Veniti A. Williams Scholarship

Veniti Annette Hall Williams was the oldest daughter born to Charles London Hall and Myrtle Lee Collins Hall  on September 17, 1958 in Prentiss, Mississippi. She gave her life to God at an early age at her home church of Mt. Zion M.B. Church, and remained a faithful servant until she gained her wings. She was married to Leonard Williams for 36 years.  

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In 1976, Veniti received her diploma from Prentiss High School. Veniti was very determined to keep learning. In 1981, she graduated from Jackson State University with a bachelor's degree in business administration with a focus on finance, becoming a first generation college graduate. She would eventually earn a master’s degree in business administration from Jackson State University in 1996. Veniti was an experienced accountant who held a variety of finance and budget positions for organizations like Hinds County and Jackson Public Schools. 

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Veniti held the belief that a fruitful giver would reap abundantly. If she had it, she would give you her last penny. A servant leader, Supervisor Peggy Calhoun appointed  her to be on the Hinds County Human Resource Agency Board of Directors. There, she was Vice Chair of the Finance and Agency Development Committee and Secretary of the organization. In 2018, the Board presented her with the Board of Directors Award. 

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This memorial scholarship was created by her children, Mississippi State Representative Zakiya A. Summers-Harlee (MS-68) and Leonard (Duke) Williams II, to honor her memory and encourage youth from her hometown to attend Jackson State University. It is supported by donations and contributions from family, friends, and community members. 

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To apply, please complete the application by clicking the button below. Scholarships will be awarded after verification of enrollment. 

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Deadline is: August 1, 2025.