This spring, both were recognized through �Թ���’s ASPIRE Scholars Initiative, earning ASPIRE Jackets for their exceptional participation and engagement in the program while also being named to the Dean’s List. The recognition reflected months of hard work, determination, and a shared commitment to balancing education with family life.

For Josh, the recognition marked another chapter in a �Թ��� (GTC) journey that began nearly two decades ago. A graduate of the college’s Automotive Technology program in 2007, Josh worked in the automotive industry until 2021, when he returned to GTC as an instructor and academic program director in the same program from which he graduated.

When GTC launched its Bachelor of Applied Science in Advanced Manufacturing Technology, Josh saw an opportunity to continue his education and fulfill a longtime goal of building upon his associate degree. Supported by his family and encouraged by the ability to apply previous coursework toward the bachelor’s program, he enrolled while continuing to teach full time.

At the same time, Emma was beginning her own college journey as a first-time student. Homeschooled from kindergarten through high school, she entered GTC unsure of what to expect. With support from faculty and staff, she successfully adjusted to college life while pursuing certificates in Baking and Pastry and Entrepreneurship.

“Being recognized by ASPIRE at all is incredible; it truly is an honor,” said Emma. “As for sharing this achievement alongside my dad, it’s really awesome to see that all the work we’ve both done behind the scenes really was worth it. I know that both of us would spend long nights and early mornings working on homework because, ultimately, we both wanted as much time as possible to spend with our family.”

Attending college together created a unique bond between father and daughter. As Josh returned to the classroom after an 18-year break and Emma navigated college for the first time, they encouraged one another, worked through assignments together, and learned how to balance the demands of education, work, and family life.

“Working toward my bachelor’s degree has been a dream come true,” Josh said. “Being able to go to school alongside my daughter has made this challenging part of the journey so much more rewarding. ASPIRE has been there as additional support, allowing us to focus on our classes instead of worrying about obstacles that might prevent us from making progress.”

Their story is one of many represented through the ASPIRE Scholars Initiative, a student success program supported by the �Թ���. ASPIRE connects students with mentoring, career coaching, leadership development opportunities, academic support, and resources that help them stay on track to complete their education.

During the 2025–2026 academic year, ASPIRE engaged 605 scholars. The program also recognized 75 scholars who earned Dean’s List honors and 21 scholars who achieved President’s List distinction for academic excellence. Since 2019, more than 1,000 GTC students have participated in the initiative, and 249 ASPIRE scholars have graduated or completed a certificate program.

“What is most satisfying about seeing a father and daughter recognized at the ASPIRE Awards Ceremony is that it represents the confirmation—the embodiment—of what we often say: success at �Թ��� becomes success across generations for families in our community,” said Michael Burgess, director of the ASPIRE Scholars Initiative.

Through support from donors, foundations, corporations, and community partners, the �Թ��� helps provide resources that strengthen the ASPIRE Scholars Initiative. Donor funding helps students access technology, professional certifications, leadership opportunities, career coaching, and other resources that support their educational journey.

As �Թ��� prepares students for careers in high-demand fields, stories like Josh and Emma’s demonstrate the determination, resilience, and family support that drive student success both inside and outside the classroom.

“Gina is excited to help donors understand that value proposition and the powerful impact their support can have on workforce development, economic growth and the long-term success of the Upstate,” Miller said.

Blohm has a strong background in philanthropy, most recently working as the chief development officer at the Community Foundation of Greenville. She first joined the organization in 2014 as its director of development. Blohm previously spent six years as a development officer and major gifts officer at Greenville Health System, now Prisma Health.

Blohm holds a bachelor’s in economics and marketing from The Ohio State University and is a Certified Fund Raising Executive. She is also a graduate of the Greenville Chamber’s Leadership Greenville and the Riley Institute’s Diversity Leaders Initiative. Blohm currently serves on the board of the Greenville Professional Women’s Forum and the Greenville Chamber Board of Advisors. In addition, she is a member of Greenville Women Giving.

The �Թ��� was originally established in 1973. The nonprofit organization has raised more than $25 million to support �Թ��� over the past eight years. Charitable contributions are collected from businesses, industries, foundations, organizations and individuals in the local community.

