If the state is providing a free education, then why is there a need for student scholarships? This session will provide information on Tennessee Promise and Tennessee Reconnect which are state programs to assist students with a college education. We will explore the purpose behind these programs as well as how it is impacting our current students. How are these programs impacting the scholarship demands and donor giving? This session will be open discussion on best practices for scholarships, how to relate free is not really free and the role donors play in completing a degree.

Assistant Vice President, College AdvancementWalters State Community College
Chris Cates is a professional with over 26 years of experience in higher education and non-profit work, focusing on enrollment and donor development. He is currently the Assistant Vice President for College Advancement at Walters State Community College, a position he has held since 2017.
Prior to his current role, he held positions at Walters State Community College, Holston United Methodist Home for Children, and Carson-Newman University. Chris holds a Master of Science in Leadership from Austin Peay State University and a B.A. in Biology from Carson-Newman University. He is also active in his community, serving on several boards, including the Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce and the Lakeway Area Fellowship of Christian Athletes.
500 W Broad St.
Statesville, NC 28677
Open as PDF