CFVI Awards $10,000 to Future Lawyers

In an ongoing effort to support aspiring attorneys on their paths to legal careers, the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands (CFVI) has selected two students for scholarships through its annual Lawyers’ Scholarship Fund. Ki'Janne' Alfred of St. John and Martial Adrien Webster Jr. of St. Croix will each receive $5,000 annually, renewable for the duration of their legal studies.

Established in 2022 by St. Croix attorney Lisa Harris Moorhead and former St. Croix attorney Susan Bastress, the Lawyers’ Scholarship Fund invests in the next generation of Virgin Islands legal professionals by helping offset the cost of law school.

"As attorneys, we know firsthand the opportunities that a legal education can create and the responsibility that comes with it," said Moorhead.

"Our goal is to support the next generation of Virgin Islands lawyers by easing the financial burden of law school. We believe that Ki'Janne' and Martial embody the values that this scholarship was created to recognize," said Bastress.

Alfred, a St. John native, is a previous CFVI scholarship recipient, having received undergraduate scholarships in both 2020 and 2023. Her selection for the Lawyers’ Scholarship Fund reflects CFVI's continued investment in students as they pursue higher education and professional careers. Most recently, she worked in development at Friends of Virgin Islands National Park and will begin law school this August at Howard University.

Webster, who was born on St. Croix, currently serves as a public school math teacher and will be pursuing his J.D. at Texas Southern University Marshall Thurgood School of Law. His goal is to ensure that young people have access to quality legal counsel and representation should they enter the justice system.

"Investing in students who are committed to using their education to strengthen our communities is one of the most meaningful ways we can shape the future of the Virgin Islands," said Dee Baecher-Brown, president of CFVI. "Ki'Janne' and Martial have a dedication to service and leadership, and we are proud to support them as they take the next step toward careers in law. We are deeply grateful to Lisa Harris Moorhead and Susan Bastress for creating this scholarship and inspiring others to invest in the next generation of Virgin Islands leaders."

Since its establishment, the Lawyers’ Scholarship Fund has supported five students throughout their educational journey. Three have completed their studies to date, graduating from American University, William & Mary University and Ohio State. Additional recipients are currently attending Howard University, Loyola University Chicago and Villanova University.

CFVI welcomes additional contributions to the Lawyers’ Scholarship Fund to help ensure that financial barriers do not stand in the way of talented students from the Territory.

For more information about the Lawyers’ Scholarship Fund or to make a contribution to the Fund, visit www.cfvi.net.