $8.5 million for phase two of the campus – a general instruction and administrative building.

“This campaign is critical to the future success of our College and our students,” West Georgia Technical College Vice President of Institutional Advancement Dawn Cook said. “We’ve had a strong presence in Coweta County with the Central Educational Center, and now we’re expanding our presence with a new campus to meet the community’s needs well into the future.”

Orchard Hills Golf Properties, LLC donated 38 acres of prime real estate on I-85 for the new campus. The donation is valued at $1.55 million and is one of the single largest land gifts ever made to a technical college foundation in Georgia.

In addition to the Orchard Hills investment and the $1 million gift from Newnan Hospital, Inc., the Foundation has received a number of smaller gifts from the Coweta County community toward the new campus including donations from Yokogawa Corporation of America, Coweta Dentistry Associates, Coweta-Fayette EMC and Southtowne Motors.

Cook said the new campaign is essential for the continued growth and development of the Coweta Campus.

“This will be a campus for the entire Coweta County community and as such, we are reaching out to the community for its support,” Cook said. “Newnan and Coweta County have been clamoring for greater post-secondary opportunities for years, and we are committed to leading the way and making the investment this community wants and needs.”

West Georgia Technical College has had a strong presence in Coweta County since 2000. The College is currently housed in the Central Educational Center, a collaborative venture between business and industry, the Coweta County School System, and West Georgia Technical College.

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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Limited Number of Tickets Available for WGTC Black Tie & Boots
Posted: July 1, 2011
CONTACT: Anitra Ellison, PHONE: 678-664-0523

The West Georgia Technical College Foundation’s most anticipated fundraising event, Black Tie & Boots, has a limited number of tickets available. Due to the confirmed number of corporate sponsorships, the number of tickets on sale to the public is very limited. Gary Allan

This year marks the 10th anniversary of Black Tie & Boots with country star Gary Allan headlining the concert. Allan is known for his hits “Her Man,” “Man to Man,” “Tough Little Boys” and “Nothing On but the Radio.” Past country artists who have performed at the annual concerts include Blake Shelton, Sara Evans, Jo Dee Messina and last year’s star, Josh Turner.

“Black Tie & Boots is one of the premiere events in West Georgia,” said Dawn Cook, Vice President of Institutional Advancement. “The community and our sponsors look forward to this event each year and we pride ourselves on providing our guests with an elegant and intimate atmosphere.”

While Black Tie & Boots is known for bringing the latest country stars to West Georgia, its impact on the community goes deeper than entertainment. Proceeds from the event go toward student scholarships, program improvements, facility upgrades and faculty development.

“The West Georgia Technical College Foundation is an essential part of our College,” said West Georgia Technical College President Dr. Skip Sullivan. “It is because of the Foundation and its support that we are able to make a difference in the lives of our students, faculty and staff and in our communities.”

Tickets go on sale to the public on July 1 at $125 per person or $950 per table. Tickets can be purchased with a credit card on the West Georgia Technical College website, www.westgatech.edu or contact Dawn Cook at dawn.cook@westgatech.edu or at 678.664.0515.

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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WGTC Cuts Ribbon to New Downtown Location
Posted: June 16, 2011
CONTACT: Anitra Ellison, PHONE: 678-664-0523

Downtown Carrollton has welcomed a new neighbor as West Georgia Technical College cut the ribbon on a new administrative headquarters at 401 Adamson Square June 9. College employees, City of Carrollton officials, residents and businesses of Adamson Square came to celebrate the restored building and West Georgia Technical College’s return to its roots.

“This is a great day for the college. We are absolutely delighted to be here,” said WGTC President Dr. Sullivan. “We will be good citizens on the square and we are honored to be here.”


	Daniel Jackson, Chunk Newman, WGTC President Skip Sullivan (center), City of Carrollton Mayor Wayne Garner (right), Mike Patterson, Jim Gill, Casey Coleman, Dawn Cook and Rick Hayden cut the ribbon to WGTC’s new downtown building during the June 9 ceremony.

“We’re excited and delighted that West Georgia Technical College is downtown,” said City of Carrollton Mayor Wayne Garner. “I thank Skip Sullivan for his leadership and support during this project.”

Formerly known as the People’s Bank building, 401 Adamson Square was a dominant presence in Downtown Carrollton for many years. Recently, however, the building sat vacant, negatively impacting the economic vitality of the Square. In April 2010, the West Georgia Technical College Foundation along with the City of Carrollton and the Carrollton Payroll Development Authority saw the opportunity to expand WGTC’s workforce development and adult education capacity in Carroll County, restore one of Adamson Square’s historic buildings and contribute to the revitalization of Downtown Carrollton.

“We can’t talk about economic development without talking about education and workforce development,” said Daniel Jackson, President of the Carroll County Chamber of Commerce. “That is why this facility is so exciting to us and we are delighted to be a part of this.”

The West Georgia Technical College Foundation obtained the building through an agreement with the Carrollton Payroll Development Authority, with the support of the City of Carrollton. The Foundation was also awarded a Façade Improvement Grant in June 2010 by Carrollton Main Street in support of the building’s exterior improvements. The appraised building is valued at $1.55 million, making this the largest building gift in WGTC Foundation’s history.

“We enjoyed being a part of this project,” said Jim Gill, Chairman of the Carrollton Payroll Development Authority. “We thank West Georgia Technical College and the City of Carrollton for their partnership.”

During the renovation of the facility, the West Georgia Technical College staff, faculty and leadership volunteered more than 4,000 man hours to help with the building’s renovation. West Georgia Technical College employees began moving into the building in March of this year. The location is now home to the College’s Economic Development, Adult Education, and Institutional Advancement divisions as well as the President and Vice Presidents.

“West Georgia Technical College is committed to empowering lives every day and we are inspired by our students,’ said Dawn Cook, VP of Institutional Advancement. We look forward to expanding our impact and to continue to provide high quality technical and adult education to the entire West Georgia community.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma, and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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WGTC Breaks Ground on New Coweta Campus
Posted: May 10, 2011
CONTACT: Anitra Ellison, PHONE: 678-664-0523

West Georgia Technical College broke ground on what will soon be the brand new, stand-alone, full-service Coweta Campus on April 29th. State and local dignitaries, board members and Foundation trustees were in attendance at the groundbreaking ceremony.

“We are excited and delighted for the citizens of Coweta,” said West Georgia Technical College President Dr. Skip Sullivan. “This is a time to celebrate, not only for our new campus, but also for new opportunities and the investment of this community on the Coweta campus.”


	WGTC board members, trustees, State and local dignitaries break ground on the new Coweta Campus.

“The level of support that the West Georgia Technical College has received shows that education is an important priority in Coweta County,” said Dawn Cook, West Georgia Technical College Vice President of Institutional Advancement. “The West Georgia Technical College Foundation is tremendously grateful for the community’s investment in technical education and our students.”

“The economic development impact this campus will have on this community cannot be overstated,” said Ron Jackson, Commissioner of the Technical College System of Georgia. “I cannot think of a better investment of state government money. It’s not wasted; it changes people’s lives.”

The state of Georgia has budgeted $8.5 million for phase two of the campus which will include three classroom buildings, a maintenance and operations building, outdoor education and shops and parking.

“80 percent of the workforce is going to need technical training. To be able to meet the needs of workforce development is a great asset,” said Lieutenant Governor Casey Cagle. “Students need more options and more relevance in the workplace. That’s where the CEC and West Georgia Technical College come into place.”

The new Coweta County campus will offer a number of programs including general education classes, criminal justice, early childhood development, robotics, electronics, computer information systems and healthcare. The location will also bring a stronger adult education and economic development presence to the area.

“Thanks to the CEC, West Georgia Technical College has been a big presence in our community,” said David Brown, Chairman of the Coweta County Development Authority. “Thank you all for making that important first step. It takes a community to get this done.”

“Having technical education and training is absolutely essential and this new campus will allow us to meet those demands,” said Jim Mottola, member of the Orchard Hills Golf Properties, LLC. “Invest in technical education; it’s the best return you’ll get.”

The West Georgia Technical College Foundation was presented with a $1 million check from Newnan Hospital, Inc. The investment is the largest cash gift received in the West Georgia Technical College Foundation’s inaugural major gifts campaign and will be used exclusively to fund a portion of the cost of construction of an allied health services building, which will be named the “Newnan Hospital, Inc. Allied Health Services Building.”

