Student members of the Congregational Church of Christian Fellowship (CCCF) will receive financial assistance for their college costs, thanks to the Alvin A. Watkins, Jr. Scholarship.
Chris Watkins established the memorial fund in his Dad’s name for young people at his home church. The first recipient is Randall Lindsey, an extraordinary student pursuing a degree in vocal arts from the Mannes School of Music in New York City.
“I discovered my love of music at CCCF while listening to the melodious voices in the Sanctuary Choir. Since my pre-teen years as a choir member, I’ve been privileged to sit amongst trained voices. Receiving priceless lessons in the euphoric, rhythmic and spiritual elements of African-American worship music. This tremendous opportunity will forever shape my sensibilities and reverence for our music,” says Randall.
She will study with Vladimir Chernov and Olga Toporkova at the International Vocal Artists Academy in Payerbach, Austria, in summer 2022.
According to CCCF Pastor James K. McKnight, Alvin loved music of all kinds, so it is no surprise that the first recipient is Randall, whom he knew and supported and saw her transform into a lovely, kind young woman.
“Randall overcame many physical obstacles and was a stellar academic student with a choice to attend any university. Alvin would undoubtedly be as proud as everyone at CCCF,” added McKnight.
CCCF scholarships are awarded to members who are full-time undergraduate student(s) based on academic merit as determined by the church’s Mae Muse Scholarship Committee. The funds are unrestricted and can be used for tuition, living expenses, books, and other items students need to fill the gap in student aid funding.
Congregational Church of Christian Fellowship is located at 2085 S. Hobart Blvd. in Los Angeles. To learn more, call (323) 731-8869.
