Darton State College Foundation holds its annual gala

ALBANY — The Darton State College Foundation held its annual gala Thursday evening at the Cavalier Arena. The event is the Foundation’s largest fund raiser of the year.

“This is our signature event of the year,” Foundation Chairman Chris Cohilas said. “This is always a great opportunity to showcase the talent we produce in Dougherty County and to raise awareness of the educational opportunities available at the college.”

Cohilas, who chairs the Dougherty County Commission, added he was pleased with the turnout.

“I think it’s great to see the support from other educational institutions in Albany and I am very happy to see those partnerships flourish,” he said.

Darton Interim Chief Advancement Officer Cynthia George said the purpose of the gala was to raise money for scholarships and increase awareness of the college.

“We’ve raised more than $300,000 in scholarship money and we have a large number of honor students all over south Georgia,” she said. “It’s important to let them know what we have to offer.”

George was asked what it would take for her to consider the evening a success.

“I’m already calling it a success, look at all the people you see here tonight,” she said.