The International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) Local 1408 Scholarship Fund has awarded $80,000 in scholarships to 34 local high school seniors and college students at a ceremony held at Edward Waters University. This is the largest amount given in a single year since the Fund was established.
Founded in 1995 by Charles Spencer, a Jacksonville native, the ILA 1408 Scholarship Fund has distributed over $1 million through more than 1,000 scholarships during its three decades of operation. Many of these recipients are first-generation college students.
“Today is all about helping people,” said Spencer. “A college education opens doors, and we’re proud to help the next generation of leaders as they begin their journeys to success.”
Andrew Jackson High School graduate Jamaree Jenkins received the top scholarship this year: a $10,000 award. Jenkins, who lives in North Jacksonville, plans to attend Florida State University to study Information Technology.
“I’m always appreciative of any opportunity that’s given to me,” Jenkins said. “This scholarship means not having to worry about so much of the financial burden and being able to focus more on my schoolwork and academics.”
Scholarship recipients are chosen based on several factors including grade point average, community service activities, and personal essays. Jenkins participates in the National Honor Society and Student Government Association and was selected as Mr. Andrew Jackson High School for 2025 by his classmates.
Two other students were also recognized with second- and third-place awards of $5,000 each.
James (Jim) McNamara, Chief of Staff/Director of Public Relations for ILA International, delivered the keynote address at the event. The ILA International represents more than 85,000 longshoremen along both the Atlantic and Gulf coasts.
“The ILA has always been major players in the community,” McNamara said. “I congratulate Charles and ILA Local 1408 on 30 years of really wonderful dedication.”
Community members and corporate sponsors support the Scholarship Fund every year. This year’s Title Sponsor was Antoinette Rowe.
Students interested in applying for next year’s scholarships or making donations can visit ilascholarshipfund.org.