Gifts at Work
WCC's mission is to educate students. The demand for affordable, quality higher education that prepares individuals for jobs and further education continues to increase. An investment in WCC supports educational excellence. Many students trying to reach their educational dreams must juggle the demands of their work responsibilities, family life and curriculum studies. The college believes that these students deserve our best. WCC has identified several areas of need that, if supported through the Foundation, can directly assist the students and work of Wytheville Community College.
Student Scholarships — This year, more than 700 students applied for approximately 150 scholarships available through the Foundation. The strengthening of our scholarship program will provide opportunities for higher education to more individuals, creating a stronger workforce for our business community. Your gifts for scholarships truly change students’ lives. The need is great, as more than 60 percent of WCC students have documented financial need.
Professional Development -- Funds enable faculty to keep current in their fields, enhance their teaching techniques, and explore new methodologies. Staff members will also remain current with technological innovations and applications. Finally, funds will ensure that our students receive the education that they deserve — an education provided by renewed and enthused professionals who possess the skills that give students the opportunity to excel for themselves and their employers.
Curriculum Development and Enhancement — The academic programs of WCC must meet ever-changing needs of the workplace. Preparing graduates to enter the workforce of our region demands careful and frequent assessment of our curricula. As technology and global competitiveness change the environment of business and manufacturing, WCC must have the resources available to modify existing programs and create new ones that are responsive to the needs of our students and our communities.
Campus Grounds and Facilities Development — Only those expenses related to the maintenance of grounds within ten feet of an existing building can be covered by State funds. For the benefit of WCC students and the surrounding communities, WCC continues its efforts to improve and enhance the Al Jennings Athletic Fields and the appearance of its grounds. Funds received from the family of Dr. and Mrs. W. Randolph Chitwood, Jr. recently helped complete the Chitwood Nursing Laboratory in Fincastle Hall. Plans are also underway for construction of the new William F. Snyder Auditorium. Phase I of the William F. Snyder Auditorium was completed in 2008, and Phase II is scheduled to begin in 2009.
Special Instructional Equipment and Materials — The college's ability to prepare students for work and further education, as well as our ability to serve the community, depends on acquiring and maintaining instruction and administrative equipment and technology.
Unrestricted Funds — State support covers only the basic operational expenses of our college. Resources from the State are simply not available to address ongoing needs and innovative, state-of-the-art learning environments. Unrestricted contributions allow the Foundation to react to the immediate and critical needs of the college as they arise.