Last year's scholarship recipients, from left, were Katelyn Murphy, Naomi Dalton and Aaron Williamson pictured with Judy Renshaw.

The Leadership Jackson Alumni Association (LJAA) is requesting applications for the annual scholarship offered to high school seniors attending college in the fall of 2018. The Judy Renshaw Leadership Jackson Alumni Association Scholarship, funded by the Association, will amount to at least $1,000 and as much as $2,000, payable to the college or university during the student’s freshman year.

“Increasing the number of college graduates in Madison County is one of our Board’s top priorities,” said Dr. Beverly Absher-Bone, LJAA President. “We know that a higher level of education contributes to improved health and well-being for that individual and their family; however, research also shows that it is the primary factor in improving community and economic development. Knowing we can make a difference for both the student and our community by opening the door to a college education makes all of our efforts worthwhile.”

The scholarship will be funded through a portion of the annual dues paid by each member of the Leadership Jackson Alumni Association. Other projects funded by Leadership Jackson Alumni dues include quarterly alumni luncheons, professional development programs and “Comfort Critters,” which are stuffed animals used by emergency first responders in Jackson.

"We appreciate the organizations and individuals who contribute to provide additional funding for the scholarships,” said Absher-Bone. “We invite all chamber members and Leadership Jackson alumni to make tax-deductible gifts to the chamber's foundation for the scholarship. The more funds we have in-hand, the more young people we can impact through scholarships.”

The scholarship application, which is available at LeadershipJackson.com, must be filled out completely and submitted with all requested supporting documents, including recommendations from two non-family members; a typed student essay; a current FAFSA report; and a resume or other document describing academic accomplishments and honors, extracurricular activities, and community service during grades 9-12. The application must be received by March 31 of the student’s senior year of high school.