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The Order of Eastern Star (OES)Salem Pride Chapter #509 in Orrville donated $1,000 to Selma University for scholarships last week.

Members Linda Lowery, Benjamin and Dorothy Irwin and Debta Coleman presented a check to Selma University President Dr. Stanford Angion on campus. The money will help toward scholarships.

The OES members gave their reason for giving back to Selma University.

“I think that its fitting we give back to Selma University,” Irwin said. “These hallowed halls have brought many of our generations through, but we have more on the way.”

Dorothy Irwin, Irwin’s wife, called  Selma University a historical landmark.

“We feel that Selma University is one of the greatest landmarks in Selma,” Dorothy Irwin said. “We want students to come here and remain in Selma for the city to grow.”

Linda Lowery, one of the original Foot Soldiers, said the goal is to make the scholarship donation an annual event by the OES. Lowery is also a member of Gamma Alpha Alpha Zeta chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., in Dallas County.

“If its anything we can help our children, we will do it,” Lowery said. 

Angion, a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., said he’s grateful for the opportunity to receive  funding for the school.

“We’re immensely appreciative of the donation that will help provide scholarships for students,” Angion said. “It represents our commitment to the community and it represents the community’s commitment to Selma University.”