The newly-formed Elizabeth Scott Brown Scholars in Service Foundation Inc. has awarded its first local scholarships. Nicholes Cortes was selected for a renewable annual award of $1500, and Eli Compton was selected for a renewable annual award of $1000.
Award ceremonies will be held at the entrance of the Pittman Park Education Center on July 8 at 12 p.m. for Cortes, and July 10 at 1 p.m. for Compton. The location was chosen to honor the late Elizabeth Scott Brown, the foundation’s namesake. Elizabeth had worked at the center as a beloved preschool teacher for 15 years.
A respected and dedicated community leader, Elizabeth was on her way to teach another group of elementary, middle, and high school students on February 25, 2023 when a car accident ended her life at the age of 63. Earlier in her career, Brown was a preschool teacher at Weaver’s Play and Learn Center in Sylvania. Brown is remembered as a lifelong educator and also for her community service work in Screven County.
Foundation director and United States Army Officer, Octavia Scott says, “Through these worthy and talented recipients, Roger, Kimberly, and I can ensure that the wonderful works of our Mom’s life will continue to bear fruit for students and the community for many years to come.”
In order to be selected, Cortes and Compton had to demonstrate outstanding academics, extensive community service and residency in or near Screven or Bulloch County.
Cortes was the valedictorian of his graduating class and stated in his application, “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 was the salutatorian of his graduating class and stated in his application, “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 in aerospace Engineering.
For more information, visit the foundation website here.
