Felicia McKenney, a third-semester Environmental Horticulture student from Marion County, was awarded the Early Bloomers Garden Club annual scholarship at South Georgia Technical College recently.
Patricia Perles, President-elect of the Early Bloomers Garden Club, and Sybil Smith, Treasurer, were on hand during the scholarship presentation with SGTC President Dr. John Watford and SGTC Foundation Executive Director and Vice President of Institutional Advancement Su Ann Bird.
“On behalf of South Georgia Technical College and the SGTC Foundation, we would like to thank the Early Bloomers Garden Club for your support of our students and specifically the Environmental Horticulture program,” said President Watford. “This is a great way to give back to students who are learning more about this field and interested in a career in horticulture.”
Felecia McKenney and her instructor, Brandon Gross, also thanked the club for their support. “Thank you so much,” said McKenney. “I was surprised but excited to learn that my instructor nominated me for a scholarship. It means so much to me that I was recognized for my hard work and determination. It has also empowered me to pursue my education with renewed confidence. Thank you for supporting me in that journey.”
McKenney has always been around gardening. Her grandmother and parents were often active in their gardens. But as a child, she rarely participated. Then in 2020, when Covid hit, the gardening bug finally bit her. She added that creating and growing a garden helps you feel more connected to the world around you.
“When my husband, Chris, started attending South Georgia Technical College in 2024, he suggested I look into the Horticulture program. My instructor, Brandon Gross, has helped me to learn so much and my passion for gardening just continues to grow every day,” explained McKenney. She hopes to open her own business after graduation.
SGTC Foundation Executive Director Su Ann Bird revealed that McKenney was selected for the scholarship based on the criteria set up by the Foundation and the Early Bloomers Garden Club. She was recommended for the scholarship by her instructor, Brandon Gross.
The Early Bloomers Garden Club annual scholarship is awarded annually to a student enrolled in the SGTC Horticulture Program with an excellent work ethic, grades, a 2.5 GPA or higher, and a recommendation from the Horticulture Instructor.
The Early Bloomers Garden Club Environmental Horticulture Scholarship can be used for tuition, books, fees, tools, housing, and cafeteria expenses.