At a recent donor appreciation luncheon hosted by the College for Creative Studies, donors and scholarship recipients gathered in the General Motors Auditorium at the A. Alfred Taubman Center for Design Education to celebrate the transformative power of education – and the generosity that makes it possible. Held on October 22, the event provided a meaningful platform for heartfelt connections between those who give and those who benefit from their support. 

Jim Nicholson, Chair of the Board of Trustees, spoke about the profound impact philanthropy has on the college community. “Every scholarship represents a story of hope and ambition,” he said. “It’s our responsibility to invest in these talented individuals who will shape the future of our industries. Your contributions are not just financial support, they are lifelines that help students reach their full potential.” 

As attendees listened, they were reminded of the difference philanthropy makes for students navigating the challenges of college. Guests heard firsthand how scholarships have transformed lives, opening doors to education and brighter futures.  

A senior scholarship recipient at CCS shared how pivotal his scholarship has been to his journey. “About four years ago, I didn’t think I would have the opportunity to graduate from CCS… I genuinely had no clue how I would afford college, much less a school as prestigious as this one.” Now on track to graduate in 2025, he expressed deep gratitude for the experiences his scholarship made possible, from studying abroad to gaining skills and mentors that have “changed the trajectory” of his life. “This career path wouldn’t have been possible without donors taking a chance on me,” he said, adding that he hopes to one day support students just as he has been supported. 

For him and many others, scholarship support has been the difference between dreams deferred and dreams realized. Another scholarship recipient shared her journey to CCS, recalling both the excitement of her acceptance and the sense of relief that came with receiving scholarship support. Receiving the Alumni Scholarship, she said, was the moment she could finally focus on what truly mattered: making art. “Thanks to your generosity, I’m able to accomplish what I’m really at CCS to do: make art … I’m forever grateful that you choose to value our education, our artmaking and our financial success as young adults.” 

CCS President Don Tuski emphasized the vital role scholarships play in shaping students’ futures. “I’ve witnessed firsthand the profound impact that scholarships have on our students’ lives. Your support not only lightens their financial load but empowers them to explore their full potential and push the boundaries of creativity,” he shared. “Today, we celebrate not just education, but the transformative role that creativity plays in shaping our future.”  

Tessa Semma Jarbo, whose sister Kacy Semma Hall graduated from CCS in 2006, spoke movingly about the inspiration behind the scholarship that honors her sister’s memory. “Kacy’s cancer diagnosis became an invaluable lesson that life is not guaranteed for anyone and time is our most precious resource,” Jarbo shared. In establishing the Kacy Semma Memorial Scholarship, she and her husband Johnny sought to pay tribute to Kacy’s “creative spirit and commitment to nurturing the next generation of artists and designers.” She expressed their hope that the scholarship will “not only provide resources but also inspire recipients to give back to the creative community, continuing the cycle of inspiration that Kacy started.” 

Katie Rusak, CCS Director of Advancement, echoed the importance of connecting donors with the students they support. “These moments of connection are what it’s all about,” Rusak shared. “Your support not only provides critical financial assistance but inspires our students to pursue their passions and dreams. We are here to recognize the profound impact scholarships have on our students’ lives, opening doors to opportunities that might otherwise remain closed.” 

In closing, Rusak expressed heartfelt appreciation: “On behalf of the entire CCS community, I extend my heartfelt thanks to each and every one of you,” she said. “Your belief in our mission and in our students makes all the difference. You empower students to pursue their dreams without the burden of financial worry, and for that, we are forever grateful.”