JDMF Scholarship Program
Empowering the Next Generation of Scholars
We are thrilled to announce and celebrate this year's outstanding recipients of the Jamal Doaty Memorial Scholarship - a tribute to a life rooted in excellence, service, and community. These remarkable students were selected for their leadership, resilience, and commitment to creating change, just as Jamal did.
These scholars are not just recipients; they are torchbearers of a legacy that continues to inspire.
Let's uplift them as they take the next step in their journey. The future is brighter because of students like Jordan, Zay, and Niterrian!
2026 Scholarship Recipients
Luke Brundidge, a dedicated student with a passion for understanding people and telling meaningful stories. What drew Luke to apply for the JDMF Scholarship was the opportunity it provides to help him move closer to achieving his goals. As he prepares for college, Luke plans to study psychology, exploring the human mind to better understand human behavior, emotions, and personal growth. His dream is to combine this knowledge with his passion for film and television. Luke aspires to become a director who can transform complex psychological concepts into compelling movies and television shows that inspire audiences, challenges perspectives, and spark meaningful conversations. Through storytelling, he hopes to help others better understand themselves and the world around the. Like many students, Luke has faced challenges along the way, including uncertainty about the future and concerns about his home and family life. These experiences have taught him valuable lessons in self-awareness, resilience, and emotional regulation, helping shape the person he is today.
We are proud to recognize Luke Brundidge and look forward to seeing the positive impact he will make through is creativity, determination, and vision.
Niko Wells plans to pursue a career as a physical therapist or athletic coach, where he can make a positive impact on others, support his family, and continue serving as a leader in his community. He is excited to further his education while continuing his athletic career at Reinhardt University, where he will also be playing football.
One of the biggest challenges Niko has faved has been balancing school, extracurricular activities, and personal responsibilities while staying focused on his goals. Through discipline, strong-time management skills, and determination, he has successfully overcome these obstacles and used each challenge as motivation to work even harder.
We are proud to recognize Niko Wells and look forward to watching him achieve great success both on the field and in the classroom.
2025 Scholarship Recipients
Jordan Benjamin
A visionary scholar whose drive for equity and empowerment reflects the very spirit of Jamal's legacy.
Jordan credits Mr. Doaty as a teacher who had the biggest impact on his life. He added that Mr. Doaty influenced him in many meaningful ways.
Jordan's favorite motto is "Try to be better than yesterday," a mindset that shows in everything from his dedication, to workouts, to his future plans.
Jordan has earned his spot as Valedictorian for the 2025 graduating class of River Region Academy in Montgomery, Alabama. He plans to attend Alabama A&M University, then serve in the military, with a long-term goal of becoming an aircraft engineer.
Zathan Maddox
Zay is a bold innovator and community builder with the passion for turning challenges into opportunities. He remembers Mr. Doaty as someone who always believed in him and offered him encouragement in ways that matter.
Zay's go to verse is Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" - a message of faith and perseverance. He shared the title of Salutatorian for the graduating class of 2025 of River Region Academy with a classmate. After graduation, Zay will also be attending Alabama A&M University with the goal of becoming a detective.
Niterrian Atwater
A compassionate leader, dedicated to lifting others as they rise, with dreams that will no doubt make a powerful impact.
Niterrian is a native of Thomaston, Georgia, Jamal's hometown. He's a student athlete at Albany State University where he plays football. He is a member of the Velma Fudge Academic Honor Society on campus and is also a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
He lives by the principles of leadership and perseverance and service. Outside of academics and athletics, he enjoys fishing and quality time with his family.