Kiwanis Club of Sumter Establishes Endowed Scholarship for First-Generation Students Pursuing Education Degrees at USC Sumter

Sumter, SC (07/27/2023) — The Kiwanis Club of Sumter, a renowned community service organization dedicated to serving the children of Sumter, the nation, and internationally, proudly announces the creation of the Kiwanis Club of Sumter Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship aims to support first-generation students seeking a four-year education degree through the USC Aiken at Sumter Early Childhood and Elementary Education Program.

Celebrating its 101st anniversary on June 20, 2023, the Kiwanis Club of Sumter has a long-standing commitment to enhancing the lives of children within the community. Over the past two decades, the club has made a significant impact through initiatives such as the "Terrific Kid" program, which has positively influenced countless young lives in Sumter. Additionally, the club has been instrumental in sponsoring Key Clubs at local high schools, making it the leading organization in high schools across the United States.

Recognizing the importance of education and the need to support aspiring teachers, the Kiwanis Club of Sumter has been providing annual scholarships to students at USC Sumter since 1968. Building upon this rich history of educational support, the club has decided to establish an endowed scholarship to further empower students pursuing their dreams of becoming educators.

The Kiwanis Club of Sumter Endowed Scholarship will not only provide financial assistance but also serve as a symbol of encouragement and support for first-generation students. By partnering with the USC Aiken at Sumter Early Childhood and Elementary Education Program, the scholarship aims to foster the growth of passionate educators who will make a lasting impact on the lives of young learners.

To amplify the impact of the Kiwanis Club of Sumter Endowed Scholarship, USC Sumter is thrilled to announce that the scholarship funds will be matched dollar for dollar by the prestigious Williams Brice Edwards Matching Fund. This fund, dedicated to supporting new endowed scholarships, demonstrates the community's commitment to investing in the education and future of Sumter's youth.

During a ceremony at USC Sumter, the first installment of the Kiwanis Club of Sumter Endowed Scholarship was presented on July 6, 2023, marking a significant milestone in the club's enduring legacy of service and support.

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The Kiwanis Club of Sumter has established an endowed scholarship for first-generation students pursuing a four-year education degree through the USC Aiken at Sumter Early Childhood and Elementary Education Program. Pictured L-R: Stacy Nance, Interim Development & Alumni Coordinator; Dr. Michael Sonntag, Dean USC Sumter; Walter S. "Chuck" Wilson, President Kiwanis Club of Sumter; Lisa Rosdail, Director for Opportunity Scholars Program and Upward Bound