Gadsden, AL – Gadsden State Community College has awarded three Margin of Excellence grants to distinguished faculty and staff members, following a comprehensive review process conducted by a committee of nine colleagues and community members. These grants, totaling $25,000 for the 2024-25 academic year, highlight projects aimed at enhancing student experiences and educational outcomes.
“These prestigious awards honor faculty and staff members who have presented projects that reflect their exceptional dedication, creativity and commitment to student success,” stated Dr. Dana Davis, committee liaison and budget manager. “The committee carefully reviewed nominations and were able to identify those projects that will significantly impact and benefit Gadsden State students.”
The Margin of Excellence Grant traces its origins back to 1989 when the U.S. Department of Education awarded Gadsden State an endowment challenge grant. By the following year, the college successfully raised $370,500 through faculty, staff, and community contributions, which was then matched by the federal government. This effort created an endowment fund of $741,000, which continues to support scholarships and innovative projects that benefit students. The fund, held in an interest-bearing account for 20 years, is designated for supporting instructional needs, special events, student scholarships, professional development, and other initiatives that assist students, faculty, and staff.
This year, the three projects selected for Margin of Excellence grants include:
- Julie White, a psychology instructor, was awarded $10,483 to enhance the multipurpose outdoor space for students on the Wallace Drive Campus. The improvements aim to provide a more engaging and supportive environment for students’ outdoor activities and relaxation.
- Danny Wilborn and Tammy Morgan, mathematics instructors, received $9,517 to facilitate the participation of instructors from the Division of Mathematics in the upcoming American Association of Two-Year Colleges National Conference in Atlanta this November. The conference is expected to promote knowledge-sharing and professional growth, ultimately enriching mathematics education at Gadsden State.
- Blake Lewis, athletic director and head baseball coach, secured $5,000 for the development of the Cardinal Lounge. This funding will be used to furnish Phase 1 of the student-athlete lounge, which will serve as a dedicated space for studying, team activities, meetings, and mentoring sessions, supporting both academic and athletic pursuits.
“Congratulations to the recipients of this year’s Margin of Excellence grants,” Dr. Davis said. “I know these projects will have a lasting impact on our students, employees and Gadsden State.”
The Margin of Excellence Grant continues to serve as a vital resource for fostering educational innovation and student success at Gadsden State Community College.
