Transcript 2005 AAHRA/AHAEEF

2005 AAHRA/AHAEEF
Scholarship Winners
DeAngela Lindsey
DeAngela Lindsey

$2,500 SERC-NAHRO Scholarship
Sponsored by the Anniston Housing Authority
Sam Jones, Jr., Executive Director

Future Kindergarten Teacher








(Also won this scholarship in 2001, 2003, 2004)
"I believe that the feeling a teacher receives after his or her students have grasped a concept is far better than any amount of money. The assistance I have
received from the AAHRA scholarships has helped me come several steps closer to my dream of becoming a teacher a reality."
College: Senior attending Jacksonville State University
Major: Early Childhood Education
High School: Graduated in the Top 10% of the Class in 2001from Anniston High School
Achievements: Maintains above a 3.0 GPA; Full-time student; Practicum teacher for Pleasant Valley elementary School 3rd grade; part-time employee
for The Shoe Department in Gadsden, AL; 2001, 2002, 2004 & 2005 SERC Scholarship winner; Next Start scholarship; National Honor Society; Dean's
List 2001; Editor's Choice Award from the International Library of Poetry.
What they say about DeAngela …
“It is refreshing to see a young person pursue their goals through continued education in these times when education seems to have taken a backdrop
to other interests. DeAngela, being very loyal to her community, also works to help support her college financial obligations.”
– Sam Jones, Jr., Executive Director, Anniston Housing Authority
“DeAngela is a very personable young lady, very professional … She is a team player, hard worker, gets along well with others, and performed well
in the practicum at the Kindergarten level. She is a deserving young lady who is serious about her studies.”
-- Dr. Celia B. Hilber, Jacksonville State University, College of Education & Professional Studies
“I think DeAngela is an excellent candidate for this scholarship because she is so close to completing school. She is a smart and caring individual who
enjoys school and works hard at all she does. DeAngela works well with children of all ages and will make a great teacher.”
-- August Hester, Long-time friend
Aspen Shook
Aspen Shook



$3,000 AHARM Scholarship
Sponsored by the Bessemer Housing Authority
Ronnie Jones, Executive Director
Future Certified Public Accountant
“I decided that I wanted to make the best contribution to this valued organization that I could. My family, friends and coworkers
are very supportive of me, and that makes me even more excited to find what my future may hold.”







College: Accepted at Athens State University
Major: Accounting
High School: Graduated with an Advanced Diploma in 2000
Oak Grove High School
Hueytown, Alabama
Special: Graduated with Highest Honors (3.9 GPA) with an Associate’s Degree in Accounting from Bessemer State Community
College, 2004; Dean’s List; President’s List; Outstanding Student for the Accounting Dept.; National Honors Society; Math,
Biology, and French Clubs; Future Business Leaders of America; volunteer for Beverly Health Services, Children’s Hospital, and
Birmingham Humane Society; Co-founder of Valley Crek Bluegrass, an organization that raises money for charitable
community causes.
What they say about Aspen …
“Aspen is a bright and personable individual. She is highly self-motivated and well capable of achieving any goal she sets her
mind to.”
– Tim Sumrall, Comptroller, Bessemer Housing Authority
“Aspen has always displayed a high degree of integrity, responsibility, and ambition. She is definitely a leader rather than a
follower. Aspen would be an asset to any organization.”
-- Ron Elders, former instructor, Bessemer State Technical College
“Ms. Shook is an excellent student, and has worked very hard to achieve her personal, professional, and academic goals. She
will be an excellent student for Athens State, and I recommend her highly.”
-- Rand Armbrester, Accounting Instructor, Bessemer State Technical College
LaTricia Crusoe
LaTricia Crusoe









