The Trailblazers Impact Foundation, in partnership with the “Trailblazing” Tau Epsilon Sigma Alumni Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., awarded a total of $7,500 in scholarships this week to deserving high school seniors across Davidson County.
Award ceremonies were held at Lexington Senior High School, Thomasville High School, and Oak Grove High School, where eight young men were recognized not only for academic achievement but for their leadership, character, and drive to succeed.
“These young men are the future of our community,” said Rashad Beard, President-Elect of the Tau Epsilon Sigma Chapter and Chairman of the Trailblazers Impact Foundation. “We’re proud to stand beside them and invest in what’s next.”
Lexington Senior High School Recipients:
Tyree Gibbs – $1,000
Kordaye Hemphill – $750
Montese McDuffie – $750
K’Brian Robinson – $500
Thomasville High School Recipients:
Iyzir Black – $500
Matthew Bankhead – $500
Oak Grove High School Recipients:
Jaiden Boler – $1,500, recipient of the Kevin L. Maxwell Pillar Scholarship
Karson Williams – $2,000 total, including the Duane D. Lewis Sigma Beta Club Scholarship and an additional award from Novant Health for his pursuit of a career in the medical field
Each award was determined through a structured and transparent scoring process, ensuring recipients were selected based on merit, leadership, and alignment with the foundation’s mission.
The “Trailblazing” Tau Epsilon Sigma Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc & Trailblazers Impact Foundation also lead two signature youth initiatives designed to support and uplift young men long before graduation day:
The Sigma Beta Club, which serves boys and young men ages 8 to 18, provides leadership training, service opportunities, and personal development throughout the academic year. Learn more or enroll a student by visiting tes1914.org/sbc.
The Blazing Beautillion, a mentorship and scholarship development program for high school juniors and seniors, offers structured workshops on financial literacy, public speaking, college readiness, and personal growth. Participants are honored at a formal ceremony and eligible for additional scholarships. To join the 2025 cohort, visit trailblazersimpact.org and click “Blazing Beautillion.”
These scholarships are made possible through the foundation’s flagship fundraiser, Vine & Vibes Weekend, and ongoing support from local sponsors and partners like Novant Health & Midrex Technologies, Inc.
“Our mission is clear,” Beard added. “To open doors, build confidence, and show our young men that they are seen, valued, and capable of greatness.”
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