Dr. Gersham Nelson, co-founder of Knockalva International Alumni Association (KIAA), Inc., a not-for-profit organization, is devoting much of his post-retirement time fundraising on behalf of financially challenged students in Jamaica. He has given priority to supporting students pursuing studies in agriculture, food processing, and technology aimed at modernizing food production in an environmentally responsible way. Dr. Nelson’s career has been driven largely by his commitment to unleashing the transformative power of education. He is a retired Dean of the College of Arts, Humanities, & Social Sciences at the University of Central Missouri, and “despite his administrative responsibilities, this passionate Professor/Teacher/Scholar has always made time to engage with learners in and outside of the classroom. He wishes every individual to recognize that failure to learn from the past condemns us to a repeat of past neglect, recklessness, and atrocities.” His life's mission transcends the conventional methods of education because he now supports, mentors and is actively engaged in creating events to stimulate the emotions and the intellect to raise funds for scholarships. Embracing the universal language of laughter, Dr. Nelson has ingeniously integrated comedy into the heart of fundraising efforts, aiming to provide scholarships to deserving students in Jamaica.
At the core of the Knockalva International Alumni Association's mission is the belief that education is a fundamental right and a steppingstone to a brighter future. This belief is embodied in the core mission of the association. Understanding the challenges that hinder access to education, especially in underprivileged communities, Dr. Nelson has turned this mission into a beacon of hope for many.
The use of comedy as a fundraising tool is having a ripple effect in the community. It is bringing people together, breaking down barriers and creating a shared experience that transcends social and economic divides. Inasmuch as KIAA, Inc. is an all-volunteer organization, funds raised through these events go directly towards scholarships, enabling students with academic and professional promise to develop their potentials in a context which underscores the value and power of altruism.
By focusing on education, Dr. Nelson and the Knockalva International Alumni Association are investing in the future. “Educated individuals are more likely to contribute positively to their communities and the world at large. This initiative is not just about providing financial support; it is more so about empowering students to reach their full potential and become agents of change in their communities and beyond." Says Dr. Nelson.
This innovative approach, combining comedy with a cause, demonstrates the power of creative thinking in the interest of philanthropy. The Knockalva International Alumni Association, Inc., through laughter and generosity, is making education accessible to those who need it most. Their work is a testament to the fact that when communities come together for a cause, the impact can be both profound and enduring. This initiative is not just about creating opportunities; it is also about inspiring hope and building a brighter future one scholarship and one laugh at a time.