Albemarle Plantation Woman's Club Generously Invests in Local Students - by Laura Bush Jenkins

While graduation can be a frenzied time, there was a different atmosphere among the (mostly) high school students and their mothers gathered inside Albemarle Plantation's waterfront clubhouse for an elegant luncheon on June 14th.

Energy and anticipation ran high as young ladies prepared to share their ambitions and gratitude with more than 40 supportive women.  It brought me back personally to my high school graduation- when as the recipient of a public affairs award from a local women's business group- I too experienced encouragement as multiple generations of women gathered in a spirit of harmony and cooperation.

High school seniors Shykeisha Kee, Toni Woodward, Christin Castro, Taylor Green, Amanda Pulley, and Winter Money were awarded scholarships to further their collegiate education.  Each young woman was selected on the merits of her academic aptitude, leadership abilities, and character strength.

What surprised me about students' non-corroborated remarks was their overlapping theme of giving back to the community and a their willingness to continue volunteering despite demanding career choices and clearly packed schedules.  Shykeisha Kee and Winter Money both conveyed they would like to establish a scholarship fund of their own one day.

Since 2005, Albemarle Plantation Woman's Club has sponsored a Woman in Transition award for a woman over age 18 demonstrating a concise plan to open a business, enter a new career field, or pursue higher education.  This year's award winner is Sarah Brown.  Brown- a single mother of four children ages 4-16- works two jobs and takes classes in hotel and restaurant management.  Her goal is to open a restaurant in Hertford while involving her family.

Perhaps you or someone you know would like to be part of the opportunity to contribute over $6,250 in scholarships to local students like Sarah.  You can speak with a club member as the group gets back in session this fall.  Or, you can make a tax-deductible contribution to Albemarle Plantation Women's Club, c/o Phyllis Cavallaro (fundraising chair), 421 Albemarle Blvd, Hertford, NC 27944.