The Lewisville-Clemmons Chamber of Commerce (LCCC) announced the launch of the first of its Vocational Education Scholarship Awards during its November 2018 meeting. This launch, focused on high school graduates or equivalent, is designed for students with an interest in vocational fields. Recognizing the increasing need for skilled craftspeople, this scholarship program is timely. Named in honor of the beloved son of Lewisville-Clemmons Chamber of Commerce board member Brad Hunter, the Mason H. Hunter Vocational Educational Scholarship program has the full support of the Chamber. Former Chamber President John Golden shared that participation and support for the Scholarship by the board, staff, and scholarship committee is 100 percent and Chamber members are following their lead. Case in point, during the 30-second ad spots at the end of the Chamber meeting, each participant’s monies were matched for an additional contribution to the fund. In fact, the atmosphere was quite competitive and heart-warming with the intent to immediately increase the fund.
On behalf of the Chamber, John Golden presented the initial check in the amount of $12,290 to the Clemmons Community Foundation, Inc.’s President and CEO, Sandi Scannelli. Clemmons Community Foundation will administer and have oversight of the Scholarship program. Scholarship awards will be up to $2,500 per student and will be paid directly to the recipient’s school to be used for tuition, books, and other materials required for the program of their choice.
Brad shared his family’s gratitude at this honor for Mason. “After Mason’s death, we spoke often of the concerns of young people, particularly about education. There’s a difference between a technical education and a four-year program. Young people pursuing a vocational track are less encouraged even though there are many positive opportunities in these fields.”
The Mason H. Hunter Vocational Education Scholarship application process begins January 2019 and will be administered via the Clemmons Community Foundation. The guidelines for 2019-2020 eligibility are highlighted, and more details can be found on the website (clemmonsfoundation.org):
- Must be a graduating senior, equivalent, or have graduated within the year from West Forsyth High School and be enrolled in a minimum of six credit hours of education/equivalent. Full-time or intend to enroll full-time post-secondary education preferred. High school graduation or equivalent required prior to payment of scholarship monies.
- Financial assistance not a requirement; however, may be used as a tiebreaker.
- Award is for an accredited two-year or less program resulting in a degree or certification in any trade, technical, or vocational field with demonstrated career path.
- Selection will include consideration of community service, hobbies, sports, clubs, work experience, and other factors indicating community involvement.
The Lewisville-Clemmons Chamber of Commerce is a vibrant community of business leaders intent on enhancing the lives of the community in which they live and conduct business. For information on the Chamber and membership opportunities, contact Ditra Miller, Executive Director, at 336.970.5100 or visit the website (lewisville-clemmons.com).
For additional information on how you can contribute to the Mason H. Hunter Vocational Educational Scholarship, contact Sandi Scannelli, President/CEO of Clemmons Community Foundation, at 336.663.6794 or visit their website (clemmonsfoundation.org).
Encouraging students to pursue their goals is paramount to the continued growth of the community.