“It’s important to have our campus in our community,” said Tom Moat, President of the Board of Directors of Newnan Hospital, Inc. “We are pleased to contribute to technical education with our new campus. This campus will meet the needs of all of today’s industries.”

“This is just starting and we want you to be a part of it,” said Sullivan. “This is going to change the face of Coweta County.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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WGTC Foundation Exceeds Goal at the Close of Major Gifts Campaign
Posted: May 9, 2011
CONTACT: Anitra Ellison, PHONE: 678-664-0523

The West Georgia Technical College Foundation major gifts campaign entitled “Invest in the Next Generation”, has come to a close. The campaign, which was created in June 2007, specifically sought to raise funds to build a new Coweta County Campus; strengthen the Student Scholarship and Grant Fund; create a Healthcare Endowment; and to enhance the Adult Education and Literacy program with an endowment. The initial goal at the start of the campaign was $8 million. The Foundation has exceeded that goal, raising over $11.4 million.

“This is an incredible achievement made possible by the community we are proud to serve,” said WGTC President Dr. Skip Sullivan. “The donations to the West Georgia Technical College Foundation are more than an expression of generosity; they are an investment of lives changed.”

The Clements Group, an institutional advancement and effectiveness firm, conducted a feasibility study in February 2007 to determine potential support for a major gifts campaign. Seventy-four community leaders, Foundation board members, members of the College’s Board of Directors, and employees of the College were interviewed in regard to the College’s program appeal, availability of financial support, leadership, and organization. After the analysis of the responses, the suggested initiatives for the proposed campaign were determined.

“Externally, I think the Campaign raised the visibility of the College in the region, improved its image, and connected it with community leaders that had previously had little or no relationship with WGTC. Internally, I believe it increased the pride that employees felt in being part of a college that was so well regarded in the community, and increased their awareness of the critical nature of their jobs,” said Jackie Bowen, a senior consultant of the Clements Group. “This could not have happened without the dedication and energy of Dr. Sullivan and Dawn. We could provide counsel and advice, but the feet on the street were theirs.”

The campaign focused on four initiatives. The first initiative, the Coweta Campus Fund, was to raise funding for a new, stand-alone, full service campus. Orchard Hills Golf Properties, LLC donated 38 acres of prime real estate on I-85 for the new campus. The donation is valued at $1.55 million and is one of the single largest land gifts ever made to a technical college foundation in Georgia.

The second initiative, the Healthcare Fund, provided funds for enhancing training, expanding existing programs, establishing new programs, and improving equipment and facilities for the next generation of medical support personnel. The third initiative, the Student Scholarship and Grant Fund, was created to help students surmount the barriers that prevent them from pursuing a college education. The fourth initiative, the Adult Education and Literacy Fund, helped to offer people of every age and economic background to pursue the basic education credentials that will help them compete and earn in the workplace.

The West Georgia Technical College Foundation received a $1 million donation from Newnan Hospital, Inc., which was the largest cash gift in the inaugural major gifts campaign. The donation will be used exclusively to fund a portion of the cost of construction of an allied health services building on the brand new Coweta County campus, which will be named the “Newnan Hospital, Inc. Allied Health Services Building.”

The Foundation has also received donations from the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, GreyStone Power Corporation and Foundation, Tanner Health System, Redken, Piedmont Newnan Hospital, YOKOGAWA Corporation of America, Coweta-Fayette EMC, the AT&T Foundation, Southwire Company and many other businesses, foundations and individuals.

“I am proud of the positive impact this College and Foundation make in the lives of so many,” said Dawn Cook, WGTC Vice President of Institutional Advancement. “And I want to thank everyone who made an investment in our Foundation for making these successes possible.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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Renovated Franklin Site Unveiled at Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Posted: April 18, 2011
CONTACT: Anitra Ellison, PHONE: 678-664-0523

After months of renovations, West Georgia Technical College cut the ribbon to the new and improved Franklin site, on April 14th. Located on Highway 34 East, the building was donated to the West Georgia Technical College Foundation by the Heard County Development Authority, allowing the College to make significant investment in the facility.

“We are absolutely and incredibly excited about this facility,” said West Georgia Technical College President Dr. Skip Sullivan. “It will serve our students and community well and for a very long time.”


	State Farm Agent, Terry Harper (center) and President Dr. Skip Sullivan (right), cuts ribbon to the newly renovated Franklin site at West Georgia Technical College.

The Franklin site, which has history in textile manufacturing and once served as a sewing facility, has undergone extensive interior and exterior renovations. During construction, students took classes in portable classrooms. State Farm Agent, Terry Harper, remembers the tremendous work that was needed on the building and the efforts of the people who helped make it the working educational center it is today.

“This facility is a product of ‘visdom’, vision and wisdom,” said Harper. “I’m appreciative of the Foundation and Dr. Sullivan’s vision and wisdom.”

The renovated building is now home to classrooms, computer labs, a state-of-the-art welding lab and a cosmetology lab that not only trains students but also offers full salon services to the community. The salon, which will also offer spa services, will open to the public on April 19th from 4:30-8:30 p.m. with very competitive pricing.

“This site is the foundation for future growth,” said Heard County Development Authority Chair, Emmett Harrod. “And I appreciate the commitment made here.”

In January, the site began offering regular day and evening classes in cosmetology, general education and welding. Adults pursuing a GED can also take Adult Education classes at the site as well.

“We are full of excitement as we work to better the citizens of the Franklin community,” Vice President of Institutional Advancement, Dawn Cook said. Most can agree that the renovated site proves to be beneficial to the Franklin workforce and community.

“West Georgia Technical College’s commitment to the community is contagious,” said Kathy Knowles, President of the Heard County Chamber of Commerce. “Their successes are our work force.”

“How great is it to drive by the Franklin site and see the parking lot full of cars?” said Sullivan. “That’s why we’re here - to develop the workforce.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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Ribbon Cutting for New Southwire Center for Manufacturing Excellence
Posted: April 4, 2011
CONTACT: Anitra Ellison, PHONE: 678-664-0523

Unveiling the fruits of their partnership, Southwire Company and West Georgia Technical College held a ribbon cutting ceremony, March 30, marking the opening of the new Southwire Center for Manufacturing Excellence on the College’s Carroll Campus.


	WGTC President Dr. Skip Sullivan (left) and Southwire Company President and CEO Stu Thorn (right), cut the ribbon for the Southwire Center for Manufacturing Excellence.

“This is an exciting time for us,” said West Georgia Technical College President Dr. Skip Sullivan. “We could not be more proud of this partnership, and we are grateful for Southwire’s investment in our college.”

The Southwire Center for Manufacturing Excellence, which is funded by a $1 million gift by the company, will be staffed by a full-time faculty member serving as a liaison between Southwire and West Georgia Technical College. The center will build upon the skills possessed by the company’s current manufacturing and maintenance employees, while creating a pool of talent for Southwire and the west Georgia area.

“This partnership will help current and future employees of Southwire,” said Gary Pasley, Southwire Company Utility Products Plant maintenance manager. “This new center will give students the tools they need to be able to hit the ground running.”

The state-of-the-art center is equipped with electronics work benches and stations for industrial safety and mechanics. The curriculum for the center will include online coursework, instructor-led courses and on-the-job assignments. West Georgia Technical College student Nick Smith spoke at the ceremony and said he is looking forward to the new opportunities and the creation of jobs the center will provide for students like him.

“I express my sincere gratitude to Southwire for their generous investment,” Smith said. “I wish the alliance many successes in the years ahead.”

In his remarks, Southwire President and CEO Stu Thorn said he believes partnership is the key to success for both Southwire and West Georgia Technical College.

“Southwire is dedicated to applying partnership ideas to technical education,” Thorn said. “Why stop with having a partnership with our customers? Why not bring that partnership into the community?”

“Workforce development is a team sport,” Sullivan said. “We can’t do it by ourselves.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

A technology leader for more than 50 years, Southwire Company is North America’s largest building wire producer and one of the world’s leading wire and cable manufacturers. The company’s product line includes copper and aluminum building wire, industrial power cable, flexible power cord, metal-clad (MC) cable, utility products, and copper and aluminum rod. Southwire’s headquarters is in Carrollton, Ga.

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Gary Allan Will Headline 10th Anniversary Black Tie & Boots
Posted: February 23, 2011
CONTACT: Ben Chambers, PHONE: 770-537-5756

Gary Allan will be the latest country star to play Waco when he headlines this year’s Black Tie & Boots event for the West Georgia Technical College Foundation.

