Marietta, Georgia, September 23, 2020 – On Tuesday, September 22, Life University’s (LIFE) Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (ODEI) and the University Advancement Department hosted the John Robert Lewis Scholarship for Social Justice and Leadership Luncheon. Mr. John-Miles Lewis, the son of the late John Robert Lewis, was the guest of honor. The luncheon marked the announcement of LIFE’s $100,000 endowment for this new scholarship that will be awarded annually as a cash and tuition award of $10,000.
LIFE President Dr. Rob Scott said, “Our success as an institution depends on how well we welcome, value, engage and advance the rich diversity of our students, staff and administration. John Lewis was the embodiment of a servant leader and an individual who served a purpose much greater than his own. He was, by definition, a shining example of Lasting Purpose.”
In June, LIFE announced the launch of ODEI to its campus. ODEI strives to make LIFE a leading institution for inclusive excellence where people of all identities, perspectives and experiences find a welcoming environment where multiplicity, parity and inclusiveness are unwavering values.
“As our country struggles with our collective consciousness as it relates to ongoing issues with social injustice and systemic racism, I think Congressman Lewis’ words ring clear today,” explains Dr. Scott. “We are proud to recognize and honor Congressman Lewis’ lifelong contributions to making America a more perfect Union.” Luncheon guests included Cobb County Chairman Mike Boyce; Marietta Mayor Steve Tumlin; Cobb County Commissioner District 3 JoAnn Birrell; Cobb County Commissioner District 4 Lisa Cupid; Cobb Chamber President and CEO Sharon Mason; Cobb Chamber Chairman John Loud; Imara Canady, National Director of Community Engagement, The M.L.King Center; and Reverend T. Renee Crutcher, Social Justice Activist and Vocalist.
Two requirements for student candidates applying for the John R. Lewis Scholarship for Social Justice and Leadership include belonging to one or more socially marginalized groups (i.e., ethnic/racial minority, member of the LGBTQIA+ community or have a documented disability) and having a commitment to social justice as demonstrated through their leadership, scholarship or service. Other requirements and further information on the scholarship can be found at LIFE.edu/about-pages/Office-of-Diversity-Equity-Inclusion/John-R-Lewis-scholarship.
Donating to a LIFE scholarship program is one of the more immediate ways to support students. A scholarship directly impacts LIFE’s students and is an excellent way to relieve some of the burden of educational expenses while also rewarding hard work and academic excellence If interested in supporting LIFE with a gift toward the John R. Lewis Scholarship for Social Justice and Leadership or any other endowed scholarship, please visit Alumni.LIFE.edu/scholarshipsgift.
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