(left to right) EBK Semifinalist Matthew Anglin,
Erskine Ambassador Devin Foster

Character Counts, Stuart Tells E.B. Kennedy Semifinalists At Erskine

Erskine College held a dinner for more than 150 E.B. Kennedy Scholarship semifinalists Nov. 30, where high school students competing for Erskine's most comprehensive and prestigious scholarship heard a message about character from Crosland Stuart, chair of the E.B. Kennedy Scholarship Program.

Stuart read a recent email message she received outlining "The Paradox of Our Age" in which one of the deficiencies of today's society cited was that "we have much in the store window and nothing in the stockroom," that is, a lack of real character.

"This weekend is about disproving that," said Stuart, challenging students to cultivate true character and not merely the "window dressing" that masquerades as character.

Stuart sketched a brief biography of her great-great uncle, Dr. E.B. Kennedy, in whose honor the scholarship is named, focusing on his strong character and pursuit of virtue. "Dr. Kennedy took seriously the tenets of his faith," Stuart said, and added that his life exhibited "not merely a well-dressed showroom."

Stuart said her hope for the E.B. Kennedy Scholarship candidates was that "Your appreciation will deepen for the character traits Dr. Kennedy held dear." She told of an occasion on which Kennedy's cab driver, who was hired to drive him to the three churches at which he preached each Sunday, stayed in the cab rather than attend another service, saying he had already heard the sermon at the first service. Stuart said from that time on, Kennedy prepared a different sermon for each of the three services.

"Character is not found in a name, but in such traits as integrity, honesty, and Christian commitment," Stuart said. "Character does count, both privately and publicly. Even today we are building a foundation on which the next generation will stand."

Current E.B. Kennedy scholars also took part in the program, offering the invocation and introducing interviewers and staff members participating in the weekend. Stuart recognized Erskine staff member Allyson Huskey of the Academic Office as "one lady who attends to all the details," and expressed appreciation for "all the people I get to work with" during the scholarship competition process.

In memory of Dr. E.B. Kennedy, beloved Erskine alumnus, teacher and respected minister, two full scholarships are awarded to high school seniors demonstrating leadership and service in their communities, churches, and schools. The value of each scholarship, over four years, currently exceeds $84,000. Awards are based solely on merit.

E.B. Kennedy Scholars must excel in four areas: Christian commitment, scholastic achievement, vigorous outlook and leadership potential. The E.B. Kennedy Scholarships are funded by the Edward C. Stuart Foundation, Inc., in Bartow, Fla., and an E.B. Kennedy Scholarship Fund.

Candidates are nominated by guidance counselors, principals or headmasters. Erskine College alumni may also coordinate a nomination through a high school or preparatory school.

Of the candidates reaching the semifinalist stage, up to 24 will be recommended to the Final Selection Committee and be invited to participate in final interviews Jan. 10-12, 2002.

(left to right) Audrey Barry, current EBK recipient; Bill Stuart