Scholarships
Willie J. Jordan
The Willie J. Jordan Scholarship, 2026
Sir Willie J. Jordan born February 22 of 1926 in Stewart County, GA was a man of strong faith and moral character. He provided for his wife, Effie C. Jordan and their 12 children as a hardworking logger in the lumber industry. When he wasn't working, his hands, the same hands he used to build a home for his family, were deep in the dirt of his own land , farming to create a better future.
Historically, Black folks who want success in a skilled trade industry face racism and prejudice from their peers and employers. They may experience personal financial hardship, a lack of funding, and a lack of equal access to opportunities. Due to discrimination and underrepresentation in their field, they may struggle to build strong networks. For more information, check out this short clip by PBS News Hour: Black Americans and Women Continue to Face Discrimination in Skilled Trades
To provide financial support to the efforts of Black individuals in skilled trades who demonstrate a commitment to addressing social issues and to celebrate the legacy of Willie J. Jordan, the Definition Writing Clinic will award the Willie J. Jordan Scholarship. Awardees will receive the funds via direct deposit. To apply, simply hit the "apply now" button above to be redirected to the application.
The scholarship of $500 will be awarded in February 2026, to several chosen individuals ($500 each) who meet the following criteria:
1. Student or young adult of Black/African-American descent.
2. Enrolled/Working in a Trade School / Program OR pursuing education in any of the following trade industries. For an extensive list visit: https://www.asvabprogram.com/media-center-article/135
-
Agriculture Skilled Trades
-
Construction Skilled Trades
-
Transportation Skilled Trades
-
Service Skilled Trades
-
Manufacturing & Industrial Skilled Trades
3. Must demonstrate strong character, a commitment to addressing a social issue, and must be able to articulate how their skills will pave the way for their future success in a short 500 word essay.
Application Deadline: December 31, 2025
Recipients of the Willie J. Jordan Scholarship
Meet the Awardees of 2025
Mi'yonnie Warmack
Jordan Blanks
Definition Writing Clinic is proud to announce the awardees of the first annual Willie J. Jordan Scholarship. As awardees, Mi'yonnie Warmack and Jordan Blanks received scholarship funds in the amount of $500 each as a financial boost to their academic and career endeavors. Mi'yonnie and Jordan are making great strides in their respective skilled trade industries and are committed to leveraging their skills and expertise to improve their communities.
Additionally, Mi'yonnie and Jordan embody the integrity and determination of Willie J. Jordan. We acknowledge and applaud their efforts to overcome the unique obstacles they face both as individuals and as Black tradespeople and we wish them unparalleled success in their future endeavors. Read their essays and more about their plans for the future by hitting the button below their photos.