It’s about taking what you can give and making it meaningful for both you and those who will ultimately benefit. It’s not about the size of the gift; every gift matters.
Give to support a cause, address an issue or help a charitable organization. You can start your own fund, give to an existing fund, or give directly to Middle Tennessee nonprofits.
Participants in the Athletes Build Life Experiences (ABLE) program play sports at the highest levels for their age group, but unlike many other children, they do it from the seats of wheelchairs. Through sports and recreational activities, the children in ABLE build strength, confidence and social skills and, through the process, learn that no barrier should prevent them from achieving their goals, especially educational goals. John Mayfield created this scholarship to encourage not only participants in ABLE, but also individuals with disabilities to pursue their dreams of post-secondary education thereby giving them the tools needed to become productive and independent citizens in our communities.
The Lt. Holly Adams Memorial Fund is intended to endow permanently one or more scholarships benefiting students from the Page High School area in Williamson County who not only achieve, but also possess the integrity, courage and caring spirit to help others achieve, as Holly did. Scholarships in her memory have been awarded annually since 2002. Holly graduated from the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, and was the first female class president in the history of the Air Force Academy. One of four sisters, Holly was killed in a car accident in 2002 on her way to celebrate Christmas with loved ones. The Air Force's Commendation Medal was awarded posthumously. The ideal recipient of this award should be the student who, like Holly, best exemplifies a combination of integrity, courage and selflessness and is academically qualified for college, but who needs financial assistance in taking that step.
Kathy D. and Stephen J. Anderson have a strong belief in the value of a college/university education.They believe there are high school graduates who, without financial assistance, would have significant difficulty obtaining a college/university degree. The Andersons established this scholarship for students graduating from or having graduated from Williamson County public high schools.
Entrepreneur Jim Ayers is now in the business of making dreams come true. Jim gives credit for his personal success to the early expectation that by furthering his education, he would create more opportunities for himself. Now through The Ayers Foundation Scholars Program, he provides both encouragement and resources for students from Decatur and Henderson Counties by providing college counselors and renewable last-dollar scholarships.
Cynthia and Alan Baran have a great passion for the arts. After 25 years in the corporate world, Cynthia followed her passion for the arts and enrolled in Fine Art classes at two local universities. Alan's interest in music, specifically the mandolin and guitar, has provided him with a creative outlet from his work in the nonprofit sector. This scholarship was established to help provide an opportunity for young people to pursue their passion early in life in the areas of visual arts and music.
The Commercial Music Department of the School of Music at Belmont University educates and trains people who work to perform, compose and arrange, produce and sell Nashville's signature product. This Fund was established by the LifeWorks Foundation to endow scholarships for Belmont University students working toward commercial music degrees.
George Oliver Benton, who died in 2001 at age 86, led a rich and varied life, often spent in service to the community. An attorney from Jackson, George was elected Lieutenant Governor of Tennessee on his first day in the Senate and served for two years. He then began a career as a lobbyist, which lasted until the year before his death. Known as the dean of the state's lobbyist corps, colleagues sought him out for his wisdom and experience. The George Oliver Benton Memorial Scholarship Fund is designed to benefit Tennessee's legislative interns.
Dody Boyd was a Cheatham County Central High School graduate and remained dedicated to her alma mater throughout her life. Ms. Dody drove Bus #13 for Cheatham County, but her influence went far beyond her driving. She impressed everyone with whom she came in contact. Young people knew if they ever needed anything, they could come to her and, if at all possible, Dody would make it happen. Instilling an appreciation of the importance of good grades and successful graduation was just part of the encouragement. This scholarship benefits graduating seniors from Cheatham County Central High School wishing to attend a two-year community college/technical school or four-year university.
JoAhn Brown-Nash's major focus and passion throughout her entire professional career was education. She committed herself to using her talents in every way she could to fulfill the hopes and dreams of young people. JoAhn served as national vice president of Links, Inc. from 1996-1997 and Central Area director from 1992-1996. Because of her vision to enrich the lives of children and her exemplary service to Links, Inc., the Central Area Links, Inc. honors her memory with this scholarship.
William and Clara Bryan were both natives of Giles County who believed in the power of education. Their son, Bill Bryan, established this scholarship in their memory to assist Giles County students in realizing their dreams of attending four-year colleges and universities. The Bryan Scholarships are awarded to high school seniors and/or college underclassmen demonstrating academic merit and financial need.
