About the Scholarship
The Michael Jackson Wrestling Scholarship, Inc. (MJWS), a 501(C)(3) non-profit organization, was formed in 2003 in memory of Christopher Michael Jackson, after his life was tragically cut short in 2002. Michael was a graduate of Woodford County High School and a 2000 state wrestling champion.
The MJWS selection committee annually awards one scholarship to a senior wrestler that best exemplifies the championship qualities Michael demonstrated during his four years of wrestling at WCHS which include: sportsmanship, strong work ethic, enthusiasm, and leadership. Additionally, the committee considers the qualities of good citizenship and participation in school and community activities. The selection committee reserves the right not to award the scholarship in the event that none of the applicants meet the qualities that Michael demonstrated.
Applicants of the scholarship must be accepted to a college/university for the fall semester after their senior year in high school. The scholarship award amount is determined annually and half of the award is distributed directly to the college/university at the beginning of the fall semester. The other half of the award will be distributed directly to the college/university at the beginning of the spring semester.
History
Michael’s parents, Guy and Debbie Jackson, created a scholarship in memory of Michael after his death on December 15, 2002.
The Articles of Incorporation were written by attorney Phyllis Mattingly and filed with the Kentucky Secretary of State.
By-laws were written by attorney Shannon Arvin and filed with the Kentucky Secretary of State.
Application Form 1023 was completed by attorney Shannon Arvin to gain approval for 501 (c) (3) tax exemption status. The application was filed and approved by the IRS.
The community of Woodford County generously supported the first barbeque fundraiser, which was held during the Versailles Lions Fall Festival September 27, 2003.
The second annual barbeque fundraiser was held at Quality Feeds on September 25, 2004, which was enthusiastically supported by family, friends, wrestlers, and the Woodford County community.
From 2005-2011 the barbeque fundraisers for the scholarship were successfully held in conjunction with the Twilight Festival, which took place in Versailles, Kentucky every July.
The Michael Jackson Wrestling Scholarship, Inc. has granted thirteen scholarships to Woodford County graduates from 2003-2016.
Award Winners
2003 – Jamison Large
2004 – John Barrett
2005 – Nick Neessen
2006 – Rusty Parks
2007 – Steven Butler
2008 – Chad Scott
2009 – Harrison Courtney
2010 – Robert Bracco
2011 – Curtis Graham
2012 – Wesley Morris
2014 – Nathan Boston
2015 – Jack Fallon
2016 – Tucker Hurst
2017 – Max Andreoni & Joey Roberts
2018 – Tylan Tucker
2020 – Chase Yost
2021 – Dylan Preston & Ashley Courtney
2022 – Gavin Andreoni
‘Be the Boss’ Award Winners
2019 – Gabe Burden & Braylen Livingston
2023 – Oliver Cox & Devyn Wilkinson
Get Involved
Thank you for your interest in volunteering for the Michael Jackson Wrestling Scholarship Fund. Like most charitable organizations, we rely heavily on the contributions of volunteers. We are a growing organization that is excited to have individuals like yourself offer your time and abilities. Please email us at deborah.jackson@windstream.net to become a valued volunteer.
Support the Scholarship
Your generous support can make a real difference in the lives of award recipients. All gifts are tax-deductible. You can donate securely online, or mail in your gift.
Board of Directors
Deborah Jackson
Rusty Parks
Joe Carr, Sr.
Joe Carr, Jr.
Don Leugers
Randy Cotton
Glen Cotton
Brian Cotton