Foundation

 

As the fundraising arm of the college, the SU Foundation promotes and supports the programs and activities of Southern Union. Members of the Foundation Board of Directors work to raise awareness of the college’s case for support, leading to increased visibility in the communities served by the college.

The Foundation is a 501©3 organization, and exists to assist, support and foster the educational and service programs and activities of SUSCC. The Foundation encourages gifts for purposes such as scholarships and other awards to further the educational mission of the college. A gift to the Southern Union Foundation provides much-needed scholarships for students, expands student opportunities, and helps to improve campus life and facilities. Thank you for making a difference in the lives of today’s and tomorrow’s students.

From Golf Tournaments to Breakfast with Santa, the Foundation is always working on the next great event! Stay turned for dates and details for the next big thing! 

 

Blue Jean and Bling photo

Distinguished Alumni Dinner - April 11, 2024

The purpose of the Distinguished Alumni Award is to recognize SUSCC alumni who have made significant contributions to society and whose accomplishments and loyalty to the college have honored the legacy of excellence at SUSCC.

 

Selection criteria:

  • Eligible nominees must have earned an associate’s degree or diploma or 45 semester hours (67 quarter hours) at Southern Union.
  • Professional achievement: Nominees must have distinguished himself or herself through achievement or advancement in his or her career, earned degrees, professional training, professional recognition and/or made outstanding contributions to his or her field.
  • Service to the community: Nominees must have demonstrated a record of bettering the lives of others through community participation and involvement.
  • Advocacy of higher education and support of SUSCC:  The recipient’s deeds and actions should reflect the importance of his or her educational training, pride in his/her alma mater and loyalty to SUSCC as demonstrated through their interest in and support of SUSCC and its programs.

 

Method of Nomination:

Nominations may be made by any individual, friend of the college, former student or employee, or current member of the administration, faculty and staff.

Nominators must complete and submit the nomination form (below) as well as a letter of nomination. 

Nomination Form Link:

Nominations for the 2024 Distinguished Alumni Award to be presented at SU Foundation's Blue Jeans and Bling Gala being held on April 11, 2024. 
https://suscc.jotform.com/220385389900056

 

Sponsorship Opportunities for the 2024 Distinguished Alumni Dinner

Presenting Sponsor - $10,000

  • Year-long publicity for all foundation events
  • Opportunity to speak at events
  • Special logo recognition on VIP table, program and all publicity items
  • 16 VIP seats (two tables)
  • 4 tickets to all SU Fine Arts Productions
  • Season pass to all SU Athletic Events

Celebration Sponsor - $6,000

  • Exclusive Sponsorship of the Bar
  • Signage in the Bar Area
  • Special logo recognition on VIP table, program and all publicity items
  • 16 VIP seats (two tables)
  • 2 tickets to all SU Fine Arts Productions
  • Season pass to all SU Athletic Events

Bison Sponsor - $5,000

  • Special logo recognition on VIP table, program and all publicity items
  • 16 VIP seats (two tables)
  • 2 tickets to all SU Fine Arts Productions
  • Season pass to all SU Athletic Events

Bethlehem Sponsor - $2,500

  • Logo recognition in program
  • 12 VIP seats (1 table of 8 and 4 seats at a different table)

Presidential Sponsor - $1,500

  • Logo recognition in program
  • 8 VIP seats (1 table of 8)

Van Cleave Sponsor - $1000

  • Logo recognition in program
  • 4 Premium seats

Blue and Gold Sponsor - $500

  • Logo recognition in program
  • 2 premium seats

Individual Ticket Price - $100 


Table for 8 - $650


For questions email Shondae Brown at sbrown@suscc.edu or call 256-395-2211 ext 5145

Scholarships are available through the Foundation for current SU students as well as incoming freshmen.

The following scholarships are available:


Southern Union Foundation Scholarship or
Foundation Special Circumstance Scholarship

 Application Criteria:

  • open to incoming freshmen or currently enrolled students
  • must demonstrate financial need and leadership/community service
  • GPA of 3.0 or higher is required
  • must provide one letter of support

The Special Circumstance Scholarship is available to currently enrolled students. Students applying for a special circumstance scholarship mus be recommended by a faculty or staff member who will provide a letter of support. 

Southern Union Foundation Scholarship Application


 


Betty and Jim Cleveland Memorial Scholarship

Open to freshmen or currently enrolled students, the Jim and Betty Cleveland Memorial Scholarship is given to a student who demonstrates financial need. A GPA of 3.0 or higher is required. Preference is given to a Wadley High School student or resident of Randolph County. 

 Application Criteria:

  • open to incoming freshmen or currently enrolled students
  • must demonstrate financial need and leadership/community service
  • GPA of 3.0 or higher is required
  • must provide one letter of support

Betty and Jim Cleveland Memorial Scholarship Application


Charles E Battle Scholarship

Charles E. Battle was born and raised in Randolph County, Alabama. He devoted 46 years of service to Southern Union State Community College. He was devoted and loved by many including his family, friends, and co-workers. During his time at SUSCC, he encouraged many students to pursue their goals through all walks of life. The Charles E. Battle Scholarship will be our way to carry out his legacy.

