By Paulette Higginbotham
The Fourth Annual Achievement Soirée Awards and Scholarship GAMEDAY was held Saturday, July 12, at the Student Life and Technology Center on the campus of Hendrix College in Conway. The NFL Draft-style event was hosted by the Conway Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi and the DREAM Foundation of Central Arkansas, along with Centennial Bank.
“This isn’t your typical scholarship ceremony,” said Derrick Carruth, Kappa Alpha Psi scholarship coordinator. “We’re creating an atmosphere that celebrates these students’ excellence with energy, excitement and community support — just like draft day.”
The DREAM Foundation’s purpose is to promote youth empowerment by executing programs and supporting institutions that provide educational enhancements, leadership skill training and more to underserved minority students. It and Kappa Alpha Psi honored 39 students with college scholarships totaling $26,000. The GAMEDAY soirée featured music from DJ Cain while recipients walked to the stage, received their hat and declared their college or armed forces destination.
This year’s GAMEDAY introduced the Corey “CJ” Clemons Jr. Memorial Scholarship, honoring the life and legacy of Morrilton High School basketball standout and Conway Kappa League member, CJ Clemons, who tragically passed away earlier this year. This scholarship was presented in his name to recognize students who exemplify excellence, character and resilience, all traits CJ embodied both on and off the court. The inaugural recipients are Aaron Lovelace of Conway Christian School, Emerie Bohanon of Conway High School, and Derrick Lewis II of Maumelle High School.
The Conway Kappa League focuses on promoting leadership, education, social and occupational guidance for young black men. Scholarships are awarded to its members who are graduating seniors with a record of academic achievement and community involvement. The 2025 honorees are Derick Lewis II from Maumelle High School, Nakelcion Bornds from Sylvan Hills High School and Jaydon Gaines, Malik Simpson and Lanston Ligon, all from Conway High School.
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