Columbus City Councilman Walker Garrett had no idea what to expect when he walked in as a special guest for the recent meeting of the Columbus Literacy Alliance – an organization where he served as Chair until sworn in as a city councilor. The Literacy Alliance works in partnership with Columbus Technical College to provide GED and other adult education services to the College’s six-county service area (Muscogee, Harris, Talbot, Stewart, Quitman, and Chattahoochee).

Columbus Technical College faculty, staff, and administration, Literacy Alliance Board members and even Walker’s preacher looked on and applauded as Walker was presented a certificate recognizing a scholarship in his name.

Supporters of the Literacy Alliance, teachers, friends and others raised a whopping $3,700 for the R. Walker Garrett Literacy Alliance GED Scholarship. The funds are allocated for helping cover the cost associated with the GED exam. Each of the four test sections of the exam costs $40 and many students can’t afford the fees. Columbus Technical College teachers and Adult Education administrators will assist in helping select the students who may receive the scholarship. Monies would go directly to the testing agencies.

“This scholarship will help so many students in so many ways,” said Columbus Technical College President Lorette M. Hoover. “Not only will it pay for the testing but once that GED is under your belt, the sky’s the limit. Many of our GED students continue their education right here at Columbus Technical College. No matter what they do, that GED is a stepping stone to a better life.”

Garrett was chosen for this special scholarship due to his dedication to helping others learn. Like reading to little ones on a regular basis – a practice he continues to this day.

Thank you Walker Garrett for your commitment to our community.

For more information, please contact Dir. of the Chattahoochee Valley Certified Literate Community Program at [email protected] or 762-822-3297.