When White House High School senior Cameron Morris walks onto the campus of Cumberland University this fall, he won’t just be beginning his college journey—he’ll be carrying forward a legacy of service, community pride, and educational investment made possible by The Crossroads Scholarship.

Now in its third year, The Crossroads Scholarship was created by the family of Odell and Esterlene Starks, lifelong Sumner County residents known for their deep commitment to helping others. Cameron is one of six deserving recipients this year, each receiving $5,000 to support their college dreams.

For Cameron, the opportunity is more than financial—it's symbolic of the love his hometown pours into its future leaders. "It's a powerful affirmation of my potential," says Cameron, "and a significant step forward in pursuing my academic goals." And for the Starks family, supporting a student attending Cumberland University makes this year especially meaningful.

The Starks family’s connection to Cumberland runs deep. Their son, Wayne Starks, graduated from CU in 1967, played on a regional championship basketball team, and was inducted into the Cumberland Sports Hall of Fame in 2015. He served many years on the university’s Board of Trust and was recently honored with the Distinguished Alumni Award during the 2025 commencement ceremony.

In December 2024, Wayne returned to campus to present a generous financial gift to 71 athletic coaches and staff members—an act that echoes the selfless example set by his parents. “My parents lived their lives in service to others,” Wayne said. “The Crossroads Scholarship has allowed me to keep their legacy alive by investing in the future of students from our hometown. The ability to impact a student from my alma mater makes it all the more meaningful and fulfilling.”

Odell and Esterlene were pillars of their community and active members of Walnut Grove Methodist Church, often giving their time, talents, and treasure to causes that mattered most to them.

The Crossroads Scholarship began in 2022 and continues to open doors for White House graduates. With continued community support, the Starks family hopes to grow the program to benefit ten or more students annually.

Students interested in applying can do so through the White House High School counseling office. Contributions to The Crossroads Scholarship may be mailed to 169 Braxton Lane East, Hendersonville, TN 37075.

For updates and more information, follow “The Crossroads Scholarship for White House High School” on Facebook.