CMA's Barbara Worsham McAlister Scholarship Program


Clan McAlister of America periodically awards one or more scholarships in the amount of $750-$1,000 to deserving high school seniors or college freshmen. Eligible students must be children or grandchildren (natural, adopted, or step) of an active CMA member whose dues are paid. The first year a scholarship was awarded was 2006. There are many smart, talented young people who are McAlisters or related to McAlisters. Such a scholarship program is a way to heighten the interest of our youth in education and in the CMA. Click here for more details on the program.


Applicants are asked to submit:

  1. a completed application form,
  2. a narrative autobiographical sketch,
  3. a resume,
  4. a copy of your transcript (SAT/ACT and other standardized test scores are optional), and
  5. a letter of reference from a current or former teacher, counselor, administrator, or other person in the official role of a coach/mentor.

The applicants are rated on the autobiographical sketch, grades, activities (examples include: education, extracurricular, church/religious, volunteer, and/or community activities), work experiences, and reference.


Clan McAlister of America encourages students to apply for a scholarship. Please check with the Scholarship Committee to learn of current scholarship availability and deadlines by emailing :
cma awards committee email address








How You Can Make A Difference


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Clan McAlister of America offers the Barbara Worsham McAlister Scholarship in honor of our dear friend who passed away in October 2021. Barbara served 33 years as a resource teacher. Recognizing the importance of education to society, Barbara convinced the CMA Board of Directors to create a scholarship to help McA descendants during their early years of college. Through her efforts managing the scholarship program, 19 CMA scholarships have been awarded to very deserving McA descendants. Barbara firmly believed, as does the CMA, that education furthers the fulfillment of one’s essential self and in turn enhances the lives of the generations that follow.

Contribute to the Barbara Worsham McAlister Scholarship Fund by clicking the PayPal button below. Support Barbara’s recognition that contributions to education are not charity, but rather an investment in the future.

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A CMA Scholarship  





CMA College Scholarship Awards




2022 SCHOLARSHIP WINNER: Margaret Statom
margaret statom

As announced at the 2022 Gathering in Hot Springs, AR, the recipient of the 2022 CMA Scholarship for $750 is Margaret Statom of Memphis, Tennessee. She is the granddaughter of Sandra McCollum (B03).

Margaret graduated from Westminster Academy in Memphis, TN in May 2022, and started college at Samford University in Birmingham, AL in Fall 2022. While at Westminster Academy, she received numerous honors, including being named to the Honor Roll for five quarters, and she took a leadership role in several music challenges and choirs. She wrote her senior thesis on “The Effects of Music on Human Life.” Margaret also excelled in Mock Trial competitions, receiving multiple awards. A teacher at Westminster, Tirzah Rhodes, stated “Her involvement with mock trial … was nothing short of spectacular.” Tirzah Rhodes also characterized Margaret as a “creative and dynamic force that has a good compass.” Margaret plans to pursue a career in the fine arts and in law.

Margaret credits her grandmother (Sandra) for stirring her interest in family history and Scotland. She has known about her family’s genealogy for years through her grandmother and, in 2017, she traveled to Scotland, Ireland, and England, and visited the McAlister ancestral castle. She hopes to return to Scotland one day, perhaps in a study abroad program.

In her thank-you note, Margaret said: “I cannot express enough how grateful I am to be chosen as the recipient of the Barbara Worsham McAlister Scholarship. It is such an honor and a blessing! I would’ve loved to have been able to accept this gift in person, but I was not able to make the long drive this weekend. However, I am so glad that my grandmother is there to accept it for me. Thank you again for your generosity to help aid me on my journey into adulthood.”

Clan McAlister wishes Margaret Statom the best as she begins her college career.


2016 SCHOLARSHIP WINNER: Graham Angus McAllister
Graham Angus McAllister

The CMA 2016 Scholarship of $500 has been awarded to Graham Angus McAllister of Hilmar, California. Graham is the son of Kirk and Jane McAllister. Graham graduated with honors from Modesto High School where he was involved in numerous extra-curricular activities and served as an officer in many different organizations. He wore the McAllister tartan with his kilt under his graduation gown. He has amassed an impressive number of awards and accolades for his involvement in service clubs.

