Aiken, South Carolina, October 6, 2025

News Summary

Aiken Technical College hosted an exclusive dinner to honor the Aiken Technical College Foundation’s contributions to student success. The foundation has significantly aided hundreds of students through scholarships and support funds this year, helping them navigate financial challenges. Student Shontel McCleod shared her inspiring story of how the foundation, along with initiatives like the Knights Corner food pantry, has positively impacted her life. ATC President announced plans for facility renovations and new nursing resources to further support students’ educational journeys.

Aiken, South Carolina – Aiken Technical College (ATC) hosted an invitation-only dinner on October 2, 2025, celebrating the impact of the Aiken Technical College Foundation on student success. The ATC Foundation has been pivotal in providing scholarships and emergency support funds to both current and prospective students, playing a crucial role in helping them overcome financial barriers.

Dean of Student Success, Crystal Edwards, reported that hundreds of students have benefited from scholarships and support services this year alone. At the event, ATC student Shontel McCleod shared her personal journey and the significant impact the ATC Foundation has had on her life, particularly highlighting the newly established food pantry known as Knights Corner.

Shontel McCleod, an immigrant from Jamaica who arrived in the U.S. three years ago, discussed the financial difficulties she faced while embarking on her nursing education. Today, after receiving support from the ATC Foundation, McCleod is on the dean’s list and on track to graduate in fall 2026.

During the dinner, ATC President Forest Mahan announced plans for upcoming renovations to Building A, which is currently undergoing a $4.2 million renovation. The upgraded facility will feature new office spaces, classrooms, and an amphitheater to enhance the educational experience of students.

Additionally, Mahan revealed plans for a new $24 million nursing facility, set to be completed by summer 2026. This construction aims to address the regional nursing shortage by expanding resources and training for future healthcare professionals.

Aiken Technical College also celebrated the one-year anniversary of Knights Corner, its on-campus food pantry, designed to assist students in need. Knights Corner operates like a mini grocery store, allowing students the opportunity to select groceries based on their preferences and family needs. This pantry was established through a partnership with Golden Harvest Food Bank and the Community Foundation for the CSRA, following a $13,000 grant received in 2023.

Since opening, Knights Corner has served over 200 students and their families, directly addressing food insecurity on campus. Federal data indicates that nearly 4 million college students nationwide face hunger, and over 13% of Aiken County residents lack reliable access to food.

The collaboration between the college and community organizations aims to eliminate hunger barriers, allowing students to focus on their studies and achieve academic success. The continued support from the ATC Foundation and initiatives like Knights Corner emphasize the commitment to fostering an environment where students can thrive academically without worrying about basic needs.

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Additional Resources

• Post and Courier: Aiken Tech Foundation Celebration
• Wikipedia: Aiken Technical College
• WRDW: Aiken Tech Celebrates Food Pantry Anniversary
• Google Search: Aiken Technical College food pantry
• WFXG: Aiken Tech Marks Knights Corner Pantry Anniversary
• Google Scholar: Aiken Technical College
• WJBF: Aiken Tech Celebrates Food Pantry Anniversary
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Hunger
• The Augusta Press: Aiken Tech New Food Pantry Announcement
• Google News: Aiken Technical College

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