Temple College Foundation Awards a Record $776,000 in Scholarships
Community generosity creates life-changing opportunities for students across Central Texas
Trusted for generations, building for the future
At Temple College, education is more than a pathway to a degree—it is an opportunity to transform dreams into lifelong success. This year, the Temple College Foundation is celebrating an extraordinary milestone, awarding 806 scholarships totaling $776,350 to Temple College students for the 2026-2027 academic year.
This record-breaking year reflects the extraordinary generosity of donors, alumni, community partners, and Foundation supporters who believe in education's power to transform lives. Guided by Temple College's commitment to being "trusted for generations, building for the future," these scholarships help ensure that every student has the opportunity to pursue higher education and build a fulfilling career.
The impact of this generosity extends well beyond the number of scholarships awarded. Of the 806 scholarships awarded this year, 552 were funded by endowments, reflecting the lasting impact of donors who have established permanent scholarship funds. An additional 90 scholarships were supported by donations received this year, with donors specifically directing their gifts to be awarded in this scholarship cycle.
Recently, the Foundation secured a generous $106,000 donation from a private donor. These vital funds will directly support twelve students over the next two years and significantly expand educational opportunities for Temple College students.
"I extend my heartfelt gratitude to every donor who contributed, allowing the Temple College Foundation the opportunity to offer nearly twice as many scholarships as last year. I commend Diana Ray, our Scholarship Coordinator, who has done a tremendous job managing all that comes with the increased number of opportunities," said Dana Riegel, Executive Director of the Foundation.
Foundation fundraising events also played a significant role in this year’s success. The annual Temple College Foundation–Johnson Brothers Ford Golf Tournament and the biennial Kentucky Derby Fundraiser generated $121,500 in scholarship support, creating opportunities for 164 students.
“Scholarships are a powerful way to communicate confidence in students’ success. I can think of no better way to encourage students who may need it,” said Dana Riegel. “This year, 41% of this year’s recipients are first-generation college students and 21% are single parents,” she added.
Beyond the numbers lie stories of determination, resilience, and hope. Many scholarship recipients balance family responsibilities, careers, and academic goals as they work to build brighter futures for themselves and their families. For first-generation college students and single parents, scholarship support often marks a critical step toward earning a college credential and achieving long-term economic mobility.
“At the heart of Temple College is our goal of making a difference in students’ and their families’ lives,” said Dr. Christy Ponce, College President. “When we invest in students, support them, and create leadership and learning opportunities, they do extraordinary things. We extend our sincere appreciation to every donor, volunteer, sponsor, and supporter whose generosity makes these opportunities possible.”
The community will have additional opportunities to support Temple College students through the Foundation’s upcoming fundraising events, including the Temple College Foundation–Johnson Brothers Ford Golf Tournament on October 26, 2026, and the Kentucky Derby Fundraiser on May 1, 2027.
2027-2028 Temple College Foundation Scholarships
Applications will open again January 31, 2026. Visit the TC Foundation Scholarship page for more details.
About Temple College Foundation
Established in 1982, the Temple College Foundation serves as a bridge between Temple College and the communities it serves. The Foundation creates opportunities that support the College's growth and student success, primarily through scholarships funded by generous donors, community partnerships, and signature fundraising events such as the annual Johnson Brothers Ford Golf Tournament and the biennial Kentucky Derby Fundraiser.
Find out more on the Temple College Foundation website.