The Southern Mississippi Planning and Development District, Inc. (SMPDD) awarded a college scholarship to a Jefferson Davis County High School student during a board of supervisors meeting recently.

Receiving the $1000 scholarship was Navarius White. He is a 2023 graduate of Jefferson Davis County High School. He was a high honor student ranking number 10 out of 86 graduating seniors.

“We are honored to be able to provide this scholarship Mr. White,” said JDC Board President and SMPDD board member Bobby Rushing.

White is a certified welder and will continue his certification for two years at Pearl River Community College with the goal of working at Ingalls Shipbuilding or on a pipeline after graduation.

He is the grandson of Jean Magee and the son of Emily White and Johnny Magee.

“It is important for our kids to stay in school and receive their education so they can ensure a successful future,” said District 3 Supervisor and SMPDD board member Demarrio Booth.

After the scholarship presentation, members of SMPDD gave an overview of the services they provided in Jefferson Davis County for Fiscal Year 2022.

SMPDD provides solutions that support the development potential of 15 counties in south Mississippi. SMPDD has provided information, resources and funding needed for private and public sector leaders in Southern Mississippi since 1967.

In Fiscal Year 2022, Jefferson Davis County’s contribution of $27,895.49 resulted in a total of $1, 124, 458 in goods and services being provided through senior services, economic workforce development and other programs and services.  SMPDD provided 50,171 home delivered meals, 6,843 congregate meals, 12 jobs created or retained by two active business loans. There were 50 workforce participants and $2500 in scholarships provided to Jefferson Davis County students.

The county match requirements are determined by the federal and state funding source and program activities.