The University System of Georgia (USG) Foundation has announced that it raised over $4.5 million at its 21st annual Regents’ Scholarship Gala to support need-based scholarships for students across the state. The event, attended by donors, legislators, students, Regents and USG presidents, also recognized significant contributions to higher education leadership.
During the gala, Don Waters, former chairman of the Board of Regents, was honored with the Elridge McMillan Lifetime Achievement Award for his service to USG. “The opportunity to go to college shaped my life’s work, and I’m committed to helping more Georgians experience that same transformation,” said Waters. “I’ve been fortunate to give back in some small way, but the real credit belongs to the students who work tirelessly to reach their goals, and to the educators and leaders who support them along the way. I’m deeply grateful for this honor, and to be part of an effort to help more Georgians complete college and find success in their lives and careers.”
Chancellor Sonny Perdue praised Waters: he “served USG honorably for nine years on the Board of Regents and has spent his career championing education and its ability to allow students to pursue their dreams.”
The foundation introduced a new initiative called the DREAMS Scholarship during the event. This program aims to fill financial aid gaps not covered by other sources such as merit-based scholarships. Its first recipient is Giuli Capparelli Sanabria, a junior biology major at Georgia Tech.
“Georgia’s new DREAMS Scholarship Program offers more than just financial support — it represents an investment in our students, communities and future,” said Chancellor Perdue. “The Board of Regents is focused on affordability, but unmet needs for students can still arise. By helping to close the gap between the cost of college and what families can afford, this program helps us expand access to higher education for those who need it most. At the same time, it strengthens our state’s talent pipeline, ensuring that more graduates are prepared to contribute to Georgia’s workforce, drive innovation and build a stronger economy for generations to come.”
According to research from Georgia State University’s National Institute for Student Success, college students who avoid taking time off due to financial challenges are significantly more likely—by three-and-a-half times—to graduate compared with those facing interruptions.
The DREAMS Scholarship complements existing programs like HOPE by providing up to $3,000 annually toward any essential college expense for undergraduates demonstrating financial need after all other aid is applied. Funded in part by $2 million from Truist Charitable Fund, it also requires recipients either work part-time or volunteer while participating in financial literacy education.
Regent Cade Joiner commented on donor support: “The support we’ve received will help more students complete their studies, thrive in their careers and contribute to a stronger, more competitive Georgia… Our USG Foundation Board members, Chancellor Perdue and the Board of Regents are focused on ensuring long-term student success, and together with our generous donors, we’re building new pathways that change lives through education.”
Thirteen faculty members were also recognized during the gala for their commitment as educators or alumni supporters:
– Robert W. Hagan (Valdosta State University)
– Dr. and Mrs. Alonzo Earl Jones Sr. (Fort Valley State University)
– Deborrah Layman (Augusta University)
– Sanford & Barbara Orkin (University of Georgia)
– John D. Stephens (Georgia Gwinnett College)
– Kurt Stuenkel (Georgia Highlands College)
– Skip Vaughan (Atlanta Metropolitan State College)
Three faculty received Felton Jenkins Jr. Hall of Fame Faculty Awards: Jehan El-Jourbagy (Georgia College), Dr. Sarah Shannon (University of Georgia), Shanika Wright Turner (Georgia Highlands College). Two were awarded Regents’ Scholarship of Teaching & Learning Awards: Dr. Jiyoon Jung (Valdosta State), Dr. Shainaz Landge (Georgia Southern). Dr. Trina Fortner Wood (University of West Georgia) received the award for Online Teaching Excellence.
Over 16,000 students have benefited from over $16 million in scholarships distributed by the foundation over two decades; fiscal year 2024 saw record-breaking donations totaling $7.9 million.
