The Haynes Heroes Scholarship was created to honor the life and work of Reverend Watson Haynes, II, and to support students across Pinellas County as they prepare for their next step after high school. Presented by the Pinellas County Urban League, the scholarship reflects Rev. Haynes’ long-standing commitment to education, access, and community growth across Pinellas County.
Rev. Haynes served as President and CEO of the Pinellas County Urban League until his passing in 2022. Throughout his leadership, he pushed for stronger educational pathways, support systems for youth, and community-driven solutions to long-standing inequities. Those values continue through the Haynes Heroes Scholarship, which centers students who have demonstrated leadership, service, and follow-through in their schools and communities.
Valerie Haynes, wife of the late Rev. Watson Haynes, II, reflected on how the scholarship has become a living extension of her husband’s work in the community. “My husband dedicated his life to service, uplifting others, opening doors of opportunity, and reminding people, especially young people, that their circumstances did not define their destiny,” she shared. As she continues to see students recognized through the Haynes Heroes Scholarship, she described the experience as both personal and affirming. “It brings me comfort and pride to know that his life’s work still breathes through the lives of these young scholars. His legacy is not just remembered, it is active, transformative, and growing.”
Each year, graduating seniors in Pinellas County are selected as “Haynes Heroes” and awarded a minimum of $1,500 to support their next step after high school. The selection process looks beyond grades alone, centering students who have shown consistency in the classroom and made an impact in their schools and or communities. Recipients go on to continue their education at colleges, universities, and vocational or technical programs across the country.
Xavier Terrell, a 2025 Haynes Heroes Scholarship recipient, reflected on receiving the award at a moment of transition from high school into college. “Receiving the Haynes Heroes Scholarship at this point in my life meant more than financial support. It was reassurance. It showed me that the hard work I put into school, sports, and serving my community was seen and valued,” Terrell shared.
He added that the support not only eased financial pressure but also reinforced his confidence as he stepped into a new chapter. He has since gone on to attend Claflin University as a first-year student in the Alice Carson Tisdale Honors College, where he is studying cybersecurity and staying active through baseball, Rising Kings, and the National Society of Black Engineers.
Applicants for the Haynes Heroes Scholarship must be high school seniors residing in Pinellas County with a minimum unweighted GPA of 2.5. Students are asked to submit an essay reflecting on how they plan to show up for their communities while carrying forward Rev. Haynes’ values, along with academic records and documentation of involvement and service. Finalists may be invited to interview as part of the selection process.
To be considered, students must submit all application materials by Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at 11:45 PM. Incomplete applications, or submissions received after the deadline, will not be reviewed. All awardees will be notified on or before April 16, 2026, and scholarship recipients will be publicly announced by May 1, 2026.
Through the Haynes Heroes Scholarship, Rev. Watson Haynes’ legacy continues through students who carry forward his belief in education, service, and giving back to the communities that helped shape them.
For students and families interested in learning more about the Haynes Heroes Scholarship or preparing to apply, additional details are available here. Full program information and the application can be accessed directly here.
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