By SGT Richard CarlisiMay 23, 2024
JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. – More than 30 high schoolers, continuing education students, and military spouses received $36,250 in scholarships as part of the annual Lewis-McChord Family Member Scholarship Fund Award Ceremony at French Theater, here, on May 19, 2024.
The Lewis-McChord Family Scholarship Fund was established in 1989 to support military family members with their higher education endeavors by providing merit-based scholarships. During the annual award ceremony, Lt. Gen. Xavier Brunson, commanding general of America’s First Corps, addresses the scholarship recipients.
“Education is a matter of building bridges,” said Brunson. “Focus on this window of your life and the opportunities that resonate there, knowing that your families and I are proud of all you have and will accomplish.”
Scholarship recipient and Yelm High School senior Rianna Slevin shares her next steps as she moves into this next chapter of her life.
“I envision becoming an orthopedic surgeon,” said Slevin. “Right now I am involved with the student sports medicine program and the Washington Career and Sports Medicine Association; this scholarship moves me one step closer to fulfilling my career aspirations.”
Numerous community members contributed to the Lewis-McChord Family Scholarship Fund ranging from individual donations to large businesses.
“None of this would be possible without the overwhelming generosity of our donors,” said Amanda Knight, chairperson for the Lewis-McChord Family Member Scholarship Fund. “Their continued support ensures military-connected students can seamlessly start their higher education journey this fall.”
The fund is a registered non-profit organization with an all-volunteer board that serves active duty, retiree, surviving spouses, as well as children of all branches within 50 miles of JBLM. Since its inception, the organization has been able to award nearly one million dollars in scholarships, facilitated entirely by volunteers.
Recipients of this years’ awards were recognized individually by Brunson, receiving their scholarship and certificate in front of friends and family members.
“Congratulations on taking the first steps toward your career goals,” said Brunson. “You are the future of everything our world is going to be.”
For more information, visit www.jblmscholarship.org.