This scholarship will be awarded to one recipient from the Randolph County area who plans to enroll for classes at Southern Union State Community College. This is a one-time, non-renewable award of $500.00 for fall semester. The scholarship will be set up as an account for the student by the business office to be used for tuition, fees, or books as needed.

The deadline for the application packet to be turned in is March 1st of each year. The scholarship recipient will be notified by mid- April of each year. The scholarship must be used during the upcoming Fall semester.

Application Criteria:

  • Must be pursuing a degree/certification program with Southern Union State Community College
  • Minimum 2.5 overall GPA
  • Complete the application form
  • On a separate sheet of paper, type a double-spaced essay of no more than 500 words that explains how this scholarship would be beneficial in your pursuit of your educational goals.
  • Provide one letter of recommendation. The letter of recommendation should not come from family members or from a member of the scholarship selection committee
  • An unofficial copy of your transcript must be turned in with the application
  • Place the application, essay, letter of recommendation, and the transcript in one large envelope and turn it in to
    Ms. Wendy Battle on the Opelika Campus at the following address by March 1st.
    • Southern Union State Community College
      Ms. Wendy Battle – Financial Aid Office
      301 Lake Condy Road Opelika, AL 36801

Charles E Battle Scholarship Application


Chris Mitchum Memorial Scholarship

Sponsored and funded by The Law Firm of Kesa M. Johnston, LLC.

The Chris Mitchum Memorial Scholarship is hereby established to promote the education and advancement of a Randolph County or Handley High School student who will attend Southern Union State Community College pursuing a degree or certification in the performing or fine arts or other areas that provide for use of metals, wood and other materials to create usable tools and art.

Application Criteria:

  1. The scholarship is open to first-time freshmen who have been accepted for enrollment by SUSCC following graduation from Handley High School or a Randolph County High School.
  2. Applicants must be a high school senior with good standing at a local Randolph County/Roanoke City Schools. The student must have passing grades, no record of any serious disciplinary action, and must be considered by the school to be a good citizen of the community.
  3. Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA and demonstrate a need for financial aid.

This scholarship is sponsored and funded by The Law Firm of Kesa M. Johnston, LLC. More information can be found at https://kmj.law/history/

 

Chris Mitchum Memorial Scholarship Guidelines & Information

Chris Mitchum Memorial Scholarship Application


Donna Hall Scholarship 

The Donna Hall Scholarship (supported by Remax Lakefront, Wedowee) is awarded annually to a future educator who is acquiring the pedagogy and methodology to teach a rigorous, real-world curriculum, wants to inspire students to be successful, independent, critical thinkers, and understands the importance of building a positive and respectful teacher-student relationship.  The amount of the scholarship is $2020, with one half paid at the beginning of fall and spring semester, respectively.

Application Criteria:

  • This scholarship is open to any incoming freshman or full-time Southern Union State Community College student who displays academic excellence as well as a desire to pursue a career in the field of education.
  • Applicants must have and maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA (an unofficial copy of high school or SUSCC transcript must be provided.)
  • Preference will be given to students from Randolph County.
  • One letter of recommendation must accompany the application.
  • Submit an essay of less than 500 words explaining career goals and how this scholarship will help achieve the goals.
  • Attach copies of Honors, Awards, Special Recognitions or Community/Church Involvement events.

Donna Hall Scholarship Application


Emily Durham Hudson Memorial Scholarship 

The Emily Hudson Scholarship was established in 2016 by the family of the late Emily Hudson.  Mrs. Hudson valued education, and to honor her memory, the scholarship will be awarded annually to one student who displays academic excellence as well as a desire to complete their education in the field of education or medicine. 

Application criteria:

  • open to incoming freshmen or currently enrolled students
  • applicant must have a maintain a 3.0 GPA to be eligible
  • one letter of recommendation must accompany the application

Emily Durham Hudson Memorial Scholarship Application


Goodwill Gap Scholarship

The Goodwill Gap Scholarship is made possible by a donation from Goodwill Industries of the Southern Rivers. It is designed to bridge the gap that often exists between a student’s financial aid package and the total cost of tuition, books, etc.

In addition to the application, please submit an essay explaining why you would be a good candidate for the scholarship. This is your opportunity to tell us your story. Cover topics such as: What obstacles personal and/or financial have you overcome to acquire an education? Why are you pursuing higher education? What degree or certificate program are you pursuing and why? What are your career goals? How will this scholarship help you achieve your personal, academic, and professional goals? Essays should be typed, (Arial or Times New Roman, 12pt font, double spaced), between 300 – 500 words, and must be attached to your application.

