ACM Sophie Powell Pantry Dedication

On Thursday, Oct. 22, Allegany College of Maryland (ACM) celebrated the naming of the Sophie Powell Pantry. The pantry, which provides free food, hygiene products, and school supplies to ACM students in need of assistance, has received a donation from Allegany County native, Bob Powell, long-time supporter of ACM. The pantry is dedicated to Powell’s aunt, Sophie Powell, a life-long resident of Cumberland and supporter of ACM who passed at the age of 100 in 2025, whose estate funded the donation. Sophie was a graduate of Allegany High School who spent many years as a supervising teller with First Federal Savings and Loan. her kind, helpful nature. “At ACM, we believe that student success extends well beyond the classroom,” said ACM President David Jones. “Before students can focus on class work, pursue their goals, and reach their potential, they must have their basic needs met. Food insecurity is not just a personal issue; it is an educational issue.” After welcome remarks from President David Jones, co-chairs of the Student Emergency Support Committee, Learning Commons Director Dione Clark Trub and Professor and Assistant Chair Heather Greise provided a brief history of the pantry, followed by student remarks from Larana Martin. Board of Trustees Chair, Jane Belt, spoke on behalf of the Board, which then led to reflections from Bob Powell, Sophie’s nephew. Powell finished his remarks with some thoughts on food insecurity and its impacts on students’ educational journeys. “Since around 2002 when my father died, I began investing in ACM students with Sophie’s help,” said Powell. “One in four college students are food insecure. There are scientific studies that show that food insecurity results in lower grades, dropping out, delayed graduation, and poor health. Investing in ACM student nutrition with Sophie was a no-brainer.”

 

Pictured from left is ACM supporter Bob Powell next to ACM President David Jones with ACM employees and community members.