ECC Foundation Awards Grants

The ECC Social Justice Committee (SJC) is dedicated to educating the public about social reform through lectures and service projects.  Because of limited funding, they can only do so much. With the help of the East Central College Foundation, groups like the SJC can host more events that help unite the community.

The East Central College Foundation is a non-profit organization that supports the growth and development of its students, staff and faculty. It solicits and receives tax deductible gifts that go directly toward grants and scholarships. The Albert C. Buescher Memorial is administered by the Foundation on behalf of ECC. This year, the Foundation awarded five grants to scholastic departments and programs on campus.

The SJC is eager to put its $1000 grant toward their upcoming Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service initiative. SJC Chairman and ECC Instructor Leigh Kolb looks to grow the committee and its efforts to impact the public. “ECC looks forward to deepening its ties to service through developing and enacting a Civic Action Plan that serves the entire community,” she said.

Psychology instructor Dr. Wendy Pecka is using her $2,000 grant to help break through the stigma surrounding mental health issues and change the conversation to one of hope and resiliency. “Our goal is to enhance students’ and community members’ lives by offering ongoing forums on domestic violence, dealing with dementia, mental illness, bullying prevention and addiction issues.”

Adult Education and Literature (AEL) Director Alice Whalen says her $1000 grant will help provide curriculum for AEL’s growing English Language Acquisition Program. “We will service approximately 100 English language learners this year,” Whalen said. “In our classes, students learn English through reading, writing, listening and speaking. Instructors also provide information about American culture and how to navigate American society. Instruction for the citizenship test is also available.”

For Art Director Adam Watkins, his $2,000 grant means more student exposure to cultural sights and scenes. Next spring break, he’ll travel to London with art students to tour museums and galleries. “The financial burden for the trip lays heavy on the students as the trip is ultimately self-funded,” Watkins said. “International travel always seems extensive and daunting, but with this grant, the students will each have a portion of the financial burden lifted.”

At the East Central College-Rolla campus, the library will soon expand its book collection. Thanks to the ECC Foundation, a $2,400 grant will help add nearly 80 books in the subjects of history, social science, social issues, science and technology to support core curriculum for students.

Over the past eight years, the ECC Foundation has awarded approximately $70,000 to various college departments and groups. Find out how you can help support the ECC Foundation.

Photo: Students work with an instructor in the English Language Acquisition Program.