(BLUEFIELD)–Forty students in the Student Support Services (SSS) Program at Bluefield State College are receiving an additional $1000 apiece in supplemental grant aid funds. The students were recognized during a recent luncheon in their honor at BSC's Harris-Jefferson Student Center. The Bush administration designated additional funds from this fiscal year's appropriations for the award for Student Support Services Programs, providing grant aid for current project participants who: a) are in their first two years of postsecondary education, and b) are receiving Federal Pell Grants.

BSC Student Support Services personnel Heather Simmons, Ewanna Wiley, Carol Baldwin, and Michele Noe collaborated to arrange the awards ceremony. Kathy Epperly (BSC SSS Director and the College’s Interim Vice President for Student Affairs) and Dr. Albert Walker (BSC President) presented the Fall Semester awards ($500 per award) to the students. Each student will also receive an additional $500 award during the Spring Semester.

In addressing the students, Dr. Walker noted, “Education is the best investment you can make. No one can take it away from you.” He also encouraged students to strive to earn the highest grade possible because of the competitive advantage in the job market enjoyed by graduates who possess an excellent academic portfolio.

“Develop your people skills now, and begin preparing yourself for where you want to be in one, two, and five years,” the BSC President continued. “Write out your personal and professional plan for your life. This grant will help you carry out your personal plan.”

Epperly saluted the student recipients and explained the tradition-rich role of the Student Support Services program at BSC. “Student Support Services has helped Bluefield State College students since 1971,” she said, adding that the program is assisting more than 250 students this year. “The students receiving these awards today are from both the Bluefield campus of BSC and from the College’s Greenbrier Community College Center. We hope these awards will encourage each of you, as a freshman or sophomore, to continue your progress toward earning your associate or baccalaureate degree.”

December 10, 2002