What happens when a student who is one semester away from graduating with a degree in dental hygiene learns that she won’t be receiving a grant she was counting on? First there is panic. Then there is the hardest step: asking for help. For Natasha Deneault, that is exactly the path she followed one month ago. She turned to her academic adviser, who approached NHTI’s development director, who made a call to the Zonta Club of Concord.
“We have been funding tuition scholarships for women at NHTI since 2006,” said Amy Marchildon, president of the club (pictured far left). “This is a student – a single mom paying her own way through college – who was in danger of not being able to continue her education. Our membership met immediately to discuss how we could help.”
Help came in the form of a $1,000 scholarship from the Zonta Club of Concord, applied directly to Deneault’s tuition bill. The financial support means Deneault (center in picture) can finish this semester and graduate in May. In a thank-you note to the Zonta Club members, Deneault writes, “Words will never be able to describe my gratitude. This has made all the difference for me, and for my daughter. Thank you!”
Since 2006, the Zonta Club of Concord has awarded nearly $22,000 to more than 30 NHTI students. For many, like Deneault, the money means students can stay in school.
“The Zonta Club of Concord’s commitment, dedication and passion for helping students is unparalleled. For nearly a decade, they have been making huge differences in the lives of our students. We applaud and thank every member of the Zonta Club of Concord,” said Susan Dunton, president of NHTI (far right in picture).
For those who are interested in supporting the scholarship (and other) programs of the Zonta Club of Concord, please join Zonta for the 25th Annual Holiday Auction on Thursday, Dec. 10. It will be held at the Grappone Conference Center in Concord from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. The $10 cover charge includes a raffle ticket. The evening includes a silent auction, appetizers, desserts and a cash bar. Please RSVP to Donna at 753-6671 or email zontaholidayauction@gmail.com.
