In a unique ceremony that traces its roots to pre-medieval Europe, Brevard College recently showed appreciation to those who quietly and consistently change the lives of its students.
The Brevard Society Celebration was held in conjunction with the Spring Board of Trustees dinner at The Porter Center for Performing Arts and reunited donors, friends and alumni of the College.
The Brevard Society is made up of alumni, parents and friends who believe in Brevard College and its mission so strongly that they commit $1,000 or more annually to support the College’s programs. Each year, the Brevard College Stole of Gratitude is presented to those donors who surpass the Institute Circle (more than $100,000) of Lifetime Giving in recognition of “the kindness and generosity, which enables our students to pursue future success.”
Student and young alumni speakers shared stories of how the donors’ investments not only helped make a Brevard College education possible, but made their time at the College full of rich, engaging experiences they would not have found at another college or university.
Over 99 percent of current students at Brevard College receive some sort of financial aid. Such a financial commitment would not be possible without the loyal support of donors.
Surprise guest Bree McMahon brought guests to tears with her compelling words of appreciation for the commitment Brevard College showed to her during a challenging time in her life, as well as how honored she was to have a scholarship created in her name.
In 2009, McMahon was a rising soccer star and high school student with a promising future ahead of her. She had several scholarship offers, including one at Brevard College. After suffering a life-changing injury that resulted in the loss of her left leg, Brevard honored her soccer scholarship, and helped change the course of McMahon’s life.
McMahon’s determination and fortitude caught the eye of alumnus and Trustee Dick Gardner ’69, who established The Breanna “Bree” McMahon Endowed Scholarship at Brevard College. At the Celebration, their relationship came full circle as Bree had the honor of giving the Stole of Gratitude to Gardner.
Among those recognized with Stoles for their overwhelming cumulative lifetime of giving, included David and Lynne Joyce, the President and First Lady of Brevard College; current Chairwoman of the College’s Board of Trustees Barb Hulsey ’74 and her husband, Bo Hulsey ’75; Al Platt, a Trustee; Congressman Charles Taylor and his wife, Betty Taylor, a Trustee; Jim and Martha LeGere; Terry Cain; and Mike Vandegrift and his wife, Bonnie Vandegrift, a former Trustee.
President Joyce said he was honored to join this group of supporters who make it possible for Brevard College students to have a unique and engaging educational experience.
“Lynne and I really appreciate the honor that was bestowed on us at the recognition dinner. We were both humbled to be recognized and affirmed in our support for Brevard College,” he added. “This is a very distinctive learning community that deserves our full engagement and financial support. More important, our efforts are continually rewarded by the inspiring stories of our students.”
Brevard College is committed to an experiential liberal arts education that encourages personal growth and inspires artistic, intellectual, and social action.
(Photo by Karin Strickland, Brevard College Alumna, Owner/Photographer at The McDowell Photography Project.)