OXFORD, Miss. – Mallory Washington of Water Valley is pursuing a pharmacy degree at the University of Mississippi with hopes of practicing in a health care setting, such as a children’s hospital. “Helping children is my passion,” said Washington, who has worked with children through church-related activities. “After I earn a Doctor of Pharmacy degree, my dream is to work somewhere like St. Jude or LeBonheur children’s hospitals.”
Washington is also the seventh recipient of the Joey Embry Memorial Scholarship, which was established to pay tribute to the life of Joey Embry, an Ole Miss student and an offensive lineman on the Rebel football squad. Embry drowned in 1998, but not before he, too, built a legacy of caring for others.
University of Mississippi student Mallory Washington of Water Valley visits with pharmacy Dean David D. Allen. Washington, who is pursuing a pharmacy degree, is the recipient of the Joey Embry Memorial Scholarship. UM photo by Kevin Bain.
Washington said she has always been interested in pursuing a career in the medical field. As a junior at Water Valley High School, she enrolled in a chemistry class and something clicked.
“I fell in love with chemistry and that led to my decision to become a pharmacist,” Washington said.
The daughter of Michelle and Cayce Washington, she grew up just a 20-minute drive from the university. “Ole Miss is not only close to home and offers a beautiful campus, but it also has an outstanding pharmacy program that’s known throughout the nation.”
Last year, 100 percent of the Ole Miss Doctor of Pharmacy graduates passed the North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination on their first attempt. This is the second time in five years the school’s graduates have achieved a perfect pass rate on the professional exam, and over that span, the school’s cumulative pass rate is fifth in the nation.
Washington is building on her academic record, which in high school included being involved in the Beta Club, Mu Alpha Theta and Student Council. She also played first base on the fast-pitch softball team and was active in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Bible Study Club and the O’Tuckolofa Baptist Church.
Gwen and Bill Embry created the scholarship in 2000 to honor the memory of their son. Since they have lived in Calhoun County and reside in Yalobusha County, they offer the scholarship in each geographical area. Their other son, Brad Embry, is head football coach at Water Valley High School.
Gwen Embry said the scholarship fund continues to be very meaningful to the family. “Mallory is a very deserving student, and we are proud to have her receive this scholarship.”
The Embry Endowment extended two scholarships annually to one student each from Calhoun and Yalobusha counties. Those interested in applying for the scholarship should talk with their respective high school guidance counselors.
Individuals and organizations can contribute to the Joey Embry Memorial Scholarship Fund through the University of Mississippi Foundation, P.O. Box 249, University, Miss. 38677; phone 800-340-9542; or online at http://www.umfoundation.com/makeagift.