The S.O. What! Awards and Scholarship Soiree is an inspiring evening that celebrates resilience, leadership, and community impact while investing in the next generation of leaders.

Hosted by the S.O. What! Foundation, this annual event brings together community leaders, supporters, educators, and students for a powerful night of recognition and purpose. The Soiree honors individuals whose lives and work reflect the spirit of the S.O. What! message by overcoming obstacles, leading with courage, and making meaningful contributions to the community.

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At the heart of the evening is the presentation of memorial scholarships to resilient students who have overcome adversity and are pursuing post secondary education. These scholarships represent more than financial support. They are a public affirmation that resilience matters and that a community stands behind students determined to succeed.

Guests experience an uplifting program featuring inspiring stories, honoree recognitions, and the celebration of scholarship recipients whose journeys remind us all what is possible with determination, support, and opportunity.

The S.O. What! Awards and Scholarship Soiree is more than an event. It is a moment where recognition meets investment and where a community comes together to celebrate resilience and create pathways for the next generation to succeed in education, leadership, and life.

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Proceeds from the evening support the S.O. What! Foundation’s scholarships, mentoring initiatives, and youth development programs that empower students to overcome obstacles and create their own S.O. What! Success Stories.

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This year's honorees are:

 

Linda Hall

Carey Vaughn

Will Richardson

Rose Flenorl

Chief Deputy Anthony Buckner

Cherisse Scott

Laurie Powell

John Best

Wanda Taylor

District Attorney Steve Mulroy

Meka Egwuekwe

Tina Bailey