Our church organization issues three $500 scholarships to graduates entering a two year or four-year college or university. The $500.00 scholarship is awarded to the college in the students’ name or directly to the student for payment of tuition, fees, books, or other needed items for school. Scholarship awards are based on a comprehensive process.

Applicants must complete an application and a 400 word essay outlining their career goals. In addition to the application and essay, applicants must provide two letters of recommendation and a sealed copy of their high school transcript.

Areas that are reviewed by the schaolarship committee includes, but are not limited to the following: Academic Accomplishments, School Activities, Community Service, References, Personal Essay and Financial Need.

The Lovie C. Woods Educational Scholarship honors the legacy of our cherished church member, Lovie Woods. Although she did not graduate from high school, Lovie and her late husband, Earnest Woods, were dedicated to ensuring their three children completed college. While they saved what they could to cover the costs, Lovie always credited scholarships as the key factor in making higher education affordable. Each of their children received scholarship assistance, which made a significant difference in their educational journeys, opening doors to new opportunities and careers.

Lovie Woods deeply valued education and was committed to seeing young people pursue college degrees. She understood the transformative power of education and its ability to prepare individuals for their futures.

For nearly 70 years, Lovie Woods faithfully served as a Christian Educator at St. John Missionary Baptist Church (SJMBC). Her roles included President of the SJMBC Choir, Sunday School Teacher, Mission Ministry Instructor, Director of the Baptist Training Unit (BTU), and Superintendent of Christian Education. In her honor, SJMBC hosts an annual golf outing, with proceeds funding the scholarships that continue her passion for supporting education.

On Saturday, December 12, 2020, Lovie C. Woods entered eternal rest after 93 remarkable years of life. 

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