Scholarships Awarded to Support Sidney and Shelby County Students
During Sidney High School’s Senior Awards Night, the James P. Humphrey Sidney-Shelby County Black Achievers Scholarship Committee awarded more than $14,000 in scholarships. Six seniors from Sidney and nearby Shelby County schools received financial help to continue their education.
Kelis McNeal, a Sidney High School senior, earned the largest award — the James P. Humphrey Scholarship of $3,500. De’ Andreiona Lichtenberg from Jackson Center High School won the Elder Claudie Johnson Scholarship, which gave her $3,000. Four other students from Sidney High School each received $2,000 through the Black Achievers Scholarships. These students are Mikayla Huckleby, Joelon Lyons, Jayce Daniel, and Brayden Lee.
These scholarships aim to encourage students to reach their academic goals and help ease the financial burden of college expenses.
James P. Humphrey: Sidney’s First Black Mayor and Community Leader
The scholarship committee honors the legacy of James P. Humphrey, Sidney’s first Black mayor. Humphrey served three terms from 1981 to 1987. He was a strong leader who inspired many in the local Black community.
The committee was founded on January 29, 1987, shortly after Humphrey’s time in office. Founding members included prominent community leaders like Dorothy Franklin, Virginia Thompson, and Rev. Claudie Johnson. The group was created to recognize and support Black students excelling academically.
Humphrey’s impact reaches beyond his time as mayor. His dedication to education and community upliftment continues to inspire efforts to help young Black students pursue higher education.
The Black Achievers Scholarship Committee’s Role and Impact
Since its beginning, the Black Achievers Scholarship Committee (BASC) has awarded nearly $225,000 in scholarships to almost 200 students across Shelby County. This shows the committee’s strong commitment to academic excellence and educational support for Black youth.
The BASC is an independent local organization. It focuses on recognizing Black students’ achievements, supporting their college plans, and providing financial aid to those who might not afford college otherwise. The group also partners with local colleges such as Edison State Community College and The Ohio State University at Lima to offer extra scholarship funds for students who attend those schools.
In 2002, the BASC received the Red Cross Humanitarian of the Year Award. This honor recognized the committee’s deep commitment to improving the lives of the Black community in the region.
Continuing the Mission Through Community Support
The BASC relies on donations from individuals, businesses, and grant organizations. These funds keep the scholarship program running and help expand its reach. Donations can be sent to the BASC at P.O. Box 214.
Current committee members include Jamal Foster, Erica Foster-Wheeler, and Oshea Peart, among others. Advisors like Thomas Clark and Ken Ruth help guide the organization’s work.
The Black Achievers Scholarship Committee remains a vital part of Sidney’s effort to support and uplift Black students, helping them achieve their dreams through education and financial aid.
