Donations to Chesapeake College scholarships on the rise

WYE MILLS – Chesapeake College this month highlighted the important role that scholarships play in funding education on the Mid-Shore.

Scholarship donors and recipients were brought together at Chesapeake’s annual Scholarship Luncheon on Nov. 18. Chesapeake’s donors include businesses, community service organizations, charitable foundations, families and individuals.

“This is my favorite event of the year. Being able to bring donors and students together is a rewarding experience not only for them, but for all of us who work at Chesapeake College,” said Director of Development Lauren Halterman. “It really helps to put into perspective what we are doing, and demonstrates what a truly generous community this is.”

Already this year, more than $350,000 in scholarship aid has been awarded to 300 Chesapeake students.

Easton resident Winslow Womack shared his personal story from a donor’s perspective.

“I was in Lowe’s one day and talked to a cashier who was working through her first day on the job,” Womack said. “She told me that she had been enrolled in the nursing program at Chesapeake College, but had to drop out due to finances. I thought about her on the way home and talked to my wife about doing something to help students stay in college.”

In 2004, the Womacks established a book a scholarship at Chesapeake to help students manage the costs of attending college. Two years ago, they began an endowment to ensure that students will be aided well into the future.

One of Chesapeake’s scholarship recipients this year told the luncheon audience that his education would not be possible without the generosity of donors. Derek Nepert, an 18-year-old sophomore from Federalsburg,

“We can never repay your generosity, but I want you to know that your gifts do not go unappreciated,” Nepert said. “For me and my family, the scholarship is a blessing and it will always be cherished.”