The Special Education Foundation is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 John Cary Scholarship, presented by Emerson, the inaugural Jane Vickrey Leadership Scholarship, and the Christopher Davis Scholarship. These prestigious scholarships honor the legacies of two individuals who dedicated their lives to education and leadership, supporting students with disabilities and special needs.

John Cary Scholarship Presented by Emerson

The John Cary Scholarship was established in 2016 to honor the late superintendent of the Special School District of St. Louis County. John Cary was known for his unwavering commitment to excellence and his tireless advocacy for students with disabilities. The $5,000 scholarship is awarded to graduating seniors who embody resiliency, courage, and determination—qualities that John Cary himself exemplified.

This year’s recipients of the John Cary Scholarship are:

• Adam Abdulla – Parkway West High School (Parkway)
• Vivian Lang – Affton High School (Affton)
• Austin Christensen – Webster Groves High School (Webster Groves)
• Ian McDowell – Dayspring Arts and Education & North Tech (Ritenour)
• Zion Norman – McCluer North High School (Ferguson-Florissant)

These students have demonstrated exceptional achievement and perseverance in the face of obstacles, and the Special Education Foundation is honored to support them in their educational journeys.

Jane Vickrey Leadership Scholarship

In 2025, the Special Education Foundation established the Jane Vickrey Leadership Scholarship in memory of Jane Vickrey, a dedicated leader and advocate who believed in the power of giving back. As a former Board Secretary and liaison to the Fred Saigh Leadership Program, Jane played a pivotal role in mentoring young leaders. The $5,000 scholarship is awarded annually to a student who has graduated from the Fred Saigh Leadership Academy and exemplifies the kindness, compassion, and selflessness that defined Jane’s legacy. This year’s recipient is:

• Lilah Durham – Brentwood High School (Brentwood)

Lilah has demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities and a strong commitment to service, making her a deserving recipient of this prestigious award.

Christopher Davis Scholarship

In addition to the John Cary and Jane Vickrey Leadership Scholarships, the Special Education Foundation is proud to recognize:

• Genysha McNeal – Ritenour High School (Ritenour), recipient of the Christopher Davis Scholarship.

The Christopher Davis Scholarship, generously provided by the Ronald Davis family, awards $2,500 to a deserving student from the Ritenour School District. Established in memory of Christopher Davis, who tragically lost his life in a car accident in 1993, this scholarship honors his legacy by supporting students in their educational pursuits. Davis, a proud Ritenour alumnus, has dedicated several years to funding this scholarship, ensuring that students in his former district have opportunities to achieve their academic goals.

Inspiring Students for a Bright Future - SAVE THE DATE

Congratulations to all of the 2025 scholarship recipients! Their dedication, perseverance, and leadership inspire us all.  Join us on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM at the St. Louis County Library-Clark Branch to celebrate the achievements of outstanding Special School District (SSD) students.

The evening will begin with a social gathering and appetizers at 6:00 PM, followed by the awards presentation at 6:30 PM. Stay tuned—registration to attend will be available soon!