by Deborah M. Zirakian

“Because of my integrity you uphold me and set me in your presence forever.”

Psalms 41:12

Billy McKee and Rick Stern were dear and inseparable friends from the first grade. Tragedy

struck on November 1, 1980, while sophomores at Collegedale Academy, (CA) Billy lost his life

in a fatal truck accident, which Rick was driving.

Despite this horrendous calamity, Rick’s quest to venerate his friend’s life was foremost amongst

friends who generously agreed to participate and develop this endowment. This scholarship

would recognize and reward one student annually for high moral character and further

demonstrate that regardless of life’s circumstance, following after the Lord there will be triumph

through tragedy.

According to Rick, “my friend Billy deeply influenced my life. He was an intelligent, solid

leader while being humble, honest, and kind. He had an outstanding character, full of grace,

integrity, and compassion for people. He reflected the heart of Jesus”.

Since 2010, the Billy McKee Personal Responsibility Endowment Fund (BMEF), better known

as The Billy McKee Character Scholarship, has awarded a $3,000.00 scholarship annually to a

student attending Collegedale Academy (CA) who exemplifies the character qualities of Billy.

The qualifications for this scholarship include high moral values, honesty, integrity, loyalty,

strong work ethic, and a love for Jesus. Nominated students must also work and pay toward their

tuition to be eligible for the award. Every year the Billy McKee Personal Responsibility

Endowment Fund Board chooses from nominations made by students and faculty.

Those receiving the scholarship include the most recent awarded, Dylan Ford (2015-2016),

Daniel Tanksley (2014 -2015), Andrew Suekert (2013-2014), Scotty Scott (2012-2013), Macayla

Raney (2011-2012), Brandon Dorn (2010-2011), and Brooke Firestone (2009-2010).

In addition, since 2013, Honorable Mention designations with other students have been honored

for their outstanding recommendations.

Rick’s personal life of faith, grace and generosity is reflected in the 21 st chapter of Proverbs,

verse 21 (KJV), “He that followeth after righteousness and mercy findeth life, righteousness, and honor.

Despite this horrendous tragedy, Rick’s life has been profoundly touched through the influence

of his dearest friend, Billy. For the past six years he has shared his story, providing caution,

reflection and encouragement to the collective CA student body as well as challenging them to

emulate Christ in their life, in which Rick is an example.

Contribution and gifts towards the BMEF fund are welcomed and can be made to Collegedale

Academy.