Meet Our Scholarship Recipients
We are proud to introduce the outstanding students who have received our scholarships. Our commitment doesn’t end with awarding the scholarship—we strive to continue supporting them throughout the year and across their college journey. It's important to us to stay connected and build lasting relationships with each of our scholarship recipients.
- We are proud to introduce Tavareon Patrick as he made history as the very first male recipient of this scholarship. A 2021 graduate of Glasgow High School in Glasgow, Missouri, Tavareon attended Moberly Area Community College (MACC), where he studied Business.
- We are proud to introduce Shayaira Lee McQuitty, the first female recipient in over 30 years. Shayaira graduate of the Fayette High School Class of 2021 in Fayette, Missouri, Shayaira attended HBCU Jackson State University, where she pursued a degree in Criminal Justice. This past May 2025, she graduated with honors and earned her degree, a moment that marks not just academic achievement, but also unwavering determination and vision. With her degree now in hand, Shayaira is preparing for the next chapter of her journey: law school.
- We are proud to introduce McKynleigh Jackson, a class of 2022 graduate of David H. Hickman High School in Columbia, Missouri. McKynleigh is attending HBCU—Tennessee State University in Nashville, TN. McKynleigh plans to double major in Agriculture and Criminal Justice, with a focus on Bioterrorism. Her ultimate goal is to become an FBI agent. McKinley is nearing the completion of her college journey and is scheduled to graduate from Tennessee State University in 2026. We are incredibly proud of her accomplishments.
- We are proud to introduce Benjamin Ruffin Blueitt, a graduate of the Class of 2022 from David H. Hickman High School in Columbia, Missouri. Benjamin continued his academic journey at Alabama State University, where he pursued a degree in Public Relations. Demonstrating exceptional focus and determination, Benjamin earned his Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations—completing his degree in just three years. His early graduation is a true testament to his dedication, discipline, and commitment to academic excellence. Now, Benjamin is preparing and is attending Howard University School of Law.
- We are proud to introduce ATaliya, a graduate of the Class of 2023 from David H. Hickman High School graduate., ATaliya began her college journey at Stephens College, majoring in Integrated Human Biology. ATaliya has since transferred to the University of Missouri, where she successfully completed her sophomore year, continuing her academic pursuit with focus and determination. Her long-term goal is to become a Pediatrician.
- We are proud to introduce Christopher Lewis, Born in Columbia, Missouri and raised in Houston, Texas a Class of 2023 graduate from Alief Taylor High School in Alief, Texas. Christopher is attending Houston Community College, where he plans to earn his Associate degree in Early Childhood Education. His long-term goal is to become a teacher in the very school district that shaped him. Christopher is also the proud nephew of the late Andre Roland, and he has made a heartfelt promise: to carry on his uncle’s legacy with honor and purpose. With every step forward, Christopher is writing his own chapter while keeping his uncle’s memory alive through service, education, and dedication.
- We are proud to introduce Aniyiah Simon, a graduate of the class of 2024 of David H. Hickman High School. Aniyiah has completed her freshman year at the University of Missouri (Mizzou), where her major is in Political Science with plans to attend law school in Chicago after completing her degree. Aniyiah is driven by a desire to make real change. Her long-term mission is to reform the criminal justice system, ensuring that justice is served fairly.
-We are proud to introduce Alijah Jackman, a graduate of Battle High School and a rising freshman at Truman State University for the 2024–2025 academic year. Alijah is pursuing a degree in Business Administration while also continuing his passion for athletics as a member of the Truman State football team. Alijah has shown tremendous discipline, leadership, and ambition both on and off the field. His commitment to education and his drive to succeed in business reflect a focused and goal-oriented mindset.
- We are proud to introduce Kenadi Blanford, a graduate of the Class of 2025, Kenadi recently graduated from David H. Hickman High School in Columbia, Missouri. This fall, Kenadi will embark on a new chapter as she begins her college journey at Stephens College. There, she plans to pursue a degree in Business Management With a clear vision for her future, Kenadi plans to one day own and operate her very own salon — combining her entrepreneurial spirit with her passion for beauty and service..
-We are proud to introduce Vernell Holt Jr, a graduate of the Class of 2025. Vernell recently graduated from Battle High School in Columbia, Missouri. Vernell will continue his academic and athletic journey this fall at Butler Community College. Vernell will be studying Sports Management.A passionate multi-sport athlete, Vernell has competed in basketball, track and field, and football. His drive and commitment to excellence in athletics fuel his dream of one day competing in the Olympics.