Chipola College is recipient of Giving Tuesday

Jesse Smallwood donated $50,000 to Chipola College. From the left are Olivia McDaniel, Jesse Smallwood and Arlene Davis.

Generosity filled the Chipola College campus Tuesday as support poured in from every direction. Alumni, community members, and long-time friends of the college showed a level of devotion that was nothing short of inspiring. Each gift, large or small, carried with it the promise of making a real difference in the lives of Chipola students.

Monetary contributions, along with essential donations for the All-In Food Pantry and the Career Clothes Closet, will help ensure students have what they need to stay confident, supported, and focused. Among those helping strengthen Chipola’s efforts was All In Credit Union, which presented the college with a check through its annual grant program. Their generosity helps keep the Food Bank operating at full capacity so students can concentrate on their studies without worrying about basic needs.

Bonnie Smith and a Sarah Clemmons accepted a donation from All in Credit Union to the Helping Hands Foundation.

Another familiar name in the story of Giving Tuesday is Mr. Jesse Smallwood. His contribution last year helped push Chipola over the finish line in its Legacy Campaign, and this year he chose to give again. His continued belief in Chipola’s mission, and in the students who benefit from it, speaks to his character and his lasting connection to the college.

Legacy Society Vice President Robert Trammell took a moment to recognize Chipola English Professor Amie Myers, reflecting on the legacy established by her parents, Dr. Kitty Myers and Ronnie Myers. Their decades of dedicated service have left an imprint on Chipola’s history, and Trammell noted that the devotion shown by the Myers family stands as a heartfelt tribute to their admiration for the institution.

From the left are Sarah Clemmons, Amie Myers, Robert Trammell and Arlene Davis.

General Jim Hart and his daughter, Melanie DeSimone, also joined the Giving Tuesday celebration with a generous contribution from the Hart Family Foundation. A long-time supporter of Chipola, General Hart often credits the college for shaping the course of his life, and his ongoing commitment continues to open doors for today’s students.

During the event, scholarship recipients Nicholas Pete and Shelby Brock shared personal stories illustrating the profound difference donor support has made in their educational journeys. Both students are pursuing bachelor’s degrees at Chipola, and their words offered a moving reminder of why Giving Tuesday carries such meaning.

Chipola President Dr. Sarah Clemmons closed the celebration by noting that giving truly changes lives, and Tuesday’s outpouring of generosity proved exactly that. She expressed heartfelt thanks to everyone who showed up, contributed, and helped celebrate the spirit of Giving Tuesday on campus.