Dr. Martha Lavender Establishes Endowed Scholarship to Support Future Gadsden State Students

Gadsden, Ala. — The Gadsden State Cardinal Foundation proudly announces Dr. Martha Lavender, former president of Gadsden State Community College, has established the Dr. Martha and Tim Lavender Endowed Scholarship to benefit graduates of Hokes Bluff High School.
 
Dr. Lavender’s generous gift will create a permanent source of scholarship support for deserving students from Hokes Bluff High School who choose to continue their education at Gadsden State. As an endowed scholarship, the fund will be invested to generate annual earnings, ensuring that students will receive financial assistance not just today, but for generations to come.
 
Dr. Lavender, who served as president of Gadsden State Community College from 2015 to 2020 and dedicated her career to expanding educational opportunities in the region, said the scholarship reflects both her personal commitment to students and her gratitude for the community she has long served.
 
“Education changes lives, families, and entire communities,” said Dr. Lavender. “I have seen firsthand the difference that access to higher education can make. It is my hope that this endowed scholarship will remove financial barriers for students from Hokes Bluff High School and encourage them to pursue their goals with confidence.”
 
Endowed scholarships are designed to exist in perpetuity. The principal of the gift remains intact, while a portion of the investment earnings is awarded annually to students. This sustainable model ensures that the donor’s legacy continues to create opportunity year after year. The scholarship will begin its award for the 2026-2027 academic year.
 
Hillary Folsom, director of advancement and alumni relations for the Gadsden State Cardinal Foundation, emphasized the lasting significance of Dr. Lavender’s gift.
 
“Endowed scholarships represent one of the most powerful investments a donor can make in education,” Folsom said. “Because the funds are permanently invested, they provide reliable, long-term support for students. Dr. Lavender’s generosity will impact not just one student, but countless Hokes Bluff graduates for decades to come.”
 
Scholarship support is often the deciding factor for students balancing academic aspirations with financial realities. By establishing this endowed scholarship, Dr. Lavender ensures that students from her community will have continued access to affordable, high-quality education at Gadsden State.
 
The Gadsden State Cardinal Foundation works to secure private resources that enhance educational opportunities, support student success, and strengthen the college’s impact across its service area. Gifts such as Dr. Lavender’s help the Foundation fulfill its mission while honoring a legacy of leadership and service.  For more information about the Cardinal Foundation, visit cardinalfoundation.org