$2,000 AAHRA Scholarship
Sponsored by the Bessemer Housing Authority
Ronnie Jones, Executive Director
Future Attorney
“As I have grown and matured, my perception of life has enabled me to accept and appreciate those (negative) experiences. I want to be a positive
example that others would want to duplicate. Being the recipient of this scholarship will enable me to establish a secure foundation for my daughter and me,
complete my desire to become an attorney, and reach others who are struggling with life’s situations.”
College: Earned Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology/Psychology in 1998
University of Alabama – Birmingham
Accepted At Miles School of Law, Birmingham, AL
High School: Graduated in 1992
Jess Lanier High School, Bessemer, Alabama
Special: Dean’s List and President’s List; tutor for children in community; Sunday School teacher; volunteer working with autistic children in recreational
sports; volunteer to manicure lawns for elderly neighbors; substitute teacher; program instructor/coordinator for pregnancy prevention grant program.
What they say about LaTricia …
“I have acquired great respect and admiration for Miss Crusoe. From my observation, she had given our program some needed elements in making a
difference in the lives of the clients. Words cannot express how honored I feel in making this recommendation.”
– Kenneth Poole, Program Coordinator, The Wilderness at Glenwood, Birmingham
“LaTricia is very compassionate and considerate to anyone in need. With such a caring and understanding nature, others feel at ease confiding in her.
She is not easily distracted from her goals and always follows through with whatever her mind is set on.”
-- Melissa A. Coleman, Long-time friend
“Ms. Crusoe is dedicated to excellence. If she makes a commitment, she follows through and completes the task. There is no doubt that her near future
holds for her all possibilities. It is rare to find such a genuine person who denies things for herself to provide for someone else.”
-- Shelia R. Baraka, Long-time friend and former coworker
Courtney Garner
Courtney Garner









$2,000 AAHRA Executive Director Memorial Scholarship
Sponsored by the Columbiana Housing Authority
Jack Mundy, Executive Director
Future Elementary School Teacher
“I hope that while teaching and doing what I love, I will be the encouragement and motivation a child needs to go on and be a
successful person throughout life.”
College: Accepted at the University of Montevallo
Major: Early Childhood Education
High School: Graduated with an Advanced Diploma in 2005
Shelby County High School, Columbiana, Alabama
Special: Class Salutatorian; Academic Top Ten; graduated with Advanced Diploma with a 3.98 GPA; All-State Chorus and
Show Choir; Miss Shelana, 2005; Relay for Life volunteer, 2002-04; Varsity Cheerleader; Student Government Executive
President; Beta Club Vice President; Chamber Choir President; Teach Alabama Model Classroom Student; Camp Counselor at
Camp Sumatanga Youth Camp 2003.
What they say about Courtney …
“Only occasionally is a teacher fortunate enough to teach a student who surpasses every expectation. … If I had to choose
someone to represent me as an example of a teacher, I would choose Courtney. I believe that she will make a great
difference in the world.”
– Kayren Lovelady Owens – Chair, English Dept., Shelby County High School
“In looking at Courtney’s activities you immediately recognize that she is a leader. … She has been recognized as an
outstanding student and more importantly as an outstanding person by classmates, teacher and community leaders.”
-- Andrew J. Mundy, Jr., Executive Director, Columbiana Housing Authority
“Courtney is a dedicated student and takes pride in whatever tasks she takes on. She is a team player and knows when to
exercise her leadership skills.”
-- Susie Warren, Life-long friend of the family
Candace Cummings
Candace Cummings



$2,000 AAHRA Scholarship
Sponsored by the Dothan Housing Authority
Glenn Franklin, Executive Director
Future Registered Nurse
“My objective to continuing my education is having a better life and being able to have options because I have a college education. I want to work in neonatal care because
if I can help save a baby’s life or make it better … I’d feel like a better person because I made a difference.”







College: Accepted to University of Alabama – Birmingham
Major: Nursing
High School: Graduated with Honors in 2005
Northview High School
Dothan, Alabama
Special: Graduated in the Top Rankings in the Honors program with a 3.89 GPA; National Honor Society; National Honor Roll; 4.0 Academic Achievement Award;
Color Guard; Debutante Scholarship; Health Occupation Students of America; Multicultural Club Secretary; Health Science Program at Dothan Technology Center.
What they say about Candice …
“Her academic record is impressive, as are her leadership abilities at school and within the community. Her morals are beyond reproach and her character is
unblemished. Candice is self-confident and displays natural leadership characteristics.”
– Jennifer Matheny, Guidance Counselor, Northview High School, Dothan
“I feel proud to write this letter for Candice because I grew up in the same housing community and it is an experience that I would not trade for the world. She is very
involved in our community service projects ... We are very proud of Candice and we feel she is an excellent choice as a scholarship recipient.”
-- Janasky L. Fleming, Northview High School Multicultural Club, Dothan
“ Candice has been active in our after-school tutorials and sports programs. She has maintained high grades throughout her school years and is currently active in
several extracurricular activities in school and in the community. She is the first in her family to be college bound.”
-- Glenn D. Franklin, Executive Director, Dothan Housing Authority
Justin Keith
Justin Keith









