The Eastern Shore Literacy Association (ESLA) is proud to announce the 2025 recipients of the Barbara S. Davis Memorial Scholarship, honoring two exceptional high school seniors who exemplify a passion for education, service, and literacy. This year’s scholarship is awarded to Payton Piercey of Stephen Decatur High School and Ja’Mari Savage of Snow Hill High School.

Payton Piercey, a standout student at Stephen Decatur High School, will be attending Stevenson University this fall to pursue a degree in Early Childhood Education with a concentration in Special Education. Payton’s commitment to inclusive education was solidified during her volunteer work at the Stephen Decatur Summer Academy, where she supported students with developmental disabilities. “Seeing the smiles on their faces made me never want to stop helping them,” she reflected in her heartfelt scholarship essay. With a strong academic record, leadership in school media and athletics, and extensive volunteer service with organizations like HALO and local soccer leagues, Payton has demonstrated the compassion, dedication, and initiative that defines the legacy of Barbara S. Davis.

Ja’Mari Savage, a senior at Snow Hill High School, will begin his studies at Temple University in the fall, with aspirations of becoming an art educator. In his personal statement, Ja’Mari wrote, “Art is not just a personal passion. It is a tool for inspiring change, encouraging self-expression, and fostering creativity.” Known for his award-winning artwork and commitment to youth arts education, Ja’Mari has been praised by educators for his work ethic, creative talent, and mentorship to peers. His teachers at both Snow Hill High School and Worcester Technical High School commend him for his maturity, focus, and passion for growth. “He will push himself to continue to grow and develop as a creative thinker,” wrote one of his teachers in a glowing letter of recommendation.

“We are incredibly proud to recognize Payton and Ja’Mari as this year’s Barbara S. Davis Memorial Scholarship recipients,” said Andrea Vandiver, Scholarship Chair for the Eastern Shore Literacy Association. “Both scholarship recipients exemplify the spirit and dedication to education that Barbara championed throughout her life. Their commitment to serving young learners—whether through inclusive early childhood education or transformative arts instruction—ensures that Barbara’s legacy continues to thrive in the hands of passionate, future educators.”

The Barbara S. Davis Memorial Scholarship was established in honor of the late educator and literacy advocate who served the Eastern Shore with distinction. The scholarship supports high school seniors in Worcester County pursuing careers in education, literacy, or youth development. Both Payton and Ja’Mari reflect the values that Mrs. Davis championed: equity, creativity, compassion, and a lifelong commitment to learning.

The Eastern Shore Literacy Association congratulates Payton and Ja’Mari and wishes them continued success as they pursue their dreams of transforming the lives of children through education.
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