Mr. Leonard Aleman established this scholarship in memory of his wife, Mary Lee Aleman. At his passing, Mr. Aleman bequeathed an endowment to support it in perpetuity.  The scholarship is awarded to residents of Gaston County, NC who have been accepted into the Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) Program.Awards will be made each year based on academic achievement and financial need and are renewable for the second year for recipients earning at least a 3.0 grade point average.

Pictured:  Dr. Patricia Skinner & Mr. Leonard Aleman

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The Athena Award is presented annually by South State Bank in collaboration with the Gaston Regional Chamber of Commerce to a community leader in recognition of their business or professional accomplishments in community service.  The award especially recognizes those who have been a role model to encourage women to achieve their full potential. 

In order to encourage future leadership among women in our community, South State Bank’s predecessor, Citizens South Bank and seven previous recipients of the Athena Award, Loretta Dodgen, Malinda Lowery, Helen Marvin, Patricia Skinner, Jennie Stultz, and Barbara Voorhees, established a scholarship in 2006 to benefit a promising Gaston College GED or Adult High School graduate who intends to continue their education at Gaston College.   These donors committed to providing $1,500 per year to provide annual funding for the scholarship. Since that time, additional Athena Award recipients have given generously to maintain this scholarship award.

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Established by Mr. Nazrul & Mrs. Tammy Chowdhury in 2018 in memory of their son, Austin Chowdhury, the purpose of this annual scholarship award is to provide financial assistance for a promising student from Gaston or Lincoln County who wishes to earn an Associate of Science degree in Human Services Technology with a focus on Substance Abuse.

Austin Chowdhury’s light shone brightly but was extinguished far too soon due to the battle faced by many in our community today, opioid addiction.  Austin’s addiction can be traced to oral surgery when he was a teenager while living in a loving and supportive home, and attending high school in Gaston County.  Even in the midst of addiction he was fully functioning and successfully continued his education at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, earning a Master’s Degree in Public Policy and Urban Planning.  Known as someone with a huge heart that would do anything for his friends, he hid his personal struggle with addiction from those who loved him most.  To continue Austin’s intended legacy of leaving this world a better place, his parents Tammy and Nazrul seek to educate their community about the illness of addiction so other families may avoid the pain and sorrow their son’s untimely death has caused them.  Additional information about Austin and the Chowdhury’s drive to educate others about the perils of opioid use, can be found at http://www.rememberingaustin.org.

To apply, please contact the guidance counselor at your high school.

This scholarship was established under the will of C. Grier Beam, founder and owner of Carolina Freight Carrier Corp. in Cherryville. Mr. Beam served as a long-time member of the Gaston College Board of Trustees. His wife, Lena Sue Beam, was a charter member of the Gaston College Foundation’s Heritage Society. The scholarship is open to students in any course of study who do not qualify for Federal Pell grants. Selection is based on academics and need.

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Mrs. Gilda R. Beam established this scholarship in memory of her husband, Mr. Hershal Hoyle Beam, a Gaston County educator, and her daughter, Anne Beam Morgan. This scholarship is open to any degree-seeking student enrolled full-time with a minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale.  The recipient is selected based on financial need.

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Huber Technology Inc., headquartered in Huntersville, NC, is the North American member of the HUBER group. Their parent company, Huber SE, is based in Germany, in the State of Bavaria. Huber Technology provides state-of-the-art equipment for municipal and industrial water and wastewater treatment. With a focus on providing liquid/solid separation and headworks equipment, they offer a comprehensive line of stainless steel equipment.

The HUBER Group is successfully operating in the environmental engineering sector. With its more than 60 subsidiaries, representative offices and agents, the HUBER Group is among the worldwide leading suppliers in the field of wastewater/sludge treatment and process engineering. With more than 175 years of commitment to drinking water and wastewater treatment, HUBER has always been an innovator in this field with a continuous focus on the development of new solutions to conserve one of our world’s most valuable resources: water.

Through the creation of The Thomas Bergheim Memorial Scholarship, Huber Technology honors the lifework of their friend and colleague, Thomas Bergheim (1966-2018), who served the company faithfully as a Senior Field Service Specialist since 2009.  Born in Cologne, Germany, Thomas was a respected and hardworking craftsman, a steady and dedicated employee and a good-hearted friend to many. Thomas always gave his best to his colleagues and his customers, having served HUBER in Germany for many years as an exclusive contractor before joining Huber Technology stateside. Thomas built friendships, teamwork, comradery and a legacy of excellence in their field service team.  He was a key element of HUBER’s success.

Huber Technology is honoring Thomas’ dedication to his craft through this scholarship by affording students the opportunity to learn critical skillsets which can propel them toward a fulfilling career, much like the one Thomas built within HUBER.

• Make a gift to the Thomas Bergheim Memorial Scholarship for Scholarship
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Kathryn R. Brandon established this scholarship in memory of her sister, Virginia Brandon. It is open to students in programs of study preparing them for the workplace, not college transfer, including trade, industrial, technical, business and nursing programs. The recipients are selected based on a combination of academic achievement and need.

