The Columbia State Community College Foundation recently established a new scholarship endowment from Joe Townsend in memory of his wife, Shirley Reed Townsend, and daughter, Stephanie Townsend.

In February, Joe created the Stephanie, Shirley Reed and Joe (J.W.) Townsend Endowment scholarship fund to honor the memory of his late wife and daughter. While he now resides in Murfreesboro, Joe was born and raised in Lawrence County. He and his wife always aspired to financially assist high school graduates in Lawrence County to further their education.

“This endowment will go into the future positively impacting students and bring to remembrance the Townsend family’s connections to Lawrence County,” said Bethany Lay, Columbia State vice president for advancement and executive director of the Columbia State Foundation. “We appreciate the support and encouragement it will provide to students.”

The scholarship is available for Lawrence County high school graduates attending Columbia State.

The Columbia State Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization that supports and partners with the college to positively impact student success and the communities in which it serves.