Tourney Funds Two New Yolanda Thomas Scholarships

03/28/2005

When Fred Thomas suggested a golf tournament to raise funds to start another scholarship in remembrance of his late wife Yolanda, the president of Thomco Enterprises had no idea what to expect. Then again, maybe Thomas did. Putting his own energy and that of his company into the first Yolanda Thomas Golf Tournament last fall, Thomas was astonished by the outcome.

"Our people and the community really made this happen," said Thomas. The proceeds from the event, which raised $20,000, will be used to fund two more Yolanda Thomas Endowed Scholarships in support of the college's new bachelor's program in Project and Acquisitions Management.

"We really didn't know what to expect after Hurricane Ivan came through," said Thomas. "So many golfers, sponsors, businesses and friends of Yolanda helped make our tournament a great success. We're just pleased that the money can continue our effort to award scholarships in memory of Yolanda."

Thomas and many community friends donated contributions to start the first scholarship a year ago in memory of the ever-smiling, exuberant Yolanda, who helped her husband start and operate the Fort Walton Beach construction company.

Yolanda died in a tragic boating accident in 2002. "When I told people at the tournament that what we raised is eligible for state matching funds, that really got people's attention," said Thomas.

OWC president, Dr. Bob Richburg, commended Thomas for the tourney's success and then thanked Thomco employees and the community. "I think Fred Thomas has found a great combination for fundraising," said Richburg. "This college was proud a year ago to be the recipient of the first Yolanda Thomas Scholar-ship. Now, we're especially pleased that two more scholarships will now be made in Yolanda's memory."

Richburg said he is particularly pleased that the scholarships have been earmarked for students in OWC's four-year degree program. "Our college has been overwhelmed by the interest in this program," said Richburg. "The new Yolanda Thomas Scholar-ships will help us meet the financial needs of students who are pursuing a bachelor's degree through this new OWC program."

The donation is eligible for state matching funds on a $1 to $1 ratio. "The scholarship gift is a good investment for both the college and our students," said Richburg.