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“Instruct a wise man and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man and he will add to his learning. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” (Proverbs 9:9-10, NIV)
C. N. Jenkins Memorial Presbyterian Church members have been at the vanguard of maximizing opportunities for access to education for students. The Scholarship/ Graduation Ministry formerly known as the Educational Advancement Program has been in place for 23 years. The Program was initiated at C. N. Jenkins Memorial Presbyterian Church in February 1984 by Presbyterian Women Circle 2. The purpose was to encourage the young people of the Church up to 22 years of age to continue their education. The Program was supported financially by donations, fund-raising projects, and each member of Circle 2 was assessed.
The committee consisted of six members selected from the congregation, four members from Circle 2, and Reverend George C. Goodman. Mrs. Harriet Gentry Love served as the chairperson. The following criteria was used to select persons from the congregation: must be good standing in the community; must attend C. N. Jenkins regularly; must be fair and honest; strive to do his/her best for the program; is aware of opportunities for the advancement of young people.
In 1996 the format of the program changed to a Graduation Robing ceremony initiated by Mrs. Sarah M. Coleman. Mrs. Coleman who was a member of the former committee became the chairperson. The Session and Rev. Dr. Jerry L. Cannon approved the new program format. The main criteria for scholarship eligibility remained the same. Additional criteria initiated by the present committee included recognizing all school age children and requiring committee members to become a mentor to the graduates while they are in schools of higher learning.
While the focus of the ministry is to award scholarships to high school seniors for further studies at a post secondary institution, a member can submit an educational hardship request for consideration by the committee. A celebration to recognize graduates is held annually. The committee continues to explore ways to assist graduates and to celebrate their achievements.
Mrs. Valerie Gray served as chairperson from 2000 to 2002 followed by Dr. Randy Bolton from 2002-2006. Dr. Brenda Merricks Leonard currently serves as the chairperson.
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