(COLUMBIA, Tenn. - June 20, 2018) - - - The Columbia State Community College Foundation hosted an awards luncheon in the Pryor Art Gallery to thank board members for their service and to honor the winners of the Chancellor's Award, the President's Award of Honor for Distinguished Alumni and the President's Award of Honor for Service.

Kirk Kelso, Columbia State Foundation chair, welcomed attendees to the event and thanked them for their service to Columbia State.

Patricia Selle received the President's Award of Honor for Distinguished Alumni. The award is presented to those alumni for their service in furthering the interests of Columbia State, or for bringing honor to the college through their professional or community endeavors. Selle graduated from Columbia State at age 48 with an associate degree of science; at 81, she crossed the stage at Warner University to receive her bachelor's degree in Christian ministry.

Selle was the first woman in Tennessee to be certified with a general appraisal real estate license, which is the highest rank in the state. While running her own real estate agency, Selle taught courses at Columbia State. She currently teaches Sunday school classes and is very active in her church.

J. David and Sydney McClain received the President's Award of Honor for Distinguished Service. The award is presented to those whose service has furthered the interests of Columbia State or for bringing honor to the college through their professional or community endeavors. The McClains are members of the Columbia State Foundation President's Society - Bronze level, the '66 Circle and the Legacy Society. In addition, they have served on numerous college committees, have played an active role in student recruitment, have represented the Foundation and community at numerous Columbia State commencement ceremonies and have been season ticket holders and patrons of the Performance Series since its first performance in 2001. David and Sydney are also both very active in the community and in their church.

Sydney holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Alabama and a master's degree from Middle Tennessee State University. She taught in the Maury County school system for 15 years and is a member of the International Honorary Organization for Women Educators, Alpha Delta Kappa. David holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Alabama and is currently the president of Shappard Lumber Company, Inc.

Dr. B.I. Naddy, retired Columbia State professor of chemistry, was presented the 2018 Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Philanthropy by Dr. Flora W. Tydings, Tennessee Board of Regents Chancellor. Dr. Janet F. Smith, Columbia State president, nominated Naddy for the award.

"Dr. Naddy's tireless support of Columbia State has set an example for others and has created a lasting impact that will be felt for lifetimes to come," Smith said.

Naddy first came to America on a Fulbright scholarship - he often tells the story of that generosity and has dedicated his life to repay that kindness and give back to others.

Naddy was one of the first faculty members at Columbia State as he started as a professor of chemistry in 1967. Many of his past students credit him for their success in life - he spent much of his extra time tutoring and encouraging students. Since his retirement in 2009, he has maintained a dedication to the college; Naddy still tutors chemistry students and serves as an adjunct professor. He participates in events and activities on campus and is active in the community with sharing the happenings at Columbia State with others.

In addition to his service, Naddy has contributed several monetary gifts to the college. In 2014, he established a scholarship endowment that benefits STEM and pre-professional students continuing their education and moving toward a bachelor's degree or higher. Naddy also provided funds for a display at the college called "The Alumni Success Project." The display shows what past alumni have accomplished so students can see what others have done with their Columbia State degree and feel motivated to reach for their dreams, work hard and give back to the community. Naddy believes in Columbia State, its mission and the students.

Photo Caption: (Pictured left to right) Patricia Selle, winner of the President's Award of Honor for Distinguished Alumni and Dr. Janet F. Smith, Columbia State president.

Photo Caption: J. David and Sydney McClain, winners of the President's Award of Honor for Distinguished Service, with Dr. Janet F. Smith, Columbia State president. (Pictured left to right) Sydney McClain, Smith and J. David McClain.

Photo Caption: (Pictured left to right) Dr. Janet F. Smith, Columbia State president; Dr. B.I. Naddy, winner of the 2018 Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Philanthropy; and Dr. Flora W. Tydings, Tennessee Board of Regents Chancellor.