$2,000 AAHRA Exhibitors/Professionals Scholarship
Sponsored by the Fort Payne Housing Authority
John Haase, Executive Director
Future Novelist
“I want to be thought of as a person of intellect and character who had a strong work ethic and exemplified determination
throughout his educational years. ..I want to write because it is my passion. I want to write poignantly insightful and true-to-life
tales about the trials and tribulations of everyday life.”
College: Applied to Auburn University and Northeast Alabama State Community College
Major: English
High School: Graduated in 2005
Fort Payne High School, Fort Payne, Alabama
Special: Graduated with a 3.39 GPA; National Honor Roll; Who’s Who Among American High School Students for three
years; part-time employed with the City of Fort Payne Parks & Recreation.
What they say about Justin …
“Justin attends school regularly and also holds down a part time job. He has an impressive work ethic. He is respected by the
faculty as well as his peers.”
– Ronnie Crabtree, Principal, Fort Payne High School
“I found Justin to be an excellent student and worker, always going beyond what the task calls for. Justin has shown leadership
and work ethic qualities that will help make him a good student and citizen. I feel that Justin will use these qualities to be
successful in college and throughout life.”
-- Chip Blanton, Agriscience Teacher, Fort Payne High School
“He is very polite, hardworking, dependable and goal-oriented. He is well respected by his classmates because of his
consideration for others. ”
-- Cindy Smith, Counselor, Fort Payne High School
Shauna Floyd
Shauna Floyd









$2,000 AAHRA Scholarship
Sponsored by the Huntsville Housing Authority
Michael Lundy, Executive Director
Future Doctor of Medicine
“Everyone needs support, and if a person knows they have people behind them, it can encourage them to push their abilities to
immeasurable boundaries, and pave the way for them to be able to stand strong by themselves.”
College: Accepted at Samford University and Birmingham-Southern College
Major: Biology, Pre-medicine
High School: Graduated with Honors in 2005
Lee High School, Huntsville, Alabama
Special: Graduated in the top 20 with a 3.8 GPA; Honors by the Academic Booster Club; Beta Club; soccer; performer in show
and advanced choir; Church Youth Choir member and president; Delta Alpha Theta member; earned composite score of 26 on
ACT.
What they say about Shauna …
“Shauna has been very involved in her high school, participating in numerous activities, and ranking in the top third of her class
academically. I can think of no other student so worthy of this scholarship.”
– Wanda Doss, Ed.D., Assistant Principal, Lee High School, Huntsville
“She is studious, trustworthy, and an all around wonderful person. She always follows through on promises and tries her hardest
to always succeed. She is someone, I believe, who will achieve her dreams.”
-- Willie Hardin, Family friend
“ As a student at Lee, Shauna has impressed the faculty and administration with her exemplary performance, perseverance,
positive attitude, and excellent reputation. Indeed she is a terrific model student, eager to learn and work. Like a fleeting
butterfly she will grace any place where she lands … she is well-deserving of the recognition of her accomplishments.”
-- Clarissa Daniels, Biology teacher and Beta Club Sponsor, Lee High School, Huntsville
LaJuana Stevenson
LaJuana Stevenson



$2,000 AAHRA Scholarship
Sponsored by the Mobile Housing Authority
Stevens Gregory, Executive Director
Business Owner
“As a single mother of four children … I do not want my business to suffer because I do not have proper management knowledge. I am determined to
accomplish my educational goal .. to propel and expand my business.”







College: Accepted to attend Bishop State Community College
Major: Business Management
High School: Graduated in 1989
C.F. Vigor High School, Prichard, Alabama
Special: Self-employed owner of “Just Chill” Cleaning Services; Family Self-Sufficiency participant through the Section 8 program; Gulf Coast Young
People’s Union president; Sponsor for Penelope House for Battered Women & Children, and Mary’s Home for Abused Children; Team Mom for
basketball, baseball and softball teams; Single Parents’ Ministry president; Women’s Business Center member.
What they say about LaJuana …
“She is truly a person who I can say will utilize these funds in a way to move her and her family to self-sufficiency. Ms. Stevenson has always shown
great desire to become a successful businesswoman, and not only for herself, but she would like to employ others.”
– Deidre Craig, Owner, Potter’s House Home Daycare
“Throughout the time that I have known her, she has shown great strength through adversity. She is someone you can depend on for good advice. One
thing I have always known about LaJuana is that she has always wanted to be her own boss in the world.”
-- Bernadette Jackson, Long-time friend
“LaJuana attends church faithfully. She is a young lady who is very involved in our church organization. She is a very good candidate for your
scholarship.”
-- Derreck Williams, President, The Apostolic Church of God Rapture Preparation Center, Mobile
Leah Cleveland
Leah Cleveland









