Dec 17
Second Chance Scholarship Changing Lives for Many
Dec. 17, 2025 - The Second Chance Scholarship at Richmond Community College has supported more than 700 students since its inception in 2018. It was established by Mrs. Judith Beam to continue the mission of her late husband, Mr. Joseph Beam, to help those living in his beloved Hamlet community to get an education.
Mr. Beam grew up in Hamlet. He attended Virginia Military Institute, graduated from NC State University, served in the Korean War and worked for many years in the business world. However, he always had a special place in his heart for his hometown.
In fact, Mr. Beam had a very close-knit group of friends from Hamlet that he remained in touch with until his death in 2012. Ms. Beam fondly spoke of the group, who dubbed themselves the Mill Streamers, and described the friend group as an "unqualified fraternity.” Sadly, all of its members are now deceased.
As the rich textile industry in Richmond County dwindled, the entire community began to suffer. It was at that time that Mr. Beam established a scholarship in his name to help those in Hamlet attain an education that may not have otherwise happened for them. Additionally, having taught at two different community colleges herself, Mrs. Beam knew firsthand the difference that an education could make in the lives of people. For those unwilling or unable to attend a four-year university, a community college could be a life-changing opportunity for many. In her words, a necessity for communities.
Mrs. Beam not only wanted to support what her late husband started with his scholarship, but she wanted to do more. The Second Chance Scholarship was established to help those who desired to earn a degree or certification that would change their trajectory. She wanted to establish something that could truly make a difference and lift families from abject poverty into living — not just surviving.
The scholarship’s name is derived from the intent of the scholarship: to provide a second chance to students who need “a second chance” to get on the right track to success.
This scholarship reflects Mr. Beam’s love for the Hamlet community and Mrs. Beam’s desire to carry forward his wishes. The RichmondCC Foundation thanks them for their vision, generosity and ongoing support of RichmondCC.
Give Today
If you would like to make a difference in the lives of our students, please consider donating to the RichmondCC Foundation. There are many ways to give. Call Dr. Wendy Kelly Jordan, Associate Vice President of Development, at (910) 410-1807.