Scholars in the news
McConnell Scholar Honoree at King Birthday Celebration
Daniel Cameron
On January 20, 2008, Sunday’s commemorative service at the Elizabeth Baptist Church (Tuscaloosa, AL) focused on the importance of giving back to the community just as Martin Luther King gave. The service also included honoring several members of the community, as chosen by the Benjamin Barnes Branch of the YMCA. Among the honorees was University of Louisville student and McConnell scholar Daniel Cameron.
And as the YMCA on 18th Street recognizes those who give to the community, giving back to the Benjamin Barnes Branch was the plea from Allan McShan, executive director of the branch and Daniel J. Cameron, a University of Louisville student who addressed the 300-person strong congregation during Sunday’s spirited and uplifting service.
“Traditional Southern values, that’s something that’s been lost in this country,” Cameron said. “But through the Y, you’re bringing them back.
Having a place to go after school is important to children who may not come home daily to adults or a stable household, but if they can participate in the YMCA’s basketball tournaments or other programs, chances are they’ll succeed in adulthood."
"It is imperative that we allow our children to get involved in anything that is positive,” he said, citing recent statistics that show more black men in the 18-25 year old range are in prison than in universities.
Cameron also pointed out many of the athletes on last year’s Central High School state champion football team began playing football in the Benjamin Barnes youth league football program.
"If you truly want to honor Dr. King today, let us give freely of our time and resources,” Cameron said. “What are you willing to do for your children and the future of the Benjamin Barnes YMCA?”
You can read the full article here.
McConnell Scholar Chosen as Kentucky Derby Festival Princess
Senior and McConnell Scholar Charis Botelho was recently chosen by the Kentucky Derby Festival as one of five Princesses who will serve during the 2008 Kentucky Derby Festival. One of the five Princesses will be crowned the Derby Festival Queen randomly by a spin-of-the-wheel at the annual Fillies’ Derby Ball on April 18. Each woman receives a $2000 scholarship and will act as an ambassador for the 2008 Derby Festival, attending nearly 70 events over a three-week period. The first event the Royal Court will attend will be the Derby poster premier on Jan. 31. Congratulations, Charis and good luck!
Charis Botelho, second from left.
For past Scholars in the News click here.