Although Robbie Robinson left this life at the tragically young age of 37, his parents and friends are making sure that his legacy continues to survive and benefit others.

Robinson’s parents — Sara Hyams Robinson and Bob Robinson — have led the effort to endow a scholarship in their son’s memory. The Robbie Robinson Memorial Scholarship, which has been set up through the Southwestern Community College Foundation, will be awarded each year. The scholarship is open to all students who are challenged by a learning disability or Attention Deficit Disorder. Students who meet these criteria and live in Swain or Jackson counties will be given preference. If none meet the criteria, students from the Qualla Boundary and Macon County may also be considered.

“One of our daughters is a special ed teacher,” said Sara Hyams Robinson. “So we learned early on that these students need support. There’s no scholarship set up specifically for special needs students, so this is a great opportunity to help.”

A lifelong resident of Swain County, Robbie Robinson was a graduate of the carpentry program at SCC. He worked in the maintenance section of the Department of Transportation at the time of his passing, and he is survived by his parents, his wife Martha, his daughter Megan, who is now 14, and two sisters, Beth Robinson Reece of Waynesville and Angie Robinson Mallonee of Asheville.

For more information about the Robbie Robinson Memorial Scholarship — or to make a tax-deductible contribution — please call Medford at 586.4091 or 800.447.4091, ext. 218.