The Risë Carol Thompson Memorial Scholarship was established originally through the Rotary Club of Cadiz, Kentucky, by Brent and Dot Thompson in memory of their daughter, Risë Carol, a student at Vanderbilt University at the time she was killed in an automobile accident. At the time of her death in 1977, her father, Brent Thompson, was president of a local bank and a Rotarian, so the Club established this scholarship. Brent and Dot Thompson have continued to make contributions and have worked with the Cadiz Rotary Club to create this scholarship at The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee to assure that the scholarship in their daughter's name will exist in perpetuity.
This memorial scholarship, established by the Tennessee Chiropractic Association, honors Leigh Carter and her passion for learning. The Leigh Carter Scholarship provides financial support to students who wish to attend chiropractic college upon completion of their undergraduate degree programs.
Rachel Cate knew she wanted to teach from the time she was a little girl.Talkative, lively, and usually in charge, she was active in drama, student government, and church youth group. She worked with children in numerous settings and "mothered" everyone she loved, including her brothers, cousins and friends. Known for her welcoming spirit and love of people, Rachel never met a stranger and touched the lives of countless individuals in her 18 years on earth. A graduate of Overton High School, Rachel was studying elementary/special education at Western Kentucky University when she was tragically killed in an automobile accident. This Scholarship was established by her family to aid those pursuing a career in education. Their wish: for Rachel's passion and genuine love for children to be carried on. Those eligible to apply are seniors of Metro Nashville Public School who wish to enter the field of education as a career. Students must attend a four-year college or university, have a 3.0 GPA or higher and have scored no less than a 21 on the ACT exam.
A group of concerned Cheatham County citizens was looking for a way to serve current and future generations, and based upon their sense of county priorities, they opted to create a scholarship not only for the "A" student, but also the "B" and "C" average students.
This anonymous donor believes passionately in the value of education for a life of choice and opportunity. She also believes no one should be denied the opportunity to fulfill his or her potential due to financial constraints. A native Nashvillian, the donor has established this mechanism for helping the students of Davidson County achieve their educational goals.
When Robert Churchwell, Sr., was hired to the staff of The Nashville Banner in 1950, he became one of the first African Americans to work as a full-time reporter at an established daily Southern newspaper. Though Robert's presence at the paper initially brought much opposition - including being barred from editorial meetings and writing stories in his dining room - he persevered and became an esteemed reporter in the area. After 31 years at The Banner, Robert retired in 1981 and then spent more than two decades as an editorial writer at the R.H. Boyd Publishing House. Along with breaking barriers, Robert earned the respect of his peers, honoring him with numerous awards, including the Helen Thomas Award for Lifetime Achievement from the Society of Professional Journalist. This scholarship will continue Robert's core values of the profession by showing the importance of journalists being representative of the communities they serve, as well as his belief that regardless of race, gender and generation, it is important everyone participates in the profession.
The Howard A. Clark Horticulture Scholarship was created by Howard's family as a testament to a man who spent almost five decades cultivating the earth, learning the lay of it, and growing shrubs and trees of remarkable quality. Howard Clark loved nature and loved the land. In return, the land provided his livelihood for over 40 years. Working from the age of 12, Howard taught himself everything he needed to succeed in the nursery business in Avery County, North Carolina. He often said, however, that he would have jumped at the chance for an education to help him along his path to success. The Howard A. Clark Horticulture Scholarship was created to give someone else the educational opportunity that he never received. This Fund is intended to endow permanently one or more scholarships benefiting a deserving senior graduating from Avery County High School wishing to learn to "nurture nature" by attending a two- or four-year college to study horticulture or agriculture. The student should have at least a 2.5 grade point average in high school.
The board of The Community Foundation created this Fund to serve as a vehicle for building a pool of philanthropic venture capital available to support the present and future of education within our community.
A passion for education has been a hallmark of Community Bank and Trust of Cheatham County since its creation. This commitment has been demonstrated by providing scholarships to deserving students in Cheatham County who desire to pursue their educational goals. In order to perpetuate this ten-year tradition of giving back, Community Bank and Trust established the Community Bank and Trust Scholarship Fund, which will help ensure that these investments in post-secondary educational opportunities continue.
