Yukon education major wins Canadian County Democrats’ $500 scholarship

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YUKON, Okla. — Mustang High School graduate Claire Jones from Yukon is the 2020 winner of the $500 Robert “Bob” Burton scholarship presented by the Canadian County Democrats.

Democrats have awarded the scholarship for 10 years in honor of their deceased county vice chair who encouraged young Democrats to become active in the party.

Jones has been accepted at the University of Oklahoman and plans to pursue a degree in secondary education with a focus in social studies.

“I have watched as teachers worked to make a difference in the lives of their students, building their self-esteem and confidence,” Jones wrote in an essay submitted with her scholarship application. “…My Advanced Placement art teacher, one of the most beloved in Mustang, risked her safety, donning a mask, gloves and scrubs, to return each student’s art portfolio to their homes after the schools were closed by the COVID-19 quarantine.

“That is serving the community – a reason I want to be a teacher,” Jones wrote. “In the end, our ability to help others and leave a positive impression on the future is all we have when we’re gone. It is an opportunity I refuse to squander.”

Canadian County Democrats Secretary Shirley Burton chairs the scholarship committee with Vice Chair Dennis Purifoy and Laurie Hammons. Burton is the widow of Robert “Bob” Burton for whom the scholarship is named.

“After reviewing your completed application, we agreed that you are very worthy to receive $500 to assist you in pursuing your college education,” Burton wrote to Jones. “The scholarship committee and members of the Canadian County Democrats congratulate you and wish you all the best in accomplishing your goals in life!”

The Canadian County Democrats are currently meeting by Zoom teleconference at 7 p.m. on the second Monday of each month. The next meeting will be June 8. Democrats who wish to participate may join via the Internet or telephone connections. The group is actively recruiting Young Democrats. For more information about Democrat candidate support and other activities, visit www.canadiancodems.org or phone 405-326-3600.

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