In a remarkable show of generosity and commitment to education, long-time community leaders and advocates for higher education, Dr. Chris and Pam Warford, have announced a $50,000 donation to the Lee College Foundation. This significant gift will establish five named scholarships and provide critical financial support to deserving students pursuing their educational dreams.
The scholarships are named in honor of Dr. Chris and Pam Warford and Roberta Wright, and in memory of Dr. Bob and Joy Warford and Rex Goodnight and Lois Elaine Couch.
The gift is particularly meaningful, as Pam Warford worked in the college's Institutional Advancement Office for more than 20 years and served as the executive director of the Lee College Foundation from 2009 until her retirement in 2020. During her tenure, she played a pivotal role in expanding access to higher education for countless students, strengthening her legacy as an advocate for student success.
"Education serves as a gateway to future opportunities, and Chris and I believe that access to financial support enables students to successfully navigate and complete their course of study and fulfill their dreams of a brighter future," said Pam.
While in her role at Lee College, Pam witnessed many students' challenges in their educational journeys. She recalls the profound gratitude and wonder these students experienced upon discovering that someone they had never met was willing to help them reach their academic goals.
"Every day, I knew exactly what my mission at the college was: to continue providing the resources so students could be successful. Our donors understood this mission and gave generously and frequently. Working with students and donors through the years was truly my privilege. Chris and I felt that establishing named scholarships through the Lee College Foundation was a perfect way to continue to support these efforts," she said.
Selah Tacconi, executive director of the Lee College Foundation and chief advancement officer for Lee College, applauded the couple's generosity.
"Chris and Pam Warford's gift is a testament to their prioritization of education. This gift exemplifies their passion for supporting our students and this community for years to come. I hope their leadership and generosity inspire others to invest in education."
Chris and Pam are native Baytonians who attended Robert E. Lee High School and Lee College. Over the years, the couple have remained steadfast in their commitment to others in the community, with Chris serving as a respected optometrist caring for the community for decades; Pam and Chris actively contribute to various local organizations.
The scholarships funded by this donation will be awarded starting in the spring of 2025, ensuring immediate impact for students striving to realize their educational and professional dreams.
For more information about how to establish a scholarship, please go to www.lee.edu/foundation/establish-a-scholarship.