ABOUT SAM SPEAKE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
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The Sam Speake Memorial Scholarship is given to a Rock Bridge High School student who wants to pursue a career in a STEM field and has a zest for life. The scholarship serves as a lasting testament to Sam's commitment to learning, growth and fun.
We are grateful for the support and contributions from individuals who share our love for Sam. Together, we can make a meaningful impact on the lives of students and carry forward Sam's enduring spirit.
Sam was born here in Columbia and was gifted at being a kind and giving friend to all. He graduated from Rock Bridge High School where he excelled as a student and enjoyed track and cross country. At Marquette University, he earned degrees in Computer Science and Data Science. After graduating, he worked for GE as a member of their Data Technology Leadership program
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On Oct 15, 2022, Sam was hit by a car and killed. Friends and family wanted to honor Sam’s memory and a Go Fund Me and the Sam Speake Foundation was created. The goal of the foundation is to fund an annual $5,000 scholarship for a Rock Bridge High School student with a zest for life and an interest in the STEM fields. We have been able to award this scholarship annually since the 2022-23 school year through the generous donation of the community, friends and family.
Part of the criteria for the scholarship award is that the recipient should not only be a talented student, but a kind, compassionate and interesting person. Sam’s superpower was his ability to see those who may have felt unseen and make them feel special. His quick sense of humor and enthusiasm for each day made being around him an adventure and a joy, no matter how ordinary the activity. Sam’s empathy, charm and curiosity of the world was a light for everyone who knew him. The scholarship helps us continue to share Sam’s light and kindness with others.