The Bucks County Community College Foundation will host its 18th Annual Salute to Mothers Scholarship Tea from 1-3 PM on Friday, May 2 in the picturesque Tyler Gardens on the college’s Newtown campus.

Since its inception in 2007, the Salute to Mothers Scholarship Tea has awarded more than 225 scholarships, providing over $330,000 in financial assistance to student mothers balancing their educational goals with family responsibilities. The Tea has become a beloved tradition, celebrating the strength, resilience, and achievements of mothers who dare to pursue higher education while raising their families.

This year’s event embraces the grace and excitement of the Kentucky Derby, inviting guests to showcase their fanciful springtime hats while enjoying an elegant afternoon of gourmet tea sandwiches, desserts, and live entertainment by acclaimed violinist Claudia Pellegrini.

Among the highlights of the event are the student speakers, whose stories illustrate the life-changing impact of the Salute to Mothers Scholarship. One such story is that of Renee Koepke, a devoted mother whose determination led her to Bucks County Community College’s Paralegal Program.

With the support of two Salute to Mothers scholarships, Renee was able to continue her education while balancing the demands of family life. She successfully completed her studies and graduated in December 2022. Today, Renee has built a rewarding career at Dischell Bartle Dooley, a full-service law firm serving Montgomery, Bucks, Berks counties, and beyond. In her role as a family law paralegal, she helps clients navigate the legal system with compassion and professionalism — a testament to what can be achieved when student mothers are given the opportunity and support to thrive.

The Salute to Mothers Scholarship Tea is a powerful reminder of the transformative effect education can have — not just on the lives of student mothers, but on their families and communities for generations to come.