Purpose
The MECC Foundation, Inc., is a non-profit organization which raises funds in support of a variety of projects for Mountain Empire Community College in Big Stone Gap, Virginia. Foundation projects include scholarships, faculty & staff development, cultural programs and events, campus improvements, and educational programs and other projects not funded through traditional sources.

Scholarships
The Foundation awards scholarships to qualified persons for the purpose of attending Mountain Empire Community College. These awards are based on criteria such as financial need and scholastic promise, and are available to persons who are enrolled or intend to enroll in specific Programs. Scholarship recipients are selected by the MECC Office of Financial Aid. To find more information about scholarships on MECC's Web site, see the college's online catalog, or telephone the MECC Financial Aid Office at 276-523-7470.

Faculty and Staff Development
The Foundation raises funds to support professional development activities for MECC faculty & staff. Ongoing professional development ensures that MECC personnel are trained in the most current procedures of performing their duties, have a working knowledge of breaking technologies, and receive reinforcement of interpersonal skills, in order to provide the highest quality learning environment to students.