Darrell Bowling, of Stuart, received the 19th Annual Chancellor’s Award for Leadership in Philanthropy. He was nominated for the award by Patrick & Henry Community College (P&HCC).
Hosted by the Virginia Foundation for Community College Education (VFCCE), more than two dozen individuals, families, and organizations were honored with the Chancellor’s Award for Leadership in Philanthropy. The awards were presented at a luncheon ceremony in Richmond on Tuesday, April 15. VCCS Chancellor Dr. David Doré served as the emcee, and Mr. Mark Hourigan, founder and CEO of Hourigan, delivered the keynote address.
“Every time our donors support a scholarship, fund a new program, or an emergency grant, they are not just giving back, they are lifting up,” said Hourigan. “They are invaluable partners whose generosity can and does make the difference between a student dropping out or staying the course and realizing their true potential.”
Doré echoed those sentiments, adding that a culture of care can have a profound impact on student performance. “When our students realize that someone cares enough to help remove the formidable obstacles standing in their way, it’s life-changing,” he said. “The things they thought impossible suddenly become doable, and their confidence soars as a result.”
This year’s class of distinguished philanthropy leaders has collectively contributed $24 million dollars to Virginia’s Community Colleges.
Thanks to Bowling, motorcyclists from across the country have gathered in Patrick County for the annual Cpl. Jonathan W. Bowling Memorial Bike Ride for 20 years. The annual memorial motorcycle ride is both a way for fellow veterans and servicemen to remember fallen Marine Jonathan Williams Bowling and a chance for these men and women to continue his legacy of giving back to the community. The Corporal Jonathan W. Bowling Memorial fund has provided money for two Patrick County students to attend P&HCC each year since 2004.
“P&HCC has been honored to partner with the Bowling family to preserve Corporal Bowling’s memory in this way,” said Tiffani Underwood, Director of P&HCC’s Foundation, adding, “We are so grateful for Darrell’s work to make the annual ride such a success and for his dedication to ensuring Patrick County students have the opportunity to work toward their goals at P&HCC.”