“The college’s mission is to empower individuals, change lives and reshape communities,” said Chad Cousins, board chair of the �Թ���, in a statement. “Gina is committed to that mission and to the significant role that donors can play in creating economic mobility and success.”

The funding will support students enrolled in Mechatronics, CNC Programming and Operations program, and the Bachelor of Applied Science in Advanced Manufacturing Technology — programs designed to prepare graduates for immediate entry into one of South Carolina’s most vital industries.

Manufacturing remains a cornerstone of the Upstate economy, driving job creation and regional growth. According to a recent economic impact study, �Թ��� generates nearly $933 million in annual economic output and supports more than 5,700 jobs, highlighting the college’s role in developing the workforce local employers depend on.

“From our work with manufacturers across the country, we see firsthand how critical a skilled, job-ready workforce is to successful growth and expansion in a local economy,” said Jeannette Goldsmith, president of Strategic Development Group. “We are pleased to play a role in preparing talent for today’s advanced manufacturing environment, and we’re proud to support students who will help power the Upstate’s economic future.”

As a nationally recognized corporate site selection and incentive negotiation firm, SDG works closely with companies expanding or relocating operations, many within the manufacturing sector. This vantage point gives the firm direct insight into the workforce challenges employers face and the importance of aligning education with industry needs.

�Թ���’s Center for Manufacturing Innovation prepares students through hands-on training, industry-aligned curriculum, and real-world problem-solving experiences, enabling graduates to contribute on day one.

For many students, scholarships like this help remove financial barriers and create pathways into stable, high-demand careers.

“Strategic Development Group’s continued investment strengthens the talent pipeline that manufacturers across our region rely on,” said Babette Jones, Senior Director of Development for the �Թ���. “Support like this expands opportunity for students while helping build the skilled workforce that drives economic growth in the Upstate.”

SDG has supported GTC students for multiple years, reflecting a growing partnership focused on workforce development and long-term regional prosperity.

As the Foundation continues to invest in initiatives that prepare a skilled workforce, it remains focused on engaging industry and community leaders who help align education with regional economic needs. The addition of Scott, Hall, and Gibson reflects a shared commitment to expanding economic opportunity for students while supporting long-term vitality across the region. Through strategic investments and partnerships, the �Թ��� is helping shape the talent pipeline that fuels economic growth across the Upstate. Together, they bring decades of leadership experience that will help the Foundation deepen industry partnerships, expand student opportunity, and support the region’s evolving workforce needs.

“The strength of the �Թ��� is rooted in the leadership and engagement of our board,” said Chad Cousins, Chair of the �Թ���. “Brandon, Jarrell, and Hunter understand the connection between education, workforce readiness, and economic prosperity. Their insight will help us continue creating economic opportunity for students while supporting the long-term growth of our region.”

Scott serves as vice president and Upstate division manager for Clancy & Theys Construction, where he helped open the company’s Greenville office and has led several major projects across the region. A Clemson University graduate with a degree in civil engineering, he is actively involved in organizations including Pendleton Place and the Clemson Honors Advisory Board.

Hall serves as vice president, agency management and business development at Canal Insurance Company, bringing more than 34 years of experience in the insurance industry with expertise spanning underwriting, agency management, marketing, and risk management. Known for his collaborative leadership, he has led sales strategy, strengthened underwriting operations, and supported sustained organizational growth. A graduate of the University of Montevallo, Hall holds a Bachelor of Science in Communications, Public Relations, and remains actively engaged in professional and community organizations.

Gibson is manager of Standard Capital Partners, LLC, where he co-manages a real estate development firm focused on multifamily communities throughout the Southeast. Since 2007, the firm has developed more than 2,200 apartment units. A Wofford College graduate, Gibson supports local initiatives through his involvement with organizations such as Rebuild Upstate and Front Porch Housing, and he previously served on the board of Verdae Development.

Foundation board members help guide strategic priorities, champion student success initiatives, and build partnerships that respond to evolving workforce demands while expanding opportunities for students at �Թ���.