Shannon Wood helped start The Davidson County Democratic Women's Scholarship in 2001 with a dual intention: to help defray the cost of college tuition and to encourage young women to be politically active. Shannon has run for office, campaigned for others, and participated in grassroots efforts to achieve peace, universal health care, and fair elections. Shannon would not have been able to attend Antioch College without financial assistance and, in turn, she is committed to repaying the kindness that was shown her. Shannon and her husband, Peter Kurland, turned to The Community Foundation to ensure the DCDW Scholarship will continue in perpetuity. Scholarship winners will be recognized at the annual DCDW picnic and their essays may be published by the Davidson County Democratic Women. In addition to receiving the scholarship, winners will have the opportunity to work as an intern for a week during the summer at the Tennessee Democratic Party Headquarters in Nashville. This scholarship is established to benefit college bound, female, high school seniors in Davidson County. Recipients will be chosen based upon their essays answering the question "What policy or law in the United States would you change and why?" Essays will be evaluated on creative and critical thinking, practical application, style and writing mechanics. Consideration will be given to financial need.
Colonel Richard Dawson was to many a leader, a mentor and a significant asset to the Tennessee Highway Patrol. He had the unique ability to listen and form an opinion based on merit and facts. The Richard M. Dawson Scholarship was established by friends and co-workers to honor his dedication to family, friends and the Tennessee Highway Patrol. It benefits students who are pursuing an education for a career in criminal justice.
David Ingram established this scholarship to benefit children of the employees of Ingram Entertainment Inc. and DBI Beverage Inc.
B.J. Runnels Dean touched thousands of lives through her service to churches and Baptist state conventions throughout the United States as a consultant, teacher, writer, chorister, and minister. B.J. was keenly interested in advancing the cause of women in ministry, and the intention of this Scholarship Fund, established by Myrte Veach and the many friends of B.J. Dean, is to endow one or more interdenominational scholarships for women entering the ministry.
This Fund is intended to permanently endow scholarships benefiting graduating seniors and/or adults in Dickson County. The scholarships will be awarded to students attending an accredited college or university who are pursuing or furthering studies in the field of education.
Drue Smith was the first woman to join the Middle Tennessee Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists and was the first woman to become its chapter president. Drue was considered the queen of Tennessee’s legislative press corps and was the first woman to cover Nashville’s Capitol Hill as well as being the first honorary member of the Tennessee General Assembly. She was colorful in many ways from her clothes to her style. Asking her famous question "What’s the bottom line,?" she reported for print, radio, television and United Press International in her 50-year career. This scholarship was established in memory of Drue upon her death in 2001 by the members and board of the Middle Tennessee Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists.
"It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men." - Frederick Douglass The goal of this initiative is to transform the lives of children who risk entering the public school system with an avoidable Early Learning deficit that will forever hamper their ability to learn and to succeed in school and in life. This scholarship benefits the working poor, who often face the difficult choice of quitting school or leaving a job to care for a child due to the rising cost of daycare, thus perpetuating the cycle of poverty. Recipients are selected from applications submitted jointly by the parents and one of the many accredited Three-Star rated nonprofit centers offering early childhood education of the highest caliber.
Sometimes parents and children need time and space to bridge a gap that has developed between them because the children are gay or lesbian. The Student Education Loan Fund (SELF) can buy students and parents a chance to work things out between them by providing emergency loans to young men or women whose parents have discontinued financial support for their education because they are lesbian or gay.
Former Donelson High School principal Jimmy Edwards earned the respect of the students, faculty, parents, and the community by being open and having a good rapport with students. Out of that same respect, and the love he inspired, former students set up the Jimmy Edwards Scholarship Fund within The Community Foundation to help fund college educations for descendants of those who attended the original Donelson High.
Elizabeth Givens Folsom established this Scholarship Fund to honor her husband, Albert, and her parents' passion for Vanderbilt University and commitment to the religious leadership of the Methodist Church. The Fund will permanently endow one or more scholarships benefiting a Methodist student attending Vanderbilt Divinity School. Elizabeth's father, Claude, was a revered and respected Methodist Minister, and his wife, Lena, was a vital part of his ministry.
In honor of its 75th anniversary, Genesco established a Scholarship Fund within The Community Foundation to provide employees with a token of the company's appreciation. Since its creation, Genesco has contributed to the scholarship's growth and enhanced its capacity to benefit deserving students. This Fund is designed to assist children of Genesco employees, both full- and part-time, in realizing their dreams of attending post-secondary educational institutions.
As a woman who worked her way through school, Pauline Gore was always interested in easing the way for others with the desire to learn but with financial constraints. Her selection as the 1998 recipient of the Joe Kraft Humanitarian Award gave her the opportunity to address that concern by putting in place a Scholarship Fund for residents of her native Smith County. Her hope was to grow the Fund through additional gifts so that generations of students will be offered a helping hand.
