The award ceremonies were held at the entrance of the Pittman Park Education Center on July 8 at noon for Cortes and July 10 for Compton. The location was chosen to honor the late Elizabeth Scott Brown, the foundation’s namesake, who worked at the center as a beloved preschool teacher for 15 years.
Brown tragically lost her life in a car accident on Feb. 24, 2023, at the age of 63 while on her way to work. Earlier in her career, she was a preschool teacher at Weaver’s Play and Learn Center in Sylvania. Brown is remembered as a lifelong educator and for her community service work in Screven County.
“Through these worthy recipients, the wonderful works of Mom’s life will continue to bear fruit for students and the community for many years to come,” said Foundation Director Octavia Scott.
Cortes and Compton were selected based on their outstanding academics, extensive community service, and residency in a rural area in or near Screven or Bulloch County.
Cortes, the valedictorian of his graduating class, expressed his aspirations in his application, stating, “I want the next generation of kids to grow up in a Statesboro that I am proud of, and for that generation to put effort into maintaining that vision of Statesboro too. I want to set an example for others to follow.” He plans to attend Georgia Tech to study computer engineering.
Compton, the salutatorian of his graduating class, emphasized the broader impact of education in his application, saying, “I believe that education is not only a pathway to individual success, but also a means to create positive change in the world.” He plans to attend Georgia Tech to study aerospace engineering.
The Elizabeth Scott Brown Scholars in Service Foundation Inc. aims to honor Brown’s legacy by supporting students who demonstrate a commitment to academic excellence and community service, ensuring her dedication to education and community continues to inspire future generations.
How to apply for the scholarship:
- Students must be residents of Screven County, Bulloch County or a surrounding county.
- Students must be a High School Junior or High School Senior to apply, have a cumulative 3.0 GPA or higher at graduation, and gain acceptance to an accredited four- or two- year college before graduation.
- Students must complete at least ten (10) hours of community service before graduation.
- Students must complete the Student Statement portion of the application and provide an original response (between 700 and 750 words in length) to the following prompt: What motivates you to pursue a college education and to be of service to your community?
