Community Scholars Fund

Caden is a student at Sparkman High School and dual-enrolled at Calhoun Community College. He serves as President of Fellowship of Christian Athletes, National Honor Society member, active in the St. John Baptist Youth Group, and has participated in JROTC for three years. As an Eagle Scout, Caden also volunteers with Monrovia Fire and Rescue. He also works while balancing his studies and service. Caden is spending his summer taking an EMT course and interning at a medical clinic. He plans to study Neuroscience at University of Alabama Birmingham with the goal of becoming a psychiatrist and opening a psychiatric care facility to support those in need.

Jahria is a student at New Century Technology High School. She is actively involved in dance, theatre, JROTC, SGA, HOSA, Black Student Union, Environmental Club, CAP & GOWN, and was selected to attend ALA Alabama Girls State. She will attend Howard University to major in Health Science. Her passion for nursing is rooted in a deep desire to care for others during their most vulnerable moments. Her short-term goal is to gain hands-on experience in a healthcare setting, and her long-term goal is to specialize in nursing, support those in need, and advocate for health equity.

Diana is a student at New Century Technology High School. She is actively engaged in many organizations, including Beta Club, the Cap & Gown Project, and HOSA. She volunteers regularly at her local church and has gained valuable experience through an internship at HudsonAlpha. She is set to attend Calhoun Community College before continuing her education at the University of Alabama in Huntsville, majoring in biology. With aspirations of becoming a medical lab technician, she is driven by a deep desire to improve lives and make a positive impact on others.

Erin just completed her second year at Auburn University, pursuing a degree in Chemical Engineering. Driven by a passion for chemistry and a strong love of learning, she strives for excellence in all she does. Erin hopes to build a career in healthcare, where she can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. She currently tutors for the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering, helping fellow students navigate challenging coursework and supporting their academic success.

Candace graduated from Bob Jones High School this spring. During her time at Bob Jones, she participated in Student Government, Ambassadors, and her schools Society of Women Engineers. She is set to attend Auburn University in the upcoming fall and aspires to become a Structural Engineer, driven by a desire to combine innovation with preservation. Influenced by her high school experiences studying abroad, she hopes to join Engineers Without Borders and to continue giving back to her local communities.

Amanda is a dedicated senior at Madison Academy and has been involved in community service since kindergarten through Girl Scouts. Her passion for helping others is a core part of who she is. Amanda currently serves as Senior Class President, Anchor Club President, and President of the National Spanish Honor Society. She is active in several other clubs and represents her school as a Student Ambassador. Amanda will attend Samford University, where she plans to major in Health Sciences with minors in Disability Studies and Business. Her long-term goal is to become a Pediatric Occupational Therapist with her own practice.

Maria is a student at New Century Technology High School. She is an active leader serving as Beta Club and Cap and Gown Project President, JROTC Company Commander, as well as an active member of HOSA, the Student Government Association, and an NCT Magnet Ambassador. She will attend the University of Alabama at Birmingham to study neuroscience, with plans to become a neurosurgeon. Inspired by her grandmother’s stroke, Maria is passionate about using artificial intelligence to research early detection of health conditions, such as strokes.

Syasia is a student at New Century Technology High School. She is involved in numerous activities, including Black Student Union, Women in STEM, HOSA, Cap & Gown Project, Beta Club, and National Honor Society President. She’s gained experience as a Student Trainer Aide at Lee High School and a Patient Care Technician at Huntsville Hospital. A varsity volleyball player and 2024 team captain at Mae Jemison High School, Syasia will attend North Carolina Central University to major in Sports Medicine. She’s passionate about healthcare and committed to creating a brighter future for herself and her community.