The Linda P. Hare Scholarship Fund Established 2011
A teacher for more than 40 years, Charlene Harris' primary focus was educating students of all ages. She and her husband Frank, both life-long residents of Claiborne County and alumni of Cumberland Gap High School, were advocates of education. This scholarship was established by Beth and Greg Cashion, in their loving memory, to benefit a graduating senior from Cumberland Gap High School.
To create a legacy for their parents, Steve Hewlett, Pam Inman and Faye Houston established this scholarship to honor their caring and compassionate concern for others, their belief in the importance of a good education, their commitment to nurturing the thirst for knowledge, and their dedication to providing a foundation on which others might build a career in health care. Those who will benefit are students planning to enter the field of nursing as LPN, RN or Nurse Practitioner, pharmacy or physical therapy, and all those who will be comforted and cared for as a result. Eligible applicants must be students entering the field of nursing as licensed practical nurses, registered nurses or nurse practitioners or students entering the fields of pharmacy or physical therapy. Preference may be given, in the case of comparable applications, to students from Hancock, Ohio or Daviess County, Kentucky. Applicants must demonstrate strong academic potential as evidenced by a transcript from the last school they attended and give examples of experience that demonstrates compassion for patients and families such as a reference from someone they have helped or a supervisor who has witnessed their care and compassion.
Regina Higdon was an ordinary person with the extraordinary gift of being able to show those around her what it meant to love and to be loved. For many years, she ran a day-care center in her home where she gave special care to the children of numerous families, just as if they were her own. Regina was a devout Catholic who believed strongly in the value of a Catholic education and made many sacrifices to ensure her children received that type of education. When she died in 2003, friends and family set up this Fund to help graduates of Christ the King School attend either Father Ryan High School or St. Cecilia Academy in Regina's name.
A born educator, Jennifer Ingrum graduated from Gallatin High School, received a B.A. from the University of Virginia, and earned Masters' degrees from Harvard and George Washingtion University. Called to teach at-risk youth in the inner city of Washington, D. C., sadly her life's work was cut short when she lost her battle with cancer. In her career as in her life, Jennifer gave of herself to help others. In her honor, the Jennifer Ingrum Scholarship Fund was created to continue her legacy of helping those less fortunate pursue a quality education.
Diane Lee made it her life's work to help underprivileged school children. Her concern for others and commitment to volunteering her time to those less fortunate was a philosophy and a way of life. She taught her daughters, Amy and Allison to embrace that way of life as their own. Diane and her two daughters tragically died when their plane crashed in 2005. In their memory, friends and family created the JubiLee Scholarship Fund at The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee to perpetuate their legacy. The Fund benefits public school children as they pursue an education.
This scholarship was established in memory of Maude E. Keisling, former University of Tennessee Extension agent in Cumberland County, and in honor of all the extension homemaker members who worked so diligently for many years to make this possible. Following Maude's death in 1967, club members established the scholarship to assist students majoring in home economics who pursue degrees in fields of study that will prepare them to work directly with families and children.
Now, more than 70 years after her death, SunTrust Bank and The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee have partnered to ensure Sarah Foard Hume Lewis' legacy continues through the creation of this scholarship for graduates of Hume-Fogg High School. In her Will dated October 9,1937, Sarah thoughtfully outlined her dream for these awards stipulating that recipients receive funding for four years, as long as they remain in good academic standing with their university. While the selection process includes a component of financial need, it is clear Sarah intended this scholarship to be based on academic merit.
A Maryville, Tenn., native, State Senator Carl Koella served 25 years in the state Senate. In 1999, upon his death at age 64, the Tennessee Lobbyist Association sought a way to honor their friend. Senator Koella was an advocate of bright young people becoming involved in the political process, thus the association decided that a fitting legacy would be to establish the Senator Carl O. Koella Jr. Memorial Scholarship Fund within The Community Foundation.
Friends and colleagues at Kruse & Associates joined together to create a scholarship to honor the company founder, Mike Kruse, and to show how much they respect and admire him for his personal and professional accomplishments. Kruse and Associates was one of the fastest growing regional public accounting and consulting firms in the Southeast prior to merging with Crowe Chizek. For the 10th anniversary of the company, in 2003, staff members raised the money for this scholarship, which as Mike requested, benefits married students majoring in accounting with the goal of becoming Certified Public Accountants.
