Ratliff awards scholarships to six local students

Demopolis native and former NBA All-Star Theo Ratliff returned to his hometown to deliver $1000 academic scholarships to six local students Thursday evening. The 2021 recipients are Arri Beason, Eddie Coats, Krista Kennard, Makayla Richardson, Jaqualon Smith and Essence Pearce.

The Theo Ratliff Academic Scholarship is awarded to deserving students with great potential who are college bound and low socio-economic status. These awards are given annually to students who display the spirit, work ethic, and character of Theo Ratliff, who is the benefactor. The scholarship is also based on a combination of attributes that include ACT Score, GPA, statement of interest, and letters of reference. The students must also meet all graduation requirements for the State of Alabama.