🎖️ Honoring a Hero: Corporal Shannon L. Matthews — Purple Heart Recipient and Founder of the Shannon L. Matthews Veterans Scholarship at Tulsa Community College

The Original Black Wall Street proudly honors Corporal Shannon L. Matthews, a Tulsa, Oklahoma native, U.S. Army veteran, Purple Heart recipient, and community leader who continues to serve long after his military service through his Shannon L. Matthews Veterans Scholarship at Tulsa Community College (TCC).

Corporal Matthews served with distinction in the U.S. Army’s 4th Psychological Operations (Airborne) Unit during Operation Uphold Democracy in Haiti (1994–1995). On October 9, 1994, he was wounded in action while serving his country — an act of courage that earned him the prestigious Purple Heart Medal. His name is permanently inscribed in the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor, a New York State Parks site preserving the legacy of America’s heroes who were wounded or killed in combat.

Today, Corporal Matthews continues his legacy of service by empowering others through education. His Shannon L. Matthews Veterans Scholarship at TCC was established to assist and encourage fellow veterans who are pursuing higher education after serving their country. The scholarship reflects his lifelong commitment to duty, honor, and community.

🎓 About the Shannon L. Matthews Veterans Scholarship

Eligibility: Open to all U.S. military veterans — all ranks, branches, and eras

Requirements:

Minimum GPA of 2.0

Completion of at least 12 college credit hours

A short essay (100–200 words) explaining why the applicant should receive the scholarship

Deadline: February 27, 2026

Award: Varies

Supplemental Questions:

1. Were you honorably discharged?

2. What was the date of your discharge?

This scholarship is more than financial support — it’s a tribute to perseverance, healing, and the power of giving back. Corporal Matthews’ journey from soldier to Purple Heart honoree to community advocate reminds us that leadership is not confined to the battlefield; it thrives in classrooms, neighborhoods, and acts of mentorship.

🌟 About the Legacy

Corporal Matthews' dedication to service, both in uniform and in community life, serves as an example of resilience and purpose. His story bridges courage and compassion — from defending democracy overseas to uplifting veterans at home through opportunity and education.

To apply or learn more about the scholarship, visit:

👉 https://tulsacc.academicworks.com

For more about the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor, visit:

👉 https://www.thepurpleheart.com

Let us join together in recognizing and celebrating Shannon L. Matthews — a soldier, survivor, and servant leader — for his unwavering dedication to country and community.