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Becky B. Maxon, Patsy Brison, and John Brison III established this annual scholarship in honor of their parents, Joyce and John Brison. This scholarship is awarded to a student who is enrolled in Early Childhood Education (Degree or Certificate). The recipient is selected based on academic standing and financial need and must have a minimum GPA of 2.0.

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This scholarship is to honor and remember a 1979 Applied Textile Technology Center (formerly known as the NC Vocational Textile School) graduate, Mr. John Steven Brown, while providing financial assistance for a promising student seeking an Associate Degree in Industrial Systems Technology. Longtime business associates of Mr. Brown, including his most recent employer ITEMA America, Glen Raven Custom Fabrics and the Southern Textile Association, established this endowed scholarship in his memory.

Preference will be given to full-time or part-time students interested in pursuing employment in the textile field and who have been enrolled in Gaston College for a minimum of 24 credit hours if a full-time student, or 12 hours if a part-time student. The recipient must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5.

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The First Gaston Foundation established this scholarship in 2002 as a memorial to Mr. Brunnemer, who served on its board for 16 years and was chairman of its scholarship committee.  The scholarship is awarded to students who have been accepted into the Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) Program. Selection is based on a combination of academic achievement, need, community involvement and volunteer work. Funds are held by the First Gaston Foundation Fund of the Community Foundation of Gaston County and distributed annually.

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The purpose of The Bryant Electric Scholarship is to honor and remember the life and business success of Mr. Charles King Bryant, Sr. while providing financial assistance for a promising student seeking a career in the electrical field.  The donors, Mr. Harry M. Bryant and his wife, Mrs. Ruby B. Bryant, made commitments in Mr. Charles King Bryant Sr.’s memory to fund a scholarship at Gaston College for students pursuing a degree most aligned with the electrical industry.

Scholarships distributed from this Fund may be awarded to students residing in Gaston, Lincoln, Cleveland or Catawba County North Carolina or York or Cherokee County South Carolina pursuing a diploma, certificate or associate degree program in Office Administration or Business Administration, or who are pursuing a diploma or associate degree program in Electrical Systems Technology, Mechatronics Engineering Technology or Electrical Engineering Technology.  

Recipient(s) must have been enrolled in Gaston College for a minimum of 24 credit hours if a full-time student, or 12 hours if a part-time student, and have achieved a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. Students are eligible to receive this scholarship for up to 2 years (6 full semesters including Fall, Spring and Summer) without the need for reapplying each year provided that a minimum GPA of 2.5 is maintained.

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CARE | Charlotte Animal Referral & Emergency is the Charlotte region’s advanced medical center for pets. CARE is a state-of-the-art veterinary facility that offers 24/7 emergency care and board-certified specialty care, including oncology, neurology, surgery, ophthalmology, internal medicine, and cardiology. Privately owned and operated, CARE prides itself on its staff, each team member’s passion for veterinary excellence, and their compassion for the well-being of its patients.  The purpose of this annual scholarship award is to promote diversity and inclusion of underrepresented populations in the veterinary industry while providing financial assistance for a promising veterinary medical technology student seeking higher education who has the ability but not the financial resources to attend college.

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This scholarship was established in 1996 as a memorial to Mr. David Belk Cannon’s son, David Belk Cannon, Jr. and his daughter, Rebecca Cannon, both of whom died in a tragic fire.  The recipients are selected based on character, academic achievement, and need. Each recipient must be a full-time student, maintain a 2.0 GPA, and attend an annual luncheon. Recipients may be enrolled in any course of study at Gaston College. Scholarships are renewable for a second year of study at Gaston College provided that recipients are still eligible according to the stated criteria.

Previous DBC scholars may apply for a one-time award to be paid directly to their transfer institution.  Recipients are selected based on merit and must graduate with a minimum 2.0 GPA from Gaston College. 

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The purpose of this designated endowment fund is to provide financial assistance for a student who is a graduate of the Gaston College Adult High School or who has attained a high school equivalency degree at Gaston College (formerly known as the GED).  Preference will be given to female students pursuing an associate degree in business administration. 

Margaret “Mary Jo” Cloninger was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, business and civic leader who founded one of Gaston County’s most iconic and successful businesses, Mary Jo’s Cloth Store, in 1951 on her 19^th

She spent much of her teenage years working behind the register of her father’s family grocery store, and was pulled out of high school before graduation to work full-time.  As a child she would sneak away to her mother’s sewing machine, gathering cotton scraps and stitching them together.  She was a Depression Era baby and learned that to waste not was to want not.  By the time she was married, she came up with a business idea which she pitched to her father.  Armed with a $500 loan, which had to be co-signed by a male since women in business was unheard of at that time, she rented space in the back of her father’s barber shop to sell cloth to women who made clothing for their families.  Because of her keen business acumen, Ms. Cloninger grew her fabric business of necessity into a specialty niche market selling specifically to other women.  Named for the visionary entrepreneur who founded the company, Mary Jo’s is now a nationally and internationally known enterprise selling sought after fabrics to home makers and designers in all fifty states and numerous foreign countries.  

Mary Jo Cloninger was a shrewd and successful businesswoman during a time when the world of business was considered to be for men only.  She overcame a lack of formal education and public perception of what a woman’s role should be to create a sprawling and iconic Gaston County business that has given back to its community for over 66 years.  Her legacy of hard work, determination, commitment to family and a love for her community is cherished. 

