The 15th annual Regents’ Scholarship Gala, hosted by the University System of Georgia (USG) Foundation, raised more than $900,000 to support and provide need-based scholarships for students at all 26 USG institutions. Governor Brian Kemp also presented former First Lady Sandra Deal with a lifetime achievement award for her contributions to public education and literacy in Georgia.

“The USG Foundation works to provide financial support in the form of need-based scholarships to students at every institution and from every corner of our state,” said USG Chancellor Steve Wrigley. “The Regents’ Scholarship Gala brings together representatives from our colleges and universities, public and private supporters, and elected officials at every level in Georgia. Each of these stakeholders provide critical support to public higher education.”

“I’m especially appreciative of Gov. and First Lady Kemp’s support of our efforts and for presenting Former First Lady Sandra Deal’s lifetime achievement award. As Gov. Kemp noted, Sandra Deal’s lifelong dedication to public education and literacy is an inspiration to us all. During her time as first lady, she read to students at more than 1000 schools statewide, in all 181 school districts in each of Georgia’s 159 counties. She supported childhood literacy and worked tirelessly to advance this important cause. We’re grateful for her efforts on behalf of students and families and honored to recognize her with our highest honor, the Elridge McMillan Lifetime Achievement Award.”

“The success of our students is at the core of the foundation’s mission,” said Foundation Chairman Regent Neil Pruitt. “As chairman, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing firsthand how we are making a positive impact on students’ lives. For 15 years, this gala has provided much-needed funds to support students in their path to earning a degree,” said Regent Pruitt. “The commitment of our supporters and advocates will allow us to continue working on behalf of students across this state. I look forward to the continued growth and success of this important cause.”

The Foundation also recognized recipients of the Regents’ Hall of Fame Alumni and Distinguished Friends Award. This award is given to outstanding alumni supporters of USG institutions:

Veronica Adadevoh, nominated by Atlanta Metropolitan State College

Donnie Cochran, nominated by Savannah State University

Mike Cottrell, nominated by University of North Georgia

M. Douglas Ivester, nominated by University of Georgia

E.G. Meybohm, nominated by Georgia Southern University

Finally, six USG faculty members were honored as the 2019 recipients of the Felton Jenkins Jr. Hall of Fame Faculty Award. This award recognizes faculty’s important contributions to their schools and fields of study:

Tessa Andrew, Ph.D., assistant professor, Department of Genetics, University of Georgia

Binh Tran, D.B.A., assistant professor, School of Science and Technology, Georgia Gwinnett College

James Byers, Ph.D., Meigs Distinguished Teaching professor and associate dean of administrative affairs and research, Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia

Christopher Clark, Ph.D., professor, Department of Economics and Finance, Georgia College and State University

David Joyner, Ph.D., associate director of student experience and senior research associate, College of Computing, Georgia Institute of Technology

Joseph Mayo, Ed.D., professor, Department of Business & Public Service, Gordon State College

The annual Regents’ Scholarship Gala included individuals from the USG’s 26 institutions, as well as supporters, donors, alumni and businesses.