The River Parishes Community College Foundation invested in the future of 86 RPCC students Thursday evening, awarding $180,000 in scholarships during its 2026 Scholarship Reception at RPCC’s Gonzales Campus.
The annual reception brought scholarship recipients together with donors, business and industry partners, College leadership, faculty and staff to celebrate student success and recognize the partnerships that make scholarship opportunities possible.
“Scholarships do much more than help students pay for college. They give our students the opportunity to focus on completing their education and preparing for the careers that can change the trajectory of their lives and their families,” said RPCC Chancellor Quintin D. Taylor. “The generosity represented in this room demonstrates the tremendous investment our business and industry partners are making not only in RPCC, but in the people and communities we serve. We are incredibly grateful for their continued partnership and proud to celebrate each of these 86 scholarship recipients.”
Scholarships awarded through the RPCC Foundation support students across a wide range of academic and technical programs, helping offset the costs associated with tuition, books, supplies and other educational expenses. Many of the scholarships are made possible through partnerships with businesses and industries throughout the River Parishes and surrounding region.
The 2026 Scholarship Reception was sponsored by OxyChem Louisiana and Vale USA, whose support helped bring students and the organizations investing in their success together for the evening.
“When we invest in our students, we're investing in the future of our community. That's why OxyChem is proud to partner with River Parishes Community College to support local students as they pursue their education and career goals,” said Peyton Chiasson, Manager of Community Relations & Workforce Development, OxyChem Louisiana Operations. “These scholarships help remove barriers and create opportunities for the next generation of skilled professionals, leaders, and community members. Congratulations to all of the scholarship recipients. We are excited to be part of your journey and can't wait to see what you achieve!”
Vale USA also highlighted the important connection between investing in students and strengthening the region's future workforce.
“Vale USA is proud to partner with RPCC to celebrate over 86 scholarship recipients in the River Parishes. Scholarships are a meaningful investment in supporting students, their families, and the future workforce our region needs,” said Makesha Judson, Government Relations & Public Affairs, Vale USA. “Vale USA is proud to be an industry partner in supporting RPCC as they continue to create a quality talent pipeline of students and prepare them for rewarding careers.”
Beyond recognizing the individual accomplishments of scholarship recipients, the reception provided students an opportunity to meet and connect with representatives from the businesses, organizations and individuals whose generosity supports their education.
The RPCC Foundation works to advance the mission of River Parishes Community College by building partnerships and securing resources that expand educational opportunities, support student success and strengthen the communities RPCC serves.