The May 7 meeting of the Manning Rotary Club was a proud celebration of service and scholarship, as four Laurence Manning Academy students were recognized as recipients of the 2025 Judge James Dingle – Manning Rotary Club Scholarship.
Rotarian and Municipal Judge Amy Land presented the awards, speaking on behalf of the club’s scholarship committee. “Every year, we review impressive applications, but this year the pool was so deep, we felt compelled to select four recipients,” Land said. “Each of these students exemplifies Rotary’s motto of Service Above Self.”
The 2025 honorees are Lainey Baggette, Olivia Danback, Rivers Ann Gardner and Laini Kosinski.
Before introducing the students, Land shared the legacy of Judge James Dingle, for whom the scholarship is named. A longtime educator and administrator, Dingle was one of South Carolina’s first Black magistrates and later served as the municipal judge for the City of Manning. He was also a devoted Rotarian, remembered for his kindness, generosity, and commitment to his community.
“Judge Dingle touched and changed many lives,” Land said. “He truly exemplified our motto of service above self, and we are honored to continue his legacy through these scholarships.”
Land individually introduced each student, highlighting their academic accomplishments, community involvement, and personal reflections from their applications.
Olivia Danback plans to study exercise science at the University of South Carolina and pursue a doctorate in physical therapy. She served as a Palmetto Girls State delegate, a basketball team captain, and a Young Life volunteer. “I’m glad that you’re going there with the intention of staying involved as you are now,” Land told her.
Lainey Baggette, also heading to USC, will major in biology and hopes to attend medical school to become a dermatologist. Her application referenced lessons from George Orwell’s 1984, noting the importance of being a leader in a world full of followers. “I know that she will take that leadership to USC with her and make a difference,” Land said.
Laini Kosinski will attend Francis Marion University to pursue a career as a nurse anesthetist. She is a student-athlete who emphasized the value of teamwork and selflessness, writing that sports taught her “it’s not just about winning, but working together for a common goal.” Kosinski will also join the FMU softball team, continuing her passion for athletics while advancing her education.
Rivers Ann Gardner, who will attend USC Sumter, is graduating with more than 30 college credits and plans a career in real estate business. The granddaughter of former Rotarian Carlos Gardner, Rivers wrote about the influence of her mother and her work with the Salkehatchie Summer Service. “There’s something so fulfilling about giving to others,” Land quoted from her application.
Club President James Johnson and fellow Rotarians joined the students and their families for photos following the presentation.
“Thank you all for being leaders in your community,” Johnson said in closing. “You exemplify the Rotary motto, and we know you’ll continue to make an impact wherever you go.”
The Manning Rotary Club meets Wednesdays at noon at Porter Jack’s restaurant in Manning. To learn more about the club’s programs, scholarships, and service efforts, visit the Manning Rotary Club Facebook page.
