Annual Jax State Scholarship Luncheon Celebrates Donors and Recipients

02/27/2025

JACKSONVILLE, Ala. – The Jacksonville State University Foundation celebrated the power of philanthropy and education at its annual Scholarship Luncheon on Friday, Feb. 21. Held at the Jax State Recreation and Fitness Center, the event brought together more than 200 attendees, including scholarship recipients, generous donors, and members of Jax State's administration and staff.  

This special gathering allowed students to share their personal stories of how scholarships have impacted their educational journeys and allowed donors to see firsthand the difference their support makes in students' lives.  

During the luncheon, Jax State President Dr. Don C. Killingsworth, Jr. expressed his gratitude to the donors whose generosity has helped transform students' aspirations into achievements. "Every scholarship awarded represents more than financial assistance—it represents an opportunity, a dream, and a future made possible," Dr. Killingsworth said. "Because of our donors, students who might have faced obstacles in pursuing higher education are now on their way to achieving their goals. Your generosity is turning dreams into realities."  

The impact of scholarship support at Jax State continues to grow. In 2024, the university added 10 new annual scholarships, raising a total of $31,940 and 24 new endowed scholarships, contributing an impressive $1,131,647.21. For the 2024-25 academic year, 333 students are benefiting from Jax State Foundation Scholarships, with a total of $643,020 awarded—an increase from 330 recipients and $596,290 awarded in the previous year.  

For many donors, the Scholarship Luncheon is a meaningful experience that reinforces why they give. Kay Brown and Barry Penny, who fund the Barry Penny and Kay Brown Scholarship, emphasized the importance of helping students achieve their educational goals. 

"We love Jacksonville and Jax State," said Brown, a 1982 graduate. "We want all young people who aspire to go to college to have that opportunity and to experience the kinds of successes that Barry and I have been fortunate to enjoy." 

Penny added that one of the most significant moments each year is hearing from students whose families are experiencing higher education for the first time. 

"It's always amazing to hear them say, 'I am a first-generation college student,'" Penny said. "Not just them, but their entire family. That always gives me a feeling of wanting to help as much as possible." 

For Dale Wilson, the Scholarship Luncheon carries a deep personal significance. His family funds the EC and Maddie Wilson Scholarship, named in honor of his parents, both educators who believed strongly in the power of education to transform lives. "My parents were schoolteachers, and JSU played a crucial role in shaping their futures," Wilson said. "After my father passed, my mother started this scholarship, and after she passed, my sister and I continued it. Seeing firsthand who benefits from our scholarship makes this event truly special."  

Among the students impacted by donor generosity is Lauren Sechrest, recipient of the Gene Padgham Memorial Scholarship. "I'm actually a transfer student, and I wasn't able to receive the full transfer scholarship," she shared. "This scholarship really helps me afford my education, and I'm so grateful for that opportunity."  

Casey Kimochu, a recipient of the Ken and Jenny Howell Scholarship, echoed similar sentiments, noting how the award has helped ease his family's financial burden. "My parents have been paying for my school fees, so now I'm actually able to help them out," he said. "It really means a lot to me and my family."  

Brown emphasized how emotional the event can be and how even small donations make a meaningful difference. "I think it's very emotional every time we come. I come away having cried after hearing stories about how much a scholarship means to a person. And then the other thing that I take away from it is that even as little as $500 makes a significant difference in deciding whether to stay in school."  

For those inspired to support students through scholarships, visit the JSU Foundation Page on the web to explore giving opportunities. Students interested in applying for scholarships can also visit the site to view available awards and eligibility criteria.