As we live in uncertain economic times, now more than ever is an opportune chance for soon-to-be high school graduates and those contemplating going back to school, to enroll in college.

Selma City Council Ward 8 representative Corey Bowie and his four-member committee, want to give a Ward 8 high school seniors the opportunity to attend college through the Annie Cooper Scholarship Fund, named in honor of civil rights pioneer Annie Cooper-Huff.

Funded through business and church contributions, Bowie said the award will be sent directly to the winner’s college of choice and can go toward educational costs such as books, tuition or miscellaneous items.

“We have one of the most deprived wards in the city,” Bowie said. “We want to uplift the ward through programs like this one. It’s important that our kids have a chance to go to college. Education is an equalizer to the criminal element. By educating yourself, you empower yourself.”

The award of $500 or more, will be given in June to a senior who has demonstrated financial need and has maintained a 2.5 grade point average or above, to use in the upcoming academic school year.

To be considered, interested candidates must write and read aloud an essay to judges on “Why I deserve the scholarship,” must show proof of community service, college acceptance letters, high school transcripts and knowledge of Annie Cooper.

Committee members James Durry, former ward 8 representative, and Lorraine Capers, former truant officer for Selma City Schools, were long time friends of Cooper, who died last November.

Both Durry and Capers said it’s important for candidates to know what Cooper stood for.

Cooper, also a Ward 8 resident, was known for her efforts in trying to register African-Americans in Selma to vote. Cooper frequently clashed with then Dallas County Sheriff Jim Clark.

“Mrs. Cooper also cared about needy children,” Capers said. “She cared about those who needed help.”

The deadline for scholarship information is May 31. The winning student will be notified in June.

Call Bowie at 874-1234 for more information on the scholarship or to donate.