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Friends and family of the late Polie Q. Cloninger, Jr. established this endowed scholarship to honor his memory following his death in 2003.   The scholarship is awarded to a Gaston College GED or Adult High School graduate, with preference given to students seeking a degree in criminal justice. The award is based on a combination of academic achievement and need and is renewable for a second year.

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Dr. Harry Cooke, Director of Gaston College Libraries, established this scholarship to honor his wife, Marischa, in appreciation for her life-long interest and involvement in the welfare of animals.  The award is based on academic achievement and goes to a second year student in the Veterinary Technology Program. Residents of Catawba County, NC are given preference.

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Family and friends of Britt DeAnna Cordero established this fund in her memory following her tragic death in a motorcycle accident on March 19, 2004.  Britt graduated from East Gaston High School in 2000 and received an Associate of Science degree from Gaston College in 2003 where she was on the Dean’s List.  Britt loved Gaston College and blossomed under the guidance of faculty here.  Earning a bachelor’s degree was important to Britt and at the time of her death was she was pursuing a degree in business at UNC-Charlotte. Recipients may be enrolled in any course of study at Gaston College. The award is based on community involvement and academic achievements and is to be given to a graduate of East Gaston High School who does not qualify for a Federal Pell grant but needs financial assistance.

Pictured:  Britt Cordero

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Christopher Lee Coxton was accidentally killed while practicing with his revolver while serving as a Deputy for the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office.  A memorial trust was established in Chris’s memory by Benny G. Coxton, Judith W. Abernethy, Barbara Pickens and other family and friends and transferred to the Gaston College Foundation for the establishment of an endowed scholarship fund in Chris’ memory.  The purpose of the endowment is to provide financial assistance for a promising student seeking higher education that has proven ability, but does not have the financial resources to attend college.  The award is given to residents in Lincoln County enrolled in the Criminal Justice Program or in the Basic Law Enforcement Training program to be used for, but not limited to tuition, books, and fees.  The Scholarship is renewable for one additional year if a 2.5 GPA or higher is maintained and the student is enrolled in at least 12 hours of study per semester.  Certificate, diploma, or degree seeking students are eligible. 

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Established in 1987 in memory of Ray P. Craig, a former vice president of Gaston County Dyeing and first chairman of the Gaston College Board of Trustees, this scholarship is open to all students but preference is given to Gaston County Dyeing Machine Company employees and their families. The recipient will be selected based on need and academic achievement.

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This scholarship honors the memory of Duane Crane who was chair of the science department at Gaston College when he died in 2003. His family, friends and co-workers established the award which goes to a Science student and is based on academic achievement.

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The Dallas High School Men’s Group consists of any man who attended or graduated from the Old Dallas High School up to 1972.  The group meets once a month, normally the second week of each month, to fellowship and maintain the bonds of early years of development at Dallas High School.  Members share life experiences and encourage community welfare.  Annual scholarships in memory of classmates killed in action in Vietnam, as well as in honor of all soldiers from Dallas, NC who sacrificed and endured hardships both in the midst of and upon their return home from service in Southeast Asia on land, at sea, and in air are awarded to North Gaston High School students.  

This scholarship is awarded to graduating high school seniors from North Gaston High School who plan to attend Gaston College to continue their education. Financial need is considered, but not required, in selecting the scholarship recipient.  The number of scholarships awarded varies yearly depending on funds available. 

• Make a gift to the Dallas High School Men's Group Scholarship for Scholarship
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This endowed fund provides scholarship assistance to participants of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Gastonia who graduate from high school.  Up to two awards will be made each year to such students who pursue a degree, certificate or diploma at Gaston College in any program of study.  The award is renewable for a second year and recipients may not receive the award for more than two years. The recipient is selected based on academic achievement and need. 

Pictured:  Dal & Lorraine Dalpiaz

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Lifelong residents of Gaston County, Louie and Lynn Dean built a successful business in their home community of Dallas, NC. Their business has employed hundreds of their community member, thereby contributing to the well-being and economic success of their neighbors.  Education, both formal and informal, is a Dean family value.  Louie took classes at Gaston College over the years.  Classroom knowledge gained, coupled with a real-world understanding of manufacturing and strong business acumen helped Louie build his own successful glass company.  Lynn earned two bachelor degrees from Belmont Abbey College and worked in information technology for Wells Fargo where she retired.  Lynn’s steadfast support of her family provided the stability needed for Louie to capitalize upon his entrepreneurial spirit, which ultimately resulted in the founding of Innovative Glass of America.  The company was sold in November of 2018, prompting Louie and Lynn to give back to the community that helped drive their corporate and family success.  This scholarship is to serve as a reminder to those who hold it that anything is possible with a little grit, a lot of hard work, a sound base of knowledge, and big dream for the future.

The purpose of this designated endowment fund shall be to provide financial assistance for a student who is a graduate of a Gaston County high school.  Preference will be given to students who are pursuing an associate degree in business & information technology or engineering & industrial technologies. 

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The Gaston College Foundation Board of Directors established the award in recognition of Mr. Efird’s long-time service to the college. A Foundation director since 1987, Mr. Efird served as president for seven years and initiated the “Friends of Gaston College Annual Giving Campaign” to provide student academic emergency assistance. The Efird Scholarship provides a $1,000 award to a Gaston College student in any course of study who does not qualify for a Pell grant.

