The Patrick County Education Foundation (PCEF) announced this week that it has received sufficient donations to endow the Gerald L. Baliles Scholarship within the Patrick Henry Community College Foundation. Endowing the scholarship means that PHCC will now be able to present one student (who will be referred to as a “Baliles Scholar”) with a $1,000 scholarship on a yearly basis.
Only a few weeks before Governor Baliles passed away in October 2019, the PCEF created a scholarship in honor of the former Virginia governor. Over the last few months, more and more people have donated to the fund to honor Governor Baliles’ legacy of championing education in Patrick County and all Virginia. Thanks to these supporters, the scholarship can now be endowed which will enable the fund to assist untold numbers of students.
“Throughout his life, Governor Baliles personified the transformative effect of quality schools and higher education. Particularly, he demonstrated how key investments in education have not only lifted the condition of the place he called home, but he replicated that same success throughout the Commonwealth,” said Dr. Stewart Roberson, chairman of the PCEF board. “The Patrick County Education Foundation encourages continued investments in the Baliles’ Scholars initiative as a very fitting tribute to the statesman whose life was devoted to unlocking the potential of all Virginians.”
The scholarship will be awarded annually to a Patrick County High School senior who plans to enter a public service profession and attend PHCC. The first recipient of the scholarship will be announced this May at the Patrick County High School Awards Banquet.
“The family of Governor Baliles is pleased to learn that the Baliles Scholarship has been endowed and will offer scholarships to deserving students in perpetuity,” said his wife, Robin Baliles. “We continue to support the mission and goals of PCEF which have evolved and adapted over time to the needs of citizens in Patrick County.”
The Patrick County Education Foundation will continue to receive donations with the hope of creating even more Baliles Scholars. Those wishing to donate can contact the Patrick County Education Foundation at (276) 656-0281.
