james f. byrnes foundation scholarships

The James F. Byrnes Foundation Scholarships are living memorials to the memory of James Francis Byrnes and his wife, Maude Busch Byrnes, two of South Carolina's outstanding citizens of their times.

Celebrating 60 Years: 2009 Annual Luncheon

Natalie Owens, Scholars Board President and 1986 Scholar, invites current and alumni Byrnes Scholars, friends, and family to the 2009 annual luncheon.

"Many of you are aware that this year’s luncheon marks the 60th Anniversary of the James F. Byrnes Foundation.  Your Scholars Board is excited to extend an invitation to this historic event. We are also happy to report that we will be in a familiar venue this year as our festivities return to the Columbia Marriott Hotel (formerly the Adam’s Mark) at 1200 Hampton Street (the corner of Main and Hampton streets).

"We are honored to announce that our keynote speaker for the luncheon will be Senator Lindsey Graham. In addition to an incredible public life, he has experienced the painful loss of both parents and is uniquely qualified to address us from a point of common understanding. You will not want to miss this chance to hear his comments which are sure to be uplifting and meaningful.

"In addition to hearing a dynamic speaker, we will be honoring our graduating seniors. The luncheon provides a wonderful opportunity to hear their plans for the future and to wish them the best of luck. Of course, we will get the chance to meet our newest Byrnes brothers and sisters as well. We know you will want to join with us in welcoming them to our family. 

"To commemorate the 60th Anniversary, both the Foundation Board and the Scholars Board have worked hard to plan an unforgettable day. We will enjoy special entertainment, a lot of walking down memory lane, a display of James F. Brynes memorabilia and much, much more.

You are encouraged to make your plans early as space is limited. We also challenge you to contact those who may have been absent from recent events. Please make an attempt to encourage their participation in this very special day. I look forward to seeing you there.

"In addition to the luncheon on Saturday, the Scholars Board also will host a Friday Night Social beginning at 6:30 p.m.at Westminster Presbyterian Church's Amazing Place, 1715 Broad River Road. Current scholars and 2009 scholars and one guest attend for free; all others are $5 each. Children will eat free. Dress is very casual. No coat or tie required. Shorts and athletic wear are perfectly fine as we will have sports activities set up for you to enjoy.

"Come prepared to have lots of fun. Westminster's facilities provide volleyball and basketball for the adults, and kids can enjoy horseshoes and an enclosed play area with a jungle gym and swings. There is plenty of room to socialize, eat, and catch up with the family.

"The planned menu is buffet style including gourmet meats and assorted breads, homemade sandwich spreads, various cold salads, fresh vegetables with dipping sauces, chips and salsa, and assorted cakes, cookies, and brownies.

"We encourage those who live too far away to come for a single day to make a weekend of it. The Columbia Convention and Visitors Bureau web site has a listing of events and activities available in addition to the luncheon if you stay an extra day."

For more details or to make a reservation, contact Executive Secretary Kenya White.

SuperWeekend 2009 Slideshow

Just added to the site is the 2009 SuperWeekend photo slideshow. Photos are courtesy of 2004 Scholar Jeremy Fleming.

Mail List Now Active

The Byrnes Scholars now have an email list to keep Scholars and Friends of The James F. Byrnes Foundation informed of pertinent information as it occurs.

Membership to this list serve is by subscription only. Members may send messages to the list to be forwarded to members of the list.

Messages and information that are not about the Byrnes family specifically will not be forwarded. Information including, but not limited to, jokes, political statements and opinions, and messages that contain obviously objectionable content (racial, sexual, religious, etc.) will not be allowed.

 

2010 Application Form Available In November

The 2010 application package will be posted online mid November. The 2010 application will be accepted between January 2 and February 15, 2010.

The Byrnes Scholars Site

The information concerning Byrnes Scholarships and The Byrnes Foundation is taken from materials developed by The Byrnes Foundation, especially the 1988 index to The James F. Byrnes Foundation.

The historical information on Mr. Byrnes was developed by The Byrnes Scholars under the editorial guidance of Neil Johnson and Matt Lockhart. The editors wish to thank David Damon, Rachel C. Drake, Johnna Ferguson, Dr. Sara Hollingsworth, Cal Johnson, Brad Jordan, Elaine Russell Matlock, Pam Galloway McElveen, Barbara Tartaglia, Margaret B. Walden and Charles Wall.

The Byrnes Scholars information is taken from various sources, including the organization's bylaws and various materials developed by The Byrnes Foundation.