Reverend John H. Scott Memorial Fund

By Amatullah Umrani

April 15, 2011

On Saturday, May 7, 2011, the John H. Scott Memorial Fund will observe its 30^thanniversary of awarding scholarships to high school graduating seniors in northeast Louisiana.  The program will be held at the Tallulah/ Madison Community Center, 800 Beech Street at Neal, 10:00 a.m. 

From nine impressive applicants, first and second place scholarship recipients will be selected and announced at the program. Always an enjoyable portion of the program, the applicants will present original essays to the audience. They will reinforce the fact that there exist youths who are looking forward to helping shape a bright future for themselves and their communities.

Madison High School’s applicants are ShanDeric Washington, Alescia Riggs, and Jessica Brean Jones. From Rayville are Xavier Tennant, Gail Wilson, and Ariell Brown. In addition, there are Alex Charles Ward of Tensas, Taylor Stutts of Forest, and Joslyn Allen of Lake Providence. 

A special Memorial Award in honor of Rev. Scott’s son, Tyrone will be presented to the young male gospel singers, The Stars of Joy New Generation of Lake Providence. The program will also include inspirational musical selections, followed by the keynote speech, delivered by Khalif El-Amin of Milwaukee WI, a grandson of Rev. Scott.

Khalif enjoyed a high school and college basketball career in which he was known for giving and commanding respect and admiration both on and off court. His team at Rufus King International School battled their way to the top on two occasions, earning state championships during his junior and senior years. He continued and advanced his status while a student at University of Wisconsin –Stevens Point, continuing to start as point guard, serving as team captain his junior and senior years, and assisting his team in earning three conference championships.

Khalif graduated with a degree in Sociology and a minor in Psychology in 2009.  Since graduation he has been employed at New Horizon Center, Inc, a famiy-run Social Services agency as Assistant to the President/CEO.

All persons, especially family and friends of present and previous applicants, are encouraged to attend this free event.  Hot lunch will be served.