The grant will support the purchase of four Airflow Prophylaxis Master units, four Airflow Station Carts, and two Acteon intraoral cameras—state-of-the-art tools that will improve efficiency, patient comfort, and diagnostic accuracy within the program’s on-campus community clinic. These upgrades will allow the clinic to treat more patients, reduce chair time, and provide students with hands-on experience using the same technology found in modern dental practices.

For students training in the clinic, access to modern equipment means greater confidence, deeper hands-on learning, and the ability to deliver higher-quality care to every patient they serve.

�Թ���’s Dental Hygiene Program operates a 33-chair dental hygiene clinic on the Barton Campus, serving approximately 8,000 active patients. The clinic delivers affordable oral health care to the community while providing students with real-world, supervised clinical training.

“As part of �Թ���’s commitment to workforce excellence and student success, our Dental Hygiene Program has increased enrollment by nearly 17%, expanding the number of students providing care in our on-campus dental clinic. This growth created a need for additional treatment equipment to ensure a consistent, hands-on learning experience,” said Kathryn R. Freedman, DMD, Academic Program Director of Dental Hygiene at �Թ���.

“We are deeply grateful for the foundation’s partnership and our shared commitment to patient-centered care and workforce development. These resources in modern dental technology enhance student learning while expanding access to comprehensive dental hygiene services for the underserved population our clinic serves.”

The Oral Health Regional Network Collaborative Project advances access to dental health education, treatment, and resources for underserved populations across South Carolina through a coordinated, regional network of providers—supporting workforce development and improving oral health outcomes throughout the region.

This project reflects the BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina Foundation’s commitment to improving health outcomes and expanding access to care for communities across South Carolina.

About the �Թ���

Founded in 1973, the �Թ��� provides resources to both �Թ��� and its students through fundraising, collaborative partnerships, and innovative programs. Driven by the belief that everyone should have the opportunity to pursue their dreams in higher education, charitable contributions from business and industry, foundations, organizations, and individuals support needs that are unmet by state and local funding sources. By expanding access to education, the Foundation ignites personal transformation and contributes to the economic vitality of our region. Learn more at��.

Through the Student Assistance and Resources (STAR) Center, the �Թ��� provides vital emergency aid so students don’t have to choose between basic needs and school. Last academic year, the STAR Center distributed more than��$89,423 in emergency funds��to help with housing, utilities, transportation, and more. Already this year, the need continues to rise, with at least��100 veteran students projected to require emergency support.

Students experience challenges that are urgent and undeniable:��46% of students report housing insecurity, 39% face food insecurity, and 57% struggle with at least one basic needs challenge.��Pantry visits have soared 152% in just two years, with more than 2,000 grocery bags distributed in the past year alone. Behind these statistics are parents (80% of STAR shoppers), working students (42% identify as workers who take classes), and individuals determined to break cycles of poverty through education.

And yet, despite these challenges, GTC students remain��resilient and hopeful. They believe the sacrifices are worth it: 79% say the cost of college is a good investment, and 86% believe their degree will lead to a higher quality of life. What they lack isn’t determination—it’s resources. The �Թ��� fills that gap, keeping students in the classroom and on track toward graduation.

“Programs that support students’ basic needs increase persistence. When I look at the Academic Awards and Students of Distinction from Summer 2025, I see many who utilize the STAR Center. Despite socioeconomic challenges, �Թ��� students are brilliant, strive for excellence, and achieve results,”��said��Gina Bridges, Director of the STAR Center.

The �Թ��� is calling on the community to take action.��Your gift today can keep a parent in class, a family housed, and a student’s dream alive.��Together, we can ensure that education remains the bridge to a brighter tomorrow.

Since 2017, Wright has led the �Թ��� with a combination of strategic vision and community-centered leadership. Under her direction, the Foundation has more than doubled its endowed scholarships and awarded over $1 million in scholarship funding to more than 1,000 students in the past year alone—many balancing their studies with work and family responsibilities.

“Thanks to Ann Wright’s remarkable leadership of the �Թ���, the college is able to fulfill its mission of empowering individuals, changing lives, and reshaping communities,” said Dr. Larry Miller, president of �Թ���. “She keeps students at the forefront of every effort, providing assistance that enables students to overcome significant barriers to success.”

