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Application: 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

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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.


The scholarship of $500 will be awarded again in February of 2026, to several chosen individuals ($500 each) who meet the following criteria: 

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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

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  • Agriculture Skilled Trades

  • Construction Skilled Trades

  • Transportation Skilled Trades

  • Service Skilled Trades

  • Manufacturing & Industrial Skilled Trades

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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

Birthday
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Multi-line address

Short Answer Essay

Date
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Sir Willie J. Jordan was a great man of humble beginnings. He never became a celebrity, a millionaire, nor a widespread name that received high awards. Yet through hard work, faithfulness, and integrity, he was able to build a future for his family and support his family by the strength of his hands and his faith.


Please describe to us in no less than 500 words your answer to one or all of the following prompts:

  1. Tell us about some of the obstacles you are currently facing as a youth or young adult pursuing education and work in a skilled trade?

  2. Tell us about your values (what is important to you) or describe a moment that demonstrates your strong character (your integrity and values) in the workplace, your school, or your personal life.

  3. Why are you going into your particular skilled trade and what are some ways that it can help you reach a life goal that you have?

  4. What social issue is dear to your heart and how do you plan to use your skills to address the social issue and promote social change?

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