James W. Franklin Scholarship
2004-2005 Award Winner
Allison Goldsmith

As presented by Ellison Franklin, President:
" The James W. Franklin Scholarship was established to support the educational goals of a swimmer graduating from Plymouth-Canton Community Schools. Criteria for awarding the scholarship is based on career goals, letters of recommendation, and an essay written by the applicant.

The winner of the $1000 award this year exemplifies the goals and ideals of Jim Franklin who was a swimmer at Canton High School. This year’s winner understands the importance of looking outside oneself and sharing skills and talents with others. This year’s winner has an outstanding scholastic record and plans to continue the educational journey in pursuit of a career serving others.

Of the many wonderful achievements in this year’s winner’s profile, there are two that are the most significant in terms of honoring Jim Franklin.
Jim was a friend to many; a friend who gave and never expected anything in return…and one of the letters of recommendation for his year’s winner identifies her as 'an individual who many recognize as a friend. That might sound like a trite statement, but to be a friend is one of the highest accomplishments of humanity.'

And secondly, the conclusion of the winning essay reads, 'swimming taught me that life is full of surprises, and a set-back may be waiting around the corner to change one’s life forever.' It continues, 'I do believe that when one door closes, another opens. I don’t know yet what is beyond that new door, but I do know that I will cherish for a lifetime my memories.' Those who love Jim Franklin understand those words in a very powerful way and we will cherish for a lifetime our memories.

Allison Goldsmith is the winner of this year’s James W. Franklin Scholarship. She will attend Kenyon College and pursue a career in geriatric medicine. During high school, Allison was a member of the Park Players, International Thespian Troupe, Varsity Swim Team (Team Captain 2004-2005), Spanish Club and National Honor Society. She graduated with a 4.1 grade point average."