2024 Chancellor’s Award for Leadership in Philanthropy

Published on April 23rd, 2024

Last modified April 30th, 2024 09:31 am

Richmond, Va. – Catherine “Cathy” Corte Payne & Family has received the 18th Annual Chancellor’s Award for Leadership in Philanthropy. She was nominated by Southwest Virginia Community College (SWCC). The Virginia Foundation for Community College Education (VFCEE) hosted the presentation of the 2024 Chancellor’s Award for Leadership in Philanthropy, recognizing over two dozen distinguished individuals, families, and organizations. This event took place at a ceremonial luncheon in Richmond on Tuesday, April 16, 2024. VCCS Chancellor Dr. David Doré presided as emcee, with The Honorable Maurice Jones delivering the keynote address.

“Virginia’s growth, prosperity, and well-being depend on the success of our community college system and the success of our students,” said Jones. “From childcare and housing assistance to reducing food insecurity, we must care and invest in the whole student for students and the Commonwealth to be successful.” This year’s class of distinguished philanthropy leaders has collectively contributed $17 million to Virginia’s Community Colleges.

Cathy has served on the SWCC Educational Foundation board since 2022, continuing her mother Betty Corte’s legacy of supporting Southwest Virginia Community College. Like her mother, who was a dedicated member of both the SWCC local and foundation boards, Cathy is an advocate for community colleges and supports SWCC’s mission. Besides her role at Bluefield University, Cathy actively participates in various community and civic organizations and serves on the Town Council of Bluefield, VA. Notably, her mother, Betty Corte, was honored as the first SWCC recipient of the Chancellor’s Award for Leadership in Philanthropy in 2006.

Cathy Payne stands for a photo in front of a brick in memory of her parents, Stelio and Betty Corte. The new brick donor wall is located inside Dellinger Hall.

“Throughout her years of dedication and significant contributions, Cathy has made a substantial impact at Southwest Virginia Community College. Her involvement reaches beyond financial donations; as a current foundation board member, she has been a pivotal influence. Her support has elevated our institution and has underscored the importance of community college in our community and throughout the Commonwealth. She personifies the essence of philanthropy, reminding us that the true strength of our college is rooted in academic success and the solidarity of our community,” said Dr. Tommy Wright, President of SWCC.

Pictured (L-R) Dr. Tommy Wright, Millie Raynor (Cathy’s daughter) Dr. David Doré, Mary Lawson, Cathy Payne, Libby Perry (Cathy’s daughter), Stacey Mcghee

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About Virginia’s Community Colleges: Since 1966, Virginia’s Community Colleges have given everyone the opportunity to learn and develop the right skills so lives and communities are strengthened. By making higher education and workforce training available in every part of Virginia, we elevate all of Virginia. Together, Virginia’s Community Colleges serve approximately 230,000 students each year. For more information, please visit www.vccs.edu.

About the Virginia Foundation for Community College Education: As the supporting arm of Virginia’s 23 community colleges, the Virginia Foundation for Community College Education (VFCCE) broadens access to educational opportunities for all Virginians, while ensuring the long-term success of the Commonwealth and the needs of its workforce. To ensure access to high quality, affordable degrees and certifications, the Foundation’s statewide leadership raises funds and resources in order to supplement and support the activities of both individual students and community colleges. For more information on VFCCE and its mission, and to provide your support, visit www.vfcce.org.