Graham gets up at 5:30 every morning to feed animals and drives 35 miles to Modesto High School to be a part of the International Baccalaureate Program. He doesn't arrive back home until at least 6:00 p.m. after cross country and track and continually strives to do his best in anything he pursues.

He takes pride in his Scottish heritage and this led him to join a Scottish pipe band where he is a drummer and plays at many cultural events throughout the state. Graham's cornerstones are family, community and service to others. He has traveled and studied during the summers and worked extensively with his jersey cattle breeding program that he started at age 9. Jerseys have been an important part of Scottish agriculture, and this is another way he upholds his heritage.

Graham's goal is to pursue his passion of architecture and use this knowledge to benefit others. He will be attending Washington University in St. Louis having been accepted into the Sam Fox School of Design and Visual Arts.

One reference said, "Graham is committed to learning both because he wants to be successful and because he simply wants to know. He is creative, curious, extremely self-motivated and driven to lead. Graham cares about the world and is determined to make a positive difference." Another person said, "Graham is intelligent, organized, talented, passionate and practical. He is truly a delightful young man who is full of goodness. Graham McAllister represents the finest qualities of modern youth."

The members of Clan McAlister of America send our best wishes to Graham as he begins his college career at Washington University.


2014 SCHOLARSHIP WINNER: Denise Irvin
Denise Irvin

The recipient of the 2014 CMA Scholarship is Denise Irvin of Fulshear, Texas. Denise is the daughter of Daniel and Darlene McAlister Irvin. She graduated with highest honors from Foster High School in Richmond, Texas and was the valedictorian of her class. Denise received numerous awards during her four years in high school in computer science, US history, English, algebra and geometry. She was an AP Scholar with Distinction and a member of the National Honor Society. Denise was a leader in extra-curricular activities and did volunteer work with Habitat for Humanity, Special Olympics, Adopt a Highway Beautification Program and at River Bend Baptist Church. She was involved in the band, Science Olympiad, Robotics Club and Girl Scouts. Denise will be attending Texas A&M University.

One of her references said, "She has proven to be a hard working student with dedicated involvement in a wide variety of extracurricular activities. Her work ethic, passon for life, and dedication to the field of computer science will make her a great candidate to earn this scholarship. She is a person who is able to successfully develop plans and implement them.” Another teacher said, “Denise values education, and this can be seen in everything that she does. She produces quality work and I can honestly say that Denise is one of the best students that I've taught."

In her thank-you note Denise said, "I would like to thank Clan McAlister for its generosity in providing the scholarship program and for my selection this year. I am honored to be a recipient of this award. The Clan McAlister scholarship will help me reach my goal to become a software engineer who makes a difference in the people around me and the world as a whole. I will work hard to honor the clan's support of its members and higher education."

Clan McAlister wishes Denise Irvin the best as she begins her college career.


2013 SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS: Stuart McDonald & Laith Tucker.
Stuart McDonald


Stuart McDonald is the son of Bob and Christina McDonald and the grandson of CMA members Jim and Velma McDonald. Stuart is a rising sophomore at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, majoring in Computer Science, and made the Dean’s List both semesters of his freshman year. Stuart graduated from Culpeper High School with an Advanced Studies Diploma and received many honors and awards including AP Scholar and Honor. Stuart was a member and officer of the National Honor Society, the National Junior Honor Society, the National Technical Honor Society, Future Business Leaders of America, Technology Student Association, and was ranked nationally in the U.S. Cyber Challenge. He lettered in Academics each year in high school and was ranked in the top ten of his graduating class. Stuart was a member of the Boy Scouts of America, ultimately achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. Stuart’s goals include completing his BS degree and pursuing a career in cyber security.

Stuart says, "I am incredibly honored to have been selected by the committee for this award. Merit scholarships are hard to come by, so I am exceptionally grateful just for the opportunity to apply. Your award makes a considerable impact on offsetting the cost of tuition, and for that I extend my most sincere gratitude."
 
Laith Tucker

Laith Tucker is the son of Scott and Brooke Tucker and the grandson of Steven and Sharon Tucker. Laith graduated from Langham Creek High School in Houston, Texas and will be attending Southwestern University this fall. Laith graduated in the top quarter of his class and was a member of the Principals Advisory Committee, CATE Marketing Education Group, CATE Business Education Group, National Honor Society, Teen Leadership, Spanish Club, and he served as a Physical Education Student Assistant. He also was involved in many sports activities playing Varsity Football, Varsity Basketball and Varsity Soccer. Laith participated in numerous church activities and community activities, had work experience at Copperfield Bowling and received a large number of academic and athletic awards.

