Dalton State College unveiled the new name for its School of Health Professions building in a Sept. 18 ceremony honoring Dalton businessman and philanthropist C. Kenneth “Ken” White. The new name, Ken White Health Professions Hall, recognizes White’s nearly three decades of leadership, service, and philanthropic support that helped propel the College’s growth and success.
“A building naming is one of the highest honors a college can bestow, recognizing those whose generosity and leadership have left a lasting mark on the institution,” Dalton State College President John Fuchko said. “Mr. White has helped create opportunities for students and strengthened programs that serve our region, and, from this day forward, every student who enters these doors will be reminded of the generosity, vision and community spirit represented by the name Ken White.”
White recently pledged the second-largest individual gift in Dalton State history to help support the planned expansion of the School of Health Professions and leverage additional state support for the project. The building expansion, which will occur over the next few years and total about $11 million including public and private funding, will increase the college’s capacity to prepare students for high-demand healthcare careers while helping address workforce needs across Georgia. The University System of Georgia Board of Regents approved the naming in August.
“Public support provides a strong foundation for higher education, but philanthropy allows institutions to dream bigger, move faster and serve students more effectively,” Fuchko said. “Investments like Mr. White’s send a powerful message to our students that someone believes in them and in their potential. We are incredibly grateful for his support and belief in our mission.”
Ken White Health Professions Hall is home to Dalton State’s nursing, social work and allied health programs, as well as the student health center. The facility plays a vital role in preparing healthcare professionals who serve Northwest Georgia and beyond.
A native of Cherokee County, White was a certified public accountant before entering Dalton’s carpet industry and building a successful second career from the 1970s through the 1990s. After selling his company, Whitecrest Carpets, he became deeply involved in nonprofit and community organizations, including the Dalton State Foundation.
White’s support extends beyond Dalton State’s School of Health Professions and has touched nearly every area of the college. He was the first donor to recognize the need for an on-campus student health clinic following the opening of student housing and made a significant financial investment to help establish the service. The student health center also bears his name. He endowed a scholarship to support business students, provides an annual scholarship for the college’s top-performing accounting student, supports athletics, consistently contributes to Giving Day efforts and has provided matching gifts to encourage additional philanthropy.
“For nearly 30 years, Ken has shared his wonderful gifts of time, talent, and treasure to help Dalton State grow and thrive,” David Elrod, vice president for institutional advancement, said. “His visionary gift will help expand opportunities for Dalton State to prepare future healthcare professionals and meet the growing workforce demand across the region. Ken is our dear friend, and we are honored by the tangible and enduring association with his name on this important campus building.”
White has served on the Dalton State Foundation Board of Trustees since 1998. During his tenure, White has served as chairman and vice chairman of the board and held leadership roles on the Audit, Executive and Investment committees. He continues to serve on the Investment Committee, a role he has held with distinction for more than a decade.
Learn more about Dalton State at www.daltonstate.edu.