Gary Allan

Allan follows in the bootprints of a host of country music stalwarts including Blake Shelton, Sara Evans, Jo Dee Messina and last year’s star, Josh Turner.

The August 20 concert marks the 10th anniversary for one of the area’s premier fundraising events.

“As our 10th anniversary, this year is special to us,” Vice President of Institutional Advancement Dawn Cook said. “We are working hard to make this our best event ever. I think our guests will be blown away with what we have planned.”

One thing won’t change, though. Black Tie & Boots is one of the hardest tickets to get in West Georgia. “We plan to sell out with corporate sponsors,” Cook said. “Any seats that remain open on July 1 will go on sale to the public at $125 per person or $950 per table.”

“If you want to be sure to get a seat, you need to purchase a corporate sponsorship,” she said.

Allan is a bit of a departure for Black Tie & Boots – a grittier and more serious artist who wouldn’t play the bars that didn’t allow George Jones songs. Allan is a country artist who says, “You’ll never hear me singing about tractors or farms, just because I don’t know anything about that stuff. Wrong roads and dark horses I know about. Still, I think the pain can get to be some kind of a positive for me because it connects to everything I’ve ever dreamed of. While it’s relentless, it’s confirmation of the actual existence of this big musical drama, the result of the dream.”

If his career often has seemed less loud and permanently neon-lit than those of some of his peers, Allan has indeed achieved a robust viability, consistently hitting all the gold and platinum sales benchmarks by which those kinds of determinations are measured.

“I remember talking about this when I first got signed to a Nashville major label,” Allan said. “Even then I was able to say, ‘Look, I’m never going to be the latest greatest thing, because that usually goes straight up and then burns out.’ My goal was — and remains — to be like Willie Nelson or George Strait, people who consistently rise. I think because I’ve done this since I was a little kid that I want it to be in my life forever. I want to be like Willie, playing until I’m 70. That’s what I’m swinging for.”

You can hear that grittiness in his newest album, the 2010 release, Get Off on the Pain.

Allan made his debut on the country music scene with the release of his single “Her Man,” the lead-off to his gold-certified debut album Used Heart for Sale, which was released in 1996.

Allan’s third album, Smoke Rings in the Dark, was the first platinum album of his career. Its successors, Alright Guy (2001) and See If I Care (2003), were all certified platinum as well, while 2005’s Tough All Over and 2007’s Greatest Hits were both certified gold.

Overall, Allan’s seven studio albums and Greatest Hits package have produced 24 singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs charts, including three that reached Number One: “Man to Man” and “Tough Little Boys” in 2003, and “Nothing On but the Radio” in 2004. Seven more of his singles have reached the Top Ten as well: “Her Man,” “It Would Be You,” “Right Where I Need to Be,” “The One,” “Best I Ever Had” (a cover of a Vertical Horizon song), “Life Ain’t Always Beautiful,” and “Watching Airplanes.”

Black Tie & Boots includes a seated meal at 7 p.m. and the concert at 8 p.m. and is the WGTC Foundation’s largest fundraiser of the year, Cook said.

“The proceeds go toward student scholarships, program improvements, facility upgrades and faculty development. The event is absolutely crucial,” she said. “Our Foundation is giving $20,000 in student scholarships this year because of Black Tie & Boots and events like it.”

“Folks in the community have come to know about this event. I have people asking me every year, ‘Who are you going to get next year? Who’s coming this year? When do tickets go on sale?’ There’s a lot of community goodwill that’s built off of this, as well,” Cook said.

President Dr. Skip Sullivan said the College has come to rely on the Foundation’s support.

“When you look at the way they are supporting our students with scholarships, our faculty with reimbursement for continuing education, our plans for future growth through facility improvements, the Foundation is an essential part of our College going forward. We cannot do what we need to do for students without the Foundation.”

“I encourage people to come out and see Gary Allan, have a good time and do something good to support our community and our students,” Sullivan said.

For more information about becoming a sponsor, contact Cook at dawn.cook@westgatech.edu or 770.537.6010.

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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AT&T Invests $50,000 in Student Scholarships at West Georgia Technical College
Posted: December 20, 2010
CONTACT: Dawn Cook; VP Institutional Advancement; PHONE: 770-537-6010; EMAIL: dawn.cook@westgatech.edu

The AT&T Foundation, the philanthropic arm of AT&T*, has committed $50,000 to West Georgia Technical College Foundation in support of student scholarships.


	Pete Meadows, AT&T Regional Manager, Dr. Skip Sullivan, WGTC President and Dawn Cook, WGTC VP, Institutional Advancement celebrate the AT&T Foundation’s commitment of $50,000 to WGTC for student scholarships with members of the WGTC Local Board, the WGTC Foundation Board of Trustees and Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

West Georgia Technical College has experienced unprecedented growth in recent years as more students turn to technical and workforce education.

"One of the first priorities of the WGTC Foundation's major gifts campaign is student scholarships," said Dawn Cook, WGTC Vice President of Institutional Advancement. "The AT&T Foundation's gift will help literally thousands of students realize their goals, now and in the future. That's a bold investment in our community, and establishes a legacy of excellence and commitment by the AT&T Foundation."

"This is such an exciting gift to the WGTC Foundation's major gift campaign and the student scholarship initiative," said WGTC President Dr. Skip Sullivan. "At a time when so many other companies are cutting back on donations because of a tough economic climate, I think an investment this significant says something very positive about AT&T's commitment to education."

Community investment and philanthropy have been cornerstones of AT&T's business model for decades. In 2009, AT&T and its employees contributed more than $8.9 million in the state of Georgia through corporate, employee and AT&T Foundation giving programs.

Pete Meadows, Regional Manager for AT&T, said that the gift is part of the AT&T Foundation's commitment to education in the communities they serve. "Supporting technical education isn't just good corporate citizenship, it's good business," Meadows said. "Recognizing the connection between success of our communities and the success of our company is one of the reasons why we have been around for generations, and why we'll be here for many more to come. We're pleased to be in a position to support the students of West Georgia Technical College."

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 120 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Technical College is the second largest of the state's 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.

About AT&T
AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) is a premier communications holding company. Its subsidiaries and affiliates – AT&T operating companies – are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world. With a powerful array of network resources that includes the nation’s fastest mobile broadband network, AT&T is a leading provider of wireless, Wi-Fi, high speed Internet and voice services. A leader in mobile broadband, AT&T also offers the best wireless coverage worldwide, offering the most wireless phones that work in the most countries. It also offers advanced TV services under the AT&T U-verse® and AT&T │DIRECTV brands. The company’s suite of IP-based business communications services is one of the most advanced in the world. In domestic markets, AT&T Advertising Solutions and AT&T Interactive are known for their leadership in local search and advertising. In 2010, AT&T again ranked among the 50 Most Admired Companies by FORTUNE® magazine.

Additional information about AT&T Inc. and the products and services provided by AT&T subsidiaries and affiliates is available at http://www.att.com. This AT&T news release and other announcements are available at http://www.att.com/newsroom and as part of an RSS feed at www.att.com/rss. Or follow our news on Twitter at @ATTNews. Find us on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ATT to discover more about our consumer and wireless services or at www.Facebook.com/ATTSmallBiz to discover more about our small business services.

© 2010 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. Mobile broadband not available in all areas. AT&T, the AT&T logo and all other marks contained herein are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies. All other marks contained herein are the property of their respective owners.

About Philanthropy at AT&T
AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) is committed to advancing education, strengthening communities and improving lives. Through its philanthropic initiatives and partnerships, AT&T has a long history of supporting projects that create learning opportunities; promote academic and economic achievement; and address community needs. In 2009, more than $155 million was contributed through corporate-, employee- and AT&T Foundation-giving programs.

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WGTC’s Project CARE Gives Tons Of Food
Posted: December 13, 2010
CONTACT: Angela Warner, WGTC Marketing Specialist; PHONE: 770-537-6056; EMAIL: angela.warner@westgatech.edu

Students, faculty and staff at West Georgia Technical College collected more than 13,000 canned and nonperishable food items and $6,500 for needy families this season. The donations, netting several tons, will be distributed to those in need within the WGTC family.

WGTC campuses and programs approached the donation drive as a competition for a good cause, stirring fun-filled rivalry between programs. “Our students really go out of their way to participate because they know it helps people who are part of this institution,” said Jamie Shell, Medical Assisting Program Director, whose Medical Assisting students collected 1,111 cans of food. “When you’re helping your friends, coworkers and neighbors, it’s easy to give.”