As a mother, grandmother and community volunteer in Nashville, Heloise Werthan Kuhn is an ardent supporter of the Crittenton mission of preventing both first and repeat teen pregnancies. Mrs. Kuhn's Fund originally was created with Crittenton Services, but when that organization closed in 2001 and set up a Fund with The Community Foundation, she asked that this Fund be transferred as well. Mrs. Kuhn believes that education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty that often accompanies teen pregnancy. She established this scholarship to help teen parents develop self-esteem through education or technical training in order to qualify for better jobs.
Lebanon High School (LHS) is a community-based high school graduating its first class in 1919. Many alumni through the years have made their permanent residences in the broader Lebanon area and have supported the programs and goals of the school. The Lebanon High School Alumni Scholarship Endowment Fund provides scholarships in support of LHS graduates who demonstrate academic achievement and the need for financial assistance in the pursuit of undergraduate degrees.
Established to honor Diane G. Lowe and in memory of John Gomez IV, this Fund benefits intellectually gifted students with financial need in grades 6 through 12 who reside in Rutherford, Cannon, DeKalb, or Wilson counties. The Fund provides financial assistance for such students to take qualifying entrance exams to institutions of higher learning, such as the SAT and ACT exams, and to attend academic programs that offer special challenges or accelerated content. Both Diane and John were intellectually and spiritually curious children with a natural inclination to discover new ideas and knowledge. Diane was drawn to the arts and literature, while John was mechanically gifted and excelled in engineering activities. Both students were educated in the public schools and at various universities in Middle Tennessee, and by their mother, a retired school psychologist and advocate for intellectually gifted children for more than 30 years.
Dr. James W. McPherson, Jr., "Dr. Mac," believed in hard work and education. He had the innate ability to make people smile through his generosity and his contagious love for life. Throughout his life, Dr. Mac made many sacrifices in order to educate his three children. In addition to assisting his children with educations, he loved to assist young aspiring dental students. The Dr. Mac Scholarship will allow a dental student to meet his or her educational goals without having to worry about the financial barriers. Dr. Mac's children hope that the dental student receiving this award will share the same love of dentistry and the ability to make others smile as their father did.
Edna Martin was a dedicated English teacher for 45 years in Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools and had a passion for English literature and poetry. Ms. Martin touched the lives of so many students during her years of teaching. She was an avid traveler and a member of the Nashville Woman's Club, the Retired Teachers' Association and many other education-related organizations. Through her estate, she wanted to make scholarships available that would assist young people who plan to follow her career choice of teaching. This scholarship benefits academically deserving and financially needy students of Davidson County.
This Scholarship Fund was established to honor the giving nature and loving heart of Katie Rose, a lifelong resident of Rutherford County, who attended Middle Tennessee Christian School, Riverdale High School and MTSU. A competitive cheerleader, loving daughter, adorable little sister, and friend to everyone, Katie had an insatiable work ethic and determination that made all things seem possible. Her dream to become a professional hair stylist and eventually own her own salons was cut short after a tragic automobile accident two weeks into her cosmetology training. This scholarship will support young women seeking to start a career by attending a professional, accredited cosmetology school.
Joe Maxwell worked with Tractor Supply Company for 26 years. He came to appreciate his colleagues as individuals and as an extraordinary team. He also realized that, for many, the price of educating their children, post-high school, was a daunting challenge. Upon retiring, Joe and his wife, Juliann, searched for a way to help. This scholarship embodies their charitable dreams, the dreams of Tractor Supply's employees AND the dreams of their children, eager to attend college.
White County, Ark., students have a chance to further their education and create better lives for themselves, thanks to Juliann King Maxwell of Nashville. Though she hasn't lived in Arkansas for years, Juliann created the scholarship in honor of her parents, whose families moved to White County as early as 1803. The scholarship benefits students who might not otherwise get to attend college, and is available to students who want to pursue vocational training as well as those pursuing a college degree.
John Mayfield did not always live a moral and spiritual life. His battles with alcoholism and drug addiction often led him into dangerous situations. He rarely took advantage of positive opportunities available to him, yet, through the grace of God, he survived. Now John wishes to show his gratitude for being able to turn around his life by assisting his fellow Cheatham Countians in their journey to create opportunities through post-secondary education. Through this Scholarship Fund, and several others, he is doing just that. John will add to these funds through his estate plans with The Community Foundation and hopes that others will contribute as well, to better the lives of eager young scholars.
John Mayfield did not always live a moral and spiritual life. His battles with alcoholism and drug addiction often led him into dangerous situations. He rarely took advantage of positive opportunities available to him, yet, through the grace of God, he survived. Now John wishes to show his gratitude for being able to turn around his life by assisting his fellow Cheatham Countians in their journey to create opportunities through post-secondary education. Through this Scholarship Fund, and several others, he is doing just that. John will add to these funds through his estate plans with The Community Foundation and hopes that others will contribute as well, to better the lives of eager young scholars.
