USCA recognizes community leaders, neighbors who invest in students

USCA celebrated community members who invest in students’ success during the Leadership and Impact Awards ceremony.

University donors, supporters, patrons and advocates were the guests of honor who joined university leadership for the annual event.

“Opportunity is not just part of our mission at the University of South Carolina Aiken; it is the promise we make to every student who steps onto this campus. One of the core commitments that defines USCA is opportunity — for every student with the talent and the drive to be here, regardless of their background or bank account,” said Daniel P. Elwell, Sr., vice chancellor for development and alumni affairs.

“On this campus, philanthropy is not an abstract idea; it is the difference between ‘college as a dream’ and ‘college as a reality’ for thousands of young people. Because of you, doors open, possibilities expand, and our students are able to dream bigger and achieve more than they ever thought possible — and for that, we are profoundly thankful.”

Access to quality education is a cornerstone of USCA’s mission. Dr. Dan Heimmerman, chancellor, believes education is “the most transformative power there is,” for students and their families.

At USCA, 52 percent of undergraduates are the first in their families to go to college.

“That is more than 1,700 undergraduates this year alone who are trailblazers in their community, within their families, stepping onto campus and into a future that may have felt out of reach just a few years ago,” Heimmermann said.

“Because of you, those students are not just crossing a threshold; they are changing the trajectory of their families and their communities for generations to come.”

Thanks to donors who establish scholarships and other initiatives, USCA remains one of the best values in higher education. The university has not raised tuition in eight years, in part because of a healthy endowment and a robust scholarship program that keeps college affordable for the students who need it most.

During the 2025-26 academic year, USCA awarded more than 800 scholarships, thanks to generous supporters. Additionally, largely due to private support, 33 percent of all USCA students graduate debt-free.

“The impact of philanthropy at USCA is palpable,” Elwell said.

The Leadership and Impact Awards ceremony recognized several individuals and organizations whose leadership, generosity and partnership amplified the impact of USCA on both students and the region.

Rising Star Award

Steven Peterson of ING Consulting earned the Rising Star Award, which recognizes an individual who is early in their journey with USCA and is already investing time, talent and resources to uplift students and strengthen the university.

“We are pleased to honor Steven, an emerging leader whose passion, initiative, and philanthropic spirit are already making a meaningful impact at USCA,” said Elwell.

“His generosity, advocacy and visible commitment to giving back, embody the future of philanthropic leadership and inspire others to help create lasting change on our campus and in our community.”

Distinguished Citizen Award

Sen. Tom Young (SC-District 24) received the Distinguished Citizen Award for years of leadership, service and advocacy that have made an enduring and positive impact on the university and greater Aiken community. This award recognizes a person who exemplifies integrity, civic responsibility, and a deep commitment to advancing educational opportunity and quality of life in the region.

“Senator Young has a sustained record of engagement with USCA through advocacy, partnership, and generosity, and he inspires others to contribute their time, talent, and resources in support of students and the university’s mission," Heimmermann said.

Community Partner Award

USCA gave the Community Partner Award to Georgia Rehabilitation Institute. This award honors an organization or institution whose philanthropy and partnership have created real and measurable impact at the university.

“GRI has invested generously into USCA through strategic giving, collaboration, and engagement,” said Elwell.

“These investments expand opportunities for students and strengthen academic and co-curricular programs. By aligning its resources with the university’s mission and demonstrating clear outcomes for students, the GRI’s extraordinary commitment to USCA exemplifies how community partnerships can transform lives and advance the vitality of our region.”

Georgia Rehabilitation Institute’s Chief Executive Officer Dennis Skelly accepted the award.

Volunteer of the Year Award

Jim Marra received the university’s Volunteer of the Year award, which honors an individual whose exceptional dedication of time, talent, and treasure has significantly strengthened USCA and enriched the experience of its students.

“Jim consistently goes above and beyond in service, showing reliability, initiative, generosity and a steadfast commitment to USCA’s events, programs, and priorities across campus and across a variety of disciplines,” Elwell said. “Through his sustained volunteerism, philanthropic support and heartfelt advocacy for USCA, Jim inspires others to get involved and demonstrates the vital role volunteers play in advancing the university’s mission.”

At the close of the awards ceremony, Elwell highlighted the full range of support USCA receives from vested community leaders.

“Opportunity at USCA is not a door that opens once. It is a series of doors that keeps opening: acceptance into college with an affordable tuition; access to rigorous programs; meaningful research and internship experiences; mentoring relationships and the promise to graduate ready for what comes next,” he said.

“Thanks to you, opportunity is not just standing at the door. It is turning the handle, holding it open and inviting our students to walk through with confidence.”

❮ ❯

✕

❮ ❯

Go Back More News