For students chasing big dreams, sometimes the biggest hurdle isn’t ability—it’s opportunity.

That’s why what happened on March 27 means so much.

At the Vol State College Foundation’s Women Empowering Education luncheon, nearly 500 community members gathered with one shared purpose: to invest in students. By the end of the afternoon, they had raised more than $88,000 in scholarships—opening doors for students across Middle Tennessee.

One Scholarship, One Story

For Kimberly Boles, a 2025–2026 scholarship recipient, that support is deeply personal.

As a single mom, Kimberly is working toward a career in psychology, driven by a desire to help individuals facing mental health challenges—like those she has experienced in her own life and within her family.

“The scholarship has taken that weight off of my shoulders and given me confidence to pursue my goals,” she shared. “Thank you to every donor who has given me the confidence needed.”

Her story is a powerful reminder that behind every scholarship is more than financial help—it’s resilience, purpose, and a renewed sense of possibility.

A Community Behind Every Student

While the spotlight shines on students, this kind of impact doesn’t happen alone.

Community leaders, businesses, and advocates came together to make the event possible, including support from Highpoint Health with Ascension Saint Thomas, Meta, the National Association of Small Trucking Companies (NASTC), and Subaru of Gallatin.

Their investment helps ensure students like Kimberly can focus less on financial stress—and more on building their future.

More Than a Moment

The luncheon itself was filled with energy and inspiration—from student testimonials to personal stories and even a performance by comedian Kristin Lindner.

But the real takeaway?

This wasn’t just a one-day event. It’s part of something much bigger.

Changing Futures, One Student at a Time

Since 2008, Women Empowering Education has awarded scholarships to 243 students, totaling more than $614,000.

That’s 243 students who were given a chance.
243 stories still being written.
243 reminders of what’s possible when a community shows up.

Through the ongoing work of the Vol State College Foundation, these scholarships continue to support students who might not otherwise have access to higher education.

Why It Matters

Every student has a story.
Every dream deserves a chance.

And thanks to a community that believes in both, more students—like Kimberly—are stepping forward with confidence, ready to turn their experiences into purpose and their goals into reality.

For more information about Women Empowering Education or how to get involved, visit here.