John Mayfield did not always live a moral and spiritual life. His battles with alcoholism and drug addiction often led him into dangerous situations. He rarely took advantage of positive opportunities available to him, yet, through the grace of God, he survived. Now John wishes to show his gratitude for being able to turn around his life by assisting his fellow Cheatham Countians in their journey to create opportunities through post-secondary education. Through this Scholarship Fund, and several others, he is doing just that. John will add to these funds through his estate plans with The Community Foundation and hopes that others will contribute as well, to better the lives of eager young scholars.
John Mayfield did not always live a moral and spiritual life. His battles with alcoholism and drug addiction often led him into dangerous situations. He rarely took advantage of positive opportunities available to him, yet, through the grace of God, he survived. Now John wishes to show his gratitude for being able to turn around his life by assisting his fellow Cheatham Countians in their journey to create opportunities through post-secondary education. Through this Scholarship Fund, and several others, he is doing just that. John will add to these funds through his estate plans with The Community Foundation and hopes that others will contribute as well, to better the lives of eager young scholars.
Growing up on a farm in Robertson County, Tennessee, Eunice Lou Gower McHugh lived in a community of hard-working people. On the family farm lived her mother and father, Elsie Dame Murphey and Joseph Franklin Gower. The Gowers weren't wealthy, but they constantly served the community by offering to help those in need. "They were always doing for other people," Lou said, from serving the community church to sacrificing to send her to music lessons. When it came time to sell the farm in Robertson County, it made perfect sense for Lou to donate the land to The Community Foundation so that the proceeds could establish two scholarships. This one is in her parents' memory, and benefits students graduating from high schools in Robertson County, Tennessee, who are working or know they will need to work to pay for college. Students must be preparing for a career serving others, including but not limited to teaching, nursing, law enforcement or ministry.
Bill McHugh was a "lawyer's lawyer." He practiced his noble profession with skill and integrity for more than 55 years. After serving in the U. S. Air Force during World War II, he returned to Nashville and enrolled at Cumberland School of Law. "Bill loved the law and his many friends and clients loved him deeply. I want his record of service to our system of justice to endure, as well as his legacy as a "lawyer's lawyer." What better way to honor the memory of this modest but accomplished attorney than to help others who seek to serve our legal system," said his devoted wife of 57 years, Lou Gower McHugh. The William and Lou Gower McHugh Scholarship is for students from Middle Tennessee who plan to attend or are working their way through any accredited school of Law or any school of Law approved by the Tennessee Supreme Court. Preference will be given to students planning to attend or enrolled in Cumberland School of Law of Samford University in Homewood, Ala., and who are working. Those eligible to apply must be preparing for a career in the legal profession and, if already enrolled in law school, must be maintaining a C average or better.
Walter Reese (Walt) Montgomery was born in Carroll County (McKenzie) Tennessee on August 24, 1924, and grew up on a cotton farm where his father was a sharecropper. As a child, Walt's love of flying was born the day he saw a biplane land in a field near where he was plowing, and the pilot offered him a ride. He later went into the Army Air Corp and became a pilot flying B-17 Flying Fortresses over Europe. He returned home after World War II and became the first member of his family to graduate from college. This scholarship was created by his sons in Walt's memory and to help West Tennessee youth attend college and pursue a career in aviation.
During her life, Carolyn Morrison was a highly regarded math and economics teacher at Upperman High School, served as a member of the Tennessee Higher Education Commission and successfully began and ran a business with State Farm Insurance. One friend characterized her by saying, "She lived to make a difference, was faithful to her commitments, and intensely thoughtful about the actions required." Another noted, "This County has lost a great citizen. She loved Cookeville and she loved life." A third noted, "If Carolyn is for you, who can be against you." At her death, on June 22, 2009, Carolyn's family created this fund in her memory.
Archie Nash always knew he would rise above the poverty in which he was raised, no matter what it took. By sheer determination and tenacity, Archie worked his way through college and later became the owner of Overton Produce Co. and several related companies. His wife, Carolyn, established this scholarship in Archie's memory to benefit Middle Tennessee State University students who embody his work ethic and commitment to education.
