Nearly a year after the University of South Alabama community lost one of its own, friends of Christopher Thomas are on the verge of turning their grief into a lasting tribute. A scholarship fund created in Thomas memory is closing in on the amount needed to become a permanent, annual award.
Thomas, a Dothan native, was just 21 years old when he died on the USA campus from medical causes. His death sent ripples through the university community and beyond, touching students, faculty and local political circles where he had already made a name for himself.
During his time at South Alabama, Thomas was a member of the Phi Kappa Sigma fraternity and served as vice president of Jaguar Productions, the student organization responsible for campus entertainment and events. He was also active in local politics, volunteering on a congressional campaign as well as Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpsons mayoral run.
In the aftermath of his death, close friend Khaela Huey decided to channel her grief into something lasting. She and others set out to establish a scholarship in Thomas name, aimed at helping a sophomore who is active in student organizations and demonstrates financial need.
The group set a goal of raising 10000 dollars to make the award a recurring annual scholarship. Within about six months, they had raised nearly 9000 dollars, with much of the support coming from Phi Kappa Sigma alumni and associates connected to the political campaigns Thomas volunteered on.
Huey said she is happy all this good is happening in memory of her best friend.
University staff who worked closely with Thomas say the outpouring of support reflects how deeply he was woven into campus life. A Jaguar Productions adviser who worked with him described him as someone who left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him and said he is missed daily by those in the campus activities office.
University development staff say Thomas is remembered as a young man of strong character whose legacy, through the scholarship, will continue helping South Alabama students long after his passing. Those interested in contributing can do so through the universitys official giving page, designating the gift in Thomas name, or by reaching out directly to the universitys planned giving office for more information.