Standing at a crossroads signifies being at a decision-making point in life. It’s appropriate, then, that a scholarship offered at White House High School bears the name—The Crossroads Scholarship (501-C3). I recently chatted with the founder, Wayne Starks, and his nephew, Shane. They revealed the heartbeat behind the scholarship and a bit of White House history too.

About four miles West of White House on the corner of Highways 76 and 25 sits a diner many of you have probably frequented—Johnson’s Crossroads. Originally a service station and grocery store, the building was constructed in 1954 by Odell and Esterlene Starks. It is this “Ma and Pa” that are honored through the Crossroads Scholarship, started by their son, Wayne, 3 years ago.

“Our motivation for establishing the scholarship was to create a lasting legacy for our parents and grandparents,” Wayne says.

A WHHS class of ’65 alumni, Wayne is a successful businessman who’s bought and sold several companies during his career. Wayne credits White House with giving him fertile soil in which to grow. “We didn’t have much during those early years,” he recounts, “The Crossroads Scholarship is a way we can give back” to those who may share a similar beginning.

Three years ago, when The Crossroads Scholarship was formed, there was only one other scholarship option for WHHS students. Having just reached a $200,000 balance, Wayne and Shane are excited to see this scholarship benefit even more students this year.

“Currently a friend of the Starks family has offered a $100,000 matching for the scholarship.  In other words, if someone gives $5,000 it is like giving $10,000, giving $10,000 is equivalent to giving $20,000 and so on," explains Wayne.

It’s a legacy they are determined to see continue, according to Wayne, “Long after we are gone.”

The Crossroads scholarship was given to 2 graduates in the first year. It doubled to 4 graduates this past May and the goal is to grant 8 students in 2025. “Us grandkids determine the awardees,” says Shane, “The goal is to have more students know about this opportunity. Last year I think we only had 8 applicants total.”

Scholarship applicants must exhibit the following qualifications:  be a graduating senior at White House High School and seeking higher education at an accredited college, university, or trade school, have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above, have participated in at least one extra-curricular activity during their 4 years at White House High School, and demonstrate economical need. 

So, WHHS Class of 2025, this is your call to set a reminder and reach out to your Guidance Counselor. Applications are due at the end of February. As Shane encourages, “Apply for every scholarship you can. The answer is always ‘no’ if you don’t ask.”

Next time you drive past Johnson’s Crossroads, look for that little white house and be encouraged. Small beginnings often sprout beautiful stories. And beautiful stories are often tinged with a legacy of gratitude, just like Ma and Pa Starks.

Want to be part of The Crossroads Scholarship legacy? Email Shane sstarks@suittrans.com

Are you a WHHS Senior wishing to apply? Check out this link.