The American Red Cross has awarded Poplar Bluff High School $2,500 after students successfully generated 120 units of blood during a series of drives hosted, despite the weather events of recent months.
The scholarship committee comprised of a cross-section of educators selected both Khianna Peoples and Aminah Williams of the Class of 2025 out of eight applicants to receive $1,000 each, based on their involvement with the organization, coupled with their academic standing and good citizenship.
The other $500 was earmarked to sponsor two students pursuing training opportunities next school year through the Missouri Association of Student Councils, according to outgoing Student Council co-adviser Jennie Randolph.
“I have always felt a moral obligation to help others in any way possible,” wrote Williams in her successful scholarship application. “…The opportunity to work with others well has greatly improved my social skills and public speaking abilities. These skills will greatly benefit my future career in politics.”
Williams plans to attend the University of Missouri in Columbia, where she will pursue a pre-law major. During her high school career, she recorded 120 hours volunteering at student-sponsored blood drives, personally contributing blood four times.
Peoples plans to attend Howard University in Washington, D.C., where she will study political science with the ultimate desire of becoming a civil rights lawyer. She volunteered 102 hours over the course of 13 blood drives, donating three pints herself.
“Leading the African American Culture Club strengthened my ability to mobilize people, inspire change and navigate challenges, while engaging with my community enhanced my persuasive speaking and active listening skills,” she wrote of her service-learning journey. “…These experiences have prepared me to advocate for politics, empower marginalized communities and educate others about their rights, ensuring that my work leads to meaningful, lasting change.”
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Cutline: Presenting scholarships to Aminah Williams and Khianna Peoples are Red Cross District Collections Manager Jerrica Fox and Jennie Randolph, PBHS communication arts teacher.