Brotherhood of St. Andrew establishes PJC scholarship

Published or Revised April 01, 2011

A generous donation of $3,200 marks the establishment of the Bell-Lee-Thornburrow scholarship at Paris Junior College by the Brotherhood of St. Andrew, part of the Holy Cross Episcopal Church in Paris. Presenting the check was long-time brotherhood member retired Army Lt. Col. John W. Norton. Norton is a lifelong resident of Lamar County, life member of the Brotherhood of St. Andrew and a 1938 PJC alumnus who graduated from the old "concrete campus" facility in Paris. "We hope to continue it annually," said Norton, "with at least $3,000 given each year. PJC has only increased in size and support of the community, and it was a growing concern back when I graduated." He was accompanied to the check ceremony by Father Michael W. Hurst, rector at Holy Cross Episcopal Church in Paris, and brotherhood and church member Ron Knight. Also involved was Robert Thornburrow, former chair of the PJC Social Sciences Department. The members met a year ago with PJC President Dr. Pam Anglin for guidance on the best way to set up the program. "It is wonderful to have this type of scholarship available for students wishing to get job skills and begin working in the healthcare field." said Dr. Anglin. "These funds will give individuals who might have not been financially able the opportunity to be trained for employment. These scholarship funds mean a lot to PJC and will make a long-term difference in peoples' lives." "Holy Cross is happy to be a part of helping to promote the growth of our community and the individuals in it," said Father Hurst, who recently came to the church from Nashville, Tenn. The program is intended to expand the brotherhood's Christian outreach into the community by giving financial assistance to worthy technical/vocational students at PJC. Initial scholarships will be in the continuing education/noncredit health occupations area such as certified nurse aide or pharmacy technician, and may include programs ranging from a few weeks to semester length or longer. Future scholarships may be in other areas, depending on employment opportunities in the community. The funds will be managed by the college and are primarily for tuition, books and fees, but may also be used to cover transportation costs and day care. Scholarships are intended for students from Lamar County or the surrounding area, who have few marketable skills and the ability and ambition to better themselves. The brotherhood's scholarship committee will serve in a liaison role with the college, monitor recipients' success, and make recommendations on funding scholarships to other programs depending on the community job market. To apply, contact the PJC Office of Financial Aid at 903-782-0429. Ask for a Continuing Education Scholarship Application and state interest in applying for the Brotherhood of Saint Andrew's Bell-Lee-Thornburrow Scholarship.