This week, our KR Scholars community experienced a profound and tragic loss, as Zion Terry’s life was cut far too short.
Zion was a proud participant in our HBCU Bridge program at John Marshall High School. Over the past seven months, he showed up to every biweekly session with a quiet determination, a positive spirit, and a genuine openness to grow. His presence was steady, thoughtful, and uplifting to those around him.
An exceptional student with a 4.45 GPA, Zion demonstrated both academic excellence and a strong sense of purpose. He was accepted to multiple universities and made the decision to attend Winston-Salem State University, an HBCU, this fall.
At the beginning of the program, Zion was adamant about not attending an HBCU. But over time, through exposure, conversations, and his own reflection, his perspective began to shift. He ultimately chose a path that felt right for him—one that connected him to a broader legacy and community.
He was excited about the journey ahead and the future he was building—including his aspiration to become a traveling nurse.
Those who had the opportunity to engage with Zion saw a young man who was driven, kind, and reflective. He embraced new perspectives, leaned into learning, and carried himself with a quiet confidence that left a lasting impression.
While words cannot fully capture the weight of this loss, we remain deeply grateful to have been part of Zion’s journey. His time with us, though far too short, reflected the very best of what we hope to nurture in every student we serve.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to Zion’s family, friends, classmates, and the entire John Marshall High School community. We hold them in our thoughts during this difficult time.
Zion’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the path he was forging, and the inspiration he leaves behind.
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