Goodwill Gap Scholarship Application


Inspire Scholarship

see Melinda Clanton in Health Sciences Division for an Application

To be eligible, students must meet the following requirements:

  • Completed at least one year of college and be admitted into Paramedic, Surgical Technology, Radiologic Technology, or Nursing Program
  • Enrolled in the Health Sciences Program on the Opelika Campus
  • Minimum GPA of 2.75.
  • Minimum course load = 7 credit hours/semester
  • Preference will be given to Lee County, Chambers County, and Russell County residents.
  • This is a one-time, non-renewable award applicable to tuition, fees, and books.

John Edgar Excellence in Mathematics Scholarship

 The John Edgar Excellence in Mathematics Scholarship will be awarded to one student each year who is majoring in a STEM related field. This is a one-time, non-renewable award of $500.00 for fall semester and $500.00 for spring semester. 

Application Criteria:

  •  Must be pursuing a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics.
  •  Successfully Completed Math 112 or higher.
  •  Must have completed two semesters at SUSCC with a minimum of 6 credit hours each semester.
  •  Minimum 3.0 overall GPA

John Edgar Excellence in Mathematics Scholarship 


Wes Kinsey Memorial Scholarship 

A total of four scholarships in the amount of $250 each shall be awarded. Scholarships shall be awarded to one student from each of the four high schools in Randolph County (Woodland High School, Wadley High School, Randolph County High School and Handley High School) who demonstrate an interest in fine arts. The one time award will be awarded for Fall Semester. Funds shall be used to cover tuition and fees or textbooks.

Wes Kinsey Memorial Scholarship 


William and Mary Sue Tatum Memorial Scholarship

The William and Mary Sue Tatum Memorial Scholarship is hereby established to promote the education and advancement of any High School student in Randolph County who will attend Southern Union State Community College.

William K. and Mary Watson Tatum exemplified a life dedicated to serving others. Being obedient to the commands of their God, they sought to give of themselves without reservation and through their dedicated service impacted the lives of many. Though they chose different paths of service, they gave unselfishly and we are bettered because of their devotion.

Application Criteria:

  1. The scholarship is open to first-time freshmen who have been accepted for enrollment by SUSCC following graduation from a High School in Randolph County, Alabama.
  2. Applicants must be a high school senior with good standing at their High School in Randolph County, Alabama. The student must have passing grades, no record of any serious disciplinary action, and must be considered by their High school to be a good citizen of the community.
  3. Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA.
  4. Applicants must demonstrate a need for financial aid.

This scholarship is sponsored and funded by The Law Firm of Kesa M. Johnston, LLC. More information can be found at https://kmj.law/history/

 

William and Mary Sue Tatum Memorial Scholarship - Information and Application Guidelines

William and Mary Sue Tatum Memorial Scholarship Application


Dual Enrollment Scholarships

Southern Union offers dual-enrollment opportunities for high school students on their own high school campus or on any SUSCC campus.  Dual-enrollment credit means that the course you take through the college will count towards credits for your high school diploma as well as college credit for your future college degree. A limited number of scholarships for Dual Enrollment Students are available through the Southern Union Foundation. 

 

Dual Enrollment Scholarship Application 

With your help we are able to turn dreams into reality and students into graduates. Whether a one-time donation, a recurring gift, or through planned giving, you are making a difference in the lives of our students.     

Have you considered planned giving?

Planned giving is a way to leave a lasting legacy. We welcome bequests through your will or trust.  A bequest is one of the easiest gifts to make. With the help of an advisor, you can include language in your will or trust specifying a gift be made to Southern Union Foundation as part of your estate plan.

For more information, please call Shondae Brown at 256-395-2211 ext. 5145 or email sbrown@suscc.edu.

 

Checks can be mailed to:

Southern Union Foundation
PO Box 1000
Wadley, AL 36276

 

Online Donations:

Make an online donation to the Foundation.  

 

Amazon Smile:

Also, don't forget as you shop on Amazon to use smile.amazon.com/ch/45-1333982. Each purchase generates a donation that goes to The Foundation. 

Foundation Board Photo

 

Mrs. Oline Price - Board Chair

Lee County Revenue Commissioner

 

Dr. Kelli Hodge – Vice-Chair

Retired Educator

                       

Dr. Carol Knight – Secretary/Treasurer

Retired Educator

                       

Mr. Gerald Dial

State Senator, Retired

 

Bishop Lathonia Wright

Randolph County Commission

             

Honorable Gary Fuller

Mayor, Opelika, AL

           

Mr. David Proctor

Publisher, The Clay Times Journal

 

Mr. Jared Kirby

President, First Bank

           

Mr. John Harmon

Steve Morris Law Office

 

Rep. Bob Fincher

State Representative

 

Mr. Maurice Wright

BSN Sports

 

Dr. Patsy Parker

Retired Educator

 

Dr. Michael Williams

Cardiologist, Retired

 

Dr. Karen Stone

Retired Educator

 

Mr. Dave DeBaets

The DeBaets Group