HCC Foundation honors Atwoods

People from across the community gatheredon theafternoon of December 5for a retirement reception honoring Beverly Atwood, long time Chief Business Affairs Officer at Hopkinsville Community College. Unbeknownst to Don and Beverly Atwood, HCC Foundation President Jo Glover and her fellow board directors surprised the local couple by renaming the textbook scholarship in their honor.

In making the announcement, Glover told those gathered, In the Foundations archived minutes, we find that on June 26, 1990, Don Atwood asked then HCC President Dr. Jim Kerley this question, are there special financial needs the college has that the foundation would be able to assist in. Glover continued, stating that the board minutes from May 28, 1992 revealed that it was Don Atwood that suggested the foundation offer a book scholarship.

Renamed the Don and Beverly Atwood Textbook Scholarship, the fund is open for additional donations at any time. According to Foundation Executive Director Yvette Eastham, board member Terry Hamby of Cadiz was the catalyst that enabled the fund to become endowed. Mr. Hamby raised $50,000 in one evening back in 2009, while the country was reeling from the Great Recession. He single-handedly ensured the future of the textbook scholarship in perpetuity, and the Foundation is deeply grateful for his vigorous support as well, said Eastham. The KCTCS Endowment Match program matched the initial $50,000 gift.

Dr. Pat Lake, interim president of HCC stated the following, There arent enough superlatives for me to list regarding her work ethic and personality! I will offer the following observations: Shes regarded as one of the best if not the best CFO in our system! Shes always been known for her business knowledge and thoroughness! Beverly also has developed a very strong reputation for her participation and knowledge of institutional accreditation with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). Ive been honored to have had the privilege of working directly with her in my role as Interim President/ CEO at HCC, Lake concluded.