The Augusta Technical College Foundation is proud to announce that proceeds from the 2025 Den of Distinction Celebration held on Friday, October 24, 2025, will provide funding to support 10 Augusta Technical College students through scholarships and direct financial assistance. The Den of Distinction honors prominent alumni.

In addition to these scholarship awards, several new scholarships have been established by members of the Den of Distinction community and Foundation leaders, further expanding opportunities for students to achieve their educational goals.

The Dr. Tamara Y. Johnson Simmons Educational Access Scholarship, created by 2025 Den of Distinction honoree Dr. Tamara Y. Johnson Simmons, will provide annual financial assistance to a deserving student each fall.
The Cooper Claus Scholarship Fund, established by Peter Claus, 2024 Den of Distinction inductee and Augusta Tech Foundation Trustee, has established an endowed scholarship supporting Augusta Tech students who are the family members of firefighters and EMTs.

Honoring the memory of a beloved member of the Augusta Tech community, the Linda LaMarr Memorial Scholarship was established by 2025 Den of Distinction honoree Dr. Vicki Vandervelde. Mrs. LaMarr served as a long-time volunteer on the Program Advisory Board for the College’s Accounting Program, which is chaired by Dr. Vandervelde. This scholarship will help students pursuing accounting careers.

Additionally, Dr. Lushunda Hurst, a 2025 Den of Distinction inductee, together with her husband, Isiah, has established an annual scholarship to assist a student facing financial hardship with tuition and fees.

“These scholarships reflect the incredible generosity and commitment of our alumni and friends who believe in the mission of Augusta Technical College,” said Dr. Beth Sacksteder, CFRE, Director of Annual Giving and Alumni Development. “Their investment directly impacts student success and strengthens our community’s workforce.”

Now with 50 members, the Den of Distinction honors outstanding alumni and supporters who exemplify excellence, leadership, and service to their professions and communities.

For more information about supporting student scholarships at Augusta Technical College or the Den of Distinction program, visit augustatech.edu/foundation or contact the Augusta Technical College Foundation at [email protected].