Gesa Credit Union donates $2,000 for ASB Programming

BBCC president Dr. Sara Thompson Tweedy holds giant check and stands with Thor the mascot

Gesa Credit Union recently made a $2,000 donation to Big Bend Community College’s Associated Student Body in support of Black History Month events and other activities related to diversity, equity and inclusion. (L-R) Hannah Klaassen, Gesa Credit Union; BBCC President Dr. Sara Thompson Tweedy and Joey Hansen, Gesa Credit Union.

MOSES LAKE — Gesa Credit Union recently made a $2,000 donation to Big Bend Community College’s Associated Student Body to help fund Black History Month events and future activities related to diversity, equity and inclusion.

Gesa marked Black History Month by making various donations in the communities they serve in support of related celebrations and educational events, Black-led organizations, and diversity/equity/inclusion initiatives and activities. The credit union facilitated the donation to the college after learning of some of the activities ASB had planned for Black History Month, such as their virtual bingo event that highlighted Black History Month facts.

“At Gesa we believe in investing in education and celebrating diversity in our communities. Our giving during February focuses on honoring Black History Month, and we are glad to support bingo and other student engagement activities related to diversity, equity, and inclusion at Big Bend,” said Angie Brotherton, Gesa Assistant Vice President of Community Relations, Sponsorships & Education. “We’re thankful for our educators and students who continue to find creative ways to learn and connect during the pandemic.”

Since last spring, Big Bend ASB officers have made it a priority to support their peers and help them stay connected with the college and each other, while remote learning. They’ve moved as many of their events (such as game nights, magic shows and motivational speakers) online as possible, held drive-thru pizza parties, and put together quarterly activity boxes full of puzzles and crafts.

ASB officers also started sharing monthly video newscasts on their social media channels which feature upcoming events, college resources and faculty and staff interviews.

“We are extremely grateful for this donation, at a time when funds are tight and we are trying to reach as many students as possible through various activities,” said Big Bend Director of Student Programs Kim Jackson. “We are glad to partner with such a wonderful local business that shares similar goals and values when it comes to focusing on diversity, equity and inclusion.”

Stay up to date on Big Bend ASB activities and events by visiting the official ASB webpage, or by following ASB on Facebook and Instagram.