Laith’s educational goals include a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and, ultimately, an MBA. His career goal is to be employed in the Sports Marketing/Management field or as a Media Consultant for a professional sport franchise.

In an email Laith said, "I received my letter of congratulations in the mail yesterday and wanted to provide a quick thank you for the recognition and the scholarship. I will be attending Southwestern University this fall and majoring in Business with a minor in Economics. I also will be a member of the Pirate Football team, which competes in NCAA Division III; the program is returning to play after a 61-year absence from the sport! I want to thank you and the committee again."


2012 SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS: Jennifer Boudreaux of Mandeville, Louisiana & Nathaniel Cody Fee of Huntsville, Alabama.
Jennifer Beaudreaux

Jennifer Beaudreaux - G01
Jennifer is the daughter of Mark and Julie Boudreax and the granddaughter of members Ursin and Darla Boudreaux. She maintained a 4.0 GPA while being enrolled in multiple AP classes at Mandeville High School. Jennifer was a class officer, an officer of the Spirit Club and Spanish Club and an active member of many organizations during her high school years. She was on the soccer team, served as a captain her senior year and helped lead her team to the state semi-finals. She received many awards for leadership and academics and was a Student of the Year Finalist as well as being voted Miss Mandeville High and Homecoming Queen. She also received the HERO award from Charter Business for raising over $2000 for the wife of her soccer coach who was diagnosed with cancer. During the summer Jennifer is an employee of the Pelican Athletic Club where she is a lifeguard and teaches the swim team. She also tutors children in math.

Jennifer wants to continue to help out others while pursuing her academic goals. She will be attending Louisiana State University and will study petroleum engineering. She comes from a long line of Louisiana residents who worked in the oil and gas industry and intends to continue the tradition and work to support an industry that has so much influence on Louisiana's economic future.

One person said, "Jennifer is a well-rounded student with high moral values and integrity and is therefore well liked by her peers and teachers. She will do well on both the personal and academic levels at any university she chooses because when she sets her mind to do something she usually achieves it with perfection. She will also be involved in much of the extracurricular aspects of the university life while maintaining high levels of academic excellence." The director of her place of employment stated, "I am always impressed how mature Jennifer handles herself with our diverse member clientele. Jennifer's organizational and communication skills are demonstrated on a consistent basis as she interacts with our members and guests providing information on our programming and services. She manages her time between her studies, extracurricular activities and work." Her counselor said, "One of the best qualities that I have observed about Jennifer is that she has one of the best set of "people skills" and communication skills that I have observed in nearly twenty years of working in education. She is a very self-less and giving young lady. Jennifer's approach to everything, whether it is scholastic or athletic work, is remarkably consistent and focused for any young person. She will be very successful because her positive nature is genuine and permeates everything that she does."

The members of the CMA Scholarship Committee congratulate Jennifer Boudreaux and wish her the best as she begins her freshman year at LSU.
 
Cody Fee
Nathaniel Cody Fee - A09
Cody Fee is the son of members John and Carol Fee and grandson of members Stan and Ann Fee. His family has been part of CMA since the beginning with his great-uncle Fred McAlister being the first president and serving on the board of directors and chaplain until his death. Cody graduated from Huntsville High School with a 4.25 GPA and received many honors and awards including Senior Scholar, AP Scholar with Distinction, Medal of Honor for Character and Citizenship and National Merit Scholarship Program Recognition. He served as co-captain of the Huntsville High School Academic Team and co-editor of the Yearbook and was involved in many other extracurricular activities. Cody was involved in band, drama and thespian club, chemistry club, debate club and participated in the NASA Interdisciplianry Science Project and the Army Gains in the Education of Mathematics and Sciences summer program. He has been active in the Youth Leadership Council at Covenant Presbyterian Church and worked during the summers as a resident camp counselor at Marantha Camp and Conference Center. He also tutors and does a lot of volunteer work during the school year and summers.

Cody plans to become a chemical engineer. He would like to use science and technology to change the way that people do things and feels that engineering is the best way to impact everyday life. He will be attending Auburn University.

