May 1, 2024
MOUNT VERNON, Ga. — Brewton-Parker College has received news that it is one of this year’s Strengthening Institutions Program grant recipients from the U.S. Department of Education.
The grant totals over $2.2 million awarded over the next five years and will provide the funding needed for the college to begin what it calls its Enrichment, Persistence, and Innovation in Collegiate Community Initiative.
As part of the initiative, Brewton-Parker will hire seven additional full-time employees to provide essential services to aid student success and retention.
“This grant reflects our unwavering commitment to providing students with the tools they need to succeed academically and spiritually,” said Brewton-Parker’s retired vice president, Beverly Robinson who played an invaluable role as a consultant and lead person for the grant submission. “It is a testament to our team’s hard work and dedication, as well as the tremendous support of our community.”
The existing student success center will be restructured to become the Student Enrichment Center. Within that center, students will receive academic advising, career counseling, tutoring services, mental health counseling, and other support needs. New software will be implemented to help monitor student performance and identify at-risk students to facilitate timely interventions.
Additionally, new technologies will be purchased, such as loanable laptops, e-readers for online textbooks, webcams for proctored exams, and expanded computer labs for student use on campus.
“Students are often facing enormous challenges in adapting to the rigors of college. In addition, they face the added pressure of balancing participation in sports, work, family, and other responsibilities,” said Brewton-Parker Provost Robert Brian, “This grant will enable BPC to offer student assistance at a very high level to help them cope with the intense pressure many of them feel.”
Receiving these funds marks a significant milestone for Brewton-Parker and underscores its commitment to its students’ academic and personal growth.
The grant’s successful acquisition was the culmination of over 18 months of dedicated work by a team comprised of faculty, administrators, student representatives, trustees, and community members.
“This grant is a game changer in providing our students with the best possible resources to ensure their success and signifies a significant step forward,” said Brewton-Parker President Steven Echols. “It reflects our dedication to nurturing our students’ intellectual and spiritual growth, preparing them to be ambassadors for Christ in our community and beyond. We believe that the outcome of these funds will profoundly resource BPC’s mission to transform the lives of students both academically and spiritually, all for the glory of God.”
