Laurel Ridge Community College seeks $41K for scholarships and support programs

The Warren County Board of Supervisors held a special meeting on February 6, 2025, focusing on funding applications for various local initiatives, including broadband development and educational support.

The meeting commenced with discussions regarding applications for the Broadband Expansion Development (B.E.D.) funding. This federal funding, which does not require a local match, is aimed at enhancing broadband access in the area. The board noted that they are currently awaiting further information from Laurel Ridge Community College, which is one of the few entities requesting a reduced amount of funding this year.

Laurel Ridge Community College presented its funding request of $41,205 for the fiscal year, a slight decrease from the previous year’s allocation of $41,700. The college's funding primarily supports scholarships for graduating high school students from Warren County, with 60% of the funds allocated for this purpose. The college also highlighted its impact on the local community, noting that it employs 25 full-time and 40 part-time staff members from the area.

Corey Thompson, Vice President for Finance Administration at Laurel Ridge, explained that the funding request is based on enrollment figures, which include both credit and non-credit students. He emphasized the importance of these funds for supporting scholarships and enhancing educational services, including mental health support for students.

Following the college's presentation, Andy Gireson from the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) outlined the center's role in supporting local businesses. He requested $6,000 in funding to expand training and support services for small businesses in Warren County. Gireson reported that last year, the SBDC assisted 434 individuals, resulting in four new startups and the creation of seven new jobs. He emphasized the center's commitment to providing free consultations and resources for local entrepreneurs.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on the importance of local funding for these initiatives, highlighting the significant impact that educational and business support services have on the community. The board expressed its commitment to reviewing the funding requests and making decisions that will benefit Warren County's residents and businesses in the coming fiscal year.