Montreat Presbyterian Church, EPC, which just celebrated its 100th anniversary, has a long-standing relationship and partnership with the college. The church’s minister served as the college’s chaplain for many years, and the congregation has worshiped in the college’s Gaither Chapel since it was built in 1936. According to Richard White, Teaching Pastor at Montreat Presbyterian Church, EPC, “Our church’s mission overlaps with that of the college in ‘telling the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord…’ (Psalm 78:4). Therefore, we rejoice in our partnership with Montreat College and are glad to be of help in this difficult financial season.”
Dr. Dan Struble, President of Montreat College, says, “Reverend Richard White, the session, and members of Montreat Presbyterian, EPC have our sincere gratitude. They stepped up to help our students and the college during very challenging economic times. Their large gift made a huge impact and allows the college to enter its accreditation cycle in a stable financial condition. We would not have been successful without them and hundreds of alumni, friends, foundations, and churches who value Christ-centered higher education and the impact Montreat College has on our students and community.”
The Keystone Fund is the major scholarship fund for the college, benefiting current and incoming students each year. Last year 98 percent of all Montreat College students at the Montreat campus received an award from the Keystone Fund. Keystone scholarships are awarded for academic performance and financial need.
This year’s goal for the Keystone Fund was $1.65 million. The college received gifts and commitments totaling $1.651 million from a record number of donors, exceeding the Keystone Fund’s goal in one of the worst economic downturns of the college’s 93-year history. The total number of donors increased 38 percent over last year.