JLD Scholarship Fund: Community gala focuses on turning pain into purpose
{Photo Credit: Antionette Ker/Davidson Local}
More than sixty guests gathered for the first annual Johnny Leroy “Lee Lee” Dawkins Scholarship “Where They Are Now” gala on Sunday, December 11 at Lexington’s Edward C. Smith Civic Center. The event and silent auction served as a fundraiser for the scholarship fund that began 11 years ago after Johnny Leroy Dawkins Jr. was tragically killed in gun violence.
Dawkins was 25 at the time of the shooting. Some offered memories of his popularity and welcoming personality. His family created this scholarship in his memory one year later. More than 25 scholarships have been provided to young men graduating from Dawkins’ alma mater, Lexington Senior High School. Scholarships range from $500 to $1500 with more than $10,000 in awards.
Family photo of Johnny Leroy Dawkins Jr. and sister Dia Nyarko
Executive Director and sister of Dawkins, Dia Nyarko opened the program with a tribute to her brother’s legacy. “In an effort to encourage African American males and other minorities to seek a higher education rather than succumbing to the violent pressures of society, our family started this scholarship program…”
Graduates spoke in person and sent videos with testimonials about the importance of the scholarship program. Success stories ranged from documentary filmmakers, entrepreneurs, real estate professionals, football players, educators and politicians. City Council Member Garrett Holloway received the scholarship in 2013. Holloway spoke about his fondness for his “favorite cousin” and the impact his neighborhood felt due to the tragic loss. Holloway went on to earn a degree in business from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He thanked community members for making his education possible and credited that generosity for being one of the reasons for his return to Lexington.
Several students also shared the challenges they endured while pursuing higher education. “It wasn’t easy, I almost gave up,” said 2018 recipient Charles Carter. Carter shared the sacrifices his parents and grandparents made when “the scholarships ran out.” Carter currently works as an English teacher for Thomasville City Schools.
Retired educator Donald Holt, reminded that success doesn’t come without challenges. Founder of Males Only Service Club and Dress for Success, served as the emcee for the evening. Members of the club volunteered at the event.
Ronnie Beverly received a standing ovation after an inspirational keynote address that centered on faith and gratitude. Beverly is the former athletic director for Lexington City Schools who left his role this summer to become the Director of Facilities Operations at Winston-Salem State, his college alma mater.
The former football player and coach described taking “Mike Tyson” like career punches and “climbing mountains.” Beverly commended Nyarko and her mother, Angela McDuffie, for turning pain into purpose. He referenced a biblical story about Jesus healing “the woman with the issue of blood.” Beverly opined, “If she had hesitated, she would have bled to death… when Jesus was coming.” Beverly encouraged the audience to consider not where they are but where they are going and to care for those who might feel “left behind” this holiday season. He encouraged the audience to “carry the spirit of Lee Lee and our ancestors” with them.
Dawkins' children Jayden Dawkins and Leeleean Dawkins also served as volunteers for the evening.
McDuffie, who additionally serves as a member of the Lexington City School Board, shared new initiatives on the horizon including financial literacy, gun violence awareness programs and a youth focus on leadership.
Bunce Buildings sponsored the event.
To learn more about the scholarship program, visit: JLD Scholarship Fund
