Great Expectations: Gather and Grow

Since its inception in 2008, the Virginia Foundation for Community College’s (VFCCE) Great Expectations has been a beacon of hope for Virginia’s community college students who have experienced foster care. The program has served not only as financial assistance but also as a dependable support system for students seeking to further their education. Great Expectations students, coaches, investors, and supporters from across the Commonwealth joined the VFCCE at the Great Expectations: Gather and Grow event on August 19 to celebrate the program’s success in the past 16 years and look ahead to its future.

New York Bestselling Author of Hope’s Boy and child advocate Andrew Bridge, keynote speaker, shared his personal experiences overcoming adversity in foster care and his fight for children who are in the system to receive a fair chance for better opportunities.

“Nearly 4,200 teenagers and young adults from foster care have arrived on the doorstep of one of Virginia’s community colleges, and Great Expectations has been there to take their hand,” said Bridge. “Some of the most extraordinary things you give them won’t come from a textbook. And for every teacher, every coach, every staff member, and every donor, you give them great expectations for their future.”

Bridge then led a panel discussion with Great Expectations students Nick Flurnoy, Virginia Western Community College; Cassie Adkins, Southwest Community College; Fariha Rahman, Northern Virginia Community College; David Billhimer, Brightpoint Community College; and Kayla Brockington, a graduate of Reynolds Community College. Each student shared their personal journey, challenges, and triumphs, underscoring the importance of the program in shaping their future. From overcoming financial obstacles to finding a sense of belonging in their academic communities, these students provided firsthand accounts of how Great Expectations has been instrumental in their success.

Sharing how difficult life was after being kicked out of her home in high school, Adkins emphasized the critical role the program played in the academic journey to become a dental hygienist. “Without the Great Expectations program, I would not be here today. It has really helped me in my time of need,” she said.

After the panel discussion, guests enjoyed lunch while hearing from Great Expectations student speaker Keona Beamon, who is pursuing a degree in Business Administration from Reynolds Community College. Echoing the profound sentiments of the panelists, Beamon expressed deep gratitude for the support she received, particularly the Joe and Linda Daniel Student Success funds. The grant helped alleviate financial stress, allowing her to focus more on her studies and less on economic worries.

“This grant had a ripple effect beyond just covering immediate expenses. It’s a reminder that there is support available and that small acts of assistance can have a big impact on our ability to achieve our goals,” said Beamon.

As the event concluded, the VFCCE shared its vision for the future of Great Expectations. With a continued focus on expanding the program’s reach and deepening its impact, the goal is clear: to ensure that every student who has experienced foster care in Virginia has the opportunity to pursue higher education and build a better future.

“Great Expectations is more than a program – it’s a transformative initiative,” said VFCCE Executive Director and Vice Chancellor of Institutional Advancement Dr. Jennifer Gentry. “We’re committed to making sure that every young person who has experienced foster care knows that they are not alone and that they have a bright future ahead.”

The Gather and Grow event was not just a celebration of the past 16 years but a call to action for the future. Thank you to the event sponsors Linda and Joe Daniel, Anthem Healthkeepers Plus, the Debbie J. Johnston Charitable Fund, the Barbara and Mark Fried Endowment, and the Dottie and Al Whitt Endowment. Attendees left the event with a sense of shared purpose and optimism. With the continued support of the community, Great Expectations will undoubtedly continue to change lives for years to come.

To access more pictures from the event, click here.