Ben Chambers, Marketing Specialist and Dawn Cook, VP of Institutional Advancement pack one of the 200 boxes of food to be distributed to those in need. WGTC collected more than 13,000 cans in the Project CARE food drive.

Assistance is open to current students, faculty and staff of West Georgia Technical College. Families in need applied for assistance through Project CARE, the community assistance initiative of the West Georgia Technical College Foundation. The Foundation raises funds for Project CARE year-round, through employee contributions, cake auctions and other fundraisers.

“In only its second year, Project CARE has proven to be one of the most important initiatives we have at West Georgia Technical College,” said Dawn Cook, Vice President of Institutional Advancement. “Even when so many people are experiencing hardships of their own, the outpouring of generosity we’ve seen at WGTC has been overwhelming.”

“Our students, faculty and staff create a College culture of perseverance and compassion,” said Dr. Skip Sullivan, President of West Georgia Technical College. “I’ve always known that, but seeing so many thousands of canned goods proves it once again. I’m fortunate to work with such generous people.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 120 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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WGTC Foundation Welcomes Four New Trustees
Posted: November 18, 2010
CONTACT: Angela Warner, WGTC Marketing Specialist; PHONE: 770-537-6056; EMAIL: angela.warner@westgatech.edu

The West Georgia Technical College Foundation is proud to announce the addition of four new members to its Board of Trustees. Joining the 23-member board are Page Estes, Bob Harris, Greg Wright and Jeff Dewberry.

“The West Georgia Technical College Foundation Board of Trustees are industry leaders who advocate in the community on behalf of the Foundation and the College,” said Dawn Cook, VP of Institutional Advancement. “We’re proud to add these four professionals to the Board, and we’re grateful for the commitment and experience they bring to the WGTC Foundation.”

Page Estes

Estes, who serves as President of the Troup County Chamber of Commerce, and Harris, owner of Premier Healthcare Solutions, will both represent Troup County. Wright is the president of the Coweta County Development Authority and will represent that county on the Board, and Jeff Dewberry, Plant Manager at Southwire Company, will represent Carroll County.

Bob Harris

A native of Kentucky, Estes received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Kentucky, master’s from the UK Patterson School of Diplomacy and International Commerce, and is a Doctoral Candidate at Auburn University. Estes has served as President of the LaGrange-Troup County Chamber of Commerce since January 2009.

Harris brings decades of experience in the healthcare industry to his new role on the Board of Trustees for the WGTC Foundation. Harris owns Premier Healthcare Solutions, a company that provides home medical equipment to patients in Georgia and Texas. He was a member of the class of 1998 in Leadership Georgia, past director of the Carroll County Council on Aging, past director of the Carrollton Rotary Club and has served as a trustee for the University of West Georgia Foundation.

Greg Wright

Wright’s role as President of the Coweta County Development Authority is to market Coweta for new business and industrial development. He has also served with the Georgia Department of Economic Development and spent seven years as president of the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce.

Jeff Dewberry

Dewberry’s 16 years with Carrollton’s Southwire Corporation gives him intimate experience in the manufacturing industry. Prior to graduating from Southern College of Technology, Dewberry participated in the Cooperative Education Program at Southwire Company, gaining valuable experience in the manufacturing industry.

“The Trustees of the WGTC Foundation have made a commitment to the future of the College through the Foundation that supports it,” said WGTC President Dr. Skip Sullivan. “I commend every one of the new Trustees for their service, and I personally thank them for their time and dedication.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 120 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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Coweta-Fayette EMC Supports New WGTC Coweta Campus
Posted: November 2, 2010
CONTACT: Angela Warner, WGTC Marketing Specialist; PHONE: 770-537-6056; EMAIL: angela.warner@westgatech.edu

West Georgia Technical College’s new Coweta Campus came one step closer to reality today with a $20,000 donation by Coweta-Fayette EMC to the West Georgia Technical College Foundation.

The gift is in support of West Georgia Technical College Foundation’s major gifts campaign, Invest in the Next Generation. The campaign supports major initiatives that are vital to WGTC’s future and growth, including a new campus in Coweta County.

Coweta-Fayette EMC is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative. After more than 65 years of service, CFEMC now has more than 70,000 members and employs 190 people locally.

“Coweta-Fayette EMC has a proven track record of fostering the growth of our community,” said Tony Sinclair, President and CEO of CFEMC. “We’re proud to partner with West Georgia Technical College, and we’re happy to support workforce education in Coweta County.”

West Georgia Technical College has had a presence in Coweta County since 2000, when the Central Educational Center (CEC) opened as a collaborative venture between business and industry, the Coweta County School System, and West Georgia Technical College. The new campus in Coweta County will allow West Georgia Tech to expand its presence to better serve students, business, industry and the community.

“We are tremendously thankful for the support of Coweta-Fayette EMC,” College President Dr. Skip Sullivan said. “The support the College continues to receive shows the value that the people of Coweta place on technical education. CFEMC has taken a bold leadership role in supporting WGTC and the service we provide, and we’re so grateful.”

The Invest in the Next Generation campaign is raising funds in four areas: the Coweta Campus Fund, the Student Scholarship and Grant Fund, the Healthcare Fund and the Adult Education and Literacy Fund, Vice President of Institutional Advancement Dawn Cook said.

“The first priority of the major gifts campaign is a new stand-alone, full service campus for Coweta County,” said Dawn Cook, WGTC Vice President of Institutional Advancement. “We’ve had a strong presence in this community for years with the Central Educational Center, and now we’re expanding our presence with a new campus to meet Coweta’s needs well into the future.”

Coweta-Fayette EMC is the latest local business to join the WGTC Foundation’s major gifts campaign in support of the new Coweta Campus. The facility will be built on 38 acres of prime Coweta County real estate donated by Orchard Hills Golf Properties. “Coweta County is the fastest growing county in WGTC’s seven-county service area,” Cook continued. “The WGTC Foundation has stepped up to the plate and committed to a state-of-the-art healthcare education facility, and Coweta-Fayette EMC’s generous donation goes a long way toward opening that campus to the community.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 120 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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Newnan Hospital, Inc. Announces $1 Million Donation to WGTC Foundation to Support Construction at New Coweta Campus
Posted: September 2, 2010
CONTACT: Tom Moat, 678.378.3756; Dawn Cook, 770.537.6010

Newnan Hospital, Inc. announced that it has committed a $1 million donation to the West Georgia Technical College Foundation.

The donation – the largest cash gift to date in the WGTC Foundation’s inaugural major gifts campaign – will be used exclusively to fund a portion of the cost of construction of an allied health services building named the “Newnan Hospital, Inc. Allied Health Services Building.”


	President Dr. Skip Sullivan (left) and Dawn Cook, Vice President of Institutional Advancement (right), accepted a ceremonial check from Tom Moat, President of the Board of Directors of Newnan Hospital, Inc., September 7. The donation will be used for construction of West Georgia Technical College’s new Coweta Campus.

“The Board feels strongly that funds which were generated by the sale of the former Newnan Hospital and the Newnan Hospital Nursing and Rehabilitation Center should be used to support programs in the community that will help to carry on the Newnan Hospital tradition of caring for all members of the community,” Tom Moat, President of the Board of Directors of Newnan Hospital, Inc., said.

“By supporting West Georgia Technical College, we will help to prepare future health care workers who will care for all of us just as Newnan Hospital did in the past. We are fortunate to have this money available to give back to the community and it is available because the community supported Newnan Hospital,” Moat said. “WGTC will be an even more important part of our community with the development of the new campus and we are honored to have the opportunity to support our local campus.”

“The first priority of the major gifts campaign is a new stand-alone, full service campus for Coweta County,” Dawn Cook, WGTC Vice President of Institutional Advancement, said. “Newnan Hospital, Inc.’s gift translates into a state-of-the art facility where future healthcare providers will get an outstanding education and start high-paying careers close to home. That’s a bold investment in unrivaled healthcare education, and establishes a legacy of excellence and commitment by Newnan Hospital, Inc.”

“With two new hospitals coming to Newnan and bringing new economic opportunities to the community, WGTC is proud to be a premiere educational resource for healthcare careers,” Cook said. “Newnan Hospital, Inc.’s investment in the new Coweta Campus is, without question, one of the biggest investments ever made in the future of healthcare education in Coweta County. The new facility will be built on a 38-acre tract and will offer the most advanced healthcare education in West Georgia.”

