In an inspiring move to combat bullying and honor those who fight against it, Stand for the Silent has announced the recipients of their spring 2024 memorial scholarships. The organization, dedicated to raising awareness and preventing bullying, has awarded a total of $25,000 in scholarships to five exceptional students for their outstanding contributions to anti-bullying efforts in their schools and communities.

  

Honoring Anti-Bullying Champions

For four consecutive years, Stand for the Silent has shone a spotlight on young individuals making a significant impact in the fight against bullying. Co-founded by Kirk and Laura Smalley, the organization was born from a personal tragedy—the loss of their 11-year-old son Ty, who took his own life due to bullying. Since its inception in 2010, the organization has been steadfast in its mission to prevent bullying through education, awareness, and support.

"We are proud to honor these remarkable students with scholarships that recognize their dedication to anti-bullying," said Kirk Smalley, co-founder of Stand for the Silent. "Addressing bullying is a collective effort, and it starts with brave students like these who are making a difference in their communities."

Scholarship Recipients

Stand for the Silent awards three distinct types of scholarships, each valued at $5,000. The spring 2024 winners are as follows:

Ty Smalley Memorial Scholarship

McKinley Rider from Du Quoin, Illinois, a high school senior and dedicated humane society volunteer.

Bryce Hampton from Bozeman, Montana, a high school senior and accomplished baseball player.

Laura Smalley Memorial Scholarship

Macy Barefoot from Noble, Oklahoma, an honor society student and dual-sport athlete in volleyball and basketball.

Nyra Frierson from Cleveland, Ohio, a senior marching band member and student council treasurer.

President’s Choice Scholarship

Leslie Gray from Spiro, Oklahoma, a University of Arkansas Fort Smith student and mother of four.

A Mission Rooted in Tragedy

The scholarships not only provide financial support but also honor the memories of Ty and Laura Smalley. Laura, a co-founder of the organization, passed away in 2020, and her legacy lives on through the scholarships awarded to those who continue her work.

Kirk Smalley travels the country, sharing his story and promoting anti-bullying initiatives. Stand for the Silent offers free resources for parents and educators, including a K-2 bullying prevention curriculum and a cyberbullying handbook. The organization has reached over 6,025 schools and spoken to more than 4.15 million students, spreading a message of hope and resilience.

Get Involved

Stand for the Silent encourages communities to join the fight against bullying. Individuals can start a local chapter, host presentations, or donate to support the cause. For more information on the scholarships, winners, and available resources, visit [Stand for the Silent's website](https://standforthesilent.org/).

"Stand for the Silent would like to convey its sincerest congratulations to these compassionate, hard-working, and community-minded individuals,” added Smalley. “We wish them the greatest success in their academic journeys!”