Advance Report 2000
Committee ReportsGeoffrey Sawyer Scholarship
Funds in the former Southland Institute account became available in 1925 for aiding African-American students residing within the bounds of Indiana Yearly Meeting. This fund was named in 1981 for Geoffrey, the deceased son of George and Jackie Sawyer, members of West Richmond Friends Meeting.
In 1985, the fund came under the care of a committee of six Friends appointed by Indiana Yearly Meeting and it continues to provide modest scholarships for college students of African descent. Awards are based on funds available and on determined financial need. The committee meets each spring to select those to whom scholarships will be given for the following academic year.
This year, a total of $7,550 was awarded to eleven students; ten women, and one man. The scholarships range in value from $250 to $1,000. The students attend Indiana University-East, Ball State University, University of Notre Dame, Indiana University-Purdue University of Indianapolis (IUPUI), and Bethune-Cookman College.
The students express gratitude for these scholarships. The committee is pleased that Indiana Yearly Meeting can make these funds available for their intended purpose of assisting students of African descent. You can help by bringing these scholarships to the attention of a deserving student in your community, and/or by contributing to the Geoffrey Sawyer Scholarship Fund.
Ralph Kirkpatrick, Clerk
