FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, October 3, 2008

Contact:  Robert Preston, Jr.,
              912.260.4276
              robert.preston@sgc.edu

Dr. Grace James named chair of SGC Foundation

The SGC Foundation kicked off its new year by naming Dr. Grace James, SGC Vice President of Academic Affairs Emerita, its chair for the 2008-2009 fiscal year.

Dr. James is one of SGC’s most familiar faces and strongest advocates. She spent over three decades at the college, serving in a variety of capacities. She began her career as a physical education instructor, eventually retiring as athletic director.

She follows SunTrust president Matthew Greer, who led the Foundation for the previous two years. Greer oversaw the Foundation through one of its most active periods and leaves the Foundation in excellent shape.

“I am very excited about leading the South Georgia College Foundation over the next year. This institution is very near and dear to my heart, and I look forward to continue serving this college. Matthew deserves a great deal of praise for chairing the Foundation for the last two years. He provided exemplary leadership during that period,” says Dr. James.

“It is an honor and privilege to have someone leading our Foundation who possesses such proven leadership skills. Dr. James has long been an advocate for this college, and will continue to do so in this new capacity,” says Foundation Vice President Luke Morgan.

Other officers for 2008-2009 are Wanda Lloyd, treasurer; and Tom Smith, secretary.

Romeo Reyes, Branch Manager for Satilla REMC, presented the Foundation with a check for yet another scholarship endowment. Romeo, who represents Satilla REMC on the Foundation, gave $12,500 to endow a ninth scholarship from the utilities provider. Satilla now offers six general scholarships, two second chance scholarships, and the R.L. Lanier Memorial Scholarship, which is donated on behalf of Satilla’s own Foundation.

The SGC Foundation also welcomed three new members on board: Linda Bagwell, a retired teacher and member of SGC’s Class of 1963; Scott Smith, Human Resources manager at PCC Airfoils; and Terrell Jacobs, Douglas city manager.

Other upcoming activities for the SGC Foundation include a golf tournament and athletic celebration on Friday, Nov. 21. The golf tournament will be held at 9 a.m. and will benefit the Athletic General Fund. A variety of sponsorships are available including door prize sponsors, hole sponsors, as well as individual and team sponsors. The athletic celebration will take place at 7 p.m. and will honor the 2007-08 season’s athletes and sports. Each of the four teams made it to their respective region tournaments and the women’s softball team won the region title and earned a spot in the national tournament. If you would like to support the Foundation or learn more about these events, please contact the South Georgia College Office of Advancement at (912) 260-4268 or advancement@sgc.edu.

The South Georgia College Foundation was organized in 1971 by area business professionals, is incorporated under the laws of the State of Georgia and is recognized as a tax exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the United States Internal Revenue Code; donations are tax-deductible.

The mission of the South Georgia College Foundation (SGCF) is to help transform and enhance the lives of its diverse student population by providing educational opportunities, financial support, and advocacy for students.

CUTLINE #1: Incoming SGC Foundation chair Dr. Grace James stands with outgoing chair Matthew Greer.

CUTLINE #2: SGC Foundation chair Dr. Grace James and SGC Interim President Dr. Virginia Carson accept a check for $12,500 from Satilla REMC. Romeo Reyes, representing Satilla, presented the check, which will endow a Foundation scholarship.

CUTLINE #3: Scott Smith

CUTLINE #4: Terrell Jacobs

CUTLINE #5: Linda Bagwell

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About South Georgia College

South Georgia College (www.sgc.edu) was founded in 1906 and is a two-year institution in the University System of Georgia. Located in Douglas, Ga., the college's environment gives students exceptional opportunities for interdisciplinary study and close collaboration with faculty.