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ST. CLAIRSVILLE -- The Belmont County NAACP congratulates the winning young essayists who participated in the group's first scholarship essay contest.
Jerry Moore Jr., president of the Belmont County NAACP, said the topic of the essays was how to improve race relations in America. He commended the students for their hard work and dedication.
Recipients were Wyatt Hercules and Lillian Masters of the Martins Ferry City School District, Mia Cole of Union Local School District and Hannah Mahaffee of the Shadyside Local School District.
In addition, the James and Lois Agnew Scholarship recipients were Emma Pittner of Bridgeport and Lillian Masters.
He said the Belmont County NAACP was able to award $2,000 in scholarships and the Agnew Scholarship awarded $1,000 to further their education.
"We had four entries, and we had them write a 500-word essay, and it just came out great, it really did. It turned out awesome, and we couldn't be more proud of what we're doing for the NAACP, for Belmont County, but we also couldn't be more proud of the responses that we got in essays. These four kids blew us away. The way they wrote their essays, the way that they approached it."
Moore said the students have demonstrated insight and leadership.
"We tried to get kids that sometimes get overlooked in scholarships, so that's why we chose an essay and not a GPA to go off of, and it was just an awesome experience," he said. "We at the NAACP are so excited for these young adults to start their future."
He said the community should be proud.
"The biggest thing is for us to take time and listen to what people are saying. These kids are going to be the leaders of America," he said. "Things are going to be changing here in America when these young adults get a little bit older."
The NAACP would like to thank the Shaheen family, Shaheen Law Group and the Agnew family for helping develop their vision and to grow the minds of Belmont County Youth.
The Shaheen Law Group matched the funds raised. Michael Shaheen said he was happy to be a part of it.
"I just want to say that it was an absolute pleasure and an honor for us to participate in such a great program. Anytime we can assist with the furtherance of education for any youth in the Ohio Valley, regardless of race, creed or color, we support the same, and I'm grateful to Jerry Moore and his father for taking the initiative to start this wonderful program. It was a pleasure for my family and myself."
Moore also extended special thanks to the chairwoman of the scholarship committee, Donneshia Johnson, as well as the members of the committee for their hard work and dedication.
Moore said the NAACP funds this program with an annual steak fry. This year's steak fry will be held at 5:30 p.m. June 16 at St. Clairsville Memorial Park. Guest speakers will be Sheriff Dave Lucas and Chief Deputy James Zusack. Steaks and chicken will be provided by Outback Steakhouse. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. There will be a 50/50 raffle and a basket raffle. DJ Danner will provide entertainment, and this will be a family friendly environment. For tickets, contact Moore at 740-827-5520 or the Belmont County NAACP Facebook page.