Wright is widely recognized for forging strong partnerships across education, business, and civic sectors—listening to community needs and turning ideas into impactful initiatives. Her leadership has helped enhance transformative projects through fundraising efforts, such as the Prisma Health Center for Health & Life Sciences, the Truist Center for Culinary and Hospitality Innovation, and the upcoming Center for Welding and Automation Excellence—facilities that address critical workforce needs while creating opportunity for students.

With roots in social work, Ann began her career at the Greenville Housing Authority and then established herself as a community leader through positions of progressive leadership at the American Red Cross in service spanning 32 years. She co-authored the State Disaster Fund Raising Workshop and Fund Raising When Disaster Strikes national courses. Ann led a $2.7 million capital campaign to renovate and expand the Red Cross headquarters in Greenville.�� In addition, she developed a shared donor database management program for Red Cross regions, which has now been adopted nationwide.

“Ann Wright is one of the most effective leaders I have ever worked with,” said Stacy B. Brandon, president, Bank of America Upstate South Carolina. “She inspires her team to magnify their impact, attracts and retains top talent, and creates a culture where service is a joy. Her work has improved countless lives in the Upstate, leaving a lasting impact on every organization she has touched.”

Wright’s leadership style is defined by her ability to recognize potential, empower others, and provide the tools for success. She is a mentor, a consensus builder, and a tireless advocate for education as a pathway to opportunity. Whether securing multimillion-dollar gifts, leading strategic initiatives, or guiding the next generation of nonprofit leaders, she consistently inspires others to aim higher, work together, and make a lasting difference.

The Most Influential Leaders honorees will be celebrated on September 15, 2025, at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, beginning with a networking reception at 4:00 p.m., followed by dinner and the awards program at 5:00 p.m.

­�����dzܳ� SC Biz News

SC Biz News (SCBizNews.com) is the market leader in business media in South Carolina, connecting readers with decision-makers and stakeholders throughout The Palmetto State. For years, it has been the place that business leaders turn to for insight about how to succeed in the constantly evolving business industry. SC Biz News offers print and digital media platforms in three major areas of the state: the Lowcountry (Charleston Regional Business Journal), the Midlands (Columbia Regional Business Report) and the Upstate (GSA Business Report) in addition to daily eletters. The organization’s Custom Media Division develops and positions brands and strengthens relationships with other businesses, the community and the state. SC Biz News publications are part of BridgeTower Media, the authoritative voice for insights and marketing solutions across 40+ brands in five key sectors across the United States.

With $10,000 awarded in scholarships, 3M is helping remove financial barriers for deserving students, empowering them to focus on their studies and build brighter futures. The company has also contributed $6,000 to support GTC’s Mechatronics Technology Program—enhancing hands-on training, updating instructional equipment, and strengthening the pipeline of skilled professionals entering advanced manufacturing and automation.

“3M strives to maximize our social impact within our communities. To do this, 3M partners with leading organizations that are aligned to our global footprint,” said Jim Fissette, HR Manager 3M Greenville. “�Թ��� has a proven track records for making a difference in the STEM and Skilled Trades Education and we are happy to be able to continue our relationship with their great organization.”

According to a 2024 economic impact study, �Թ��� added $627 million to the Greenville County economy and supported 8,529 local jobs, meaning one out of every 48 jobs in the county is supported by GTC and its students. Investments like 3M’s help make this powerful impact possible by ensuring students are prepared to meet the needs of high-demand industries like mechatronics and manufacturing.

“3M’s support has made a meaningful difference for our students,” said Ann Wright, Vice President for Advancement at the �Թ���. “Their investment not only relieves financial burdens for future graduates but also ensures our Mechatronics program continues to meet the needs of today’s evolving workforce.”

The �Թ��� is grateful for partners like 3M, whose generosity helps fuel innovation, opportunity, and access to education across the Upstate.

“The �Թ��� shares our dedication to supporting high-quality STEM education and promoting career opportunities,” said Roula Adonakis, program manager of the Bosch Community Fund. “We’re proud to partner with an organization that is helping students in the Greenville area gain the skills to have a rewarding career in manufacturing.”

