LBW Community College is proud to announce the creation of The Ms. Sierra Newman Memorial Scholarship which is a tribute to the legacy of Sierra Newman, a cherished member of the LBW Ensemble, who tragically passed away in a car crash in November of 2019. The family of Sierra Newman, along with the unwavering support of her family friends Dawn Jarzyniecki and Ensemble Director Johnny Brewer, embarked on the road in January of 2020 to raise money to fund this scholarship, in order to ensure that her legacy will live in perpetuity.
Sierra is a native from Georgiana, Alabama, was not just a committed LBW Community College student but was also an integral member of the LBW Ensemble, a show music group and choir comprised of 21 students. Her love of the arts, community and her family had an indelible impression on all that knew her.
“It’s been amazing to see the amount of response this scholarship has received,” said Sherry Fuller Sierra’s grandmother, who was the person in charge of the scholarship program. “Thank to all who has contributed their time, money and expertise to assist us in achieving the goal.”
Family members wanted to make sure that her memories would be remembered. the support that has been offered is truly heartwarming.
“Sierra was generally passionate with the art world, she said. “If I had to name the thing, it was Sierra’s goal. She wasn’t able to fulfill it, but with this scholarship it’s going to help many other students realize their dreams. I am so thankful for this award since she’s still alive through this.”
After the signing ceremony, Dawn Jarzyniecki added, “Lots of good will be able be created from this. What a difference it will be in the life of every person that is the recipient of this award. Sierra developed through music which is why this scholarship given to a student in the fine arts is truly special.”
The process of establishing the scholarship involved a massive grassroots effort that included benefit performances at The Georgiana Opry House and the LBW’s Performing Arts Theater and Performing Arts Theater, along with baked goods sales, automobile shows and a tireless effort from Sierra’s grandparent. With the assistance of thousands of dollars from the public, LBW employees, local businesses and extended families over the last couple of years the scholarship fund surpassed its goal of $25,000 in September of 2023.
“I’ve ever witnessed such a massive show of support from a grassroots level,” said Chrissie Duffy director of Advancement for LBW. “This is a stunning memorial and expression of affection for this beautiful young lady. I am thrilled to see the wishes of the Fuller family being fulfilled in their sweet granddaughter’s legacy.”
This Ms. Sierra Newman Memorial Scholarship will remain a component of the Restricted Endowment Fund of the LBW Community College Foundation. Evelyn Causey, President of the LBW Community College Foundation Board of Directors and expressed her sincere gratitude for the support shown by supporters and stated “Sierra’s legacy of love and community will continue to influence future generations with the endowed memorial scholarship. Thank you to her family, friends and the community this donation will continue to offer students education opportunities.”
LBW President Dr. Brock Kelley, expressed gratitude to the Kelley family for their investment into the lives of LBW students, stating “Sierra’s legacy will continue to live through the opportunities that this scholarship offers to musicians who are aspiring.”
The scholarship, scheduled to be awarded in the fall semester, will help LBW students who are studying for the Fine Arts degree with a passion for music. Applications are available online via the LBW scholarship application page at lbwcc.edu beginning in December and will ensure that Sierra’s love for music is not lost and continues to make a an impact in the lives of the future LBW students.
The article LBWCC announces a fully endowed scholarship in memory of the beloved student was first published in The Andalusia Star-News.