Jerry Newson Jr. believed in the possibilities that education offers the mind, body and spirit at any age. This scholarship was established as a fitting testimonial to the man who lost his life in the line of duty as a deputy of the Davidson County Sheriff's Department. The Fund is designed to help Davidson County residents realize their dreams of attending a four-year accredited college or university, especially those who intend to major in the social sciences or other areas where they will give back to the community from which they came.
Trained at both Parsons and in Europe, distinguished interior designer and artist, Eloise O'More, at age 64, fulfilled her lifelong dream in 1970 by opening O'More College of Design in her home in Franklin, Tennessee. Today it is nationally known for its accredited bachelor's degree programs in interior design, fashion design and merchandising, and graphic design and advertising. Shortly before her death in 2002, the O'More College student chapters of the American Society of Interior Designers and International Interior Design Association established this Scholarship Fund in Mrs. O'More's honor.
Buster Pool died unexpectedly of a heart attack in April of 1999 when he was only 56. Buster had an innate ability to laugh through life's challenges, and both he and his infectious sense of humor were beloved by all who knew him. As a lasting legacy to Buster's memory, his widow, Babs Weaver Pool, created this scholarship to benefit graduating seniors of his alma mater, Meridian High School in his hometown of Meridian, Mississippi.
The Brian Ralls Memorial Scholarship fund is intended to benefit graduates of Brentwood Academy who have demonstrated excellence in academics, as well as, athletic prowess and leadership. Brian Ralls graduated from Brentwood Academy in 2005, and matriculated at the University of Florida where he graduated with a B.A. degree in Economics in 2009. While at Brentwood Academy, Brian was a member of the National Honor Society, the Spanish National Honor Society, two state championship basketball teams, three state championship track and field teams and played in three straight state football championship games. In addition, Brian was the individual state champion in the discus throw in 2005. On October 28, 2009, Brian was tragically struck and killed by a driver who was distracted by using a cell phone. This scholarship was established by Brian's family and friends to honor his memory and his love for Brentwood Academy, which enabled him to learn who he was and to learn who HE is.
Barbara Hagan Richards grew up in Pulaski where her father had the drugstore on the square. After studying library science at Peabody, she raised her family in Nashville, but always maintained her ties with Giles County, Tennessee. She and her family established this scholarship to encourage young people to pursue an education just as she encouraged her own children.
Barbara Richards grew up in beautiful, rural Giles County, where life was tranquil and neighbors cared about each other. James Richards was reared in the more urban East Nashville, but the important values of friendship and neighborliness were still the same. When the Richards' children, Barbara Haugen and Jay Richards, sought a way to honor their mother and father, they decided to set up scholarships bearing their parents' names to aid the communities in which each was raised.
Coach Ken Shipp was born and raised in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. He had a distinguished coaching career including stints at several colleges both as a head coach and as an offensive coordinator before he moved to the National Football League. During his time in the NFL, Coach Shipp was offensive coordinator with the Houston Oilers, New Orleans Saints, Detroit Lions, and the New York Jets. During his tenure with the New York Jets, he was appointed the head coach during the storied Joe Namath years. Coach Shipp credits his success to his Rutherford County roots and the fine education he received at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU). He has always been interested in furthering the education of potential high school graduates and in continuing his support of MTSU. For this reason, he established this Scholarship.
Mike and Dottie Silverman helped settle the city of Oak Ridge, Tennessee, in the early years of World War II. Very active in all aspects of community life and accomplished musicians, the Silvermans were among the original founders of the Oak Ridge Symphony Orchestra. Their dedication to and sincere love of music and the arts was a central theme of their lives and, as part of their legacy, this Fund provides scholarships benefiting string students in grades 7-12 in Oak Ridge Public Schools who are committed to developing their talent as string instrument players, but who otherwise would be financially unable to take private string instruction.
Richie Stevenson is grateful for the excellent education he received at Benton Hall. His parents, Jimmy and Donna Stevenson, created this scholarship in Richie's honor to acknowledge that appreciation by giving something back to the school and the fellow students who helped craft such a positive experience.
When Richie Stevenson was born in 1979 at Vanderbilt Hospital, he was three months early, weighed two pounds, and was 12 inches in length. Today, Richie is a successful graduate of Benton Hall. To mark their son's successes, Jimmy and Donna Stevenson decided several years ago that, when they were able, they would make a difference in the lives of those less fortunate. The proceeds of this Fund provide tuition assistance to graduating seniors of Benton Hall School.
