Columbia State Community College veterinary technology student, Kayla DuBois, a Williamson County resident, was recently named the sole recipient of a $20,000 scholarship through the Rob R. and Christel Adams Veterinary Technology Scholarship Fund.

This marks the largest scholarship awarded to a vet tech student in Columbia State's history. 

In addition to tuition and fees, the award covers expenses such as textbooks, transportation, lodging and supplies, as well as other costs associated with attending college. 

“When I received the email informing me that I had been selected as a scholarship recipient, I was genuinely astonished,” DuBois said. “It was an incredibly humbling moment, and I am beyond grateful for this opportunity. This scholarship is a profound blessing and will play a crucial role in helping me achieve my academic and professional goals.”

The scholarship fund is part of the academic support offered by the Community Foundation of Greater Atlanta. Started in 1951, CFGA is Georgia’s second-largest foundation and is a top 20 community foundation by asset size among 800 nationally.

“Columbia State is thrilled Kayla has been selected for this generous scholarship through CFGA,” said Dr. Kae Fleming, Columbia State dean of the Health Sciences Division. “The option for annual renewal will also ease the financial burden of continued education and degree advancement after Kayla graduates with her Associate of Applied Science in May 2026!”  

DuBois said she originally chose Columbia State because of how close-knit and welcoming the people and campus felt. And she says since being at the college, she has only felt a sense of support from her instructors.

“The faculty and staff have gone above and beyond to create an environment where students are not only challenged academically but are also nurtured personally and professionally,” DuBois said.

After graduating from Columbia State, she plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in veterinary technology at the University of Tennessee, Martin, with the goal of earning a specialty license in equine nursing.

DuBois' instructors and professors say this scholarship demonstrates her hard work and effort during her time at Columbia State. 

“We are incredibly proud of Kayla and all that she’s accomplished,” said Brie Pruitt, Columbia State veterinary technology instructor and advisor to the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in the America Chapter for Veterinary Technician Students. “This scholarship is a reflection of her hard work, leadership and commitment to making a positive impact on our campus, in our profession and beyond. It’s been an honor to support her journey, and we can’t wait to see where she goes from here.”

Since 2022, the CFGA has awarded over $9.7 million in scholarships and has granted over $2.45 billion to non-profits and scholarship funds.

“We are exceptionally proud of Kayla for being the sole recipient of this prestigious and substantial scholarship,” said Dr. Julie Anderson, Columbia State veterinary technology program director and assistant professor of veterinarian technology. “This remarkable achievement reflects her outstanding dedication, talent and character. Kayla is one exceptional student. This award is an inspiration to our entire school community and a powerful reminder of what’s possible through perseverance and excellence.” 

DuBois says she is nothing but thankful for the support to both receive this scholarship and throughout her learning at Columbia State. 

“I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Columbia State and to the individuals who have had a profound impact on my journey—Ms. Pruitt, Dr. Anderson and our program dean, Dr. Fleming,” she said. “Their dedication and belief in me have made this achievement possible, and I am deeply honored to represent our program as a scholarship recipient.”

The scholarship extends through the 2025-2026 academic year; however, DuBois has the option to reapply annually for additional funds to support continued formal education and degree advancement.

As part of Columbia State’s commitment to making higher education achievable to students across southern Middle Tennessee, the college encourages its students to apply for and seek out scholarship opportunities. For more information on current Columbia State scholarship offerings, visit our website https://www.columbiastate.edu/financial-aid/types-of-aid/fa-scholarships.html.