The Dillon High School Class of 1983 hosted its Second Annual Rosana D. King Memorial Scholarship Gala on Saturday, May 21, 2022, at the Dillon Wellness Center in Dillon, South Carolina. Se’Lisa Inman Scott, Class of 1983 member, served as Mistress of Ceremony.
The purpose of this evening of elegance was to pay homage to Rosana D. King – educator, activist, businesswoman, trailblazer, and Dillonite – who believed in the true service to all mankind. By giving back, the DHS Class of 1983 is fostering and assisting the development of young minds, which Ms. King aspired to do.
Marcus McGirt, currently serving as a Town Councilman in Latta, SC, was the keynote speaker. He was introduced by Arlen Crawford, Class of 1983 member. Mr. McGirt was hailed enthusiastically by all attendees of the gala. His passionate speech left everyone inspired, uplifted, and edified, as he challenged the recipients and the entire “village.”
Carol Samuel and Levon Stephens, Class of 1983 members, presented the keynote speaker with his award. Also, he presented the recipients with beautiful plaques.
Three students from Dillon County schools (Lake View High, Latta High, and Dillon High) were awarded a $1000 scholarship and plaque, respectively.
Mo’Nazia Sowells is the daughter of Monique Sowells and Roderick Gurley. She graduated from Dillon High School and represented her class as the 2022 Class Valedictorian. Mo’Nazia completed the Associates of Science program and received her degree on May 12, 2022. Her plan is to further her education at the University of South Carolina in Columbia, SC to major in nursing. It has always been her belief to treat others the way she wanted to be treated, which entails her passion for her selected profession. Mo’Nazia is excited about her future and eagerly awaits to travel the path that God has prepared for her.
Anaija Bethea is the daughter of Marcel and Nissa Bethea. Recently, she graduated from Lake View High School with honors.
Also, Anaija graduated from Northeastern Technical College with an Associate in Science degree on May 12, 2022. Anaija plans to attend the University of South Carolina in Columbia, SC, this fall to major in nursing.
Darius Jamaal Griffin, affectionately known as “DJ,” is the son of Carmilla Kingston Griffin and Darius E. Griffin. Recently, DJ graduated from Latta High School with a 3.6 GPA. He is an active member of Weston Chapel AME Church in Latta. DJ received the honor and was named All Region and All State in basketball. DJ plans to attend SC State University in Orangeburg, SC, and major in Business Administration and become a successful entrepreneur.
DJ’s favorite Bible verse is: Isaiah 41:13, “For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.”
Ms. Rosana D. King’s granddaughter, Pamela King McRae, gave sentiments from the King family. On behalf of her aunt, Alisha King, and her sisters: Kacey, Aubyn, and Shraja, Pamela thanked every contributor and the Dillon High School Class of 1983 for the honor bestowed on her grandmother. She encouraged all attendees to continue supporting the efforts of awarding yearly scholarships in memory of her dear grandmother.
Many contributors made this event possible. Donations from patrons, ticket sales, and ads from local businesses all played a vital role in helping to fund the scholarship awards. Catherine Scott, Class of 1983 member, acknowledged special guests and vendors.
Angela Graves Stephens, Class of 1983 member, concluded the evening with final remarks.
All attendees witnessed the efforts of the DHS Class of 1983 establishing the Rosana D. King Memorial Scholarship Gala as an annual event to honor Ms. Rosana D. King…teacher, counselor, mentor, and friend.
We Are THAT Class!
DHS Class of 1983
