Stanley E. Easton Memorial Scholarship Supports Jax State Junior Balancing School, Work, and Motherhood

03/07/2025

By Brett Buckner  

Saige Trainor, a 26-year-old Jax State junior majoring in early childhood education, was recently awarded the Stanley E. Easton Memorial Scholarship. A resident of Gadsden, Trainor balances the demands of college, full-time work, and raising her 4-year-old son while her husband serves out of state in the U.S. Army. Determined to pursue her passion for teaching despite the challenges of juggling family and school, she applied for the scholarship ahead of the Fall 2024 semester.   

Just before classes began, she learned she had been selected. The news came as both a relief and a reassurance that her hard work and perseverance were paying off. Juggling the responsibilities of being a student, mother, and full-time employee was no easy feat, but this scholarship provided much-needed financial stability. “Having this scholarship awarded to me lifted a financial burden off my chest and made me feel supported,” said Trainor. “This scholarship covers my tuition and books. It has been a blessing.”  

The scholarship provides an annual $1,000 award to a junior or senior majoring in secondary education. Eligible applicants must be full-time students, have a verified Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) on file, and maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0. The award is given in the spring of every year. It was established by the wardens, vestry, and rector of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church Jacksonville in memory of the late Dr. Easton, who served as church deacon for 33 years. Dr. Easton retired from Jax State in 2000 after teaching for 10 years in the College of Education and Professional Studies.  

Dr. Easton died on July 10, 2023, at 87. After retiring from Jax State, he focused on building and fostering a Christian community for college students. He volunteered as chaplain at RMC in Anniston and helped organize and lead multiple trips to the Gulf Coast of Mississippi and Louisiana to help with clean-up after Hurricane Katrina. He participated in community outreach programs, including Habitat for Humanity and the Rice & Beans Ministry.  

Rev. Robert Fowler III, rector of St. Luke’s, reflected on Easton’s legacy in December after the church contributed $25,000 to the scholarship fund. “Stan was often quiet, but when he spoke, you needed to pay attention. He was kind and compassionate, patient and wise. He was not afraid to speak up for the marginalized.”