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This scholarship was established in 2000 by the Gaston County Home Health Agency to enhance area health care by assisting Gaston College students pursuing nursing degrees in the Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) Program or to a student in the LPN to RN Program at Gaston College.  Selection is based on a combination of community involvement, academic achievement and need. 

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Mrs. Patricia L. Farmer established this scholarship in loving memory of her husband of 36 years, Mr. Barry D. Farmer who passed away at the age of 55 in 2004. Patricia and Barry both walked the halls of Gaston College as students in the late 1960’s pursuing degrees in Nursing and Civil Engineering. The purpose of this scholarship award shall be to provide financial assistance for two deserving students, one an incoming Gaston College freshman, and one a rising Gaston College sophomore, pursuing an Associate Degree in Civil Engineering Technologies.

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This scholarship was initiated by the First Gaston Foundation to assist four deserving students who are residents of Gaston County seeking a degree in the Liberal Arts Division. The recipients are selected based on a combination of academic achievement and need.

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This scholarship was established by the Civitan Club of Gastonia in memory of David L. Friday, Jr. who served as the first president of the Gastonia Evening Civitan Club when it was chartered in 1969. Through the years, Mr. Friday advanced in the service of Civitan to be Lt. Governor of Area III and Governor of North Carolina District West.  He was a graduate of Dallas High School and Wake Forest University and was president of Gastonia Belting Company.  Mr. Friday was a director of the Heart Society of Gaston County and the Flynn Fellowship Home.  This annual scholarship is open to a student who has demonstrated good citizenship, community and school contributor, and must be a registered voter.

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Teri Marie Fridley grew up in a family full of creative women. Generations of her family had sewn, quilted, and done needlework.  However, none of them claimed the title of artist. Teri never considered art as a career. Instead she used her creative abilities as an elementary school teacher.  After she returned to Gaston County to assist with her family’s business she enrolled in art classes at Gaston College.  Here, with the assistance of wonderful instructors, she was able to express her artistic vision and finally felt empowered to claim the title “Artist.”  By establishing The Teri Fridley Young Artist Scholarship she hopes to provide a guiding hand to area students so that they may also feel empowered to claim that title and pursue careers in the visual arts.

Ms. Fridley established this annual scholarship to provide significant financial assistance to young, accomplished artists residing in Gaston and Lincoln counties of North Carolina who wish to pursue their passion by earning an Associate of Fine Art and Visual Art from Gaston College.  Financial need is considered but not required to be eligible for an award.

In addition the College/Foundation’s general scholarship application, the information below must also be provided in order to complete an application for the Teri Fridley Young Artist Scholarship.  Information about how and when this information must be submitted will be included in general scholarship application information on an annual basis.

ESSAY

Please submit a well-organized and carefully written 500-800 word essay, addressing the following:

• How you became interested in art?
• Why you want to pursue a degree in the arts?
• What would this scholarship mean to you?

PORTFOLIO REQUIREMENTS

All scholarship candidates must submit a Portfolio of 10 artworks representative of their art, in PDF format.

Portfolio should be of the visual arts and may include drawing, painting, photography, 3-dimensional sculpture, ceramics, digital media, mixed media, and/or printmaking.

The portfolio should exhibit the student’s artistic potential, creativity and talent. Each image should be high quality (min. 1500 pixels long edge) and accurately represent the original artwork.

Each image must be labeled with artist’s name, title of the piece, media, dimensions, and year completed. A description of the concept behind the piece and any other relevant context for each item may be included.

Work will be judged based on the following:

• Range of skills and/or art making processes
• Understanding and application of design elements and principles
• Creative problem solving and conceptual ability
• Ability to articulate your ideas in writing

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Established in 2017 by the Gaston College Foundation and funded through unrestricted annual gifts and unrestricted endowment earnings, this scholarship serves students in Gaston and Lincoln Counties who participate in the Gaston College Career and College Promise (CCP) program while in high school.  Students must be a graduate of a high school in Gaston or Lincoln counties (public, charter, private, and home schools are eligible), have completed at least 15 credit hours in Career and College Promise (CCP) program or have completed a CCP pathway, CCP cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 or higher in college coursework and required to have a 3.25 or higher unweighted High School GPA.

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The purpose of this annual scholarship award is to provide financial assistance for a student seeking higher education within a program of the Health and Human Services Division who has the ability and drive, but not the financial resources to attend college. Scholarships distributed from this Fund may be awarded to either recent high school graduates who have achieved a minimum high school GPA of 2.5 or a current student at Gaston College who has attained a minimum GPA of 2.5.  Financial need is not a requirement for this scholarship, but should be strongly considered in the selection process. Preference is given to students residing in Gaston County. The scholarship may be renewed for one additional year without the need for reapplication provided that the recipient maintains a minimum GPA of 2.5. 

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Established in 1968 by Gastonia East Rotary Club to benefit Gaston College students, this scholarship is open to Gaston County residents.  The recipients are selected based on a combination of academic achievement and financial need. Scholarships are funded through an endowment established by the club with the Community Foundation of Gaston County.  The number of annual awards given vary depending upon availability of funds.  Scholarships are valued at $750 each.

