For over two decades, the Pinkie C. Wilkerson Life Development Foundation has proudly awarded scholarships to outstanding high school graduates enrolling at Grambling State University. This year, five named scholarships are to be presented to exceptional students within the Foundation’s service area, recognizing both academic excellence and commitment to community service. 

The 2025 scholarship recipients are:

    •    Charity Willis, Simsboro High School – Rev. Clifton E. Lewis Scholarship

Rev. Clifton Lewis, a graduate of Grambling State University,  was a Pastor and Educator who served in Lincoln, Union, Claiborne, and Jackson parishes including serving as serving as Principal of Homer High School.

    •    Omar Bell, Ringgold High School – Jo Ann Roux Scholarship

Jo Ann Roux was a distinguished Educator who dedicated decades of service in both Louisiana and Ohio.  She broke racial barriers as the first black teacher at Brown Elementary in Springhill, LA

    •    Jayla Banks, Homer High School – Gatha Jean Heard-Smith Scholarship

Gatha Jean Heard-Smith, a graduate of Grambling State University, was a    Therapist, Writer , and Community Organizer; holding membership in the NEA, LRTA, and NAACP. She served as the musician for over 60 years.

    •    Jacobee Ziegler, Choudrant High School – Nelda & Walter Baisy Scholarship

Walter & Nelda Baisy, both graduates of Grambling State University,  have been married for over 50 years. They are both active members of the Grambling  community known for their philanthropic giving and unwavering support various community service endeavors.  They are active members of the New Rocky Vally Baptist Church, Grambling Joy Fund, and Grambling Memorial Garden.  Nelda is a Golden Life member of Delta Sigma theta Sorority, Inc and serves as the Treasurer for the Pinkie C. Wilkerson Life Development Foundation.

    •    Omarian Rushing, Simsboro High School – Annie Brown Scholarship

Annie Brown was a Community Leader, Activist, and Educator who served who served in numerous leadership positions including Humanitarian Enterprise of Lincoln Parish, Lincoln Parish NAACP, and Lincoln Parish Retired Educators.   

These named scholarships are made possible through generous partnerships with community members who wish to honor the legacies of loved ones, celebrate community leaders, or support the academic pursuits of local youth.

The annual scholarship program continues the impactful legacy of the late Representative Pinkie Carolyn Wilkerson, who faithfully served Louisiana’s 11th District until her death in August 2000. Through these awards, the Foundation remains steadfast in its mission to support and invest in the next generation of leaders.