Foundation Honors Donors During Annual Meeting

The Walters State Community College Foundation Board of Trustees recognized several individuals for their support during its annual meeting on April 25 on the college’s Morristown Campus. 

Eight donors were recognized with the unveiling of portraits to be displayed in the President’s Trust Gallery on the Morristown Campus. These are the late Howell and Mary Bible, represented by Ray Bible of Morristown; Garry Brooks of Morristown; the Disabled American Veterans, Jerry Alvis Chapter 59, represented by Ray Shockley, commander; Vicki Kinser of Morristown; Robert Pratt II and Dr. Eustacia Pratt of Morristown; Joan Susong of Morristown; Greg VonCannon of Talbott; and the the late Dr. Christina Wu, represented by Lily Wu and Paul LeBel of Morristown. 

In his college update to trustees, Dr. Tony Miksa, president of the college, announced that Walters State was named the state’s top community college by the Tennessee Board of Regents.

“This is based on the state’s funding formula, which includes the graduation rate, the progression rate, graduate placement rates and seven other key factors. This award was earned by our faculty, our staff and our students,” Miksa said.

“We have come out of the pandemic in a strong financial position. We have managed our money carefully, used federal COVID funds when available and significantly increased the grant dollars the college has received. Your faithful support of the Foundation continues to make the college a stronger institution,” Miksa also said.

New officers were chosen for the coming year. David Helton, a Morristown businessman, was elected president. Sharon Greene of Morristown, vice president of mortgage lending at Citizens National Bank, was elected vice president and Justin Cook of Morristown, senior vice president of commercial lending at First Horizon, was elected secretary. Dr. Mark Hurst of Morristown, vice president of business and finance at Walters State, will continue to serve as treasurer. 

Rob Barger of Tazewell, who has served as president for two years, was recognized for his service. He will now serve as a member of the Past Presidents’ Council. Barger is president and CEO of First Century Bank.

The foundation also recognized Darla Kitts, executive secretary at Walters State. Kitts began her career in the College Advancement Office shortly after earning her associate’s degree from the college in 1979. She has worked with the foundation throughout her 43 years at the college and will retire later this year.