Cornerstone Schools of Alabama is proud to celebrate Ja’Kari Bell-Perry, Class of 2026, for receiving the prestigious Evans Scholarship, a full tuition and housing college scholarship awarded to exceptional golf caddies through the Evans Scholars Foundation.
A Birmingham native, Bell-Perry is now a freshman at the University of Kansas as an Evans Scholar. The scholarship, valued at more than $125,000 over four years, recognizes students who demonstrate excellence in academics, leadership, character, financial need, and caddie service.
Ja’Kari’s achievement reflects years of hard work, perseverance, and leadership both in and outside the classroom. A graduate of the WGA Caddie Academy, he will also return this summer to serve as a Junior Counselor, mentoring younger students participating in the program.
The WGA Caddie Academy provides high school students with opportunities to grow through caddying, leadership development, and character formation. Students are selected based on strong academics, leadership potential, and personal character, with the program helping prepare participants for future success in college and beyond.
“Ja’Kari’s story is a wonderful example of the impact caddying can have on a young person’s life,” said Andy Langan, Chairman of the Western Golf Association. “Through his hard work, leadership and determination, he has earned this life-changing opportunity. We are proud to welcome him into the Evans Scholars family and excited to see all he will accomplish at the University of Kansas.”
Founded in 1930, the Evans Scholarship Program is administered by the Western Golf Association and Evans Scholars Foundation and is the nation’s largest scholarship program for caddies. Currently, more than 1,260 students are enrolled at partner universities across the country as Evans Scholars, with more than 12,500 alumni since the program’s founding.
Bell-Perry joins a record class of 380 caddies nationwide who have received the Evans Scholarship this year.
At Cornerstone Schools of Alabama, Ja’Kari’s accomplishment is a reflection of the school’s Kingdom Purpose of Empowering Students to Glorify God through faith, character, and academic excellence. His journey stands as an inspiring example of what is possible through dedication, opportunity, and strong community support.