Mrs. Dannie Blair, EMBODI chair and Jamison Bethea, recipient; Jamison Bethea and Mrs. Gina Owens, chapter president. (Courtesy photo).
Mrs. Dannie Blair, EMBODI chair and Jamison Bethea, recipient; Jamison Bethea and Mrs. Gina Owens, chapter president. (Courtesy photo).
BENNETTSVILLE — The EMBODI Group of the Bennettsville-Cheraw Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. proudly announced Jamison Bethea as the recipient of the James Edward Clemmons Jr. Community Service Award Sunday, May 18, 2025 during their May Week Program.
This prestigious award recognizes students with a strong commitment to community service. It was established in honor of the late Sheriff James E. Clemmons Jr., who served as a dedicated mentor for the Bennettsville-Cheraw Alumnae Chapter’s EMBODI (Empowering Males to Build Opportunities for Developing Independence) program for over 15 years.
Jamison is a 2025 honor graduate of Marlboro County High School and a completer of the Early Scholars Program at Northeastern Technical College. Ranking in the top 5% of his graduating class, he is a high-achieving student leader and athlete. A native of Bennettsville, he is the son of Rev. Jeremy Bethea and Dr. Kandace Rhames Bethea.
As a distinguished scholar, Jamison has excelled throughout his academic journey. As an Early College Scholar at Northeastern Technical College, he consistently earned a spot on the President’s List and was inducted into the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. Identified as a South Carolina State Gifted and Talented scholar since elementary school, Jamison has consistently maintained placement on the Principal’s List and Honor Roll. He has also been recognized twice for earning perfect scores on the South Carolina End-of-Course (EOC) assessments in English II and U.S. History.
Jamison’s academic excellence is matched by his active participation in various extracurricular organizations, including the National Beta Club, National Honor Society, DECA, Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG), and Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA).
In leadership, Jamison has served as Senior Class President, a member of the Student Government Association, the Superintendent’s Advisory Council, and as a Student Ambassador—demonstrating his passion for advocacy, teamwork, and making a positive impact.
Outside the classroom, Jamison is a dedicated athlete and civic volunteer. He served as captain of the wrestling team, played as a midfielder on the soccer team, competed in cross-country, and contributed as the videographer for the football team. Beyond sports, he is actively engaged in church ministries and numerous community service initiatives. His volunteer efforts include supporting local soup kitchens, visiting nursing homes, organizing essential supply drives, participating in March of Dimes walks, community cleanups, and more.
Jamison’s consistent demonstration of academic excellence, leadership, and service reflects his unwavering drive and commitment to personal and community growth. He plans to attend the University of South Carolina in Columbia, where he will pursue a career in the medical field.
Through his outstanding academic achievements, leadership experience, athletic involvement, and dedication to service, Jamison exemplifies the qualities of a well-rounded, goal-oriented, and compassionate individual. He is poised to continue making a meaningful difference in the world around him and to inspire others through both his character and accomplishments.