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Donations from various contributors make up this scholarship fund.  Awards are based on a combination of academic achievement and financial need.  Recipients may be enrolled in any course of study at Gaston College.

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Established by Mr. and Mrs. Goodyear in 2001 to commemorate their 33rd wedding anniversary and their 41^st year of a loving friendship, the scholarship assists students pursuing an Associate of Applied Science in Veterinary Medical Technology and who have financial need. Preference should be given to applicants who have worked or volunteer in the community.

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Tracy Philbeck, a lifelong resident of Gaston County and County Commissioner since 2009, is a strong believer that education is the key to success.  The purpose of this annual scholarship award is to provide financial assistance for a recent graduate of Warlick Academy, a public institution included within Gaston County Schools, who achieved a minimum high school GPA of 2.0 and has the desire to further their education as a student at Gaston College. Financial need is not a requirement for this scholarship. The funds shall be used, but not limited to, tuition, books, and fees.

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Ken Harbin established this scholarship in memory of his wife, Oneda Sellers Harbin, who was killed in a traffic accident in 1995. The scholarship is awarded to a senior at North Gaston High School where Mrs. Harbin graduated. The recipient is selected based on need, academic achievement, career interest, and community involvement.  Contact North Gaston guidance counselor to apply. The donor requests to be notified annually of scholarship winners.

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Alison Nichols, a 1992 graduate of GC’s mechanical drafting program, established this award in memory of her instructor, Andy Hawkins.  The scholarship is intended to assist students in any Engineering & Industrial Technologies program. The scholarship is based on financial need, with funds to be used for tuition, books, course materials, or required tools purchased through the College Bookstore.

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This scholarship was established in 1992 under the will of Howard Max Crowder. All students attending Gaston College are eligible to apply.  Selection criteria may be determined by the College’s scholarship committee as none were specified by the donor.

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This fund was established in memory of Mr. Fred Lee Hoffman, by his nephews Alan G. Cloninger and Thomas R. Cloninger, and his niece Paula C. Houser. Mr. Hoffman was an avid third-generation farmer who loved sharing the bounty of his harvest with many. The purpose of this endowment shall be to provide financial assistance for a promising student from the Long Shoals, NC area seeking higher education who has the ability, but not the financial resources to attend college. Students pursing any course of study leading to an Associate Degree may be considered with preference given to those in Business and Information Technology programs or Engineering and Industrial Technology programs.

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This scholarship was established by Creola Houser in memory of her husband Mr. Fred K. Houser who owned the Cherryville Eagle for many years. Preference is given to graduates of Cherryville High School and then to Gaston County at large. The recipients are selected based on a combination of academic achievement and financial need and they may be enrolled in any course of study at Gaston College.

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This scholarship was established by Harold (Hal) Hoyle as a memorial to Bonnie Hoyle, an instructor in the Mechanical Engineering Technology Program, who was killed in a traffic accident. It is open to a second-year student in the Mechanical Engineering Technology Program. If no applicants in this program apply, the award can only be given to a Civil or Industrial Engineering Technology applicant. The recipient is selected based on academic achievement, community involvement and must have a minimum GPA of 3.0.  

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This scholarship was established in 1968 in honor of Mr. Hunter Huss for his years of service as an educator. This scholarship is open to Gaston County high school graduates in any course of study. Students must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 to qualify.

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Mr. and Mrs. Harry Huss along with friends and family members established this scholarship in 1989.  Mr. Huss spent his career as an educator in Gaston County Schools.  The recipients are selected based on demonstration of financial need and must be a resident of Gaston County. Preference is given to students with an interest in teaching.

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The scholarship is open to current employees of Kate’s Skating Rink. Recipients may be either full or part-time students and may be enrolled in any course of study at Gaston College. 

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This endowed scholarship award will provide financial assistance for a student who has experienced the hardships of the foster care system and has the desire, but not the means to further their education as a student at Gaston College. Scholarships distributed from this Fund may be awarded to documented foster children or adopted children, regardless of location, who graduated high school with a minimum GPA of 2.5. The scholarship is renewable for a 2^nd year, but recipients may not receive the award for more than two years. Documented financial need is not a requirement for this scholarship. Applications must provide a written statement regarding their future career aspirations as well as the impact this scholarship could have upon their future endeavors.

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This scholarship was begun by Elizabeth Little to honor the memory of her parents, Rebecca Little who taught school in Gaston County and took teacher renewal courses at Gaston College, and Cramer Little, a supervisor at Firestone who attended Gaston College for supervisor training and lawnmower repair classes.  The award goes to a student(s) based on a combination of academic achievement and financial need who is seeking an associates or higher degree.

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With this scholarship, the Kiwanis Club wishes to honor the memory of one of its longtime and most devoted members, Mr. Joseph Nelli.  He retired in 1991 from FMC Lithium Division after a career of 31 years in process research, new product development, and business development.

 The purpose of this endowment shall be to provide an annual scholarship for a promising student seeking higher education who has the ability, but not the financial resources to better themselves through Gaston College. The recipient must be a Gaston County resident demonstrating financial need and been enrolled in Gaston College for a minimum of 24 credit hours if a full-time student, or 12 hours if a part-time student, with a GPA of 2.5. The recipient must attend one general meeting of the donor and must participate in at least one community service project with the donor.

