Piedmont Columbus Regional and the Bowden family of Columbus celebrated the birth of their son, and because baby Joseph was the first baby born on May 29, the family was awarded $1,529 for his college savings. Across the nation, May 29 is celebrated as “529 Day” in an effort to raise awareness of each state’s 529 college savings plan and the importance of financial planning.

Joseph “Joe” Bradford Bowden was born to proud parents Brad and Sally Bowden at 5:25 a.m. on May 29— weighing 7 lb. and 5 oz. This is the Bowden’s second child; they also have a 2-year-old daughter.

 “We are extremely thankful and surprised about this,” said the father, Brad. “We realize a higher education is the springboard to opportunities to achieve goals in life, and we are thankful Joe has received this.” 

Piedmont Columbus Regional and Doctors Hospital of Augusta are the only two hospitals in Georgia that partner with Path2College 529 Plan to award a college savings account contribution to a “529 Day Baby.” This is the ninth year Piedmont Columbus Regional has partnered with Path2College 529 Plan. 

“This is a wonderful opportunity to participate in the future education of one of our youngest patients. The goals of this program align with our mission to support the needs of children in our community and to make a positive difference in the lives we touch,” said Piedmont Columbus Regional Director of Women and Children’s Services Jonetta Chestnut.

“The simple act of opening a 529 plan early can pay dividends for any family with young children. College may seem far away when a baby is first born, but it’s smart to prepare for whatever educational future awaits,” said Georgia Student Finance Commission President Lynne Riley. “Even a small amount invested early on can grow significantly over the years, helping to reduce the amount you or your children will have to borrow.”

A Path2College 529 Plan account can be an incredible gift to give your children or grandchildren. It can help them graduate from college with less debt or even debt-free, which can give them a firm foundation to start building their life.

For more information about the Path2College 529 Plan or to open a college savings account, please visit Path2College529.com or call (877) 424-4377.