Passing the Torch

Valerie Sue Brown Memorial Science Scholarship

     The torch is a symbol of the pursuit of knowledge, enduring spirit, and God’s light in the world. Valerie embodied these ideals as a student and a human being. We can give meaning to her brief, yet brilliant, light by passing the torch on to others to pursue the same dream.

    From a place of modest means, Val had a dream to become a pathologist. She worked through high school, saving her money. She was dedicated to her dream. She prepared for, and took, the ACT five times until she got the score she wanted. In order to prepare herself, she took the hardest courses in her most difficult subjects—graduating with Highest Distinction.

     She enriched others through her beautiful voice as a member of the CHS Show Choir. She led others by serving as captain of  a successful Science Bowl team. She was a devoted member of Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church. She was a sophomore at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

    Valerie had sparkling brown eyes that told you of her joy of life. In death, she donated those eyes to others. Our response to her death and how we give meaning to her life will now been seen by someone else through Valerie’s eyes.

 Whitey Hitchcock, Ph.D.
Chair, Science Department
Clinton High School

May 2, 1985 - Nov 30, 2004

Valerie was a member of our first Science Bowl team. The first year was a struggle, but she took the leadership initiative and by her senior year, the team placed 4th out of 32 teams in state competition. The $250 prize money was used to establish this scholarship in her name.

The Scholarship

We show our values by how we spend our time and money

     Valerie knew this quote well because it is the foundation of the relationship we had as student and teacher. She took all the lessons I had to offer, in science and in life, and validated them. She was the student and young person that each teacher dreams about.

     The scholarship is now being administered by the Anderson County Chamber of Commerce Education Foundation. The fund will now grow into an endowment. Contributions are tax deductible and may be made to the Foundation.