Estelle Walker Hinkins Memorial Scholarship - $1,000
Established: 2021
Amount: $1,000 each, for two students
Description:
Mother Estelle Walker Hinkins graduated from Morristown High School (MHS) in 1897, the first African American woman to do so. She graduated with honors and was selected to be the class prophet. Following high school, Mother Hinkins attended Wilberforce University in Wilberforce, Ohio where she earned a degree in education. After being denied an opportunity to teach in Morris County, she taught in the Atlantic City School District, but remained committed to the youth of Morristown, and along with Mrs. Early, started the Phyllis Wheatley Women’s Club on Spring Street in Morristown. One of the club’s main focuses was teaching children how to read. Today, Mother Hinkins is fondly remembered by her former students as “strict”. They were probably unaware that Miss Estelle, as she was called, was the granddaughter of former slaves in Morris County and desired the best education for her students so that they would never allow that history to repeat itself. Estelle Walker Hinkins was a member of Bethel Church of Morristown.
The church honors the memory of Estelle Walker Hinkins and her work with this scholarship which will award $1,000 each to two Morristown High School seniors (1 male, 1 female) of African American or African descent pursuing a 2-year or 4-year degree in education with a career path towards early childhood, elementary, secondary, and/or post-secondary education.
Funding for this scholarship is provided by the Bethel Church Community.
Criteria:
The Estelle Walker Hinkins Memorial Scholarship is open to all Morristown High School seniors who are African American or are of African descent and who meet the following requirements:
- Plan to pursue a post-secondary degree in education with a career path towards early childhood, elementary, secondary, and/or post-secondary education
- GPA minimum 3.0
- Plan to attend a 2-year or 4-year college or university
- Preference given to students with demonstrated financial need.
The award may be applied to tuition and fees.
Application Requirements:
All students must:
- Complete the MEF Common Scholarship Application with current transcript.
- Prepare an essay (300-500 words) that addresses all of the following:
- How is education a tool of empowerment?
- What are the problems or societal needs you aim to address through education?
- What motivates you to pursue a degree in education?
- Submit 2 letters of recommendation:
- One from a community organization leader.
- One from a clergy member or other spiritual leader.
