The Athens Tech Foundation Board of Directors is celebrating its 35th anniversary with a benefit dinner on April 20, 2023, at The Georgia Club in Statham, Georgia.

The event, themed Illuminate: Spotlighting Workforce Development, will highlight the impact the Athens Tech Foundation has had on workforce development through the generosity of the Athens Technical College community since 1988.

Georgia Department of Economic Development’s Deputy Commissioner for Tourism Mark Jaronski will be the keynote speaker. In this role, he oversees the state’s official destination marketing organization, which inspires travel to and within the state. Previously, he held positions at Select Registry Distinguished Inns of North America, Visit Orlando, and The Walt Disney Company.

“This is an exciting time for our donors and community to come celebrate the impact we have made in providing access to education,” said Lori Lord, the chair of the event and former graduate of the College.

The evening will also include a cocktail reception, silent auction, and uplifting testimonials from student scholarship recipients.

“We still have a huge opportunity to support many more students in the future as we work to supply a skilled workforce for our region,” said Josh Paine, executive director of public relations and institutional advancement. “Spotlighting workforce development is critical to help us reduce the skills gap and ensure a pipeline of talent for the next 35 years.”

Individual tickets are $125 each, and numerous sponsorship levels are available. Ticket sales are open to the public online at https://athenstech.edu/foundation. For sponsorship opportunities or to pay by check, please contact Jen Welborn, director of institutional advancement, at [email protected] or (706) 355-5025.

The Athens Tech Foundation supports students through scholarships, retention grants and emergency assistance, while also helping the college fund campus improvements and stay connected to the community.