SMCC celebrates student advocacy, community at 2024 A Light on the Point Gala

South Portland, ME - Southern Maine Community College (SMCC) hosted its annual A Light on the Point gala on Nov. 7, bringing together the college community and supporters to celebrate and raise funds for the SMCC Advocacy Resource Center (ARC).

The event recognized outstanding community members, faculty, staff, alumni, and businesses who have made significant contributions to the college and its mission. All funds raised will directly support ARC, which provides essential resources to students facing financial and personal challenges.

The evening, filled with inspiring stories and powerful messages, was a testament to the strong spirit of support within the SMCC community. SMCC President Kristen Miller shared her thoughts on the event and its impact, "Tonight's event wouldn't be possible without the incredible support of our sponsors, our donors, and each of you that are here this evening. Thank you to everyone who has invested in the SMCC Foundation and the future of our students. Your generosity helps us to continue our mission and make a lasting impact on the lives of those who walk through our doors."

Honorees included David Pratt and The Old Guard, recipients of the President's Award, who were recognized for their unwavering support of SMCC. "The phrase that I use most often about this school is, my God, they get it. They teach people to do stuff," Pratt said. "These colleagues and the Old Guard, you need a keel on your ship. The Old Guard was my keel. You guys kept it upright when times were tough. We were all there to help each other out. Thank you very much for this award. This is overwhelming."

Outstanding Faculty Award was presented to Professor Daniel Abbott, who shared his deep pride in his time at SMCC. "People told me you can love your school, but it won't love you back. I love this campus, and love this school. They were wrong; this school has loved me back. And this award is an indication of that to me. I just can't tell you how much I appreciate it. It's just really deeply meaningful to me."

Director of Social Services Ellen Culberson, the recipient of the Outstanding Staff Award, expressed gratitude for her role at the ARC, saying, "Thank you so much for this recognition. People in the room tonight know this already, but our students are incredible, and they overcome so much to access higher education. The contributions from tonight's event will go towards the Advocacy Resource Center, which intends to provide direct financial assistance to our students so that they can focus on their academics and resolve some of the barriers that get in the way."

"I never dreamed of receiving any awards from any schools, but I'm so proud to be recognized by this great school," Chris Cohen, founder of Eclipse Sports and recipient of the Outstanding Alumnus Award said. "I'm proud to continue proving what SMCC alumni can achieve."

Johnson & Jordan, Mechanical Contractors, who received the Outstanding Business Award, expressed their support for SMCC's mission. "Our company has grown to a point that nobody ever imagined. When my father and Chris Jordan started the company in 1991, they had mentioned 45 people max from an employee standpoint. And we've grown just slightly beyond that. I feel like we owe an award back to Southern Maine Community College. Your work with us to develop our team has been phenomenal. The skillset that you're able to bring to us just brings that special connection, and it's been phenomenal for us."

This year proceeds from A Light on the Point will allow the ARC to expand its ability to support students in need. The ARC connects students with essential resources in the community, offering assistance for crucial needs such as childcare, transportation and housing. With the funds raised, the ARC can now provide more direct financial support to students, helping them stay enrolled, complete their education, and prepare for the workforce.

To see photos from the 2024 A Light on the Point Celebration, visit SMCC's Flickr page at https://www.flickr.com/photos/smcccommunications/. To learn more about the SMCC Foundation, visit www.smccME.edu/foundation.