Gerald Kemp ’87 and Dennis Scandrett’s ’87 shared journey began decades ago at the University of West Georgia, where they formed a lifelong friendship and deep connection to their alma mater. Now, their bond and gratitude for UWG inspired them to create a scholarship that will impact students for generations to come.
Both first-generation college graduates and accounting majors, Kemp and Scandrett first crossed paths in class where their shared dedication to academics solidified their bond.
“UWG provided me with an exceptional education that gave me the tools, confidence and support to pursue my dreams,” said Kemp, member of the UWG Foundation Board of Trustees and senior vice president for Ameris Bank. “The foundation I built there prepared me to climb mountains in my career with determination.”
Scandrett, a retired executive leader for the SANS Institute and scholarship recipient himself as a student, understands how important financial support can be to a student’s success.
“I know firsthand how important scholarships are,” said Scandrett. “We want to make sure students from similar backgrounds have the support they need to succeed, just as we did.”
By establishing the Kemp and Scandrett Endowed Scholarship, they hope to provide resources that allow students to focus on their academic goals instead of stressing over financial challenges.
“When you’re a student and you don’t have to worry about where your next meal is coming from or how to pay tuition, you can focus on what matters: your education,” said Kemp. “We want to help take that burden off students, so they can make the most of their time at UWG.”
“Dennis and Gerald’s generosity is a true testament to their character and their heartfelt commitment to our students,” said Allyson Bretch ’14, vice president for university advancement and CEO of UWG’s philanthropic foundations. “Their scholarship for students in the Richards College of Business will create life-changing opportunities, empowering countless students to achieve their dreams. We are profoundly thankful for their partnership and dedication to making a lasting impact on the UWG community.”
By giving back, Kemp and Scandrett hope their gifts continue to shape the university that changed their lives years ago.
“UWG gave us so much, and now it’s our turn to help others,” said Scandrett. “If we all do our part, we can make UWG an even stronger institution for the next generation of students.”
For more information about how you can impact UWG through an endowment, scholarship or annual giving, please visit UWG’s Give West page. Your gift helps to change lives and create the leaders of tomorrow.
