Donate to Bessie Moody Lawrence Scholarship

The York County Democratic Women’s Council has proudly sponsored the Bessie Moody Lawrence Scholarship since 2014. Since then, we have awarded $17,500 to college bound young women in York County. 

We need your help to continue this proud tradition.

Your contribution will be used exclusively for the Bessie Moody Lawrence Scholarship Fund.

Dr. Bessie Moody-Lawrence was born February 14, 1941, in Chester, SC. She was an elementary school teacher in Rock Hill for more than 30 years and retired as an education professor at Winthrop University. In 1993, Bessie was elected to the South Carolina House of Representatives for House District No. 49 in York County. During her legislative tenure, she tackled issues that affected children, teachers, women and the poor. Dr. Moody-Lawrence was awarded the Order of the Palmetto, the highest civilian honor in the state of South Carolina, in 2008. This award recognizes extraordinary lifetime achievements and contributions to the state. She received the Laney award from the NAACP in 2000. Dr. Moody-Lawrence was a member of Hermon United Presbyterian Church where she served as Elder and Clerk of Sessions, Education Bible School Coordinator and Herman Women’s Organization President. She also served as Secretary to the South Carolina Legislative Black Caucus. After returning from the SC House of Representatives, Dr. Moody-Lawrence continued to tutor children in her home.