With a new $355,000 grant awarded in 2026, even more Reinhardt students will have access to the life-changing opportunity of higher education. For nearly seven decades, the Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation has faithfully invested in Reinhardt undergraduates, strengthening the University’s mission and expanding access to education for generations of women.
“As someone who pays her college tuition herself, I have greatly appreciated and benefited from receiving the Lettie Pate Whitehead scholarship,” stated June DeLauder (RU-2028). “By helping support and fund my college education, it allows me not to feel the stress and pressure of financial dues while juggling my courses and athletics. Receiving this scholarship has made it easier to focus on my education and feel freer and more relaxed when thinking about my future.”
Reinhardt is proud to honor the remarkable legacy of Lettie Pate Whitehead (1872-1953), a woman whose courage, compassion, and unwavering faith continues to shape the lives of thousands across the Southeast.
Whitehead’s legacy is rooted in resilience and compassion. Her devotion to uplifting women began in her youth in Bedford County, Virginia. She grew up in an environment where compassion and community support were part of everyday life, shaping her lifelong commitment to helping women in need.
At the age of 32, her husband passed unexpectedly, leaving both the household and their company in her care. With steady determination, she went on to achieve extraordinary success, managing nearly 80 Coca-Cola bottling plants and earning an appointment to the board of The Coca-Cola Company in 1934 — accomplishments that were groundbreaking for women of her era. Despite her achievements, Whitehead never forgot the struggles that shaped her understanding of compassion, humility, and philanthropy.
The impact of the Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation ripples through our classrooms, residence halls, athletic fields, and performing arts spaces. It lives in the courage of young women striving to be the first in their family to earn a degree. It lives in the determination of nursing students preparing to serve their communities. It lives in the confidence of young leaders learning to use their gifts in service to others. For our faculty, staff, and community, this enduring partnership is a powerful reminder that philanthropy, rooted in faith and compassion, can transform lives for generations.
As Lettie Pate Whitehead Evans once reflected: “Any good therefore that I can do or any kindness that I can show to any human being, let me do it now.” Reinhardt University is profoundly grateful that her spirit of kindness continues to shine so brightly on our campus.
