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Insight - Colonel Owens posits that Saint Francis's sentiment holds truth: The act of giving is truly where we experience receiving in full.

Attended graduation from Dixie Heights High School in 1965, a significant milestone marked by a considerable passage of time. During our 50th reunion a decade ago, several of us began pondering over ways to repay Dixie for the exceptional education we had received. At this gathering...

Insight - Colonel Owens posits that Saint Francis was correct, as receiving is truly attained...
Insight - Colonel Owens posits that Saint Francis was correct, as receiving is truly attained through acts of giving.

Insight - Colonel Owens posits that Saint Francis's sentiment holds truth: The act of giving is truly where we experience receiving in full.

In a heartwarming display of community spirit, a group of dedicated alumni from the class of 1963 at Dixie Heights High School have been awarding scholarships to deserving students for the past ten years. This year, they marked their 60th anniversary by awarding a total sum of $12,000, a testament to their unwavering commitment to education.

Col Owens, a retired legal aid attorney and law professor, has been involved in the project from the outset. Alongside his roles as a member of the Boards of Directors of Kentucky Voices for Health and the Kentucky Board of Elections, Col Owens has been sending out emails soliciting contributions for the project. His belief in giving leads to receiving, as stated by St. Francis, has been the driving force behind this initiative.

The group, which has been presenting the scholarship at Dixie's Honors Night for years, has collected a total of over $20,000 over the past decade. Each year, they have managed to raise $2000 for the scholarship, a feat that speaks volumes about their dedication and the generosity of their contributors.

The application process for the scholarship is rigorous, requiring students to submit their academic record, letters of recommendation, and an essay about their experience and plans. The scholarship is awarded annually to a deserving student to help defray the expenses of higher education. Over the years, the scholarship has been awarded to 10 students, each of whom has used the funds to help achieve their goals.

Despite the group's dwindling numbers and health limitations, this year is their last. The scholarship remains competitive due to its sizable amount, and the group has sometimes had to make difficult choices from among numerous outstanding applicants.

The hope of the group is that other classes might pick up on their project, but to date, none have. Col Owens remains hopeful, believing that the impact of their initiative will inspire others to follow suit.

This group's legacy will undoubtedly live on, providing a beacon of hope for future students of Dixie Heights High School. Their story serves as a reminder of the power of community spirit and the difference that a few dedicated individuals can make.

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