FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contacts:
Jazmine Steele, Senior Writer
Prince George’s Community College
steelejt@pgcc.edu
Samantha E. McCoy, Assistant Director of Communications
Prince George’s Community College
mccoyse@pgcc.edu
Largo, MD (June 2, 2025) — Prince George’s Community College (PGCC) announces an impactful partnership with MedStar Health to expand nursing education through the newly co-branded MedStar Health–Marilyn Suggs Nursing Excellence Endowed Scholarship. Enhanced by MedStar’s generous contribution, the scholarship honors PGCC alumna, U.S. Army veteran, and nurse Marilyn E. Suggs, whose children originally established it in her memory. The scholarship will provide vital resources for nursing students at PGCC who demonstrate academic excellence and a passion for health care, helping shape nursing education's future while commemorating Marilyn’s lifelong dedication to serving her community.
The check presentation and co-naming were held at PGCC, where representatives from MedStar Health, the Powell family, and College leadership gathered to celebrate the gift, new co-branding, and the impact of Suggs’ legacy.
At the event, President Falecia D. Williams, Ed.D., emphasized connecting student support to personal stories. “At PGCC, we reflect on those who have walked these hallowed halls and gone on to make a profound impact in our community. When we attach a name and a story to a scholarship, like that of Marilyn Suggs, we’re not just honoring a legacy, we're passing it forward,” Williams said. “Her story speaks to resilience, to excellence, and to purpose. Every student who receives the MedStar Health-Marilyn Suggs Nursing Excellence Endowed Scholarship will carry that inspiration with them.”
Dena Wilson, executive director of institutional advancement, said the gift will make a lasting difference in many lives. “We are honored to receive this generous gift from MedStar Health and the Powell Family in memory of Marilyn Suggs, a remarkable PGCC alumna,” said Wilson. “Marilyn’s legacy is one of service, compassion, and empowerment, and this endowment will help ensure that future students can follow in her footsteps—advancing health equity and building stronger communities for generations to come.”
“You need grit to get through a rigorous nursing program and to pass those boards, but you also need compassion and a sense of community. My mother believed deeply in serving others and giving back,” said Lewis Powell, son of Marilyn Suggs. “I hope every student who benefits from this scholarship feels that same responsibility to lift others and create positive change in their own communities. We’re a family here at PGCC, and every one of us plays a part in carrying that mission forward.”
PGCC’s nursing program is nationally ranked #1 in the National Council of State Board of Nursing (NCBSN) NCLEX-RN Report. An endowed scholarship is a lasting investment in PGCC’s nursing student success. The donated principal is permanently invested, and only the earnings are used yearly to award scholarships. This ensures ongoing support for students and creates long-term opportunity and access.
For more information about endowments, email foundation@pgcc.edu or phone 301-546-0858.
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About Prince George’s Community College
Named a National Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance, designated by the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security (2022-2027), Prince George’s Community College (PGCC) provides high-quality education and training for the progressive and career-oriented residents of Prince George’s County. From new high school graduates and career seekers to more seasoned professionals and senior citizens looking to enhance their skill sets, PGCC comprises students who represent a wide range of ages, backgrounds, and goals. Serving nearly 25,000 individuals annually, the College is the first choice for higher education for residents of Prince George’s County. Collaborative partnerships, responsive degree and training programs, and a commitment to student success enable PGCC to address diverse education and workforce development demands.
For more information, visit the College’s website at www.pgcc.edu. Prince George’s Community College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, 3624 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104; (267-284-5000); www.msche.org/. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education is an institutional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education and the Council on Higher Education.
Prince George’s Community College’s Non-Discrimination Statement affirms the College’s commitment to comply with all applicable state and federal anti-discrimination laws.