The new training system will benefit two of CMI’s signature programs: Mechatronics and the Bachelor of Applied Science in Advanced Manufacturing Technology. With increasing enrollment in both programs, updated equipment is essential to meeting the needs of regional employers and preparing students for both technical and managerial roles in the manufacturing sector.

“We are incredibly grateful for the Bosch Community Fund’s generous donation, which will provide our students with hands-on knowledge and experience using the tools and technology they will encounter in the workforce. Tomorrow’s future is bright, thanks to the��Bosch Community Fund!” said Willie Thompson, Department Head of Mechatronics at �Թ���.

The IMEC-200 system delivers hands-on training with industry-standard components, allowing students to develop essential skills in mechanical assembly, alignment, drive systems, and troubleshooting. It replicates real-world manufacturing conditions, giving learners practical experience that bridges the gap between classroom instruction and workplace expectations. As manufacturing technology evolves, access to cutting-edge training tools, such as the IMEC-200, which ensures that students graduate ready to contribute from day one.

�Թ��� students help sustain one of every 48 jobs in the Upstate region, underscoring the college’s vital role in workforce development and economic growth.

About The Bosch Community Fund

The Bosch Community Fund, the corporate foundation for Bosch in North America, was established in 2011 to provide community engagement and philanthropic support on behalf of the company.�� By awarding over $50 million in grants to various 501(c)(3) organizations and educational institutions, the Fund promotes the enrichment of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education and advancing environmental sustainability initiatives.

About the �Թ���

Founded in 1973, the �Թ��� provides resources to both �Թ��� and its students through fundraising, collaborative partnerships, and innovative programs. Driven by the belief that everyone should have the opportunity to pursue their dreams in higher education, charitable contributions from business and industry, foundations, organizations, and individuals support needs that are unmet by state and local funding sources. By expanding access to education, the Foundation ignites personal transformation and contributes to the economic vitality of our region.

“Our students, most of whom are first-generation college attendees, are supported in ways that help them find their footing on a path that may be new to them, but holds the promise of being a road more traveled for generations to come in their families.” Said Michael Burgess, Director—Aspire Scholars Initiative

In this cycle of funding, the Sisters of Charity Foundation of South Carolina awarded grants totaling $1,287,000 to nonprofit organizations across the state. The $20,000 grant to the �Թ��� will allow the organization to expand the reach of ASPIRE by providing enhanced access to academic support services, personalized mentoring, textbook stipends, emergency financial assistance, and cultural enrichment activities. These supports empower students to overcome challenges, persist in their education, complete a degree or certificate, and ultimately break cycles of generational poverty.

“Our grantee partners are having a profound impact across South Carolina, supporting individuals and families who are experiencing poverty and working to dismantle the complex systems that allow poverty to persist,” said Donna Waites, President of the Foundation. “Each one of them approaches their work with compassion and an open heart, whether they’re advocating for policy change; offering innovative, evidence-based programs; or listening and responding to immediate community needs.”

Lee Pearson, Chair of the Foundation’s Board, added: “The Sisters of Charity Foundation of South Carolina is committed to reducing poverty through action, advocacy, and leadership. It is an honor to support, partner with, and learn from these organizations as we work to create a South Carolina where everyone can thrive.”

About the �Թ���

Founded in 1973, the �Թ��� provides resources to both �Թ��� and its students through fundraising, collaborative partnerships, and innovative programs. Driven by the belief that everyone should have the opportunity to pursue their dreams in higher education, charitable contributions from business and industry, foundations, organizations, and individuals support needs that are unmet by state and local funding sources. By expanding access to education, the Foundation ignites personal transformation and contributes to the economic vitality of our region.

About Sisters of Charity Foundation of South Carolina

Sisters of Charity Foundation of South Carolina is a ministry of the Sisters of Charity Health System, founded in 1996. Its mission is to address the needs of families and individuals experiencing poverty throughout the state of South Carolina. Through the strategic use of resources, they seek to reduce poverty through action, advocacy, and leadership.