$2,000 AAHRA Exhibitors/Professionals Scholarship
Sponsored by the Mobile Housing Board
Stevens Gregory, Executive Director
Future Medical Doctor of Obstetrics
“I will take on a full load of general education classes, prepare myself for the four-year university that awaits
me … work hard, and find a permanent spot on the Deans list.”
College: Accepted to attend the University of Alabama - Birmingham
Major: Biology
High School: Graduated in 2005
Mary G. Montgomery High School, Semmes, Alabama
Special: Graduated High School Honors curriculum with a 3.3 GPA; Future Business Leaders of America;
Distributive Educational Clubs of America secretary; Delteens; winner of the Mobile Housing Board’s Greer’s
Food Tiger/GMAC Bowl Scholarship; active member of church and community.
What they say about Leah …
“Leah is a very responsible, enthusiastic, and competent young lady who conducts herself in a mature
fashion. I have been impressed with her academic performance and social growth.”
– Katrice S. Cunningham, Assistant Principal, Mary G. Montgomery High School, Semmes
“Since I have known Leah, she has shown true leadership qualities. Leah is the type of student that goes the
extra mile in all she does.”
-- Alecia L. Watkins, Teacher/Co-Op Coordinator, Mary G. Montgomery High School, Semmes
“Leah strives to do her best at all times, … she is also trustworthy and helpful.”
-- Tracy Churchwell-Clayton, English Honors Teacher, Mary G. Montgomery High School, Semmes
LaToya Ellis
LaToya Ellis









$2,000 AAHRA Scholarship
Sponsored by the Montgomery Housing Authority
Mickey McInnish, Executive Director
Future Pharmacist
“I know I could accomplish my goal of helping people because I know what it is like to be helped. I want to work in a rural
community where there are not many pharmacists … I want to offer the best medical care I can possibly and humanly give.”
College: Senior attending Alabama State University, to pursue Pharmacy Technician License
Major: Chemistry with a minor in Mathematics, Pre-Health Curriculum
High School: Graduated in 2000
Sidney Lanier High School, Montgomery, Alabama
Special: Laboratory assistant for Science in Motion-Biology in Montgomery; volunteer for Camp Sunshine; National Dean’s List,
2001 & 2005; Leadership Scholarship from ASU; Honor Student; American Chemical Society; Youth Advisor and Choir
member, Antioch Baptist Church; Girl Scouts of America.
What they say about LaToya …
“I met Ms. Ellis when she volunteered to work at Camp Sunshine for Girls. While balancing family, school and job commitments,
Ms. Ellis was nonetheless enthusiastic, energetic and dedicated to helping the camp. As a resident of public housing, she was an
outstanding role model to our campers, most of who reside in public housing. She exemplified to the campers that … with hard
work and perseverance, all people can overcome adversity. Ms. Ellis is a role model for all of us.”
– Laurie Jean Weil, D.V.M., Volunteer Director, Camp Sunshine for Girls
“I find her resolve to succeed very commendable. Despite very apparent adverse situations and environments in her life, she
has beaten the odds by staying in school and working tremendously hard to excel.”
-- Sheree J. Finley, Instructor of Chemistry, Department of Physical Sciences, Alabama State University
“Her character, educational advancement, and diligence to the tasks of self-improvement make her an exceptional asset to the
kingdom of God and to society.”
-- Johnny J. Hollis, Jr., Pastor, Antioch Baptist Church, Montgomery
Michael Dickinson
Michael Dickinson









