The Jerry and Ruth Scott Foundation Awards Scholarships

Seven Mississippi State University-Meridian Branch students have been selected as the 2020 recipients of scholarships made possible by the Jerry and Ruth Scott Foundation. The recipients are Chris Mulford, Nakyjia Stephens, Sara Mazzella, Sarah Pilgrim, Katie Beddingfield, Ashley McLeod, and Dre’Anna Davis. The 2020 Scholarships totaled $24, 500.

The Jerry and Ruth Scott Foundation is managed by Citizens National Bank’s Wealth Management Division and was established in March of 2016 by the late Jerry and Ruth Scott to benefit working adult students who are completing their degrees and who have maintained high academic achievement. Scholarships distributed since inception total over $90,000.00.

The benefactors, Jerry and Ruth Scott, resided in Meridian for 32 years and were active members of the community dedicated to its betterment.  Jerry was a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) with Anderson’s Hospital, while Ruth was a graduate of Meridian Community College and Mississippi State University-Meridian and a well- known local political activist.

In addition to their appreciation for education, the Scotts also shared passions for art, music, and travel.  Jerry played guitar and piano, and Ruth was an art collector.   Jerry was an avid pilot, and they enjoyed traveling in their plane to various vacation destinations. 

Jerry and Ruth’s dedication to our community's citizens endures through the Foundation they established to assist these deserving students.