February 27, 2025
The Athens Tech Foundation is thrilled to announce its third annual Illuminate Gala, a vibrant celebration of Athens Technical College’s profound impact on workforce development. This year’s event will be held on April 17, 2025, at The Classic Center and promises to build upon the previous year’s success, which raised more than $150,000.
We invite you to celebrate at the third annual Illuminate Gala on April 17, 2025, at the Classic Center in Athens, GA. The evening will spotlight our students and their commitment to education. Since 1988, the Foundation’s mission has been to partner with Athens Technical College and with the community to build the workforce of today and for the future.
Janis Mangum will deliver our keynote address. At the time of her 2012 election, she was the first female Sheriff of Jackson County and only the second female sheriff in Georgia history. In 2023, she earned the title of Georgia Sheriff of the Year. Retiring at the end of her term in 2024, Mangum is known for her commitment to the community, dedication to public service, and belief in the power of education.
The Athens Tech Foundation supports students through scholarships and emergency assistance, GED® vouchers, and funding improvements to the campus, helping the college stay connected with the community at large.
Graham Joyner, Chair of the Athens Tech Foundation, stated, “Aligning with and investing in the future of our community through our students is truly impactful. The funds we raise at the gala will resonate for generations. I am grateful to be part of the event and organization.”
In 2024, the Foundation awarded over $92,000 in merit and financial need scholarships, $23,000 in retention grant funds, and over $14,000 in emergency support grants for tuition, books, program materials, and supplies not covered by financial aid.
“The generous support of this community enables our students to seize upon remarkable opportunities, allowing them to flourish, drive transformative change, and contribute a skilled workforce in our region,” stated ATC President Andrea Daniel. She further remarked, “By joining forces, we can guarantee that the promise of higher education is extended to every deserving student. I’m grateful for the Foundation’s role in helping students succeed at our college.”
Individual seats, including a reception and seated dinner, are priced at $160. Sponsorship opportunities are still available, beginning at $500. Tickets are available online at AthensTech.edu/Foundation_Illuminate. Call 706-355-5025 or email Foundation@AthensTech.edu for more information. Silent auction donations are welcome and can be arranged for pick-up.
The evening will include a cocktail reception, silent auction, wine pull, and uplifting testimonials from student scholarship recipients.
We hope you will join us for the festivities as we shed light on our past and Illuminate the future!