Gadsden, AL – During the most recent board meeting of the Gadsden State Cardinal Foundation, several board members were recognized for their service to the Board of Directors, and new officers were recognized. Two new board members were welcomed as well.

Outgoing President Tommie Goggans, III, was recognized for his stellar leadership over the past two years.  Tommie led the Cardinal Foundation through two gala celebrations and several giving campaigns. During his Tenure as president, the Cardinal Foundation awarded more than $120,000 in scholarships to students and funded numerous college programs.

Goggans says, “It has been truly gratifying to work with my fellow board members, the Director of Advancement, faculty and staff, and college leadership at all levels to further our mission. I felt a tremendous sense of responsibility when agreeing to serve in this role. Previous board presidents led by example and inspired others to give of their time, influence and resources to support the mission of Gadsden State and to provide opportunities for students. My goal was to build on our previous achievements by thinking big and taking bold and decisive action to improve our organization.”

Goggans will remain on the board as a member.

The outgoing Treasurer, Bryan Dorsett, was recognized for two terms as a board member, as well as his service as Treasurer. Dorsett was Treasurer during the transition of the Cardinal Foundation’s investments to Mason Investment Advisory Services, a top tier institutional wealth management agency.  Dorsett says, “Serving as a Board Member for the Gadsden State Cardinal Foundation has been an invaluable opportunity to support education and student success in our community. Working alongside dedicated individuals to advance scholarships and resources has reinforced the power of collaboration and strategic leadership in shaping futures. My time in this role has deepened my appreciation for the lasting impact of accessible education and the importance of fostering opportunities for the next generation.”

New officers for the upcoming fiscal year include Major General Eric Crabtree (USAF, retired) serving as President. Tony Smith will serve as Vice President. Our Treasurer will be Melissa Battles and Secretary, Gerri Langley.

In addition to our leadership, two board members were added.

Gerald Pentecost  – Gerald Pentecost is a Certified Public Accountant and a longtime resident of Etowah County.  He is currently the owner of a CPA firm located in Gadsden. He is a 1992 graduate of the University of Alabama at Birmingham and also obtained an associate’s degree in business in 1990 from Gadsden State Community College. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Alabama Society of CPAs. He is also a member of the board of directors for the Humane Society Pet Rescue and Adoption Center and is a member of the Rotary Club of Gadsden. Gerald and his wife, Kimberly, currently reside in the Whorton Bend area.

Sheri Rollins – Sheri currently serves as the District Director for Congressman Mike Rogers (AL-03).  She has held this position with the Congressman since 2007. Prior to being District Director, she has held positions as Field Representative and District Scheduler/Executive Assistant within the Congressional Office.  Sheri has a long-term working relationship with Congressman Rogers and has been employed by him for 34 years.

Sheri’s official duties include managing the Congressman’s two district offices along with six district employees, in addition to maintaining a good working relationship with the Congressman’s DC office, committee staff, and campaign office. Sheri is also responsible for developing and maintaining relationships with elected officials in the 3rd Congressional District, along with many other key community leaders in the 11 counties the Congressman represents.

In addition to her official job duties, Sheri enjoys being involved in her community.  She currently serves as Vice President of the Cleburne County Chamber of Commerce and is on the Board of Directors of the Kiwanis Club of Cleburne County. She is the immediate past Treasurer of the Cheaha Republican Women’s Club and still serves as an active member.

“The tremendous talent and expertise afforded to Gadsden State Community College through our Cardinal Foundation’s Board of Directors is an immeasurable asset,” said Hillary Folsom, director of advancement and alumni relations for Gadsden State Community College. “The members of our board give their time, their talent, and their unwavering support to the mission of GSCC and the students who benefit from our philanthropic efforts.”

To learn more about how you can support Gadsden State’s Cardinal Foundation visit www.cardinalfoundation.org