TALCOTT W.Va. (Hinton News) – The Monroe County Education Foundation is pleased to announce the Margie Green Allen Memorial Scholarship. Beginning in the Spring of 2024, this permanently endowed scholarship will provide annual financial support to a James Monroe High School student. The scholarship was funded by Margie’s family who wish to celebrate the generational impact of Margie’s hard work and love of learning.
Margie was born in 1933 at Rock Camp, West Virginia. She grew up in extreme poverty and had little opportunity for a formal education after leaving school in the fourth grade to help care for her invalid mother. Margie lived most of her adult life in Summers County, where she worked as a cook at the Talcott School for many years. She and her devoted husband, Gene, raised five children together. Margie died way too young in 2002 and is remembered for her kind and gentle spirit.
Though her own school experience was cut short, Margie recognized the value of education and the expanded opportunities available to college graduates. She inspired her children to explore the world and become lifelong learners. Margie’s encouragement led to her children and grandchildren earning undergraduate degrees from the University of Virginia, Ohio University (3), West Virginia University (2), Concord University, and Columbia Southern University. They have earned graduate degrees from the University of South Carolina, the University of Tennessee, the University of Virginia, Ohio University, Columbia Southern University, Edinboro University Pennsylvania and the University of Phoenix.
“Margie’s foundational support inspired curiosity and determination throughout her family,” said Melvin Allen, her son. “The Margie Green Allen Memorial Scholarship will continue that legacy in the broader community.”
Since 2004, the Monroe County Education Foundation has provided 184 scholarships worth $170,400 to support county residents pursue their educational goals. The foundation offers scholarships for all county residents, not just college-bound high school seniors. Adults and people seeking vocational training are also encouraged to apply.
For more information visit www.mcefwv.org or email mcefwv@gmail.com.
