New Diversity Scholarship Established at Central Ohio Technical College

 Eleanor Jackson was an African American small business owner with a big heart who worked tirelessly to make many local families’ and community events memorable. She touched her clients’ hearts with her gregarious personality and filled their stomachs with delectable cuisine from her catering company. Now friends of Jackson wish to support the next generation of students of color to achieve meaningful careers in service with the Central Ohio Technical College (COTC) Diversity Scholarship. 

Starting in autumn semester 2021, the COTC Diversity Scholarship will be awarded annually to students with demonstrated financial need pursuing a degree in the college’s healthcare technology or law enforcement technology programs. These degrees lead to personally rewarding and well-paying careers that also make a positive impact in the community. Priority will be given to African American female students followed by African American male students and then students of all diverse racial/ethnic backgrounds.

“I am thankful to the donors for their commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in our campus community, which is beautifully diverse, welcoming and grounded in the principles of respect for one another and the human dignity of all. By removing the financial barriers to education for students of color, this scholarship helps us maintain these values,” said COTC President John M. Berry, PhD. “Additionally, COTC has a deep respect for our healthcare workers who have risen to the occasion in this pandemic and law enforcement personnel who serve honorably and respectfully to protect our communities.”

The anonymous donors have committed $25,000 to the endowed scholarship but have pledged to match donations from the community up to an additional $25,000. Whether you want to remember Eleanor Jackson, be a champion for social justice, or support our valued healthcare and law enforcement workforce, your donation will be matched dollar for dollar. To take advantage of this opportunity, give online today at go.cotc.edu/diversityscholarship or mail a check to Advancement Office, 1179 University Dr., Newark OH 43055. Please make checks payable to COTC Diversity Scholarship. 

COTC is a fully accredited, public college dedicated to providing high-quality, accessible programs of technical education in response to current and emerging employment needs. COTC is the only technical college in Ohio operating four full-service campus locations: Newark, Coshocton, Knox and Pataskala.