As part of AT&T’s continuing commitment to supporting quality education across Tennessee, the AT&T Foundation has donated $10,000 to Columbia State Community College. The grant will provide last dollar scholarships for minority and underserved students.

“We are grateful to AT&T and its continued support of public higher education and our students, who will benefit greatly from the company’s generosity,” said Dr. Janet Smith, President, Columbia State Community College. “Our students have many financial needs aside from the cost of tuition and this support will help them on their path to higher education.”

While Tennessee Promise and Tennessee Reconnect provides tuition-free access to the state’s community colleges, gaps remain that can create a barrier to entry for some students. The AT&T Last Dollar scholarships will aid students with cost of attendance items such as books, childcare, transportation, and other costs associated with attending college that aren’t covered by other financial aid programs once tuition is paid.

“Columbia State Community College does a tremendous job preparing students to enter the workforce with a strong foundation for future success,” said State Senator Joey Hensley. “Thanks to their commitment to quality education, Tennessee has a first-class workforce ready to meet the needs of the rapidly evolving 21st century economy.”

"To keep pace with the state’s growing economy, Tennessee’s institutions of higher education must ensure new entrants to the workforce are prepared and obtain the requisite knowledge, skills and abilities to succeed in a modern workplace," said State Representative Michael Curcio. "Through programs like those offered at Columbia State Community College, students are equipped with the tools they need to succeed.”  

“Higher education often creates a pathway to prosperity for those looking to quickly enter the job market and today’s announcement aims to enrich that opportunity for more students,” said State Representative Scott Cepicky.  “AT&T’s investment in programs like this exemplifies its commitment to furthering education in Tennessee.”

This donation is part of the AT&T Foundation’s $130,000 gift to the Foundation for the College System of Tennessee. Funding has been divided equally among Tennessee’s 13 community colleges to support students across the state.

“AT&T is focused on developing a 21^st century workforce that can promote continued prosperity and a stronger economy across Tennessee,” said AT&T Tennessee President Joelle Phillips. “We are excited to continue our support of Columbia State Community College to help more students gain the education necessary to compete for quality job opportunities and to empower more students to reach their highest potential.”

The 13 Tennessee Community Colleges are as follows:

Chattanooga State

Cleveland State

Columbia State

Dyersburg State

Jackson State

Motlow State

Nashville State

Northeast State

Pellissippi State

Roane State

Southwest Tennessee   

Volunteer State

Walters State

About Philanthropy & Social Innovation at AT&T

We’re committed to advancing education, creating opportunities, strengthening communities and improving lives. AT&T Connected Learning is a multi-year commitment to bridge the digital divide and narrow the homework gap, so today’s learners are connected with skills, resources, and opportunities for success in school and in life. Since 2008, we’ve committed $600 million to programs that help millions of students across all 50 states and around the world, particularly those in underserved communities.