By Brian Anderson

The 23rd annual J.O. “Tip” Colley Scholastic Christian Athletic scholarship banquet was held Monday featuring 22 senior student athletes. The schools represented were Pike County High School, Charles Henderson, Pike Liberal Arts & Sciences and Goshen.
The banquet is named after Dr. J.O. “Tip” Colley, put simply, a local legend.  He was a physician, businessman, civic leader, role model and devoted family man.  The banquet was held on the 16th anniversary of his death.
“Leadership is paramount,” keynote speaker Gabe Gross said. He gave students three points to being a Christian leader.  The most important he said, know God’s Word.  Secondly, learn to be a servant and lastly stand the test of time.
Gross attended Auburn University where he was a Freshman All-American in baseball at center field.  Also, Freshman All-American in football as quarterback in 1999.  He spent seven seasons in the major leagues and played in the 2008 World Series as a member of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays.
The male and female winners of the Tip Colley Scholarship Award both received $1,500 cash.
The male winner was Jacob Bensinger   from Charles Henderson High School. He said he was honored and surprised to be chosen over so many great nominees.  He will be attending Auburn University in the fall and majoring in engineering.
The female winner was Sara Saunders from Pike Liberal Arts and Sciences. She said it was an honor to be with so many great candidates and was excited to win and pursue her degree at Samford University in the fall.  She will major in nursing.