By By Steve Swogetinsky/The Meridian Star
May 5, 2001
Meridian businessman Tommy Dulaney was honored Friday for his longtime support of Meridian Community College.
Dulaney was named Mississippi Benefactor of the Year by the Council of Resource Development, a national association of community college fund-raisers. The award was presented during a regional conference in Charlotte, N.C.
Benefactors from seven other Southern states were also recognized.
Dulaney has been a member of MCC's board of trustees since 1984, serving twice as chairman. He is a former president of the MCC Foundation, and is currently a member of the finance committee.
Ann Dowdle, director of advancement at MCC, nominated Dulaney for the award. Dowdle praised Dulaney's generosity, noting that he pays for tuition and books when his employees attend MCC. Employees' family members also receive assistance through the Structural Steel Services Scholarship Endowment.
He has endowed a technology scholarship to honor one of his former instructors at MCC. In annual giving, Dulaney's business always contributes at the highest level.
Dr. Scott Elliott, president of MCC, said he's never met anyone quite like Dulaney.
Steve Swogetinsky is the regional editor of The Meridian Star. Call him at 693-1551, ext. 3217, or e-mail him at sswogetinsky@themeridianstar.com.