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Marion Garrett Scholarship

The South Carolina Association of Educational Office Professionals (SCAEOP) Marion Garrett Scholarship was established to honor the legacy of Marion Garrett, a dedicated educational office professional who exemplified excellence in her field. This scholarship aims to provide financial support to high school seniors pursuing higher education, particularly those who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement, leadership skills, and community involvement.
 

2026 BETTY BLANTON EDUCATIONAL
OFFICE PROFESSIONAL
OF THE YEAR

KELVIN JEROME HASTIE, CEOE

Kelvin Jerome Hastie, CEOE, was born and raised in Sumter, South Carolina. He is a proud 2008 graduate of Lakewood High School, where his commitment to leadership, service, and academic excellence began to take shape. During high school, Kelvin’s musical abilities were quickly recognized. Rather than participating as a member of the chorus, his music teacher strategically utilized his gifts by having him accompany the choir on the piano for concerts, performances, and competitions. His exceptional skill and musicianship earned him the distinction of Best Piano Accompanist for three consecutive years at the Festival Choral Competition, including one competition in Virginia and two in Georgia.

Kelvin furthered his educational pursuits by earning a degree in Elementary Education and Communications, combining his passion for children with effective leadership and communication skills. He is currently attending Grand Canyon University and is on track to complete his Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership on April 8, 2026. Upon completion of his master’s degree, Kelvin plans to pursue a Doctorate in Organizational Leadership, further strengthening his capacity to lead systems, develop people, and influence organizational change.

Kelvin is currently employed with the Sumter School District, where he serves as the Executive Administrative Assistant to the Chief of Schools. His career with the district began as a student shadow, and through dedication, professional growth, and a commitment to excellence, he has steadily advanced into his current leadership role.

Kelvin’s desire to see his fellow office professionals grow led him to initiate—with the support of the local Association of Educational Office Professionals – Sumter County (AEOPSC) and the Sumter School District—targeted professional development opportunities specifically designed for office professionals and paraprofessionals, helping to elevate practice, confidence, and leadership capacity across the district.

Kelvin’s dedication to professionalism and service has been widely recognized. He was named the 2022–2023 Office Professional of the Year for Sumter County and the 2025–2026 Sumter School District District Office Employee of the Year. In 2021, he was also honored as one of the Top 20 Professionals Under 40 in Sumter, Lee, and Clarendon counties.

A committed advocate for educational office professionals, Kelvin has served in multiple leadership roles within the Association of Educational Office Professionals – Sumter County (AEOPSC), including 2024–2025 President, and he currently serves as the 2025–2026 Immediate Past President. He is also a member of the South Carolina Association of Educational Office Professionals (SCAEOP), where he serves on the Board as Social Media Chair, as well as the National Association of Educational Office Professionals (NAEOP).

Kelvin is a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., where he currently serves as the Assistant Keeper of Records and Seal, continuing his lifelong commitment to leadership, scholarship, and service.

Outside of his professional and academic endeavors, Kelvin finds joy in music and ministry. He enjoys playing the piano and ministers through song with the Sumter Community Gospel Choir, where he serves as the Founder and Director.

Motto:
"Called to serve, equipped to lead, and committed to excellence.”

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Eligibility Criteria

​Must be a graduating high school senior.

 

Must have maintained a "C" average or better in high school and a "B" average in high school business courses.

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Must plan to enroll in an accredited of higher learning in the fall term following the granting of the scholarship.

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Must be a United States citizen and a resident of South Carolina.

 

Marion Garrett Scholarship Application

The scholarship committee will review all applications and select recipients based on academic performance, leadership qualities, community involvement, and the content of the personal essay. The application deadline is November 1.
 

Questions? Please contact:

Doris Redmond Burns, CEOE

SCAEOP Student Scholarships Committee Chair

Email: doris.redmondburns@jcsd.net

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