Mike and Lynn Cottrell are the 2008 recipients of the "Philanthropist of the Year" award, given by the foundation for the past four years.
"In the midst of all our anxiety about the economy and about financial markets, we're pausing today to celebrate the spirit of giving and to recognize individuals whose exemplary contributions to philanthropy have advanced the common good in the northeast Georgia area," said Lynda Askew, chair of the board of directors of the North Georgia Community Foundation.
Mike Cottrell, owner of Gainesville-based Cottrell Inc., said he and his wife are "truly honored" and "deeply humbled" to be chosen for the award.
"Lynn and I love north Georgia," he said. "Our vision for the region is to stimulate quality development through advancing educational opportunities. We want future generations to be as fortunate as we are, to have the same quality of life that we all enjoy today."
One of the Cottrells' most notable contributions was made to the business school at North Georgia College and State University to create an endowment to support its facilities, students and programs. The endowment is the largest in the university's 134-year history.
"Our dream is to transform the business school of North Georgia College and State University into one of the best business schools of its size and mission in the country," Cottrell said.
As a result of that dream, Cottrell said the business school plans to establish The Center for the Future of North Georgia, which will be an applied research resource for the north Georgia community. It will also serve as a regional economic development that will facilitate regional growth.
"This center will give students a more hands-on, civic minded learning experience that would help develop their career goals," Cottrell said. "It will provide a ready work force for existing business and help attract new business into our region."
The Cottrell family has also provided lead contributions to many non-profit organizations. Their gift to the Lumpkin County Board of Education made it possible to install artificial turf on its football field at the high school. The Cottrells also support the Gainesville Symphony Orchestra, United Way, NOA Battered Woman's Shelter and the Community Helping Place, among others.
Mike Cottrell serves as chair of the College Capital Campaign to raise additional funds for North Georgia College & State University. He heads the Lumpkin County Development Authority, serves on the Cottrell School of Business advisory board and was recently appointed by Gov. Sonny Perdue to serve on the state Economic Development Board.
Lynn Cottrell serves as fundraising chair for the Enotah Anti Drug Coalition, formerly known as the White and Lumpkin County Meth Task Force.
"I have been so impressed with Lynn's abilities," said Helen Fincher Hardman, a close friend of the couple. "She is not afraid to tackle any task she faces, and amazingly she always figures out a way to make it succeed."
Hardman said the Cottrells' gifts have helped make north Georgia a competitive environment to overcome adversity and further education in the region.
"Mike and Lynn open their hearts and share their wealth by providing for needs in the community, and have made it possible for many families in our community to improve their circumstances," Hardman said.
Mike Cottrell said, "we believe that to much is given, much is expected, and that we all should give of ourselves to the extent we have the time, and of our resources to the extent that we can afford.
"We believe in helping others. We want to make a difference, and encourage others to do the same."
Mike and Lynn Cottrell
http://accesswdun.com/article/2008/11/215548