Graduates reflect on life-changing gifts
As members of the Class of 2026 crossed the stage at LaGrange College in May, many of them carried with them opportunities made possible through the generosity of donors that opened doors, eased financial burdens and shaped futures.
For graduates like Autumn Romine and Zentrina Choice, inaugural cohorts in the Lettie Pate Whitehead (LPW) Leadership Program, scholarship support provided more than financial assistance. These scholarships also created mentorship, community and opportunities that prepared them to lead lives of purpose and service.
“This scholarship opened the door for me,” Zentrina said. “My South Carolina scholarships didn't all transfer to Georgia. I remember receiving the phone call and bursting into tears.”
For these young women, the support extended far beyond financial assistance. Through the LPW program, Autumn found mentorship, encouragement and a sense of belonging that transformed her college experience.
“I came in very shy,” she said. “The program helped me develop a community, not just with the other girls in my cohort, but also with mentors who really invested in us.”
During her time at the college, Zentrina distinguished herself as a student leader committed to service, academic excellence and community engagement. Her impact on campus and beyond earned her the prestigious Waights G. Henry Leadership Award, which recognizes students who exemplify leadership and service. She graduated Summa Cum Laude with a degree in Elementary Education and a minor in Servant Leadership. This fall, Zentrina will begin the Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction program at LaGrange College while launching her teaching career as a fifth-grade teacher at Riverdale Elementary School.
Autumn graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in History and minors in Religion and Philosophy. She will continue her education through an online master’s program while beginning her career as program coordinator at the Biblical History Center.
Stories like Autumn’s and Zentrina’s reflect the lasting impact of donor generosity at LaGrange College. Scholarships do more than help students afford an education; they empower future teachers, leaders and servants who will strengthen their communities for years to come.
“You may see it as donating your money to a school,” Autumn said, “but I see it as a chance to better myself, a chance to have an education I would not have had otherwise, and a chance for our future.”
As a new generation of Panthers arrives on the Hill, alumni support continues to create opportunities for students to discover their purpose and carry the mission of LaGrange College into the world.
Thank you for investing in LC students like Autumn and Zentrina.