Associated Grocers awards scholarships to four BCHS seniors

By Felicia Farnsworth

For the past 10 years, Edwin and Gwen Lewis, owners of Associated Grocers (AG), have remained committed to investing in the future of local students by providing scholarships to graduating seniors employed at the store. This year, four Bullock County High School seniors were recognized for their hard work both academically and professionally.

During a special presentation, Mr. Lewis congratulated the students and spoke about the importance of preparing young people for success beyond high school. “When we hired you, we told you that you were part of the family, and I consider you as such,” Lewis told the students. “Your success in life is also AG’s success because you are important to us.” Lewis explained that the goal of working at AG extends beyond earning a paycheck.

“We are also preparing you for your future,” he said. “Whether that may be college, trade school, the military, or another career path, this job is a stepping stone.” Lewis shared that he and his wife have awarded more than 90 scholarships since opening Associated Grocers nearly a decade ago. The business will celebrate its 10th anniversary on Aug. 29. “You four individuals have brought so much value to AG,” Lewis said. “You are honest, dependable, hardworking, professional, and overall good people. We appreciate that from the bottom of our hearts.”

This year’s scholarship recipients were Ta’Zaria Smith, Cortez Passmore, Kirtavius Walker, and Paris Davis.

Ta’Zaria Smith has worked at AG for more than a year and a half and said the experience taught her the importance of patience, kindness, and helping others. She shared that working with customers helped her learn how to better listen and understand people’s needs. Smith plans to attend Troy University in the fall to pursue a nursing degree in pediatrics before later joining the U.S. Air Force, where she has already begun recruitment for mechanics. In addition to the AG scholarship, she also received the Trojan Leadership Scholarship and the AHA University of Alabama Scholarship. Before beginning college, she plans to enjoy her summer by taking a cruise and attending a Chris Brown concert.

Cortez Passmore, whose mother, Nakeisha Madison, also works at AG, said the job taught him valuable lessons about problem-solving, conflict resolution, and personal growth. Passmore has earned numerous honors through the BCHS JROTC program, including the Certificate of Credential, Certificate of Training, Good Behavior and Character Award, as well as several medals, cords, and sashes for graduation. Following graduation, he plans to join the United States Army and work in Artillery. He will complete basic training in Oklahoma at Fort Stewart and plans to spend time with family and friends before leaving for training.

Kirtavius Walker plans to attend Trenholm State Community College in the fall to study HVAC and become certified in the trade. While working at AG, Walker said he learned communication skills, leadership abilities, and how to think quickly under pressure. He expressed appreciation to Mr. Lewis for giving him the opportunity to have his first job. Before starting school, Walker plans to continue working at AG and spending time with his family.

Paris Davis plans to begin her studies this summer at Wallace Community College, where she will continue a family legacy as her mother is also a graduate of the college. In the fall, she plans to attend Tuskegee University to study Veterinary Medicine. Davis said her love for animals inspired her career path and desire to become a veterinarian. She explained that working at AG taught her the importance of customer service, attention to detail, and adjusting to new environments. She also thanked Mr. Lewis for allowing her the opportunity to work at AG.

Through scholarships, mentorship, and encouragement, Edwin and Gwen Lewis continue to make a lasting impact on the lives of young people in Bullock County as they prepare for the next chapter of their futures.