Darton State College

Smokin’ Butts 5K and Fun Run was a huge success! The weather was perfect, the BBQ from the Darton State Cookers smelled great and the runners and their families were energetic and enthusiastic. Whether the runner was the pro that finished in 19 minutes or the first timer who finished in 46 minutes, everyone had a great time. And, that great time was had in the name of fundraising for scholarships and for much needed funds for the Cross Country team.

This was the 4^th annual spring 5K for Darton, but the first time that the alumni association was involved. It was estimated that about 60% of the 137 runners were current students or alumni. Our Board member Cindy McNair and Alumni Coordinator, Lisa Malinowski, were able to update their information, give out goodies, and let them know of the association’s goal of raising money for scholarships. It was a beautiful day for the run and a successful one for the alumni association, Darton and scholarships.

Be sure to take a look at the photos on the alumni page and on Smokin’ Butts 5K page on Facebook.

The Darton Alumni Association is accepting applications for five positions on the Board of Directors, including the position of president, until May 15. The new board members will start their three term commitment on July 1. The alumni association is a supporting partner of the Darton State College Foundation, who gives out scholarships to our students, and board members are an integral part of our mission of supporting student scholarships and creating strong lifetime connections through membership.

The Board of Directors meet on a monthly basis and are expected to help plan, attend and promote alumni events, and socials along with fundraising for scholarships and educating fellow alumni on what Darton State College has to offer today. This past year our events included a tailgate and socials at a Henry Campbell’s and Austin’s Firegrill and Oyster Bar. The association has also had a presence at graduation and registration welcoming students. Our upcoming events will include a family friendly painting party at the The Clay Spot on May 18th from 3-5 p.m., and in June we’re planning on a social at Casa Tapatia including live music. In August we’ll be helping students move into the dorms and will be giving out ice cream and water to their families. It’s lots of fun and serious business at the same time!

If you know of someone or if you are that special alumni that loves Darton and wants to be involved please email Lisa Malinowski, alumni coordinator, at lisa.malinowski@darton.edu or call her at (229) 317-6729.

An application is available here:

Partner with us by joining the Alumni Association. Joining the Alumni Association for a small gift of $35 or giving to the Annual Fund says that you recognize the positive impact Darton had in shaping your future. Each membership is a gift of education through scholarships for current and new students, and helps us grow even more by supporting Darton’s growth as a four year institution. As a member of the association we invite you to come to events, volunteer on a committee, or as an Alumni Board member. It’s a great group of people to be involved in – we’re all Cavaliers!