For DonorsFor Applicants

Marion John Shepard, Jr. Scholarship

Funded by
user profile avatar
Shepard Family
$2,190
1 winner$2,190
Open
Application Deadline
Jul 8, 2025
Winners Announced
Aug 8, 2025
Education Level
Undergraduate
3
Contributions
Eligibility Requirements
Education Level:
Undergraduate student
Field of Study:
Education
Background:
Has lost a parent

The first of 10 children born to Marion John Shepard, Sr. and Dora Stray Shepard, “Shep” was educated in the Mobile, Alabama school system. He graduated from Central High School, S.D. Bishop Junior College and Alabama State University. He was married to Mattie Marshall Shepard, also a teacher, for 52 years. He was an educator for 33 years at Mary G. Montgomery High School where he taught history. He was named Outstanding Teacher of the Year. He also taught countless at-risk youth for 15 years at James T. Strickland Youth Center.

He worked for 51 years as the Youth Sports Coordinator in the City of Mobile’s Parks and Recreation Department. He coached football, was a pitcher for the Mobile Mets baseball team, and also played basketball and softball.

“Shep” was a role model to many young people, including his siblings. Both of his parents passed at an early age so he was instrumental in assisting his siblings to navigate life.  

Losing a parent, especially at a young age can be a deeply traumatic, life-altering experience that can take years to process. In addition to the emotional turmoil, there can also be instability, financial insecurity, and loneliness. Many children who lose a parent may have to be taken in by family members or the government which can mean a total life change. In light of these effects, it can be difficult for young people to focus on their education or find the motivation to continue to pursue their dreams.

This scholarship aims to honor Marion John Shepard Jr. by supporting students who have lost a parent so they can stay on track and complete their education.

Any undergraduate student who has lost a parent and is pursuing a major related to education may apply for this scholarship.

To apply, tell us why you have chosen to pursue a career as a teacher.

Selection Criteria:
Ambition, Drive, Impact
Published August 14, 2024
Essay Topic

Why have you chosen to pursue a career as a teacher? Please share how this decision was influenced by your loss of a parent.

400–600 words

Winning Application

Lisandra Reyes Gonzalez
University of Central FloridaCasselberry, FL
One of the biggest challenges I faced was the sudden loss of my father, who passed away due to a car accident. This tragedy occurred in 2017, just four months after I graduated from high school. This unexpected loss shook me deeply, throwing my plans and life into chaos. My plan was to work and attend college, but my father's passing changed everything. Suddenly, the future I had envisioned seemed uncertain. In the midst of grieving and grappling with the reality of my father's absence, I made the difficult decision to drop out of school. I was working two jobs, and balancing work and home made me feel like my dreams of furthering my education and pursuing a career were impossible. As time passed by and the shock faded, I found strength in the depths of my adversity. I realized that amidst the pain and loss, there was an opportunity for growth and resilience. I made a promise to myself to honor my father’s memory by persevering through the challenges and working towards a better future for myself and my family. Slowly, I began to rebuild my life. During that time, I discovered a newfound clarity about my true calling, which is teaching. I realized that I wanted to become an educator to empower others to reach their full potential. My new dream was to positively influence students and help them believe in themselves and their ability to learn, no matter their background or abilities. In order to accomplish this, I took action and returned to school, determined to pursue a career in education. While the road ahead seemed daunting, I refused to let fear or doubt hold me back. I embraced the support of my loved ones and leaned on them for encouragement and guidance. With renewed determination and a sense of purpose, I returned to school and earned my associate degree at the age of 24, defying the odds and proving to myself that it's never too late to pursue your dreams. Through this experience, I learned valuable lessons about resilience, perseverance, and the transformative power of determination. I came to understand that adversity can strengthen us and help us grow, shaping us into more resilient individuals capable of overcoming even the most frightening obstacles. Today, at 25, I’m attending the University of Central Florida and pursuing my bachelor's degree in education while working full-time in a high school as an instructional assistant. I chose education as my intended career path because of my belief in the transformative power of learning and the profound impact that educators can have on shaping young minds. Working as an instructional assistant at a high school has only solidified my passion for teaching and mentoring students. As soon as I earn my bachelor's degree, my immediate plan is to transition into a teaching role. I am eager to step into the classroom and make a meaningful difference in the lives of my students, fostering a love for learning and empowering them to pursue their dreams. Driven by a passion for teaching and an unshakable belief in the limitless possibilities of the future, I'm more focused and determined than ever. Now I’m guided by the understanding that there is a right time for everything and that every setback is merely a steppingstone on the path to success.

FAQ

When is the scholarship application deadline?

The application deadline is Jul 8, 2025. Winners will be announced on Aug 8, 2025.