The Jim Smith Memorial Scholarship has been established in memory of James B. Smith to support the educational needs of high school seniors in continuing their education.
Scholarship selection will be based on eligibility, future educational goals, content of the letters of recommendation, and the applicant’s personal composition.
Submit completed application by June 30th. Two $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to qualified candidates. One girl and one boy will be chosen. Recipients will receive $500 for the first semester and $500 for the second semester. First semester grades must be submitted to scholarship committee in order for applicant to receive second semester funds, 3.0 GPA encouraged.
Recipients will be notified after July 15th.
Scholarship Eligibility and Requirements
- High school seniors must be an active member in Rodeo, 4-H or FFA
- Proof of enrollment in an accredited college, university, or technical school
- Copy of official high school transcript, 3.0 GPA encouraged
- Submit two letters of recommendation from non-relatives
- Submit personal composition including the following:
- Educational goals and how the scholarship will help you achieve these goals
- Life lessons learned from involvement in rodeo, 4-H or FFA
- Accomplishments, group involvements and hobbies
- Explanation of why the scholarship committee should choose you
- Details of how you plan on giving back to the agricultural community
Click to Download the Scholarship Application and Directions
About James (Jim) B. Smith
Jim will be remembered for his charisma, work ethic, fairness and honesty. His generosity and big heart helped many. He was especially generous when it came to helping youth programs, particularly those involved in agricultural/rodeo events. He always said, “It’s important to keep good kids good and support the activities they are involved in. If you can’t help the kids then what good are you?”
Jim was an admired businessman and was loved and respected by those who worked for him. As
President of Smith and Edwards he helped build the company into a successful and thriving business.
Through Smith and Edwards he was able to be an ongoing supporter of community events, with special involvement in various rodeos, fairs, 4-H programs, FFA, school sports and youth teams, scouting, Primary Children’s Hospital and other such organizations.
Jim served on numerous boards and committees who promoted the unique character and content of Utah, Weber County, and Ogden’s pioneer and western heritage. Jim was always one to roll up his sleeves and work tirelessly contributing to the success of these events and activities.
Jim was a great example of “pay it forward.” He believed strongly in service and giving back to the community. When he believed in something he wasn’t afraid to stand up for it. He was loyal and direct. His love of rodeo, ranching and the western way of life was where he found the most enjoyment. He loved getting away to his ranch in Pegram, Idaho and had fond memories of his childhood growing up on the family ranch in Ruby Valley, Nevada.
He wore many hats, and held many titles, but the one that meant the most to him was Papa. He loved his grandchildren and enjoyed spending time with them.
Gene Autry’s code of conduct could have been a page right out of Jim’s own book:
- A cowboy never takes unfair advantage – even of an enemy.
- A cowboy never betrays a trust and never goes back on his word.
- A cowboy always tells the truth.
- A cowboy is kind and gentle to small children, old folks, and animals.
- A cowboy is free from racial and religious intolerances.
- A cowboy is always helpful when someone is in trouble.
- A cowboy is always a good worker.
- A cowboy respects womanhood, his parents and his nation’s laws.
- A cowboy is clean about his person in thought, word, and deed.
- A cowboy is a Patriot.
