For more than 25 years, the Joseph B. Freeman Jr. Education Fund has assisted students in Cleveland County, N.C., in their pursuit of higher education. The 2018 winners were named on May 30 in a ceremony held in Tucker Student Center at Gardner-Webb University. A total of $20,000 in scholarships was provided to nine students, and three of them are planning to attend Gardner-Webb this fall.
The Freeman Fund was named in honor of longtime area business leader, Joseph B. Freeman Jr. At the time of his death in 1991, Freeman managed the Shelby, N.C., office of Interstate/Johnson Lane, an investment and financial advisory service. He was an advocate for higher education and desired to provide talented high school students with additional resources and opportunities to attend college. The education fund was established to reward Cleveland County students for their perseverance and dedication in and out of the classroom, while recognizing Freeman's legacy of support.
Freeman Fund recipients are awarded based on academic proficiency, extracurricular activities, internal motivation, potential success, and financial need. The Freeman Fund Committee consists of area business leaders and Gardner-Webb University representatives who evaluate worthy candidates.
Located in the North Carolina foothills, Gardner-Webb University is a private, Christian, liberal arts university that prepares students to become critical thinkers, effective leaders and compassionate servants in the global community. Emphasizing a strong student-centered experience and rigorous academics, Gardner-Webb ignites learning and service opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students. Ignite your future at Gardner-Webb.edu.

Pictured: Nine Cleveland County students received scholarships May 30, 2018 from the Joseph B. Freeman Jr. Education Fund. Front row, from left, are Georgette Scruggs, representing her daughter Madison Mowery (who was unable to attend), Amber Powell, Taylor Ramsey, Mary "Bekah" Mintz, and Harley Hoppes, and back row, Jaiden Hunt, Austin Hyland, Taylor Angel and Devon Weathers.
Photo by Dr. Bob Carey
Submitted by Jackie Bridges