2025 Scholarship          Recipients

Joshua Thomas is a graduating senior criminal justice major at Jackson State University. He is from Long Beach, California. Throughout his tenure at JSU , he's  always managed to make either the deans or principals list with a cumulative GPA of 3.9.  He is also a Spring ‘25 initiate of the Alpha Beta chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. Hobbies  include making origami, bowling, and collecting fragrances.

Zoe Turner is a senior at Jackson State University, majoring in Psychology with a minor in Theatre. Passionate and creative, she dreams of becoming a faith-based actress, using the power of storytelling to inspire and uplift others. Attending Jackson State has been a lifelong goal, and she is thrilled to graduate this fall.  Zoe is deeply grateful for the opportunities she’s received at JSU and is honored to be a recipient of the Elton & Ruby Deanes Pencil Fund $7,500 Scholarship. This generous award brings her one step closer to achieving her dreams. Above all, Zoe gives thanks to God for His continued grace and guidance throughout her journey.