GSW student Savannah Paros of Albany chosen for $1,000 gas card

AMERICUS, GA (February 28, 2024) – Savannah Paros, a Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW) commuter student from Albany, is the recipient of a $1,000 gas card, made possible by the generosity of Charles Eames, a philanthropist from Waycross, and Perry Brothers Oil Company in Americus.

With the increase in travel costs, curbing that expense for GSW students has proven more important than ever. This award is designed to address some of that financial burden.

“Thank you to Mr. Eames for graciously donating the funds to make this opportunity possible,” stated Paros. “Living has become more and more expensive since I began college, and taking gas costs out of that equation would definitely make the continuation of my education career smoother and more accessible. This will allow me to focus more time and energy towards providing for my family and keeping my grades up, as well as lift financial worries and burdens from my shoulders.”

A sophomore biology major, Paros plans to pursue a career as a zoologist or in the biology teaching profession. She has made the Dean’s List and President’s List, is a recipient of the Frances Bagley Arenz Jones Scholarship, and is a member of Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society and the National Society of Leadership and Success.

Paros’ essay was chosen as one of five essays that were narrowed down from the 32 applicants. The five anonymous essays were scored based upon three criteria: focus/main point, need for support, and writing/organization/grammar.

“The GSW Foundation has a unique opportunity to support Georgia Southwestern students as they work to earn a college degree,” said Stephen Snyder, GSW Foundation executive director. “It is a privilege to partner with our donors to help alleviate financial burdens for students.”

Eames, a retired librarian, provides funding for gas cards for GSW students and other schools in South Georgia. Because of his generosity, GSW initiated a local partnership with Perry Brothers Oil Company to acquire the cards exclusively with the Gas n Go stores with 16 locations across South Georgia. The University distributes multiple $100 gas cards each month to students who apply.

This is one of the many ways GSW supports its students and reiterates Paros’s decision to choose GSW for her higher education journey.

“Georgia Southwestern provides a feeling of home away from home, a certain coziness unmatched by any of the other institutions I explored. With the help of so many GSW donors investing in higher education, I am able to attend college and pursue my dream.”