Summer 2020 Issue
Traditionally, hundreds of students would have gathered in Tate Plaza this spring for Thank a Donor Day to show appreciation for UGA’s generous supporters. While the pandemic changed our event plans, it did not diminish students’ gratitude. Student leaders recorded homemade videos to express thanks for the impact that you have made in their lives. Your commitment makes UGA a place that all Dawgs can call a home away from home, even in times like these. Please enjoy these messages from thankful students as a token of our appreciation.
Campus Response to COVID-19
What is a Student Emergency Fund?
The COVID-19 pandemic affects everyone, and UGA students are no exception. Because of the public health precautions necessary to stem the tide of infection, some students lost jobs, struggled to pay rent and/or had trouble transitioning to online classes.
Feeding Those in Need
UGA Campus Kitchen is working overtime with the help of employees, community members, and fellow businesses to put food on local tables.
Donor Impact
The William Frederick Diefenbach Honors Scholarship was created in memory of William “Billy” Frederick Diefenbach, a UGA student studying philosophy at the time of his passing in 1994. Billy was a self-directed student who displayed compassion for humanity, appreciated the wilderness, and enjoyed a broad spectrum of music. The scholarship created in his memory supports students as they follow their passions through self-directed studies. Tyler Newton, from Martinez, Georgia, is the current recipient of the scholarship, which allows Tyler to explore interests in linguistics and music composition.
Tyler Newton (center) of Martinez, Georgia, is the current recipient of the William Frederick Diefenbach Honors Scholarship.
“Through the Honors Program, I can do some really great research in my fields that will prepare me for graduate studies and help me better understand my focus. Right now, I would love to teach and freelance compose. I’m so excited to start my journey.” – Tyler Newton, Class of 2022
The Thompsons donated 100 works by African American artists to the Georgia Museum of Art and endowed a curator to manage the collection. The couple was presented with UGA’s 2016 Friend of UGA Award for their generous support.
Shawnya L. Harris, Larry D. and Brenda A. Thompson Curator of African American and African Diasporic Art.
“Larry and Brenda Thompson’s gift of a collection and curatorial endowment has not only been transformative for the Georgia Museum of Art but also for me as a museum professional. I feel fortunate to have been able to curate multiple exhibitions focusing on African American artists and to witness the growth of our audiences and programming for UGA students and the surrounding community.” – Shawnya L. Harris, Larry D. and Brenda A. Thompson Curator of African American and African Diasporic Art
Donor Spotlight
Kathy Hoard established The First Tee scholarship in 2011 in honor of her late husband, Ed. There is currently a First Tee Scholar in each class at UGA.
Kathy Hoard, on the right
“The First Tee not only teaches students how to play golf, but it introduces the program’s nine core values that set these students apart from others.” – Kathy Hoard
Save the Date
October 9
Presidents Club Reception
in Athens
The University of Georgia continues to monitor the situation regarding COVID-19 and will update you as decisions are made regarding in-person events and programming.
For further information on upcoming events, please visit the Alumni Association’s calendar and UGA’s master calendar.
