Scholarships
The Anthony Jolly Memorial Foundation supports students who show leadership, perseverance, and a commitment to education and their community. Our scholarships honor Anthony Jolly’s legacy by helping student-athletes take their next step.
Meet our 2026 Scholarship Recipient
Keyana '“Keke” Walker
Keyana is a 2026 Roosevelt High School graduate and captain of the girls’ basketball team. She earned First Team All-Conference and First Team All-District honors and set a school record with nine three-point shots in one game.
Her leadership reaches beyond basketball. Keyana has volunteered with younger students at Greenwood Elementary, supported its food bank, and made a point of helping teammates feel included. She plans to study political science and hopes to become an attorney who advocates for others.
We’re proud to support Keyana as she takes her next step at Roosevelt University.
Our Scholarships
AJMF offers two scholarship opportunities. Both recognize students who demonstrate leadership, perseverance, and a commitment to their community.
Roosevelt Legacy Scholarship
The Roosevelt Legacy Scholarship honors Anthony’s roots at Roosevelt High School. It supports a Roosevelt student whose character, efforts in school, and contributions to others reflect the values Anthony lived by.
Anthony Jolly Memorial Scholarship
The Anthony Jolly Memorial Scholarship extends that legacy to student athletes across Des Moines Public Schools. It supports students who plan to continue playing a sport in college and who lead by example on their teams and in their communities.
Roosevelt Legacy Scholarship Information
Eligibility Requirements
Recipients must be:
Current Des Moines Roosevelt Senior
Multi-sport student-athlete
Maintaining a minimum 2.5 GPA
Demonstrating leadership qualities and community involvement
Showing a genuine desire to make a meaningful contribution to others
Exhibiting financial need
Award Details
The Scholarship amount is $2,000. Recipients must provide proof of college acceptance. If you have any questions, contact us at scholarship@anthonyjollymemorialfoundation.org
Anthony Jolly Memorial Scholarship Information
Eligibility Requirements
Recipients must be:
Current Senior athlete at any Des Moines Public School
Continuing to participate in athletics at the collegiate level
Maintaining a minimum 2.5 GPA
Demonstrating leadership qualities and community involvement
Showing a genuine desire to make a meaningful contribution to others
Exhibiting financial need
Award Details
The Scholarship amount is $2,000. Recipients must provide proof of college acceptance and verification of inclusion on a college athletic roster. If you have any questions, contact us at scholarship@anthonyjollymemorialfoundation.org
Previous Recipient Spotlight
JeCari Patton - Class of 2024
Anthony Jolly Memorial Scholarship Recipient
JeCari Patton was selected as the 2024 Anthony Jolly Memorial Scholarship recipient for far more than his athletic achievements — he is a young man who brings people together. Whether leading an offense as Roosevelt’s quarterback, encouraging younger teammates, or volunteering in the community, JeCari consistently uses his voice, energy, and presence to lift others up.
Known by coaches and peers as someone who leads by example, JeCari created a culture of encouragement on and off the field. His positivity, humility, and ability to connect with teammates across all three sports made him a unifying force at Roosevelt — a quality that deeply reflects the legacy of Anthony Jolly.
Scholarship’s Origin
The Anthony Jolly Memorial Scholarship was established by family and friends to honor the lasting impact of Anthony “Jolly” Jolly, whose vibrant spirit and ability to bring people together touched countless lives. A proud 2011 graduate of Roosevelt High School, Anthony was a dedicated multi-sport athlete, competing in football, track and field, and bowling. Known for his energy, work ethic, and camaraderie, he inspired teammates both on and off the field and was actively involved in programs such as Best Buddies, serving as an Ambassador for Roosevelt High School.
Anthony gave 110% in everything he did and valued hard work, integrity, and relationships above all else. His joy, compassion, and leadership left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. This scholarship recognizes a multi-sport student-athlete who embodies Anthony’s character — someone who leads with heart, perseverance, and a positive influence on those around them.
The purpose of this scholarship is to uplift and encourage those students who may not always be recognized for academic excellence but who consistently exhibit perseverance, respect, teamwork, and resilience in their pursuit of success. Unlike many scholarships that focus solely on GPA, the Anthony Jolly Memorial Foundation Scholarship seeks to encourage the well-rounded, hardworking student athlete.