“Rise, Take and Walk” was the message shared by Minister Jeff May during the Youth-led Celebration Service at Sweet Union Baptist Church (SUBC) held June 24. An outstanding challenge was delivered by SUBC long-time daughter Melissa Riles Hairston from the topic, “Staying Charged Up.”
In recognition of the exemplary efforts of youths in education, SUBC gave the visiting members of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity the opportunity to present scholarships to three outstanding young men, Tyrell Adams, Rick Smith and Michael Manns. A gift was also presented to Patricia Bradley Smith from the SUBC Sunday School.
The final presentations were made by Ms. Elva Taylor, president of the Scholarship Ministry of the church who distributed awards for the year, divided into three categories as determined by turned in school report cards.
In the first category of youth honorees, 11 students were given Wal-mart Gift Cards for their admirable efforts. In the second category 5 students who made the A-B honor roll for one grading period and 5 students who made it for 3 grading periods received monetary gifts. Two students, Taylor Franklin and Savannah Smith, made straight A’s for the entire year!
The third category recognized three high school graduates, Kyami Simmons, Braylin Burwell and Patricia Bradley Smith, who each received monetary gifts. Gifts were also presented to SUBC college graduates: Tiffany Jordan who received her Master’s degree from Cornell University, and Martina Fudge who received her Bachelor’s degree from Averett University.
The most eminent award however, was presented to Patricia Bradley Smith, recipient of the E.T. Burton Scholarship in the amount of $1,200.00!
Additionally through a new incentive, students from Pre-school through 3rd grade were recognized with their pictures on the screened presentation.
Eugene Riles presented a power point tribute to the youth and graduates with heart-felt congratulations to ALL!