Augusta Technical College alumni are expanding opportunities for students through new scholarships and financial assistance initiatives announced following the 2025 Den of Distinction Celebration.
Held on Oct. 24, the annual event honored outstanding alumni and raised enough funds this year to support 10 students through scholarships and direct aid.
In addition to those awards, several new scholarships were announced by members of the Den of Distinction and Augusta Technical College Foundation leaders.
Among the new scholarships is the Dr. Tamara Y. Johnson Simmons Educational Access Scholarship, created by 2025 Den of Distinction honoree Dr. Tamara Y. Johnson Simmons.
It will provide annual financial assistance to a deserving student each fall. The Cooper Claus Scholarship Fund, established by 2024 inductee and Foundation Trustee Peter Claus, will benefit students who are family members of firefighters and EMTs.
Honoring a long-time member of the Augusta Tech community, the Linda LaMarr Memorial Scholarship was founded by 2025 honoree Dr. Vicki Vandervelde.
LaMarr volunteered for years on the Program Advisory Board for the Accounting Program, which Dr. Vandervelde chairs, according to a press release from Augusta Tech. This scholarship will support students pursuing accounting careers.
Additionally, 2025 inductee Dr. Lushunda Hurst and her husband, Isiah, have created an annual scholarship to assist students facing financial hardship with tuition and fees.
“These scholarships reflect the incredible generosity and commitment of our alumni and friends who believe in the mission of Augusta Technical College,” said Dr. Beth Sacksteder, CFRE, Director of Annual Giving and Alumni Development. “Their investment directly impacts student success and strengthens our community’s workforce.”
The Den of Distinction, which now includes 50 members, honors alumni and supporters who exemplify excellence, leadership, and service to their professions and communities, according to a press release from Augusta Tech.
For more information about supporting Augusta Tech scholarships or the Den of Distinction program, visit augustatech.edu/foundation or email foundation@augustatech.edu