“This is the largest cash gift to date in the WGTC Foundation’s capital campaign,” WGTC President Dr. Skip Sullivan said. “At a time when so many other institutions are suspending their fundraising because of a tough economic climate, I think an investment this significant says something very positive about Newnan Hospital, Inc.’s commitment to healthcare education in our community, about the work that WGTC has done in providing healthcare education in the past and our vision for the future with the new Coweta Campus.”

West Georgia Technical College has had a presence in Coweta County since 2000, when the Central Educational Center opened as a collaborative venture between business and industry, the Coweta County School System, and WGTC. WGTC offers over 110 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study.

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YOKOGAWA Invests $40,000 In West Georgia Technical College Foundation
Posted: September 2, 2010
CONTACT: Angela Warner, WGTC Marketing Specialist; PHONE: 770-537-6056; EMAIL: angela.warner@westgatech.edu

Officials from YOKOGAWA Corporation of America announced today that the company will donate $40,000 to the West Georgia Technical College Foundation, in support of its major gifts campaign, Invest in the Next Generation.

YOKOGAWA is an international electrical engineering and software company, with businesses based on its technologies in measurement, control, and information. It has a workforce of over 19,000 in its 80 companies worldwide, operating in 33 countries. YOKOGAWA North America headquarters is located in Sugarland, Texas with Manufacturing and Distribution in Newnan, Georgia.


	Rich Westerfield, VP Sourcing and Manufacturing, YOKOGAWA Corporation of America

The gift, payable over three years, is in support of West Georgia Technical College Foundation’s Coweta Campus Fund, an initiative to build a new state-of-the-art, full-service facility in Newnan.

Rich Westerfield, YOKOGAWA VP of Manufacturing said that YOKOGAWA’s corporate citizenship is rooted in the company’s philosophy of being pioneers and good citizens. “YOKOGAWA sees its fundamental duties as going above and beyond benefiting society through its normal business activities and complying with the law―it is actively engaged in addressing serious social issues, regional revitalization efforts, etc. “

“From all the employees that work for YOKOGAWA Corporation of America we are proud to invest in West Georgia Technical College and Coweta County,” Westerfield continued. “ We feel that the addition to the community will only enhance opportunities for our residents and employees.”

“YOKOGAWA’s significant investment in the WGTC Foundation shows that education is an important priority in this community,” said Dawn Cook, WGTC Vice President of Institutional Advancement. “The West Georgia Technical College Foundation is tremendously grateful for their support of technical education and our students.”

WGTC President Dr. Skip Sullivan agreed. “We’re happy to be the premier education partner in for manufacturing in West Georgia, and we’re just getting started. This generous donation will help the College to invest educate a skilled workforce in our community for many more years to come.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 120 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Technical College is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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Piedmont Newnan Hospital Invests in WGTC Foundation
Posted: August 25, 2010
CONTACT: Angela Warner, WGTC Marketing Specialist; PHONE: 770-537-6056; EMAIL: angela.warner@westgatech.edu

Piedmont Newnan Hospital has renewed its commitment to the West Georgia Technical College Foundation with an annual $60,000 gift in support of its major gifts campaign. This gift will benefit the nursing education program at WGTC, which provides nursing education and certification for future nurses.


	Piedmont Newnan Hospital CEO Michael Bass, WGTC Vice President of Institutional Advancement Dawn Cook, WGTC President Dr. Skip Sullivan, Central Educational Center CEO Mark Whitlock.

“Piedmont Newnan Hospital and WGTC are both vital members of this community,” WGTC President Dr. Skip Sullivan said. “This partnership between the College and Piedmont Newnan has always been a perfect fit.” As Coweta County experiences unprecedented economic growth and development, both West Georgia Technical College and Piedmont Newnan Hospital have plans underway to build new facilities in the area.

WGTC has recently announced plans to expand its presence with a new state-of-the-art, stand-alone, full service campus on I-85, designed to meet the needs of Coweta County’s growing workforce, including the increasing demand for Health Sciences occupations. Piedmont Newnan Hospital plans to open the first LEED-certified healthcare facility in the Southeast, a nine-story cutting-edge facility that will employ about 1,100 workers when operating at full capacity.

“Piedmont Newnan Hospital has enthusiastically supported West Georgia Technical College for many years with its annual donation,” said Dawn Cook, WGTC Vice President of Institutional Advancement. “We anticipate that level of commitment to continue in the years ahead.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 120 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Technical College is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

See editorial in Newnan Times Herald about partnership between WGTC and Piedmont Newnan Hospital

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Greystone Power Wins WGTC Foundation Spirit of Giving Award
Posted: August 20, 2010
CONTACT: Angela Warner, WGTC Marketing Specialist; PHONE: 770-537-6056; EMAIL: angela.warner@westgatech.edu

The West Georgia Technical College Foundation honored GreyStone Power, the GreyStone Power Foundation and GreyStone CEO Gary Miller with the third annual Spirit of Giving Award, recognizing outstanding commitment and generosity to the WGTC Foundation and technical education. The award was presented by WGTC President Dr. Skip Sullivan on August 14 at Black Tie & Boots, a sold-out gala fundraising event featuring country music superstar Josh Turner.


	GreyStone Power CEO Gary Miller accepts the 2010 West Georgia Technical College Foundation Spirit of Giving Award. L-R: WGTC President Dr. Skip Sullivan, Jim Mottola, representing 2009 Spirit of Giving winner Orchard Hills Golf Properties, Gary Miller, GreyStone Board of Directors members Jennifer DeNyse and Burnell Redding, WGTC Foundation Board President Malcolm Jackson, and Ronnie Jordan of Jordan Truck Sales, the 2008 Spirit of Giving Award winner

“Nothing exemplifies the spirit of giving more than GreyStone Power’s dedication to our students,” College President Dr. Skip Sullivan said. “It’s our honor to be able to recognize them with this well-deserved award.”

In addition to these significant contributions to the WGTC Foundation, the GreyStone Power Foundation also funds the Clower Scholarship for technical education students. “GreyStone is a leader in our community,” Sullivan continued, “and they are proving it by supporting local causes like West Georgia Technical College.”

The award was accepted by GreyStone CEO Gary Miller and GreyStone Power board members Jennifer DeNyse and Burnell Redding. “For our part, we recognize the incredible impact the WGTC Foundation has in our region,” Miller said. “The work of the Foundation and the College makes positive change in the lives of real people. As a community, we need to stand up and support that effort.”

Miller also serves as Chairman of the WGTC Foundation’s major gifts campaign, Invest in the Next Generation. The campaign is an ambitious effort to raise funds in four areas, the Coweta Campus Fund, the Student Scholarship and Grant Fund, the Healthcare Fund and the Adult Education and Literacy Fund, all in support of West Georgia Technical College.

GreyStone Power Corporation is a member-owned electric cooperative which serves portions of eight metropolitan Atlanta counties including Douglas, Paulding, Fulton, Coweta, Cobb, Fayette, Carroll, and Bartow.

“Our College is in the economic development and workforce development business,” WGTC Vice President of Institutional Advancement Dawn Cook said. “Gary Miller and GreyStone Power recognize that our students are fuel for West Georgia’s economic engine. They live, work, play and pay taxes here. Their support has been instrumental in ensuring the future success of this College and the students we educate.”

The WGTC Foundation awarded last year’s Spirit of Giving Award to Orchard Hills Investment Group, who donated 38 acres of prime Coweta County real estate to the WGTC Foundation for the construction of a new full-service, stand-alone campus in Newnan. The inaugural winner was Ronnie Jordan of Jordan Truck Sales in Carrollton, a long-time advocate of West Georgia Technical College.

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 120 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Technical College is the second largest of the state’s 26 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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WGTC Announces Josh Turner Tickets Sold Out
Posted: August 3, 2010
CONTACT: Angela Warner, WGTC Marketing Specialist; PHONE: 770-537-6056; EMAIL: angela.warner@westgatech.edu

If you haven’t already secured your ticket to see Josh Turner live in concert on August 14 in Waco, that long, black train has left without you. West Georgia Technical College Foundation announced today that its ninth annual Black Tie & Boots concert has sold out completely.

“This year the tickets went faster than ever,” Vice President of Institutional Advancement Dawn Cook said. “Our community continues to embrace Black Tie & Boots as one of the premiere events in West Georgia. We believe this year’s concert will be one of the best we’ve ever had.”

As in years past, Cook emphasized that Black Tie & Boots isn’t about arena-sized crowds with binoculars from the back row.

