Light of the World International Church in conjunction with the A. Jean Battie Education Fund Committee is excited to announce it will hold its 13th annual celebration on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at 11:30 am. At that time, three High School Seniors will be awarded scholarships based on their Black History essay submittals in the amounts of $3,500, $2,000 and $1,500. Additionally, the 2026 “Red Apple" Awardee is Xavier Omar Edwards.

The banquet will be held at Michael’s on East, 1212 East Ave, Sarasota, FL.

Mrs. Battie had a burning love of history and culture of African Americans, Mrs. Battie singlehandedly raised the awareness of Black History month at whatever school she happened to be assigned at the time. With that in mind, the A. Jean Battie Education Fund luncheon and black history essay contest is held each year in February.