NOTE: In the print version of this article, the Winchester Black History & Heritage Committee was incorrectly referred to as the Winchester Black History & Heritage Commission. The Sun regrets the error. 

The Winchester Black History & Heritage Committee – formed in 2014 by volunteers to recognize the impact of African American citizens in Winchester and Clark County – has supported the community in many ways. 

Recently, one of those efforts came to fruition. 

Dawson Gay, a Clark County native and the first recipient of a scholarship from the organization, graduated from college and will look forward to a productive future. 

“The Winchester Black History & Heritage Committee is incredibly proud of Dawson Gay’s achievements [and] accomplishments,” said Joyce Morton, founder of the Winchester Black History & Heritage Committee. 

Gay, a 2021 George Rogers Clark High School graduate, officially graduated from West Virginia State University in Institute, WV, located approximately eight miles from the capital and most populated city of Charleston. 

In an email, the Winchester Black History & Heritage Committee expressed pride in Gay’s accomplishments. 

“The aim of life lies in pushing your limitation always…You have successfully made this [accomplishment] possible,” it stated. “Your achievement is the result of your efforts. Give your best in the future and you will achieve every success in life. A big congratulations to you from WBHHC.” 

Dawson, who received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Management and a minor in Economics, obtained his degree in just 3.5 years. 

Along with graduating Summa Cum Laude, he was a member of Delta Mu Delta International Honor Society in Business and a member of The National Society of Leadership and Success. 

He made the Dean’s List in the Fall of 2021, 2022, and 2023, and Spring 2024. 

He also made the President List in the Springs of 2022 and 2023, Summer 2024, and Fall 2024. 

At his graduation ceremony, Dawson chose on his cap to imprint the phrase “Because God Favored Me,” which was described as “incredibly inspiring” by Morton. 

His commencement ceremony, which took place in December, also referenced Romans 8:28.