History of Foundation
The Thornton Family originates from Union Springs, Alabama. We are the descendants of Will and Dina Thornton. The union begot Minnie Bell Thornton, who with Al Griggs Begot our third generation. Out of this union nine children were born which included our matriarchs. Evelyn, June, Ruby Doris, Virginia, Carrie and cousin Louise made the trip north to Louisville, Kentucky during the 1950's for opportunities of a higher learning and a better way of living. But, regardless of the last name we are the people you know today as the Thornton Family!
In 1993 the late Evelyn James Founded The Thornton Family Scholarship Fund, a non-profit organization whose purpose is to inspire children to seek higher learning and education. Each February the organization host the annual Thornton Family/Evelyn James Memorial Scholarship Black history and Awards banquet. The banquet features talents of the Thornton Family, performers throughout the community, and various community leaders, which have paved the way for many of our youth. The Evelyn James Memorial Scholarship is a local scholarship awarded to student in the Jefferson County, Kentucky region (which includes southern Indiana). The Scholarship Award honors the late Evelyn James, the founder of The Thornton Family Scholarship, Inc.
Each year a one-time award of $500.00 is awarded to a graduating high school senior in the area. Application recipient is selected during the month of January and the award is presented at the Annual Scholarship banquet in February of each year
The award is selection is based on the following:
history
events
past recipients