Junior secondary education major Micaiah Collins is the inaugural recipient of the Twanna Caddell Powell Annual and Endowed Scholarship in Education.

Our donors expressed a strong desire to give preference to students that are male, of good character, in good standing with the school and who declare their intent to teach in a public school system after graduation.

Collins plans to teach English in a middle school or high school while setting his sights on eventually becoming a school principal and perhaps one day, a school district superintendent. 

“Now more than ever we need positive role models in the lives of young people,” said Collins. “The Twanna Caddell Powell scholarship invests in future male educators–encouraging and empowering them to stand strong in their pursuit of a profession that can change society.” 

Orlean Beeson School of Education students are preparing to pursue their calling in school, church, family, business and community settings. Many will accept entry level salaries disproportionate to the investment they make in their Samford educational experience. Scholarships like this allow young professionals to begin their careers with the best possible financial foundation.

“The impact of scholarships in the success of our students cannot be understated,” said Orlean Beeson School of Education Dean Anna McEwan. “Scholarships empower our students to fulfill their calling and make a positive impact on the community while also providing donors an opportunity to play a part in delivering our mission.”

As the president of the Student Government Association, a Samford Ambassador and an IMPACT Mentor, Collins has already made a positive contribution to the university and his community.

“This scholarship gives me yet another reason to give back and invest in my community. Sowing into the lives of others produces unmeasurable fruits and I am grateful that someone is going to be blessed because they blessed me.”