One teacher said, "Cody is an intelligent and dynamic individual. His problem solving and analytical skills are excellent. His goal is to become a chemical or a mechanical engineer of which I have no doubt he will accomplish with great success along the way. Cody is a joy to have in class since he is highly intelligent and loves the pursuit of knowledge yet is engaging, good natured, respectful, and honest." Another stated, “In the classroom Cody continually pushes himself to excel. He possesses unique gifts that allow him to mesh intelligence, communication skills, analytical ability, and self-confidence bringing his submissions to a very high level. Cody is a very well-rounded individual and has participated actively in high school life in clubs, academic team, band and community projects. He actively volunteers to assist with the middle school academic team pursuit. He is very energetic and exerts himself in a positive manner." His youth director said, "As Cody heads off to Auburn in the fall, he will be greatly missed. He is a smart, funny and compassionate person who has a love for God and others. If awarded this scholarship, he will make the CMA proud."

Congratulations to Cody for being selected to be one of the recipients of the 2012 CMA Scholarship. Best wishes to him as he begins his college career at Auburn University.


2011 SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS: Danielle Meinert of Alpharetta, Georgia & Joshua Peddy of Durant, Oklahoma

Danielle Meinert
Danielle Meinert - C11 ($750)
Danielle Meinert is is the daughter of Julie and Gregory Meinert and the granddaughter of Shirley McCallister Meinert (C11). She graduated from Northview High School in Johns Creek, Georgia, with a numeric code grade average of 96.463 and a SAT score of 2018. She was a member of the National Honor Society, National English Honor Society, National French Honor Society, and Beta Club and was an Advanced Placement (AP) Talented and Gifted (TAG) student. Danielle was a 2010 National Council of Teachers of English Writing Winner, a recognition give to few high school students. She performed in many plays and was president of the International Thespian Society and President of the Improv Club. She attended the Georgia Governor’s Honors Program in 2010 for Communicative Arts. She volunteered in tutoring French students at Northview High School and helped ESOL students at the middle school along with many other community service activities.

One recommendation included the following statements. “Danielle has been consistent in her dedication to excellence in her academic pursuits. She inspires her classmates with strong self-discipline and an enthusiastic readiness for challenge. She is centered and focused and just simply knows who she is. Danielle is highly respected by her peers, the staff, and the administration at Northview.” Another teacher said, "In my thirteen years of teaching, I can think of no other student whom I would recommend more highly than Danielle." Danielle will be attending the University of Georgia in the fall.


From Danielle: Thank you very much for awarding me such a competitive and meaningful scholarship. In the midst of college preparation, it is rewarding to be recognized for my work, and I appreciate having a large monetary sum taken care of, and now I can spend more time on my studies and organizations instead of working to pay for school. Thank you for your hard work on the Scholarship Committee. I will be sure to work equally hard at the University of Georgia and beyond.
 
Josh Peddy
Joshua Peddy - W10 ($750)
Joshua Peddy is the son of Jim and Lori Peddy and the grandson of Wanda Shelton (W10). He graduated from Durant High School with a GPA of 3.633 and an ACT Composite Score of 32. Josh was in the Oklahoma Honor Society for three years and competed at Southeastern Oklahoma State University where he was awarded first place in Earth and Space Science, first place in General Safety, and second place in AP chemistry. He was active in his school band program for seven years and served as a band section leader. He also was in the area All-District Honor Band his junior and senior years. Josh was on his school’s academic team for three years. He volunteered in a program in his church that helped the elderly and single adults do things that they might otherwise be unable to accomplish physically or financially. He has worked part-time in lawn maintenance since sixth grade during the school year and full-time during the summer.

One teacher said, "Josh has distinguished himself in academics and extra-curricular activities. He is one of the most dedicated and conscientious students I have ever had the honor to teach. Josh has always displayed the highest ethical character. He is conscientious in pursuing his obligations and is well respected and loved by his teachers and peers.” Another teacher said, “Josh Peddy is an intelligent young man who has a bright future." Josh will be attending Southeastern Oklahoma University in the fall. Upon graduation he plans to take part in a two-year missionary program and would love to serve in China.