Catie Summers was a daughter, a sister, a friend and a cancer warrior. She was born at Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, on July 3, 1991, and grew up in Clarksville, Tennessee. Catie loved school, played softball and was a black belt in karate. In April of 2004, at the age of 12, she was diagnosed with a rare type of osteosarcoma, a bone cancer. While undergoing cancer chemotherapy and multiple surgeries, she maintained straight A's in middle school and high school and was twice named to the Mid-State Band as a baritone player. The Clarksville High School HOPE Club raised money in her name through sales of 'Viva Catie' bracelets and donated the proceeds to the Lance Armstrong Foundation. Because of their efforts she was able to ride alongside fellow cancer survivor Lance Armstrong at the 2005 Ride for the Roses. A few months later, the cancer metastasized to her spine, eventually paralyzing her. Catie fought valiantly to the end, dying at home on December 16, 2007. She touched the lives of many people with her humor and courage. To honor her love of learning, her family established this scholarship for a graduating senior in the Clarksville-Montgomery County School System who has also battled cancer. Viva Catie! Applicants must be graduating seniors from Clarksville-Montgomery County Schools who have survived cancer at some point in their lives and who have either a GPA of 3.0 or a score of 21 or better on the ACT. Verification of cancer diagnosis and/or treatment will be required.
The Technology Scholarship Fund was established by the Board of the Nashville Technology Council, an organization devoted to helping the Middle Tennessee technology community succeed by leading in education, innovation, exposure and connections to the technology community. The Fund will endow permanently, one or more scholarships benefiting Nashville high school seniors, entering two or four-year degree programs in pursuit of an education in fields related to the creation, innovation, installation or maintenance of technology.
The directors of the Tennessee Trucking Foundation believe in the power and possibilities of education, and therefore have given the money to set up this scholarship to help children, spouses or employees who are members in good standing of the Tennessee Trucking Association. The scholarships will help juniors and seniors attending an accredited university or college to have even brighter futures.
Personal development has long been a core value among Dollar General employees. This is a reflection of the values of the Turner Family, who began the company in 1939 - a company that has grown to more than 8,000 stores spanning 35 states. To mark the 60th anniversary of Dollar General's founding and to honor his four children, Cal Turner Sr. established the Turner Family Scholarship Fund to benefit his extended family, Dollar General's employees.
Emmett Turner ably served the Davidson County police for 34 years, culminating in the rank of Chief. Upon his retirement, friends and admirers wanted something meaningful to show him their appreciation for his hard work. So they contributed to a fund at The Community Foundation to endow a scholarship in the chief's name. Students who attend Tennessee State University's criminal justice program are eligible to apply for financial assistance through the scholarship. It is fitting that from now on, with the aid of the Emmett H. Turner Scholarship, TSU will be graduating students who will follow in his footsteps, making life safer for us all.
In keeping with Josh Turner's journey to a successful career in the music industry in spite of having grown up without the benefit of a comprehensive arts program in his high school, he established a Scholarship Fund at The Community Foundation to support students from primarily rural areas wishing to enter the music business or undertake a career in the arts. "Growing up in rural South Carolina, I attended a small school," says Turner. "In fact, there were only 75 people in my graduating class. And that translated into 'not a lof of opportunities' when it came to music." The Josh Turner Scholarship Fund supports students planning a career that will introduce them to various opportunities in the music business, from performing, writing, or publishing to managing or producing, or some discipline of the arts, such as graphic design, photography, or painting.
Country music singer, Grand Ole Opry star, songwriter and manager Teddy Wilburn established a Fund through his estate to help others enjoy the opportunities made available by a college education. With his singing career beginning at age nine, Teddy never had the chance to attend college and wanted to help eager students in need of financial aid. The Fund benefits college students at Tennessee State University and Vanderbilt University.
A vital part of The Woman's Club mission is to help young women further their education.The organization has offered scholarships for many years and, in 2001, members decided to set up a permanent Scholarship Endowment Fund through The Community Foundation. Qualities of particular interest to the members of The Woman's Club when choosing recipients are leadership, achievement, community involvement, poise, personality, and a sense of personal goals.
John W. Work was an inspiring teacher at Fisk University for 39 years, head of the Music Department for a number of years, director of the famous Jubilee Singers, and an internationally known composer and arranger. The John Work Foundation was established by the Nashville Chapter of The Links to honor his extraordinary contributions. In 2002, representatives of the Work Foundation turned to The Community Foundation to perpetuate the awarding of scholarships to worthy students of music and composition. Through the generosity of these and other Funds, The Community Foundation was able to help 134 students attend college in 2008. More than $350,000 in scholarships helped students enroll at accredited universities throughout the United States.