“We pride ourselves on putting our guests in a very special, intimate environment with the artist,” Cook said. “We could set up 1,000 chairs in the conference center and hold a concert, but part of the elegance of the evening is in the atmosphere, the beautiful meal, the decorations, the professional photography, the valet parking. We really, literally roll out the red carpet for our guests,” Cook said.

Turner, known for his hits “Long Black Train,” “Why Don’t We Just Dance” and “Your Man,” is one of Nashville’s hottest young performers. He’s currently joining Chris Young and Newnan native Alan Jackson for this year’s 15-city Freight Train Tour, before riding to Waco for WGTC’s Black Tie & Boots on August 14 at the Murphy Campus Conference Center.

Past country artists who have performed at the annual concerts are Mark Wills, Patti Loveless, Diamond Rio, Collin Raye, Crystal Gayle and Lee Greenwood, Jo Dee Messina, Sara Evans and Blake Shelton, who rocked the crowd at last year’s event.

Cook credits corporate sponsors for enabling the WGTC Foundation to land such big-name talent. “I can’t thank our sponsors enough. They have caught the vision of technical education and what it means to our communities,” Cook said. “Having their support gives the Foundation the resources needed to support the College as it offers students the education and skills needed for high-tech, 21st century jobs.”

WGTC President Skip Sullivan said the concert is certainly unique among the Technical College System of Georgia.

“Some of our sister colleges have big fundraising galas and events, but no one else does what we do with the level of celebrity we are bringing to the state, and the response is always positive” Sullivan said. “As soon as one concert is over, people want to know who will be there next year,” he said. “It has definitely become something the community and our sponsors look forward to each year. We’re very happy we can contribute to the fabric of our community.”

With the tickets sold out and another incredible performance to look forward to, Cook stressed that even though Black Tie & Boots is one of West Georgia’s premier entertainment events, it’s about more than a good time.

“This event is vital to our College,” she said. “The proceeds go toward student scholarships, program improvements, facility upgrades and faculty development. Our Foundation is giving $20,000 in student scholarships this year because of Black Tie & Boots and events like it.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 120 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Technical College is the second largest of the state’s 28 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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WGTC Foundation Accepts Greenville Location
Posted: June 29, 2010
CONTACT: Angela Warner, WGTC Marketing Specialist; PHONE: 770-537-6056; EMAIL: angela.warner@westgatech.edu

The Meriwether County Commission last week voted to donate the instructional site on Roosevelt Highway to the West Georgia Technical College Foundation.

The facility, currently owned by the County, currently serves as an instructional site for West Georgia Technical College, which operates the location as an instructional site and Workforce Development Center. After a contract is drafted, the West Georgia Technical College Foundation will take ownership of the building.

With the Meriwether County Commission’s recent vote to turn the facility over to West Georgia Tech, the College will expand program offerings at the location. “We offer dual enrollment classes here, as well as GED, Patient Care Assisting and math and English classes,” said Susan Cross, WGTC Greenville Site Manager. “The Greenville site is a great learning environment with excellent instructors, and I’m excited to see the College expand to serve this community.”

“The County Commission’s vote shows that education is an important priority in this community,” said Dawn Cook, WGTC Vice President of Institutional Advancement. “The West Georgia Technical College Foundation is tremendously grateful for their support of technical education and our students.”

“When all aspects of government are working together then we are really serving the people,” said Rita Rainwater, Meriwether County Administrator. “This is a giant step in helping a lot of people to find employment and to be trained for jobs that will support their families.”

Freddie Hines, Chairman of the Meriwether County Commission felt that the choice was an easy one to make. “West Georgia Technical College provides a valuable service to our citizens and the entire community.”

WGTC President Dr. Skip Sullivan agreed. “We’re happy to be the premier education partner in Meriwether County, and we’re just getting started. This generous donation will help the College to invest in that community for many more years to come.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 130 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 28 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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WGTC Foundation Accepts $1.55 Million Downtown Building
Posted: May 24, 2010
CONTACT: Angela Warner, WGTC Marketing Specialist; PHONE: 770-537-6056; EMAIL: angela.warner@westgatech.edu

The West Georgia Technical College Foundation Board of Trustees voted unanimously to accept the Peoples Bank building on Adamson Square. The Carrollton City Council voted last month to purchase the building and transfer it to the Carrollton Payroll Development Authority, which will then lease the property to the WGTC Foundation. Details of the lease are being finalized at this time.

Renovations on the historic property will begin when the lease agreement is signed. West Georgia Technical College will use the facility as executive, administrative office and classroom space, with an economic development presence. A recent appraisal valued the property at $1.55 million, making this the largest building donation in West Georgia Technical College Foundation’s history.

“The City of Carrollton and the partners involved recognized a great opportunity, and they worked very hard to make this happen,” said Dawn Cook, WGTC Vice President of Institutional Advancement. “On behalf of the students we serve, I want to thank them for their generosity.”

Carrollton Mayor Wayne Garner said bringing WGTC into the downtown area will be an economic boost for local businesses and bring the heart of the WGTC organization back into Carrollton where it originally had its roots. The College’s administration moved to Waco about 10 years ago, and in 2009 it merged with West Georgia Technical College in LaGrange. “We’re excited about bringing West Georgia Tech back into Carrollton where they should have been all along.”

WGTC President Dr. Skip Sullivan agreed. “The City of Carrollton has been proactive about investing in the economic vitality of downtown Carrollton,” he said, “and the College is going to be strategically positioned at the heart of our growing seven-county service area for many years to come. This is good for Carrollton and it’s good for our students. Everyone benefits.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 130 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, WGTC is the second largest of the state’s 28 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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Josh Turner to Perform at 2010 Black Tie & Boots
Posted: April 21, 2010
CONTACT: Angela Warner, WGTC Marketing Specialist; PHONE: 770-537-6056; EMAIL: angela.warner@westgatech.edu

Ending the suspense, West Georgia Technical College Foundation announced today that this year’s entertainer for the annual Black Tie & Boots fundraiser will be country superstar Josh Turner.

Country Music Superstar Josh Turner, featured entertainer at West Georgia Technical College Foundation’s 2010 Black Tie & Boots

“We’re pleased to welcome Josh Turner to West Georgia Technical College,” said Dawn Cook, VP of Institutional Advancement. “The community has come to expect an elegant and exciting event from us, and Josh Turner will make our ninth annual Black Tie & Boots one of the best ever.”

Turner, known for his hits “Long Black Train,” “Why Don’t We Just Dance” and “Your Man,” is one of Nashville’s hottest young performers. He’s joining Chris Young and Newnan native Alan Jackson for this year’s 15-city Freight Train Tour, before riding to Waco for WGTC’s Black Tie & Boots on August 14 at the Murphy Campus Conference Center.

The concert includes valet parking, a professional photographer, and a seated dinner. Corporate sponsorships which include concert tickets and admission to a ‘meet and greet’ reception with Josh Turner are now available. Corporate sponsors will also receive acknowledgment in concert advertising, preferred seating and other benefits, depending on level of sponsorship.

“As our sponsors know, this is an unforgettable evening,” Cook said. “It is a black tie event with a wonderful meal and a stellar performance from one of today’s top performers in country music. It is a great way for organizations to reward their employees for a job well done or simply to share an evening with family and friends.”

Past Black Tie & Boots events have sold out, Cook said. A limited number of individual and group tickets will go on sale July 1 at $125 per person or $950 per table, but corporate sponsorships which include tickets are available now.

“Black Tie & Boots is one of our premiere fundraising events of the year,” Cook said. “The proceeds go toward student scholarships, program improvements, facility upgrades and faculty development. In this economic climate, more students are seeking a technical education that prepares them for the workforce and the need for scholarships is greater than ever. Our Foundation is committed to supporting the College by giving $20,000 in student scholarships this year because of Black Tie & Boots and events like it.”

The Foundation will also award its third annual “Spirit of Giving Award.” Last year’s award went to Orchard Hills Investment Group, who donated 38 acres of prime Coweta County real estate to the WGTC Foundation for the construction of a new full-service, stand-alone campus.

President Dr. Skip Sullivan said the College has come to rely on the Foundation’s support.

“When you look at the way they are supporting our students with scholarships, our faculty with reimbursement for continuing education, our plans for future growth through facility improvements, the WGTC Foundation is an essential part of our College going forward. We cannot do what we need to do for students without the Foundation and its support.”

For more information about becoming a sponsor or to purchase tickets, contact Cook at dawn.cook@westgatech.edu or (770) 537-6010.

