3 local students awarded with Josiah Lawson Scholarship

Eureka, Ca., (KIEM) We all know how expensive college can be. But 3 students are receiving a little help after winning a scholarship named for a former Humboldt State University student.

One of those students is Ayana Watson and this week the Eureka High Student received 4 scholarships for her outstanding achievements.

One scholarship in particular is especially important because it’s in honor of Josiah Lawson, the HSU Student murdered in April of 2017.

The Eureka NAACP begin collecting money to put towards the scholarship in January of this year. 

The NAACP along with Josiah’s mother, Charmaine Lawson, and family created this grant to honor the life of Josiah and to support local students that contributed to the community.

Watson said she is honored to receive this award although it was created from tragedy.

“I just felt really honored to be given the opportunity to have the chance to apply to that scholarship and getting it felt really awesome. I plan to attend Sacramento State University in the fall I’m going to be studying psychology.”

Two additional students also received the Josiah Lawson Scholarship. Lavender Weburg from Arcata High and Zora Culps from McKinleyville High.

Charmaine Lawson said she is ecstatic to give back to young people making a difference. 

Each scholarship was worth $500.