Sigma Phi Epsilon at the University of Tennessee at Martin presented three scholarships to incoming freshmen Monday night. The award banquet at the University Center highlighted their academic, athletic and community involvement successes as high school students as they begin their college journey.
Dr. Andy Lewter, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, gave a keynote address where he encouraged attendees to make the most of their time in college. “Studies have shown that the greater a student’s involvement in college, the greater the amount of time is spent in learning and personal development,” Lewter said. “And it makes a lot of sense — the more effort you put into something, the more you are going to get out of it.”
Eligible incoming freshmen males began submitting applications this spring, with phone interviews held over the summer. A committee of undergraduate fraternity members evaluated the applications and selected finalists that, through word and deed, embody the principles of the Balanced Man.
“We congratulate all of our winners and finalists,” Balanced Man Scholarship Chairman Brady Heath said. “It is our hope that these men take their talents recognized here tonight and use them well during their time at UT Martin.”
The scholarships are funded by the generous donations of the fraternity’s local alumni through the Direct Scholarship Fund at the Sigma Phi Epsilon Educational Foundation.
Jacob Rhodes of Brownsville, Tennessee received a $1,000 Balanced Man Scholarship. He is a Mechanical Engineering major from Crockett County High School, graduating with a 3.93 GPA.
Rhodes was the captain of his high school football team and a three-year letter winner in both football and baseball. He was named to the Academic All State team, and was a member of the Beta Club. Outside of school, he was involved with Samaritan’s Purse and Crockett Youth Leadership.
Rhodes is the son of Misty and Jarrod Rhodes.
Walker Weir of Flintville, Tennessee received a $500 Balanced Man Scholarship. He is a Plant and Soil Science major from Lincoln County High School, graduating with a 3.93 GPA.
Weir served as the Treasurer for the Lincoln County FFA Chapter his senior year. He also helped organize a blood drive in 2017 in his community, as well as volunteered for both Toys for Tots and a Ronald McDonald House food drive.
Weir is the son of Terina and Shawn Weir.
Colton McVey of Pulaski, Tennessee received a $500 Balanced Man Scholarship. He is a Marketing and Business Administration major from Cornersville High School, graduating with a 3.5 GPA.
McVey played varsity basketball and golf, and was a member of the Beta Club. In his community, he assembled holiday baskets at the Methodist Church to give to those in need during the holiday season.
McVey is the son of Angie and David McVey.