Educational Scholarships

Jason Johnson Scholarship

Anthony Jones - Murray State University - 2010 Recipient

A native of Union City, TN, Anthony graduated high school as a closeted young man afraid to reveal his sexual orientation for his own safety.  He started attending the University of Tennessee at Martin, but soon found his way to Murray State University (MSU).  There he found a place where he could be himself.  After getting involved with MSU Alliance, the LGBT student organization on-campus, he was elected President in 2008 and 2009.  During his tenure as the organization’s President, he coordinated or assisted in organizing multiple programs including the Closet-to-Campus Move-In Team, Live Homosexual Acts, and MSU’s first annual AIDS Walk.  He also played a critical role in organizing students to speak out for the inclusion of sexual orientation in the institution non-discrimination policy, which ultimately became statement.  Dr. Bonnie Higginson, MSU Provost, stated, “It is clear that Anthony stands out among our student body as someone committed to fairness.”

Mark England Scholarship

Julion Cowen - Transylvania University - 2010 Recipient

After graduating from Ballard High School in Louisville, Julion enrolled at Transylvania University as an International Affairs and Philosophy double major.  His future plans include attending law school with an international law focus.  When Julion arrived at Transylvania University he noticed that was no LGBT student organization – this was something he was determined to change.  Luckily, about the same time he arrived at that point, other LGBT students came forward with the same desire and TUnity was founded.  Outside of his campus-based work, he volunteers with AIDS Volunteers of Lexington (AVOL).  He wants to start volunteering with the Louisville Youth Group around their work with LGBT children.  Dr. Melissa Fortner, Transylvania Associate Professor of Psychology, stated, “He has a lot of energy to devote to the things that interest him, and LGBT issues are at the top of his list!”

"Erika's Hope" Memorial Scholarship

Jaden Kilmon - Eastern Kentucky University - 2010 Recipient

As an openly transgender woman from a small conservative town, Jaden has learned how to overcome adversity.  Currently, she attends Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) where she studies photography.  Jaden is a force for change on the EKU campus having revived the Trans-Action student organization to support others like her and to educate the community.  She has also served as an officer for EKU’s Pride Alliance student organization.  After completing her time at Eastern, she would like to pursue graduate study in New York, Los Angeles, or Chicago.  Ultimately, Jaden has a vision for herself as a high fashion photographer telling the story of LGBT people through her work.  Dr. Marta Miranda, Director of EKU’s Women and Gender Studies Program, stated, “She is full of courage and now has tasted activism and empowerment and she is a role model for others.”

Anthony Jones

Julion Cowen

Jaden Kilmon