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Mr. James David Holland, a graduate of Cherryville High School, Gaston College and UNC-Chapel Hill, established this scholarship fund in honor of his wife Kathy Ann Friday Holland. The purpose of this endowment shall be to provide financial assistance for a promising student from Gaston County seeking higher education who has the ability, but not the financial resources to attend college. Recipients of this award must be enrolled in an Associate of Art or Science degree program within the division of Business and Information Technology or Early Childhood Education who has completed at least 12 hours of study at Gaston College and has achieved a minimum GPA of 2.5.  Preference will be given to United States veterans, graduates of Cherryville High School or North Gaston High School. 

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Established in memory of T. Jeffers, an educator in Gaston County and the mayor of Gastonia, this scholarship assists Gaston College students enrolled in any program of study, including high school equivalency programs. Scholarship recipients must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale and they are selected by the Gaston County Organization for Community Concerns. 

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This scholarship was established by the Association for the Education of Young Children and friends of Dr. Janet Johnston in honor of her service to the community. This scholarship is awarded to Early Childhood Education students. The recipient will be selected based primarily on need and should have completed one full year of the program in a satisfactory manner.

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Kristi Kiser wishes to honor her father, Mr. Randy Kiser, a 1979 graduate of the Gaston College Electrical Installation & Maintenance program as well as a 2012 recipient of a diploma in Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Technology, through this annual scholarship gift. The purpose of this annual scholarship award shall be to provide financial assistance for a deserving Gaston College student enrolled in his/her second semester or beyond and pursuing a course of study within one of two programs including a Diploma in Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Technology or Electrical/Electronics Technology. All applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 to be considered.

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This annual scholarship award will provide financial assistance to Gastonia Sheet Metal (GSM) applicants and/or existing GSM co-workers seeking a certificate or diploma in the Air Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration Technology Program at Gaston College. Financial need is   not a requirement. Upon consultation with GSM, recipients are ultimately chosen by the Gaston College selection committee. Scholarships are renewable upon successful completion (GPA of 2.5 or better) of the previous semester and the approval of the Director of Human Resources for GSM Services.

To apply, please contact the office of Human Resources at GSM.

This scholarship was established through the estate of Elisabeth Love More as a memorial to her father, William Thomas Love, who was a dedicated Presbyterian elder, former mayor of Mount Holly and of Gastonia, served as Sheriff of Gaston County, and was a Senator in the NC General Assembly.  He was also an early cotton manufacturer and benefactor of many in Gaston County.  This scholarship is open to Gaston County residents and recipients are to be selected by the College based on a combination of need, career interest, academic achievement, and community involvement.

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Mr. John Lowery and Dr. Malinda Lowery are both proud alumni of Gaston College and successful business owners and civic leaders.  They attribute their success to hard work and tenacity, attributes learned while at Gaston College.  The purpose of this endowment shall be to provide financial assistance for a promising student living in Gaston or Lincoln County who have a demonstrated financial need but who are not eligible for federal aid. The recipient must have completed a minimum of 12 credit hours with a cumulative GPA of 2.5.  The scholarship is renewable for one additional year if recipients maintain a GPA of 2.5 or better and enroll in at least 12 credit hours of study per semester. Certificate, diploma or degree seeking students are eligible.  Educational expenses include, but not limited to, tuition, fees or books.

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The Lubrizol Foundation awards six scholarships annually to second-year students seeking an Associate of Applied Science in Biotechnology or Engineering Technology.  Selection is made based on academic achievement and financial need of exceptional students and can only be applied to tuition. The donor requests the name of the scholarship recipient and address, student’s year in college and major, field in which the scholarship was given, and the amount awarded.

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Judith Robinson Maloney created this annual endowed scholarship award in honor of her husband as he celebrated his 75th birthday. Preference is given to those desiring to be a physician in such programs as Biology, Chemistry, Nursing, or a student seeking a career in aviation. Recipients are selected based on a combination of academic achievement and need.

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The award was established by Dr. Gene Maloney and his wife, Judith Robinson Maloney, a graduate of Gaston College, in memory of their son who suffered from Muscular Dystrophy. The scholarship provides financial assistance annually to a special needs student and is based on academic achievement. Recipients may be enrolled in any course of study at Gaston College. Recipient will be chosen by the Gaston College selection committee with input from the Special Needs Counselor.

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The First Gaston Foundation, Inc. established this award in memory of Mr. James H. Martin, Jr., a past trustee of the Foundation.  Selection is based on academic achievement and is awarded to a student in the Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) Program or the LPN to RN Program.

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This scholarship was established to provide financial assistance for a promising student pursing a degree in Paralegal Technology. Scholarships distributed from this Fund may be awarded only to students who are currently enrolled in Gaston College and are actively pursuing a paralegal degree.  Recipient must have achieved a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 at the time of application for the scholarship and must satisfy all Gaston College requirements for enrollment.  Financial need is not a requirement for this scholarship.