From Josh: Thank you for the honor of being selected as one of the recipients of the 2011 Clan McAlister of America Scholarship Awards as funded by your organization. With the utmost sincerity, I thank you for your time, consideration, and selection. The funds provided by your organization will help to fund my education at Southeastern Oklahoma State University, and to allow me to save other funding to finance my further education at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. It means so much to me that you would consider me worthy of your scholarship, and I will, to the absolute best of my ability, use the funds appropriately and with CMA’s intentions taken to heart.


2010 SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS: Cassandra Anderson of Fairfield, California & Mark Henley of Bloomfield Hills, Michigan

Cassandra Anderson
Casandra Anderson - J25
Cassandra is the daughter of CMA Members Lisa and Steve Anderson. She graduated from Vanden High School with a 3.85 GPA. She was involved in many clubs and dedicated a lot of time to JROTC which she says has made he proud of the person she has become. At the end of her personal statement Cassandra says, "I have learned through my family and my experience in JROTC that success for me doesn’t necessarily mean being at the top of society, but rather every time I can help someone is a triumph, and figuring out a way to achieve my ultimate ambition will crown that success."

One reference said, "Cassandra has maintained the highest standards of academic achievement throughout her high school years. She volunteers with many worthwhile community programs and is the epitome of citizen-scholar. She is intelligent, compassionate, moralistic, and in short, everything that a young woman should strive to be."

Cassandra will be attending the University of California Riverside.

Her thank you note said, "Thank you Clan McAlister of America for the Scholarship. I’m sorry it took so long to send this photo, but I appreciate the scholarship funds the CMA is amounting to me. It will help me immensely in pursuing my education in college and help me to eventually attain my future career goals. Thank you very much.

Sincerely,
Cassandra Anderson"
 
Mark Henly
Mark Henley
Mark P. Henley is the son of Meredith and Paul Henley and the grandson of CMA member Alan McAllister. He graduated from Lahser High School with a cumulative GPA of 4.0. He was involved in many extracurricular activities as well as community service and attained a number of awards and honors.

In his personal statement Mark says, "I am proud to have been accepted as a freshman preferred admitted student to the Ross Business School at the University of Michigan. My aspirations include earning a BBA degree from there and having a successful career using my education."

One reference said, "I’ve found him to be one of the best overall academic students, best leader, and the most socially mature young man I have ever taught.” Another said, “A senior, a leader, a good athlete and an intellectually gifted young man, Mark has it all. He leads by example and respect. Mark’s humility is something I seldom see amongst seventeen year-old high school boys. But, Mark is a young man - one in which I am proud to recommend for this scholarship."

Mark will be attending the University of Michigan.
His thank you note said, "Dear Mrs. McAlister and CMA,
Thank you very much for awarding me a scholarship for my freshman year at the University of Michigan. I appreciate your generosity!"


2009 SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS: Erika Kleibrink of Falls Church, VA, Ann McAlister of Atwater OH, & Matthew McAllister of Jacksonville, FL.

Erika Klebrink
Erika Klebrink (J82)
Erika Klebrink of Falls Church, VA, the daughter of Drew and Maryll Kleibrink,(J82) and the grand-daughter of Sue and Walter Deuchler. Erika graduated from George Mason High School with highest honors and will be attending Cornell University in the fall. She was involved in many extra-curricular activities serving in leadership roles, received numerous awards and participated in community service. Erika’s career objective is to work in landscape design in order to make the world a more environmentally friendly, inviting and beautiful place to live and spend time. One of her references stated that “she is an outstanding person, goal-oriented and a talented student who is engaged and involved in her community as a capable artist, writer, speaker and thinker. Erika works to a high standard and has taken challenging classes She is extremely well-rounded and diverse.” CMA wishes her well as she begins her college experience.

Erika wrote: "I was so excited when I found your congratulatory letter in the mail. I was so thrilled! Thank you so much for awarding it o me. I feel so honored to be recognized like this. I’m really looking forward to starting my freshman year at Cornell University. I will have the opportunity to immediately enroll in a Landscape Architecture course."