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 130 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 28 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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Two Foundations Merge to Support Technical Education in West Georgia
Posted: February 24, 2010
CONTACT: Angela Warner, WGTC Media Specialist; PHONE: 770-537-6056; EMAIL: angela.warner@westgatech.edu

In the final act precipitated by last year’s college merger, the West Central Technical College Foundation was cleared Wednesday by the Georgia Secretary of State to begin operating under the West Georgia Technical College Foundation name.

Last year, two state technical colleges, LaGrange-based West Georgia Tech and Waco-based West Central Tech, merged to form West Georgia Technical College, the state’s second largest technical college.

This approval completes the merger of the colleges’ two separate private, non-profit, fundraising organizations under the West Georgia Technical College Foundation.

The new college has campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties. Last fall more than 7,300 students were enrolled in degree, diploma or certificate programs.

“While the College merger took about 10 months to complete, the Foundation merger was a separate process taking over a year,” Vice President of Institutional Advancement Dawn Cook said.

“This is truly a milestone, as the West Georgia Technical College Foundation, Inc. is the first foundation within the Technical College System of Georgia to complete its merger,” Malcolm Jackson, West Georgia Technical College Foundation President, said.

Beverly Smith, Executive Director of Stewardship and Development for the Technical College System of Georgia agreed. “I commend the excellent work of both the West Central and West Georgia Technical College Foundation Boards during the merger process,” Smith said.

Cook said the merger means the Foundation is ready for the future. “Merging the foundations of West Central and West Georgia Tech ensures that the College is poised to meet the economic growth needs throughout our seven county service area,” Cook said. “Through our inaugural major gifts campaign, Invest in the Next Generation, the West Georgia Technical College Foundation is raising funds to build a new Coweta County Campus, provide more scholarships and grants to students, create a Healthcare Fund and expand the adult education and literacy programs.”

The new West Georgia Technical College Foundation is a private, non-profit corporation whose purpose is to solicit, receive, invest and administer gifts for the benefit of West Georgia Technical College. The Foundation is administered by a Board of Trustees comprised of business and community leaders within the West Georgia region.

“The Foundation plays an integral role in making a difference in the lives of the students we serve in West Georgia,” College President Dr. Skip Sullivan said. “I commend them on their hard work to complete the merger and their dedication to continue to support the College.”

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 130 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 28 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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WCTC Foundation Announces Redken Gift
Posted: February 1, 2010
Contact Ben Chambers, 770.537.5756

The West Central Technical College Foundation today announced a $25,000 donation by Redken, a global hair care products leader headquartered in New York.


Redken representative Steve Broader (center) presents a ceremonial check to WGTC Vice President of Institutional Advancement Dawn Cook in the College’s Carroll Campus salon. The two are flanked by students and instructors from the College. College students provide cosmetology services at reduced rates at each of West Georgia Tech’s campuses.

The gift is part of the WCTC Foundation’s major gifts campaign, “Invest in the Next Generation.”

“We are tremendously thankful for the support of Redken,” College President Dr. Skip Sullivan said. “We have a longstanding relationship with the company through the use of its products in our cosmetology program and in the College’s retail salons at each campus. This gift solidifies that friendship and partnership.”

Redken has also recognized West Georgia Technical College as a Redken Premier School. West Georgia Tech joins North Georgia Tech
as the only two Premier Schools in Georgia.

“We are particularly honored to be given the title ‘Redken Premier School’ as it gives our instructors and students access to more cutting-edge training directly from Redken experts – the best in the business,” cosmetology program chair Gail Conaway said.

The Premier School program puts Redken specialists in contact with instructors in “train the trainer” events that prepare instructors to teach the most advanced hair care and styling techniques in the industry.

WGTC Cosmetology instructors in training with a Redken colorist.

West Georgia Technical College cosmetology instructors, clockwise from bottom, Denise Boykin, Dale Patterson, Vanessa Clark, Gail Conaway and DeeDee Patterson share information during a training session with a Redken colorist.

Conaway said she and four other WGTC instructors have already begun training with a Redken colorist.

Redken representative John Miller said Redken values its longstanding relationship with West Georgia Tech.

“West Georgia Technical College has a great program,” Miller said. “With a retail salon on each of their five campuses, West Georgia Tech is teaching a huge number of new cosmetologists every year. We could not be more pleased that we have cemented our relationship with the College with this gift and with the Premier School program. As a Premier School, they have access to a tremendous amount of expertise and skill which will keep them on the very forefront of our industry.”

The Invest in the Next Generation campaign is raising funds in four areas, the Coweta Campus Fund, the Student Scholarship and Grant Fund, the Healthcare Fund and the Adult Education and Literacy Fund, Vice President of Institutional Advancement Dawn Cook said.

Cook said teams are now in the process of making proposals for support to numerous businesses, organizations and individuals.

Cook encouraged those interested in the campaign to visit the College’s website, www.westgatech.edu, to give online.

West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and additional class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers over 130 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the second largest of the state’s 28 technical colleges and one of the fastest-growing two-year colleges in the nation.

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WGTC Land Donors Win State Award
Posted: October 19, 2009

Presenting the statewide Benefactor of the Year award to Jim Mottola, representing Orchard Hills Golf Properties (center), was Technical College System of Georgia Commissioner Ron Jackson and Beverly Smith, TCSG executive director of stewardship and development. Newnan investment group Orchard Hills Golf Properties has won the Technical College Foundation Association of Georgia’s 2009 Benefactor of the Year award in recognition for its support of the West Central Technical College Foundation.

The award was announced October 15 during the TCFA’s annual meeting at the Macon Marriott City Center.

Jim Mottola and Joe Crain accepted the award on behalf of Orchard Hills, who donated 38 acres of prime Coweta County real estate to the WCTC Foundation for the construction of a new full-service, stand-alone campus there.
“It is a great honor to accept this award on behalf of my partners,” Mottola said. “We are excited about the new campus and believe it will have a great impact on the citizens of Coweta County and on the economic development of the county.”

The TCGA also announced William “Bill” Pinto as its Volunteer of the Year. Pinto – who was nominated by the Atlanta Technical College Foundation – is president of Hardin Construction Company and a long-time supporter of Atlanta Tech.

The TCFA’s Volunteer of the Year and Benefactor of the Year awards recognize the outstanding contributions that college foundation trustees, community leaders and major donors from across the state have made on behalf of the colleges of the Technical College System of Georgia. The winners embody the ideals of philanthropy, leadership and volunteerism in the service to Georgia’s technical colleges, which last year enrolled more than 156,000 students in certificate, degree and diploma programs.

The Orchard Hills donation is valued at $1.55 million and is one of the single largest land gifts ever made to a technical college foundation in Georgia.

“We continue to be grateful for Orchard Hills Golf Properties and their generous gift which has really boosted the entire Coweta County project,” West Georgia Tech President Dr. Skip Sullivan said. “Our College is actively working with an aggressive timetable for groundbreaking and ultimate project completion of two buildings on the new campus. None of this would be possible without the Orchard Hills donation.”

The Volunteer of the Year and Benefactor of the Year each received a $1,000 check which will be donated to their respective foundations for student scholarships. Each winner also received a commemorative Frabel glass sculpture in recognition of their generosity and commitment to their respective colleges.

“The Foundation is extremely proud that Orchard Hills has received state-wide recognition for their support,” Vice President for Institutional Advancement Dawn Cook said. “It is not every day that a Foundation receives such a generous gift, so it is fitting that they be honored for their beneficence.”

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WCTC Foundation Receives Support from Tanner
Tanner Health System supports training for health services students
Posted: October 13, 2009

The West Central Technical College Foundation has received a gift from Tanner Health System in support of the College’s programs to train healthcare workers – including nurses, radiographers, surgical techs and lab techs.
The Foundation announced the gift publicly August 15 at its annual Black Tie & Boots concert.

“We are tremendously grateful for the support of Tanner Health System,” West Georgia Technical College President Dr. Skip Sullivan said. “Tanner is a true leader and pace-setter organization in our community. They prove that they are a true community partner by supporting local educational entities like West Georgia Tech.”

Tanner President and CEO Loy Howard said the hospital system and WGTC have a long-standing partnership.

“West Georgia Tech trains a large number of the skilled medical personnel we need to operate our health system locally,” Howard said. “We clearly would not have the skilled workforce we require to function without their graduates. Conversely, we support them as their students have clinical rotations at our hospitals and offices, our staff serves on advisory committees at the College and we cooperate on a number of community initiatives.

