Jacksonville, AL – As originally reported by Brett Buckner of JSU’s Media Department, Saige Trainor, a junior at Jacksonville State University (Jax State) majoring in early childhood education, has been awarded the Stanley E. Easton Memorial Scholarship for the Fall 2024 semester.
A resident of Gadsden, the 26-year-old student, full-time employee, and mother of a 4-year-old son, balances a demanding schedule while her husband serves out of state in the U.S. Army. Determined to pursue her passion for teaching despite the challenges of juggling family and school, Trainor applied for the scholarship in hopes of easing the financial strain of tuition and books.
Just before the semester began, she received the news that she had been selected. “Having this scholarship awarded to me lifted a financial burden off my chest and made me feel supported,” Trainor said. “This scholarship covers my tuition and books. It has been a blessing.”
The Stanley E. Easton Memorial Scholarship provides an annual $1,000 award to a junior or senior majoring in secondary education. Eligible applicants must be full-time students, have a verified Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) on file, and maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. The scholarship is awarded each spring and was established by St. Luke’s Episcopal Church Jacksonville in memory of Dr. Stanley E. Easton, who served as a church deacon for 33 years.
Dr. Easton, who passed away on July 10, 2023, at age 87, was a retired Jax State professor and a dedicated community leader. After retiring from Jax State’s College of Education and Professional Studies in 2000, he devoted himself to fostering a Christian community for college students, volunteering as a chaplain at RMC in Anniston, and organizing Hurricane Katrina relief efforts. He also participated in community service initiatives such as Habitat for Humanityand the Rice & Beans Ministry.
Rev. Robert Fowler III, rector of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, reflected on Easton’s enduring impact after the church donated $25,000 to the scholarship fund in December. “Stan was often quiet, but when he spoke, you needed to pay attention. He was kind and compassionate, patient and wise. He was not afraid to speak up for the marginalized.”
Trainor’s receipt of the scholarship is a testament to Easton’s legacy of education, service, and support for students striving to make a difference in their communities.