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Sallie Nixon established this award in memory of her husband, Caldwell Nixon, who was a World War II veteran, an area director of the Veterans Administration in Nebraska and West Virginia, and a member of the board of directors of 14 service-related organizations.  He was influential in the renovation of the old Lincolnton High School into a home for Gaston College and the Senior Center, where a room bears his name. The award is open to students residing in Lincoln County and is based on academic achievement. Recipients may be enrolled in any course of study at Gaston College.

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This endowed scholarship fund was established by The North Carolina Association of Textile Services and at the behest of Sunshine Uniform Service, Inc., a member of the organization. Preference is given to children, grandchildren and relatives of employees of Sunshine Uniform Service and is based on academic achievement and community involvement. Recipients may be in any course of study at Gaston College.

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The North Carolina Veterinary Medical Association provides this award to a second-year student in the Veterinary Technology Program. It is based on academic achievement and financial need and the recipient must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0.

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The award is given to a second-year student in the Veterinary Technology program and is based on a combination of academic achievement and need. Recipient must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. Gaston College Vet Tech faculty are involved in the selection process.

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Established by Mr. Larry K. Petty of Gastonia, president, Petty Machine Company, this scholarship provides financial assistance for recent graduates of Gaston or Lincoln County public schools who have the desire to further their education as a participant in the Gaston College SPARC³ scholars program but who are not eligible for federal aid. The SPARC3 (STEM Persistence and Retention via Curriculum Centralized Cohorts) scholars program is designed to provide capable and motivated students the opportunity for intensive hands-on science, technology, engineering and mathematics instruction with laboratory experiences at the community college level which prepares them for successful completion of a four-year degree program. Recipients must have a minimum GPA of 2.75 and must be enrolled for at least 12 credit hours.

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Mr. Larry K. Petty of Gastonia, president, Petty Machine Company, is a 1954 graduate in mechanical engineering of NC State University. Mr. Petty has been a committed regional community leader in both business and civic endeavors.  He is a strong believer that it takes a well-rounded education to create an informed and productive citizen and it is to this end that the Petty Scholars Scholarship hopes to encourage for students graduating from Gaston County Schools. The purpose of this annual scholarship award shall be to provide financial assistance for recent graduates of Gaston County public schools who have the desire to further their education beyond high school, but not necessarily the means.  The Petty Scholars scholarship is designed to provide capable and motivated students the opportunity to gain a strong educational foundation at the community college level to prepare them for successful completion of a four-year degree program. The scholarship is available to High school seniors graduating with a minimum GPA of 2.75 from Gaston county schools, with first preference given to Hunter Huss High School graduates, choosing to further their education at Gaston College in the fall semester immediately following their high school graduation, or, if no one meets this criteria, Gaston College students residing in Gaston County who have achieved a minimum GPA of 2.75 during at least 12 hours of study at Gaston College. Students must be pursuing an Associate of Science or Associate of Arts degree and have the intention upon graduation from Gaston College to transfer to an accredited four-year institution to complete a bachelor’s degree.  Financial need is not a requirement for this scholarship but should be given priority.

To apply, please contact your guidance counselor.

Linda I. Rader taught at Grier Elementary From 1958 – 1964 and at Gardner Park Elementary from 1964 – 1987.  From 1988 until her death in 2003, she was the staff development director for Gaston County Schools.  Mrs. Rader believed in the concept of social justice whether it be the amount of money per classroom student or equal representation for all regardless of gender, ethnicity, race or social status.  Linda was a tireless worker on behalf of all people who worked in education, whatever position, at the local, state, and national levels.  Mrs. Rader’s last will and testament bequeathed a scholarship fund to Gaston College so that others may be given the gift of an education. This general scholarship is open to students with a 3.0 or better in any program of study.

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This scholarship was established by Mrs. Louise K. Ratchford and children in memory of her husband, Fred A. Ratchford, Sr.  This scholarship is open to Gaston County residents or natives. The recipient is selected based on a combination of academic achievement and need. The recipient must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and may be enrolled in any course of study at Gaston College.

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This scholarship was established as a fitting memorial to Jeanne Rauch for her many contributions to the development and appreciation of art in North Carolina.  It provides assistance to a Gaston College student in the Associate of Fine Arts (AFA) program. Preference is given to residents of Gaston and Lincoln counties, with selection based on a combination of academic achievement and need and is renewable for a second year.

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Mrs. Carol Robinson established this scholarship in honor of her husband, Jack Robinson, a retired pilot, in honor of his 75th birthday.  This scholarship is open to all students with preference being given to those with interest in aviation. The recipients are selected based on a combination of academic achievement and need.

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This endowed fund was established through a bequest by William Marcus “Bill” Robinson who died March 8, 2005. The fund honors Bill’s memory as well as that of his sister Blanche, who became mother and father to him when their parents died when Bill was only 12 years old. His will directed that income from the fund be used to assist needy and deserving students and for other unrestricted purposes as the Gaston College Board of Trustees may direct.

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This scholarship was established by the Altrusa Club of Gastonia in memory of Pauline Scruggs, its first president. This scholarship is open to a student in any course of study who has resided or worked in Gaston County for at least one year. The recipient is selected based on his/her character, integrity, academic achievement and need.  Applicants are required to submit a transcript and letter of recommendation from one adult who is neither a relative, nor former employer.  Letters should be no more than one page and should be uploaded in AcademicWorks as part of the application.

