South State Bank, Loretta Dodgen, Malinda Lowery, Helen Marvin, Patricia Skinner, Jennie Stultz and Barbara Vorhees

The Athena Award was originally presented annually by Citizens South Bank, now known as South State Bank, in collaboration with the Gaston Regional Chamber now known as the Gaston Business Association to a community leader in recognition of their business or professional accomplishments in community service. The Athena Award especially recognizes those who have been a role model to encourage women to achieve their full potential. The Athena Award recipients established this scholarship for a promising Gaston College GED or Adult High School graduate who wants to continue their education at Gaston College. The award is based primarily on academic achievement and is renewable for a second year.

Orginal contributors include: Loretta Dodgen, Malinda Lowery, Helen Marvin*, Patricia Skinner, Jennie Stultz and Barbara Vorhees

*Deceased