The Darton Health Professions Foundation has announced the award of more than $37,000 in scholarships for the Spring 2026 semester, reinforcing its ongoing commitment to strengthening education and workforce development across Southwest Georgia.

Scholarships were awarded to students pursuing degrees in healthcare, education, the arts, STEM, and other high-demand fields. Many recipients are already employed in Southwest Georgia and have indicated plans to remain in the region after graduation, an outcome the Foundation views as essential to the long-term vitality of local the SWGA community.

“These scholarships are not just about helping students get through a semester,” said Chuck Logan, Foundation Board Member. “They are about stabilizing our workforce, retaining talent in Southwest Georgia, and supporting individuals who are already contributing to this region while preparing for their future careers.”

The Spring application cycle drew hundreds of submissions, with applicants required to complete a rigorous process that included academic verification, financial need assessment, and personal essays. The review process emphasized objectivity, transparency, and alignment with donor intent.

“What stands out every year is the resilience of our applicants,” said Board Chair Pam Simmons. “Many of these students are balancing full-time work, family responsibilities, and school. When we award a scholarship, we are saying to them, ‘We see you, and we believe in your potential.’ That belief has a lasting impact.”

A significant portion of applicants are currently working in hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities throughout Southwest Georgia. Others are preparing to enter fields that address critical regional needs, such as education, nursing, and other allied health professions.

Board Member Frances Carr reflected on the depth of the student narratives reviewed during the selection process. “We read essays from students who are single parents, first-generation college students, and individuals who have experienced profound personal loss,” Carr said. “Despite those challenges, they remain focused, determined, and committed to giving back to their communities. Those stories stay with you and remind you why this work matters.”

Beyond financial assistance, the Foundation maintains ongoing engagement with scholarship recipients throughout the semester and their academic progression. Students receive encouragement, guidance, and access to a network of Foundation board members and staff who are invested in their success.

“Our role doesn’t end when the check is written,” said Randae Davis, Executive Director of the Darton Foundation. “We walk alongside these students, offering support and connection, because removing barriers often requires more than financial help alone.”

As the Foundation looks ahead, leaders emphasize that the true return on investment is measured not only in dollars awarded but in graduates who remain rooted in Southwest Georgia, serving patients, educating students, and strengthening the region’s economic and social fabric.

The Darton Health Professions Foundation continues to view its scholarship work as both a responsibility and a privilege, one that transforms lives while building a stronger future for Southwest Georgia.