On June 4th, 2023, the Eastern Randolph community lost seventeen year old Jessica Paige Hollady. During her time at Eastern Randolph High School, Jes was a friend to everyone. She was dedicated to her family and highly involved in the community. She participated in track, cheerleading, Junior Civitans and was a member of the Catalyst Dance Company. Jessica was elected homecoming princess her Freshman, Sophomore and Junior years. As a founding youth leader, Jes was an integral part of developing the Small Town Open Hearts Project. She was a shining star and identified as LGBTQIA+. Her presence is greatly missed!

The Small Town Open Hearts Project in collaboration with Jessica Hollady’s family has created a scholarship in her honor. High school seniors who are members of the LGBTQIA+ community or strong allies are eligible to apply. Applications for the 2025 scholarship will be available on our website on March 1, 2025.