Students
Benjamin James Thomas Ashley was born July 7, 1984, to Kenneth and Donna Ashley. Benjamin was full of love and service for others from the time he was a little boy. He was always the defender of the underdog or those society shunned because they were different. His love for mankind had no barriers.
Benjamin began playing the alto saxophone in the 6th grade and continued participating in musical activities at Truman High School, including marching band, concert band, symphonic band, and jazz band. Benjamin was also active in the choir and youth activities at Oak Grove Community of Christ He was an Eagle Scout and participated in various athletic programs, graduating from Truman High School in 2002.
On March 31, 2004, Benjamin fulfilled a dream he’d had since he was five years old and enlisted in the United States Army. On July 25th of that same year, he married Kassandra Kay Kistner, also a 2002 graduate of Truman High School. On October 4, 2006, he left with his unit for Camp Anaconda, Iraq, where he was stationed when his vehicle hit an IED on May 24, 2007.
Benjamin is survived by his wife, Kassandra; son, Alexander Gage; parents, Ken and Donna Ashley; and sister, Khristin Ashley Dutzel. His family and friends have established this scholarship as a lasting legacy to honor the legacy of a fallen soldier who served his country faithfully. This scholarship will support college education for graduating seniors from Truman High School who exemplify his character by demonstrating a strong faith, a love for music and a commitment to the service of others.
Eligibility:
- Must be a graduating Senior from Truman High School in Independence, Missouri;
- Must be pursuing an undergraduate degree at any accredited junior college, college or university;
- Must have participated in music-related activities, whether in school or not;
- Must have demonstrated participation in community service activities;
- Must have a minimum GPA of 2.5.
Amount:
Up to $500.
Renewable:
Not a renewable scholarship.
Deadline:
The General Application will be opened December 15 and will be due (including any additional requirements for scholarships you may be matched with) April 1.
Please note that the general application requires transcripts showing grades from Fall Semester 2023. Any applications submitted with transcripts omitting Fall Semester 2023 will not be considered.
Requirements:
- Personal statement of a maximum of 500 words about your college plans.
- At least one personal reference from a supervisor of a school activity you participated in.
Apply: