DHPF Scholarship Recipient and ASU nursing student Laura Singletary, pictured far left, collaborating with Emory University for a Farm Worker Project this summer. 

The Darton Health Professions Foundation recently invested in the future of Southwest Georgia by awarding $57,785 in scholarships to more than 35 students for the fall 2025 semester. Awards ranged from $500 to $7,136, according to need, merit, and the specific criteria of each scholarship.

“The recipients are a reflection of tireless effort and inspiring stories of remarkable individuals who are shaping the future of our Southwest Georgia community,” said Randae Davis, Executive Director of the Darton Foundation. “The essays painted vivid portraits of students who are committed to their education and career, overcoming adversity, striving for academic excellence, and demonstrating vision for their futures and SOWEGA.” 

The process began with 773 applications, but about 400 students submitted all the required materials. All supporting facts, academic records, GPAs, and statements of financial need were verified, underscoring the Foundation’s dedication to fairness and objectivity. 

“While many recipients are pursuing healthcare degrees, the scholarships also extend to students in performing arts, education, STEM, and international studies,” said Dr. Sarah Brinson, Dean of the Darton College of Health Professions and Foundation Board Member. “Many are already contributing to the medical workforce at Phoebe Putney or other regional providers, and a significant number indicated their intention to remain in Southwest Georgia.”

The Christo Family Scholarship was also granted to the university for the benefit of baseball scholarships. Coach Hemmings and his staff are entrusted with making these decisions, ensuring that athletic excellence is given due recognition alongside academic achievement.

Every year, the Foundation encounters essays that leave a lasting impression, stories that rise above the page and impact hearts. This year, several essays stood out, deserving great consideration. 

Board Member Frances Carr reflected on the power of the essays: “We read of students who have no support systems, single mothers working and going to school full time, a student who moved to Georgia on their own as a minor, and one who lost both parents while attending college. Can you imagine losing both parents while in college? This student exemplifies the meaning of grit and determination. Not only did she remain enrolled, but she graduated with an excellent GPA and is now coming to ASU to become a nurse and give back to her hometown.” 

“These are the kinds of stories that remind us why this work matters,” added Board Chairperson Pam Simmons. “It’s more than awarding scholarships, it’s investing in human potential, and the ripple effects will be felt across our region for years to come.”

The Foundation believes that helping these students is far more than a process, it is a privilege. Their aspirations, their resilience in the face of adversity, and their determination to rise above circumstances inspire the Foundation to work harder and reach further to change lives.

“The Foundation is not just a funder,” said Davis. “We maintain meaningful contact with our recipients throughout the semester and their academic pursuits offering support. Board members, ASU staff, and Foundation staff collaborate to lend expertise, encouragement, and compassion to remove barriers.”

A recipient, who will graduate this semester, sent an email of gratitude and stated, “Thanks for everything this organization does for its recipients, not only in monetary means but in other contributions outside of the scholarships. Your mentorships have been greatly appreciated and have helped guide me through nursing school.” 

The statistics tell a compelling story—hundreds of applicants, dozens of awards, tens of thousands of dollars dispersed. Yet, the true impact lies in the changed lives, the renewed hope, and the sense of community created through these scholarships.