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Established by friends and family of Mr. William B. Seabrook and Mrs. Elizabeth C. Seabrook in their honor, this scholarship is awarded to a Gaston College student in any course of study who does not qualify for a Pell grant.

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Gaston College graduate Kayren S. Brantley established this scholarship in 2001 on the occasion of her mother’s retirement from teaching.  Rebecca Shiver was a 29-year-old mother of four when she came to Gaston College in 1965, with the blessing and support of her husband, Warren.  This scholarship is available to students 21 years of age and older, pursuing any course of study. The purpose of this scholarship is to encourage people who have been out of high school for a few years to begin their college education.

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The income from this fund provides scholarships for tuition, fees, and books to deserving Gaston College students from Gaston, Cleveland, and Lincoln counties who are in the Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) or LPN to RN Programs. To be qualified for this scholarship each student is required to maintain a 3.0 GPA.

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German-based Stabilus Corporation established this annual scholarship following the move of its North American headquarters to Gastonia. This award is open to residents of Gaston and Lincoln counties and to Stabilus employees and their families. The recipient is selected based on a combination of need, career interest, academic achievement, and community involvement. Preference will be given to applicants in Engineering/Technical fields of study. 

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Carl J. Stewart, Jr. initiated the Stewart Family Scholarship in honor of his daughters, Lisa Stewart and Julie Stewart Bradley, both of whom graduated from the Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) Program at Gaston College.  The award is open to students who have been accepted into the ADN Program with selection based on financial need.

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Mr. and Mrs. Gary D. Stewart, grandparents of Gary Daniel Stewart, established this annual scholarship in memory of their grandson, Gary, to assist those with an interest in pursuing a certificate, diploma or degree within an Automotive Systems Technology program. Scholarships distributed from this Fund may only be awarded to either recent high school graduates who have achieved a minimum high school GPA of 2.5 or a current student at Gaston College who has attained a minimum GPA of 2.5 in at least ¼ of their required program. Financial need is not a requirement for this scholarship. Preference should be given to students residing in Gaston County that satisfy all Gaston College admissions requirements including any required placement tests. The scholarship may be renewed for one additional year without the need for reapplication provided that the recipient maintains a minimum GPA of 2.5. 

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Mary E. Stowe established this scholarship in honor of her mother, Evelyn Rankin Stowe, who was a Public Health Nurse in Gaston and Mecklenburg counties and spent her career promoting health and wellness programs. This scholarship is open to Gaston College students in the Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) Program. The recipient is selected based on a combination of career interest, academic achievement and community involvement.

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Friends and family of the late Sheriff Leroy Charles Russell, in consultation with representatives of his estate upon his passing, wish to establish a scholarship fund in his honor and memory to commemorate his life of public service to the citizens of Gaston County, NC.

Leroy Russell was the sheriff of Gaston County from 1982-2004 and was a member of the NC Sheriffs’ Association, serving as president 1990-1991.  He was a member of the Gaston County Law Enforcement Association, was a licensed funeral director, a Gaston County Schools employee, a drivers’ license examiner and a County magistrate.  He was a US Air Force veteran.  Leroy was a member of First United Methodist Church, where he was on the worship committee, an administrative board member and he served on the funeral committee. 

Scholarships distributed from this Fund may only be awarded to Gaston County residents and have been enrolled in Gaston College for a minimum of 24 credit hours if a full-time student, or 12 hours if a part-time student, have achieved a minimum GPA of 2.0, and are enrolled in a criminal justice program.

2. Full or part-time students are eligible to apply.
3. Preference will be given to Gaston County Sheriff’s Office Deputies or members of their immediate family.

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Robert Tull and friends established this scholarship in honor of his 1997 retirement from the Timken Company after more than 35 years of service. This scholarship also serves as a memorial to Mr. Tull’s late wife, Laurie Tull, who received very good nursing care while she was terminally ill. This scholarship is open to residents of Lincoln County enrolled in the Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) Program. The recipient is selected based on financial need, community involvement, volunteer experience with hospitals, nursing homes, and elderly groups along with a strong desire to be in the nursing profession.

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Dr. Tyner, a retired surgeon in Gaston County, established this fund to provide a scholarship each year to a student in the Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) Program. 

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The scholarship was established to provide financial assistance for needy students who are current employees of Sunshine Uniform Services and their immediate families.  Recipients are required to be a current employee or an immediate family member of an employee. Recipients may be either full, or part-time students, and may be enrolled in any course of study at Gaston College.  Selection will be based on need. Contact Sunshine Uniform Services HR Department for details.

To apply, please contact the Human Resources department at Sunshine Uniform Services, Inc.

Don Walser, former chair of the Gaston College Board of Trustees established this scholarship, which is open to second-year students majoring in Accounting, Business Administration, and Administrative Office Technology or Business Computer Programming with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Preference is given to Accounting students. The recipient will be selected based on academic achievement, need and community involvement.

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This scholarship was established in memory of Mother Bernice Ballard Wilson as a tribute to her commitment to her children, both biological and “adopted”, and to her dedicated and faithful church work. The scholarship is open to students in the Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) Program, with the recipient selected based primarily on need with preference given to minority students.

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