Photo Not Available
Ann McAlister (J27)
Ann McAlister of Atwater OH, the daughter of David and Janet McAlister (J27) and the granddaughter of Don and Rose McAlister, is a graduate of Marlington High School in Alliance, Ohio and graduated fifth in her class. Ann will be attending Hillsdale College in Hillsdale, Michigan. She was very involved in school activities - academic, sports, drama, and music and also involved in community and church activities. Ann stated, "My career plans are constantly changing and evolving as life teaches me who I am.” One of the reference letters stated, “In the classroom Ann is a model student in every way. Academically, she rises to the top of the class. In addition to being a fine student, Ann is a person of integrity who displays the pillars of character in her life. She is honest, helpful and trustworthy." Another letter said, “Ann is fun, caring and a charming young woman.” CMA sends our best to Ann as she begins her college career.

Ann wrote: "Thank you for selecting me as a recipient for this year’s scholarship It is a great help for college expenses. Thanks again..."

Matthew McAllister
Matthew McAllister (WE01)
Matthew McAllister of Jacksonville, FL the son of Michael and Theresa McAllister. (WE01) Matthew graduated in May 2008 from Providence School, a private Christian institution in Jacksonville, and has completed his freshman year at Florida State University in Tallahassee, FL this year. He will be entering the College of Criminology and Criminal Justice in the fall and is working toward a degree in criminology with plans to enter a career of law enforcement. After his graduation from FSU he plans to return to Jacksonville and become a police officer so he can interact with other people in the community and lend a helping hand. A person Matt worked for stated, "Matt has worked for me for over the past four summers and during his college breaks. He is a man of integrity, a hard worker, honest, and smart." A reference from high school said, "Matt is a leader through his presence and hard work." Congratulations to Matt on completing his freshman year in college and best wishes for the future.

Matt wrote: "Thank you so much for the $750 scholarship. I am sure that the money will be put to good use as I continue my studies at the Florida State University this Fall."


2008 SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS: Melissa G. Meinert (C11) of Alpharetta, Georgia & Brittany Ann Robertson (A05) of Lake St. Louis, Missouri.

Note: The chairman of the committee as well as another committee member recused themselves from the evaluation of this year's applicants due to the fact that family members had applied.

Brittany Ann Robertson
Brittany Ann Robertson - A05 ($750)
Brittany Robertson is a recent graduate of Wentzville Holt High School in Wentzville, Missouri and will be attending the University of Georgia in the fall. She is the daughter of Prentice and Cindy Robertson and the granddaughter of CMA members Joe Edd and Barbara McAlister. Brittany graduated with a 4.3 GPA having taken Honors and Advanced classes and graduating Summa Cum Laude. Writing for the school newspaper, yearbook and literary magazine, she was Editor in Chief of the yearbook her senior year. Brittany was involved in many other activities such as Student Council, National Honors Society, Future Business Leaders of America and served as a peer tutor in both the Math Lab and Writing Lab. She served as captain of the Varsity Cheerleaders her senior year having cheered all four years in high school. She was chosen to represent her high school as a 2007 Girls State Attendee. She participated in many community service projects and was heavily involved in church youth work. Work experiences included babysitting, helping with child care at her church, and working at Studio One Hair Design as a receptionist and doing advertising.
One reference letter stated, "An intelligent, outspoken, and personable young woman, Brittany Robertson possesses many attributes that will make her a success in college and in life. She is remarkable in her ability to remain academically focused while still participating in many extracurricular activities. She will succeed in whatever endeavors she chooses to pursue. Brittany is truly an example of all that is right with today's youth." Another said, "Brittany is passionate about friends, family, school, and hard work. She is bright, responsible and determined. She is a well-rounded young woman who will make an impact wherever she goes." Best wishes to Brittany as she begins her college career at the University of Georgia."


Melissa Meinert
Melissa G. Meinert - C11 ($750)
Melissa Meinert is a recent graduate of Northview High School in Duluth, Georgia and will be attendin the University of Georgia in the fall. She is the daughter of Greg and Julie Meinert and the granddaughter of CMA members Roland and Shirley Meinert. Melissa graduated with a 3.857 GPA having taken Honors and AP classes. Her passion is writing and she was involved in every aspect of producing the school's Literary Magazine, having been the Editor in Chief her senior year. She received many state awards for her writing and had a long list of academic awards at her school. Melissa served on the Georgia Government Teen Advisory Board under the supervision of the Secretary of State. She was involved in many other extra-curricular activities including Young Republicans, Beta Club, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Melissa participated in numerous community service projects, worked at the Music Authority and served as a private math tutor for middle school students.

