Lanis Leggett, a senior mass communication major, is the first recipient of the Timothy R. Brown Scholarship, which seeks to promote black male diversity in journalism.
The $500 scholarship is named for Timothy Brown, a Jackson State University graduate who worked for The Associated Press for 13 years, covering civil rights, education, and business issues. Brown died suddenly in 2010. The scholarship was established in his memory “because he always said he wanted to give back to Jackson State,” said his widow, Jackie Brown. She and her son, Timothy R. Brown, II, presented the scholarship award and plaque Wednesday during “Mass Communications Day” activities held at the Mississippi e-Center @Jackson State University.
Before announcing the winner of the scholarship, Jackie Brown said her husband loved the Mass Communications Department.
“This is where he honed his skills and his passion. He definitely was not afraid to report the truth,” Brown said.
She said the criteria for the scholarship is simple: “He must be a black, male student who is not afraid to report the truth.”
Leggett, a 31-year-old who lives in Ridgeland, said he hopes to report on civil rights issues and write inspirational articles.
“I’m very humbled and truly honored. Tim Brown was a great and humble man. I wish I could have met him,” Leggett said.