CLEVELAND, Tenn. - Current Lee University Athletic Director John Maupin recently announced that Alex Brew, Alexis Potteiger and Emma Smith have received the initial Larry Carpenter Athletic Scholarships. "I am so excited to present this inaugural group of recipients. Alex, Emma, and Alexis not only embody many of the things that Coach Carpenter valued, but they also have a personal connection to him and that makes this really special. We are deeply grateful to the Carpenter family for creating a lasting investment in the lives of Lee University students."

Maupin added, "The Larry Carpenter Athletic Scholarship represents far more than financial support—it reflects the legacy of a leader whose influence shaped generations of student-athletes at Lee. Coach Carpenter built our department on values of integrity, service, faith, and excellence, and this endowment ensures that those values will continue to guide future Flames for years to come."

Alex Brew is the son of Coach Mark Brew and his wife Rachel. He is in his second year at Lee as a student and is seeking a Business Administration degree. Alex is a homeschool graduate of Homelife Academy and played four years of baseball at Bradley Central. He grew up with an older sister, Elise.

"Our family is no stranger to the legacy of Larry Carpenter," said Coach Brew. "He was a tremendous influence on my career and a constant advocate for our family. To have Alex named as a recipient of a scholarship bearing his name is a truly humbling experience. We are deeply grateful to the Carpenter family for their belief in Alex."

Alexis Potteiger is the daughter of Coach Derek Potteiger and his wife Jennifer. She is currently a freshman at Lee and is a nursing major. She graduated from Veritas Classical Homeschool Academy in Chattanooga at the top of her class.

Alexis played all four years of soccer at Cleveland High School and was captain during her senior year. The oldest of five children is involved in her church teaching Sunday school and being part of the worship team.

Emma Smith is the daughter of Coach Bubba Smith and his wife Courtney. Emma is a current freshman at Lee who will be an Education Major, with hopes to teach elementary school after graduation. Emma graduated from Cleveland High School, where she was a four-year member of the Lady Raider Basketball Program, and a captain her senior year.

Emma was involved with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and a part of their leadership team while at Cleveland. She is one of four siblings and will be the second child to graduate from Lee.

"Anyone who knew Larry, knew just how much he loved God, his family, and Lee University Athletics," said coach Carpenter's wife Cheri.  "He viewed the student athletes, coaches and athletic staff as a part of our family. That is one reason why this scholarship means so very much to us. It is a way to honor his legacy for many years to come and we think Larry would be proud to know that he still gets the chance to help students receive a Christ-centered education." 

STATEMENT OF DONOR INTENT

Family and friends in memory of Larry Carpenter, the first full-time Athletic Director at Lee University, in support of higher education, and the preparation of young men and women for Christian service, agree to establish the LARRY CARPENTER ATHLETIC SCHOLARSHIP (the "Fund") at Lee University.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

l. Applicants for this scholarship must be considered worthy and be enrolled as a full-time student in any academic division of Lee University.

2. In the selection of the scholarship recipients, major consideration will be given to the potential academic performance and financial need of each applicant.

3. Financial need will be established by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid and the Director of Student Financial Aid.

4. No recipient shall receive the scholarship for more than eight (8) semesters.

5. First priority will be given to descendants of Larry and Cheri Carpenter. If no family member is attending Lee University, a second priority will be given to descendants of current or former athletic staff members who are nominated by the Lee Athletic Director. If no eligible applicants meet the first or second criteria, then third priority will be given to current students who are participating in one of the NCAA athletic programs at Lee University and are nominated by the Lee Athletic Director.

6. In the event that a qualified candidate cannot be identified, the Financial Aid Committee shall have the discretion to award this scholarship.