Dr. Aubrey L. Sejuit, JLC Website Chair & SCCA Awards Committee Co-Chair (left) and Mrs. Laurie Stokes (right) receiving SCCA “Human Rights Award” for 2025

Celebrating Service and Supporting Our Military and First Responders

In honor of the U.S. Marine Corps’ 250th Birthday and Veterans Day, we proudly highlight meaningful ways to support those who serve, both in uniform and within our communities.

This year, we recognize Mrs. Laurie Stokes, a proud “Navy Brat” and a respected Midlands community leader, for her steadfast dedication to honoring and uplifting our military and first responders.

? Recognizing a Community Leader

Through her tireless work with the 9/11 Remembrance Foundation of South Carolina, Mrs. Stokes continues to make a lasting difference in the lives of others.

Her commitment has earned her the 2025 “Human Rights Award” from the South Carolina Counseling Association (SCCA). A well-deserved honor celebrating her compassion, leadership, and service to others.

We also acknowledge Dr. Aubrey L. Sejuit, JLC Website News Chair and Assistant Volunteer & Events Coordinator for the Foundation, who works closely with Mrs. Stokes to advance the Foundation’s mission.

?‍♀️ About the 9/11 Remembrance Foundation of South Carolina

The 9/11 Remembrance Foundation of South Carolina organizes the annual Tunnel to Towers–Columbia, SC 5K, one of the largest events of its kind in the nation.

The Columbia race is proudly recognized as the second largest Tunnel to Towers 5K in the country, surpassed only by the founders’ event in New York City.

In addition to this powerful event, the Foundation provides college scholarships to graduating high school seniors in the Midlands who are children of veterans and first responders, investing in the next generation of community leaders.

? Get Involved

To learn more about the Foundation, the Tunnel to Towers 5K, or the scholarship program, please visit:
? scremembers911.org

? Spotlight on Laurie Stokes

Below, you can learn more about Laurie Stokes and her impactful work with the 9/11 Remembrance Foundation of South Carolina — a shining example of leadership, compassion, and commitment to community service.

Name: Laurie Stokes

Family: Jeff Stokes (husband), Ryan Stokes (son), Zachary Stokes (son), Matthew Stokes (son)

Family: Perry (cat)

Hometown: Navy brat. Grew up all over the country

High School: Gananda Central School, Walworth NY

College and Degree: Bachelors in English, University of South Carolina

Organizations in College: Alpha Phi Omega

Career: Instructional Assistant High Support Special Education

Place of Employment: Lexington School District One

Organizations and Role(s) in Organizations:
Director of Volunteers, 9/11 Remembrance Foundation of SC, Cub Master, BSA Pack 111, Indian Waters Council District Committee, Chinquapin District, Indian Waters Council, Health and Safety Committee at OGE

Favorite thing about JLC: I am not a member, but am impressed by the impact many JLC members have in their respective communities

Favorite memory of JLC: When JLC came out to support the Tunnel to Towers 5k in Columbia by volunteering at the packet pickup and racer registration area a couple of years ago

Fun Facts: Hobbies include exercise, hiking, camping, crochet, reading