Two Bradwell Institute seniors have been named the first recipients of the Pete D. Stevens Memorial Scholarship, a new scholarship presented by Tapestry Connections Inc., a Liberty County nonprofit committed to raising awareness about sickle cell disease and trait.
The scholarship honors the legacy of Pete D. Stevens, a Riceboro native remembered as an entrepreneur, minister, and lifelong sickle cell warrior. He passed away in 2018 at age 62. The scholarship was created by his sister, Dr. Deloris Stevens Mitchell, to celebrate his dedication to community, resilience, and service.
This year’s recipients are Autumn E. McLean and Karma U. Threatt, both graduating seniors at Bradwell Institute. Each recipient received a onetime $1,000 scholarship at the Bradwell Institute’s Awards Night to support their college education.
McLean plans to attend Georgia Southern University this fall, entering as a sophomore thanks to dual enrollment credits. She intends to major in biology on a pre-med track and minor in business administration, with aspirations to become an optometrist and eventually starting her own practice. Threatt will attend the University of Central Florida, where she plans to double major in forensic science and psychology. Her academic interests are rooted in a passion for serving others, particularly her family and community.
The scholarship is open to graduating seniors from Bradwell Institute and Liberty County High School, regardless of sickle cell status. Applicants must have at least a 3.0 GPA, be accepted to a college or university, and submit a full application, including letters of recommendation, official transcript, proof of college acceptance, and a personal essay.
The Pete D. Stevens Memorial Scholarship will be awarded annually. The next application cycle will be open in Spring 2026. For more information or to donate to the scholarship fund, visit www. tapestryconnections.org, email tapestryconsco@gmail.com, or call (912) 977-3280. Donations can also be mailed to: Attn: Scholarship Program Tapestry Connections Inc. P.O. Box 775, Hinesville, GA 31310.