One reference said, "Melissa is a dedicated and motivated student who gets along well with both her peers and adults. She is a mature and motivated young woman who will undoubtedly be successful in the future." Another said, "She demonstrates daily how to be successful in school, how to be a leader in extracurricular activities and how to give back to her community in so many meaningful ways. She is a remarkable young woman with much to offer. She is compassionate, responsible and extremely eager to help. Most of all, you need to realize she does all this with a smile."

We wish Melissa Meinert the best as she begins her college career at the University of Georgia.


2007 SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS: Alison Henley of Bloomfield Hills, Michigan & Andrew McAllister of Hayden Lake, Idaho

Alison Henley D12
Alison Henley - D12 ($500)
Alison Henley is a recent graduate of Lahser High School in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan and will be attending Wake Forest University in the fall. She is the daughter of Meredith McAllister Henley and the granddaughter of CMA member Alan W. McAllister. Alison received many awards in high school and in May received Graduation Phi Beta Kappa for scholarship and citizenship in high school, Graduation Summa Cum Laude for outstanding grade point average in high school (3.96), and 2006-2007 NISCA Academic All-America Award for scholarship and athletic performance.

One reference letter said, "Academically, Alison has excelled in every area. Her community service experiences have amounted to numerous hours in a multitude of experiences." Another said, "Her commitment to scholarship stands out foremost. Alison brings intellectual enthusiasm to every task she undertakes. Alison's absolute integrity also merits note. Alison is a refreshingly honest and personable young woman. Quietly, she earns respect through her kindness, integrity, reliability and impressive accomplishments." A third reference stated, "Given her talents and work ethic, Alison is that rare type of student who finds success at whatever she sets out to do." We wish Alison Henley the best as she begins her college career at Wake Forest.
 
Andrew McAllister B03
Andrew McAllister - B03 ($500)
Andrew McAllister is a graduate of Coeur d'Alene High School in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho and was Valedictorian of his class and is completing his freshman year at North Idaho College in the CITE (Computer and Information Technology) Program. Andrew is the son of CMA members Robert and Janice McAllister. In addition to Andrew being studious, he was the pianist in the Chamber Orchestra and Jazz Band, participated on the Scholastics Team and was an active member of Natural Helpers, a peer mentoring group elected by fellow students.

One reference letter stated that "Andrew is an excellent student with a well-above average aptitude and level of motivation in Information Technology. He has excellent attendance, strong grades, and well developed personal skills. Andrew has a strong sense of commitment to a job well done." Andrew is working full time while in college. A co-worker wrote, "I have grown to appreciate Andrew's dependability, his commitment to assignment and his expression of a great attitude." After completing his Associates Degree at NIC, Andrew plans to attend the University of California at Berkeley for a business degree. We wish Andrew McAllister the best of luck in all future endeavors.


2006 SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS: Grace McAlister of Little Rock, Arkansas & Leigh McAlister of Lonoke, Arkansas

Grace McAlister E01
Grace McAlister - E01 ($500)
Grace is the daughter of Michael McAlister and Fran Cunningham and grandaughter of Helen and the late Louis McAlister. She graduated from Mount St. Mary Academy in Little Rock and will be attending the University of Arkansas in the fall. She was active in many school, church and community service actiivities. Some comments from her letters of recommendation were: "She has proven to be very well rounded and highly capable." Grace has moral integrity and a strong desire to succeed academically. She will do well in any endeavor. Her ability to focus and follow-through with tasks will lead her to succeed in any field she may choose.


Leigh McAlister
Leigh McAlister - J02 ($500)
Leigh is the daughter of Brian McAlister and the late Deborah McAlister and granddaughter of Shirley and J. A. McAlister. She graduated from Lonoke High School and will be attending the University of Arkansas in the fall. She took part in many school, church and community activities. Leigh lost her mother to cancer when she was in the sixth grade. One comment about her was "What impresses me most is that Leigh has developed exceptional qualities, stayed focused, goal oriented in spite of the adversity life dealt her. I am impressed with her maturity, creativity, dependability and commitment to a cause." Another said "Leigh represents all of the finest qualities of character. She has a tremendous work-ethic, balancing excellent grades, community, church and extra-curricular activities. She would represent you with dignity, honor and appreciation."