The Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College Foundation held its annual Scholarship Gala on April 8 at the Beau Rivage Resort and Casino in Biloxi. The annual event, which included the celebrity roast of Gov. Phil Bryant, dinner and a silent auction, raised $200,176 for MGCCC student scholarships, almost twice as much as raised in previous years.
Last year, the MGCCC Foundation awarded $428,743.25 in scholarships to almost 700 students.
“The annual scholarship gala is our biggest fundraiser, and we are thrilled with how much was raised this year, thanks to Gov. Bryant, our sponsors and guests,” said Dr. Mary S. Graham, MGCCC president. “The gala is always a fun event with a very important purpose: promising MGCCC students the possibility for success that they may not have without these scholarships.”
Gulfport Mayor Billy Hewes; John Hairston, president and CEO of Hancock Holding Company; and Katie Bryant Snell, the governor’s daughter, roasted Bryant. John McFarland, executive director of the Southeast Mississippi Chapter of the American Red Cross, was the roast master.
In addition, a silent auction was held, with more than 200 items donated by 176 sponsors. The silent auction raised almost $19,000, with a few items still remaining on the books for continued bids.
Bryant, who is a community college graduate, received an associate degree in criminal justice from Hinds Community College before attending The University of Southern Mississippi. He holds a master’s degree in political science from Mississippi College and served as an adjunct professor of government at Mississippi College before becoming governor. A former deputy sheriff in Hinds County and insurance investigator, Bryant served as a state representative, state auditor and lieutenant governor before becoming Mississippi’s 64th governor.
Funds raised during the gala provide scholarships through the MGCCC Foundation for students who do not qualify for federal financial aid but who need some financial assistance. Scholarships may cover the cost of books, tuition, housing or other educational essentials for qualified recipients.
