To provide a legacy of learning to those students who have given back to their community through volunteer work and assistance to family. To assist those students in becoming productive members of society who possess independence, morality and good citizenship. To encourage these leaders of the future to devote their talents and education to their community, state and nation by providing their fellow man with an example of compassionate citizenship.
Our foundation is designed to fund college scholarships for deserving students throughout Alabama.
Almost 100 full scholarships have already been awarded since the inception of the Foundation in 2005. Special consideration is given to applicants who would be the first in either their mother’s or father’s (or both parents’) families to attend college-hence the name “First In Family.” However, it is not a requirement that an applicant be the first in their family to attend college. Funding is made possible through this educational scholarship fund designated for Alabama’s children-especially those who are the first in their families to attend college. Mignon C. Smith created the foundation in honor of her parents.
Her father, J. Craig Smith, was President and CEO of Avondale Mills, that was a hallmark of the textile industry.
Mr. Smith was an innovative leader who put employee scholarships in place and privately funded the education of several employees’ children. Now, by having established The J. Craig and Page T. Smith Scholarship Foundation and the “First In Family” College Scholarships, his daughter is continuing the family tradition of encouraging and inspiring others to learn.