“It is only natural for Tanner’s board to vote to support West Georgia Tech as the College is building resources for healthcare programs,” Howard said.

Sullivan agreed. “We have a decades-long relationship of cooperation between our organizations. The fact that Tanner is stepping to the plate and supporting us even in a time of economic turmoil is testimony to the fact that ours is a solid and lasting friendship – one that is built on the shared commitment to providing this community with the highest-quality healthcare available anywhere.”

Tanner’s gift goes to support the Foundation’s Healthcare Initiative, which is building resources for enhancing training, expanding existing Health Services programs, establishing new programs and improving equipment and facilities.

“We don’t believe there is a better organization our College could be associated with,” Vice President of Institutional Advancement Dawn Cook said. “We speak proudly of our association with Tanner Health System in our community.”

Tanner Senior Vice President Larry Steed also serves on the WCTC Foundation board of trustees and spoke to the impact the gift will have for students.

“I see the gift as a way to invest in the lives of students,” Steed said. “They need to be trained on the very best and most current equipment, and WGTC provides this. But that is not a static goal. As fast as technology changes today, it requires constant investment in facilities, equipment, faculty, you name it. I am really proud to be a part of a partnership that can reap such great dividends for WGTC students who could be potential Tanner employees.”

Besides the Healthcare Fund, the Invest in the Next Generation campaign is raising funds in three other areas, the Coweta Campus Fund, the Student Scholarship and Grant Fund and the Adult Education and Literacy Fund, Cook said.

The WCTC Foundation has divided the campaign into county regions, with Cook and Sullivan co-chairing the Carroll County effort. GreyStone Power President/CEO Gary Miller is overall campaign chair.

Cook said teams in each county are beginning the process of making proposals for support to numerous businesses, organizations and individuals.

Bremen realtor Delores Goldin is serving as vice-chair for Haralson County. Georgia Power area manager Jan Alligood is heading the Coweta County area. Retired banker and current school administrator Julian Carter is vice-chair for Douglas County.

Cook encouraged those interested in the campaign to contact their county’s vice-chair, or to visit the College’s website, www.westgatech.edu, to give online.

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WCTC Foundation Announces Leadership
Posted: June 23, 2009

The West Central Technical College Foundation today announced its leadership team for the 2009-2010 year.

Malcolm Jackson, a retired industry executive from Coweta County, takes the gavel as Foundation President, replacing Douglas County banker Ned Fowler who is term limited from serving again. Retired manufacturing executive Don Moore of Douglasville is the Vice Chairman. Taking the Treasurer’s position is Larry Steed, Senior Vice President, at Tanner Health System.

“I am very pleased that we have such a great slate of officers for the 2010 year,” College President Dr. Skip Sullivan said. “Each of these men have years of experience in large organizations that will serve them well as the Foundation enters new territory in the coming year.”

The WCTC Foundation has announced a 38-acre land donation in Coweta County that will enable the College to build a stand-alone campus there.

“New ventures for the Foundation in the next year – like the Coweta Campus and the merger of the WCTC Foundation and the West Georgia Tech Foundation – require sound leadership, which each of these men is well-capable of providing.”

Don Moore Jackson served on the College’s local board of directors for nine years before taking a seat as a Foundation Trustee in 2008.

“This is an exhilarating time to be a part of the College and the Foundation,” Jackson said. “After many years of work, we are moving forward on a new Coweta Campus, and the merger with West Georgia Tech is providing our students with many more opportunities. I look forward to helping lead this great Foundation forward.”

Moore recently retired after 38 years in the manufacturing field including 11 at Southwire Co. and 25 at various levels of management with Bonnell Manufacturing Co. His last 12 years at Bonnell were as plant manager of the Newnan facility.

Moore has been active in support of Douglas County’s new College and Career Institute, which will open in the fall on the Douglas Campus of the College. The CCI is a charter career academy which will provide classes for dually enrolled high school students as well as adult learners.

“I look forward to this leadership role for the Foundation,” Moore said. “We have much work to do, but I think we have a great team in place to accomplish our goals over the next year.”

Larry Steed Steed brings years of experience in the healthcare industry to his role as Foundation Treasurer.

“I look forward to the work of merging the WCTC Foundation and the WGTC Foundation, as both boards have voted to do,” Steed said. “Complying with federal, state and our own internal regulations for these nonprofit organizations makes the merger challenging, but it will result in a strong Foundation that will be prepared to support West Georgia Tech as it fulfills its mission in seven counties.”

Vice President of Institutional Advancement Dawn Cook said that though the Colleges officially merge July 1, the Foundation merger is following a different timeline due to federal guidelines for nonprofit agencies.

“We are working concurrently with both Foundation boards to get our processes, bylaws, policies and all our internal controls in place to make the merger go smoothly,” Cook said. “I’m very appreciative to Malcolm, Don and Larry for committing to the work ahead for the next year.”

Cook said once the Foundation merger is complete, the newly merged board will elect new officers.

“This will likely be the last slate of officers for the West Central Technical College Foundation as we know it,” she said.

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GREYSTONE POWER GIVES TO WCTC FOUNDATION
Posted: June 12, 2009

The West Central Technical College Foundation today announced a $250,000 donation by GreyStone Power Corporation and the GreyStone Power Foundation, both headquartered in Douglasville.

The gift is part of the WCTC Foundations major gifts campaign “Invest in the Next Generation.”

“We are tremendously thankful for the support of GreyStone Power Corporation and its Foundation,” College President Dr. Skip Sullivan said. “GreyStone is a leader in our community, and they are proving it by supporting local causes like West Central Tech.”

“For our part, we recognize the incredible impact West Central Tech has in our community,” GreyStone President/CEO Gary Miller said. “The work of the College changes the lives of real people in our community. As a community, we need to stand up and support that effort.”

Miller also is serving as Chairman of the Invest in the Next Generation campaign, which had its public kickoff April 30 at the College’s original campus in Carrollton.

GreyStone Power Corporation is a member-owned electric cooperative which serves portions of eight metropolitan Atlanta counties including Douglas, Paulding, Fulton, Coweta, Cobb, Fayette, Carroll, and Bartow.

“Our College is in the economic development and workforce development business,” WCTC Vice President of Institutional Advancement Dawn Cook said. “Garry Miller and GreyStone Power recognize that our students are fuel for West Georgia’s economic engine. They live, work, play and pay taxes here. They have homes and businesses that use electricity supplied by GreyStone. Supporting this campaign is all about this community helping itself.”

The Invest in the Next Generation campaign is raising funds in four areas, the Coweta Campus Fund, the Student Scholarship and Grant Fund, the Healthcare Fund and the Adult Education and Literacy Fund, Cook said.

The WCTC Foundation has divided the campaign into county regions, with Julian Carter heading the Douglas County effort. Carter was recently named CEO of the College and Career Institute, a collaborative partnership between West Central Tech and Douglas County Schools.

“I can’t say enough about the fine job Gary Miller is doing leading this campaign,” Carter said. “For his organization to come back to us with this level of support – a lead gift – is really terrific.”

Cook said teams in each county are beginning the process of making proposals for support to numerous businesses, organizations and individuals.

Bremen realtor Delores Goldin is serving as co-chair for Haralson County. Georgia Power area manager Jan Alligood is heading the Coweta County area. Sullivan and Cook are co-chairs for Carroll County.

Cook encouraged those interested in the campaign to contact their county’s co-chair, or to visit the College’s website, www.westgatech.edu, to give online.

Pictured: GreyStone Power Corporation and the GreyStone Power Foundation are donating $250,000 to the West Central Technical College Foundation. Douglas County Vice Chair Julian Carter and WCTC Vice President of Institutional Advancement Dawn Cook are shown with GreyStone Power President/CEO Gary Miller.

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WCTC Foundation Gets Dollar General Donation
Posted: June 10, 2009

The West Central Technical College Foundation has been awarded a $12,000 Adult Literacy Grant from the Dollar General Literacy Foundation.

“We are so grateful for Dollar General’s support of our adult literacy and education programs,” President Dr. Skip Sullivan said. “Our adult literacy and GED preparation classes empower real people to change their lives through education.”

Dawn Cook, Vice President of Institutional Advancement, said the grant will support the Adult Literacy and Education Initiative of the Foundation’s Major Gifts Campaign.

“The College’s Adult Education Division has put together a plan to develop a GED FastTrack program that would prepare students who are at or near test readiness in an accelerated fashion – like a boot camp for adult education,” Cook said. “The grant will help with this.”

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