2025 Scholarship Recipient

We are proud to announce the recipients of this year’s Bennett Memorial Scholarship. Each year, this scholarship honors the legacy of excellence, perseverance, and service represented by Ricky Bennett Sr, a native of Hallsboro, NC, and supports outstanding students from Columbus County in their pursuit of higher education.

This year, we are excited to recognize three outstanding awardees whose accomplishments and aspirations reflect the very best of their community:

Jaden Troy

With an impressive 4.18 GPA, Jaden has consistently exemplified academic excellence and leadership. He is a member of the National Honor Society, Beta Club, and served as a Junior Marshal. Beyond the classroom, he’s made a meaningful impact as a Junior Rec League basketball coach, active participant in his Church Outreach Program, and as a Special Needs Buddy at the Night to Shine event. Jaden plans to pursue a career as a sports broadcaster. This fall, he will attend Mount Olive College, where he will also be a member of the basketball team.

Jvon Junious

Jvon graduates with a 3.4 GPA and a strong commitment to leadership and community involvement. He participated in the Columbus County Educational Talent Search Program and served as Team Captain for the East Columbus Basketball Team, earning All-Conference Honorable Mention. A dedicated member of Mt. Hebron AME Zion Church, Jvon volunteers with the Sunday Video Team Ministry. He plans to study computer science and has aspirations to become a future entrepreneur.

Jayleen Graham

Jayleen graduates with a 3.2 GPA and was a key player on the Whiteville High School state championship runner-up football team. He is also active in his faith community as a member of his church’s youth choir. Jayleen will attend Winston-Salem State University in the fall, where he will continue his football career and pursue his academic goals.

Please join us in celebrating Jaden, Jvon, and Jayleen—three remarkable young men with bright futures ahead. We are proud to honor them as this year’s Ricky Bennett Sr. Memorial Scholarship recipients.