LEXINGTON, Ky. — The Fayette Education Foundation is pleased to announce the recipient of the third annual Emmanuel “Manny” Caulk Jr. Memorial Scholarship. Mya Gibbs, a Tates Creek High School senior, was selected for the honor by a committee chaired by Caulk’s widow, Christol Caulk. Ms. Gibbs received the $2,500 scholarship based on her academic achievement, desire to become an educator and her story about how public education prepared her for life after high school.
The Emmanuel “Manny” Caulk Jr. Memorial Scholarship was established in memory of the Fayette County Public Schools superintendent after his death in December 2020. After his selection as the 2019 Kentucky Superintendent of the Year, Manny used his stipend to award a $2,500 scholarship to a Fayette County Public Schools graduate. He had pledged to continue to provide an annual scholarship out of his own pocket. Upon his death, with the blessing of Ms. Caulk, a memorial scholarship fund was started in his memory.
Beginning this year, the scholarship is open only to future teachers or those who will major in education. In response to the teacher shortage and the Fayette County Public School district’s strategic priority of a Highly Effective and Culturally Responsive Workforce, this transition is aimed at increasing the number and diversity of educators.
Ms. Gibbs, daughter of Catherine Gibbs, will attend the University of Kentucky in the fall and plans to major in education within the Special Education (EDS) Program. EDS prepares students to work with individuals with learning disabilities, behavior disorders, and moderate and severe disabilities in P-12 classrooms.
Anyone who wishes to donate to the Emmanuel “Manny” Caulk Jr. Memorial Scholarship can do so online at fayettefoundation.org or by mailing donations to: The Fayette Education Foundation, P.O. Box 910951, Lexington, KY 40591-0951.
