Catherine Aileen Smith-Jones Memorial Scholarship Grant

The Catherine Aileen Smith-Jones Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Abilene, supports graduating high school seniors who are members of Holy Family Catholic Church and plan to attend an accredited four-year college or university in the United States. This scholarship honors Cathy Smith-Jones, who valued community, resilience, and the gift of life, leaving a lasting legacy through her organ donations and commitment to helping others.

Community Foundation of Abilene
The idea that a community of donors can accomplish more collectively than individually.
The Community Foundation of Abilene is home to more than 150 scholarship funds established by individuals, organizations, and companies to help students from our community and the surrounding area pursue their college education dreams.
Catherine Aileen Smith Jones was born in Norwich, Connecticut to Arthur D. and Frances G. Smith. She grew up in Abilene, graduated from Cooper High School in 1976 and attended college at the University of Texas at Austin. Cathy was a vigorous and active woman whose career led her to Dallas. She returned to Abilene in 1996 to raise her much-loved daughters, Halie and Hope, in a family-friendly community. Cathy cared about people, had an incredible spirit for life, and demonstrated a remarkable ability to overcome adversity. In the end, her short life was lost while helping another; she provided the gift of life even after her death through organ and tissue donations. Recipients, their families, and all who love them will forever be impacted by the power of Cathy’s selfless legacy.

Eligibility

Graduating High School senior Member of Holy Family Catholic Church Attending an accredited four-year college/university in the United States