JDP Scholars

Each year the Jayda Dionne Scholarship Fund selects and honors an incoming freshman or current college student with a one-year scholarship. We are pleased to recognize our recipients who have demonstrated hard work, willingness to help others and determination against tremendous odds.

Naji Rutheford

2023-2024 Recipient

Ms. Rutherford, a member of Florida A&M University’s (FAMU) National Association of Black Journalists and a contributor to Journey Magazine, is an outstanding scholar who achieved a 4.0 GPA in her first and second semesters at FAMU. An aspiring screenwriter, producer, and actress, Ms. Rutherford exemplifies a kind caring spirit and determination to succeed, not shying away from challenges that she has experienced since elementary school. It is indeed an honor to announce Ms. Rutherford's selection with great appreciation for her outstanding demonstration of determination, hard work, and benevolence.