$2,000 AAHRA Exhibitors/Professionals Scholarship
Sponsored by the Ozark Housing Authority
Dave Madden, Executive Director
Future Professor of Mathematics
“There is something about being a teacher that is appealing to me, and I would love to continue to educate other people the way I
have been educated.”
College: Accepted to attend Jacksonville State University
Major: Mathematics
High School: Graduated in 2005
Carroll High School, Ozark, Alabama
Special: JROTC Rifle Team; National Honor Society; Math Honor Society; U.S. Achievement Academy; All-American Scholar;
Church Youth Group; volunteer for Ozark City “Make a Difference Day;” Eagle Scout; aspiring to qualify for the U.S. Olympic
Shooting Team.
What they say about Michael …
“Year after year, Michael has earned a savings bond from Ozark Housing for having perfect attendance and/or all A’s. His
performance was so outstanding, he was named recipient of the Academic Excellence Award for 1998-99 for the complete
agency. I could go on with stories, but they would all include success and honor.”
– David W. Madden, Chief Operating Officer, Ozark Housing Authority
“This student has unlimited potential with the ability to accomplish anything he attempts. He is highly respected and admired
by superiors as well as suborndinates, and has demonstrated that he is a valuable asset to his school, his community and his
nation.”
-- John T. Kehler, 1SG (RET) USA, Army Instructor, U.S. Army Junior ROTC
“I recognized at an early age the positive attitude and desire to be the best he could be that he demonstrated with his
teammates. I am proud and pleased in the positive manner that Michael represents his family, his school, his community and
himself. He is certainly an outstanding young man. ”
-- Sammy Judah, Chairman, Ozark City School Board
Charles Doss
Charles Doss









$2,000 AAHRA Exhibitors/Professionals Scholarship
Sponsored by the Piedmont Housing Authority
Keith Word, Executive Director
Plans to “Be Somebody”
“My main goal in life is to do something more benefiting to someone other than just myself … May we all prosper in our
endeavors and dreams, and forever seek knowledge.”
College: Accepted to attend Jacksonville State University
Major: Undetermined
High School: Graduated with Honors 2005
Spring Garden High School, Spring Garden, Alabama
Special: Ranked 4th in his class with a 3.88 GPA; National Honor Society; Wendy’s High School Heisman nominee; Circle of
Champions Academic School Scholar; All-State Academic 2004; Football team captain; All-County and All-Region Honorable
Mention 2003 & 2004; PeeWee Basketball coach.
What they say about Charles …
“It is an honor and privilege to write this letter or recommendation for such a bright and dynamic young man. He is one of the
most polite and well-mannered students I have been around in my eleven years of teaching.”
– Christie Lewis, Guidance Counselor, Spring Garden School
“Charles not only displayed a great deal of self-discipline at school, he also helped to take care of his father while balancing
his school work and extracurricular activities. Many students would have used this as an excuse for letting their grades fall, but
Charles continued to put in the time it takes to excel in the classroom.”
-- Jason Howard, Teacher & Coach, Spring Garden School
“I have watched Charles grow from an unsure teenager to a dynamic and talented young person. He has been recognized in
our PHA academic program now every year since he has resided with us, making straight A’s each year. Charles has truly
been successful in every activity or endeavor that he has participated in.”
-- J. Keith Word, Executive Director, Piedmont Housing Authority
Mallorie Robinson
Mallorie Robinson









$2,000 AAHRA Scholarship
Sponsored by the Selma Housing Authority
Johnny Moss, Executive Director
Future Computer Engineer
“I believe to be successful in life you must first start with self-determination. You must believe that you can and
will achieve your goals. Then you must find your purpose.”
College: Accepted at Alabama State University and Alabama A&M University
Major: Computer Science
High School: Graduated with an Advanced Diploma in 2005
Selma High School, Selma, Alabama
Special: Ranked #6 in her senior class with a 4.1 GPA; National Honor Society; Mu Alpha Theta; Student
Government Association; Marching Band; Yearbook Staff; News Team; Varsity Track Team; Service for
Peace; Dance Line Co-captian.
What they say about Mallorie …
“Mallorie is an excellent student that has the drive and determination to set and reach goals of high
magnitude.”
– Anthony Sanders, AP Government/AP Microeconomics teacher, Selma High School Social Science Dept.
“Ms. Robinson is going to be an asset to the college or university she attends. She will without a doubt be a
strong pillar of society upon completing her post-secondary career.”
-- Joe J. Peterson, Jr., Principal, Selma High School
“Mallorie has a strong and deep character, a selfless devotion to others and maturity beyond her years. She
has always been a responsible, enthusiastic and competent young lady, anxious to help, of high moral
principles, and one with the unique ability to admit her mistakes and learn from them.”
-- Faye M. Green, Counselor, Selma High School