Southern Ute tribal member and 2015 Ignacio High School graduate, Jack Frost III, was awarded the  Elbert J. Floyd Scholarship before Southern Ute Indian Tribal Council in the Council Chambers Friday, May 15.

The Floyd family has been awarding the scholarship to a tribal member student annually since 1985.The scholarship is given out in in honor of the late Elbert J. Floyd’s longtime relationship with the tribe.

Jennifer Pearson, Frost’s teacher, nominated him for the scholarship. Pearson submitted a letter of recommendation to the Southern Ute Education Department stating why he was a good candidate for the scholarship.

In the letter read out loud in Council Chambers Pearson compliments Frost III on his love for his brother, and how Jack is a wonderful advocate for the Southern Ute Indian Tribe. “He is a hard worker with a fantastic smile,” she said in the letter. The best thing about Jack, she said, was his sense of humor. Pearson also noted that Frost III aspires to be a Wildlife Officer for the tribe one day.

“I want to congratulate you … as a young man you’re starting off the right way,” Tribal Chairman Clement J. Frost said.

Councilman Alex S. Cloud said he sees leadership potential in Frost III.

“Very proud of you … you’re going to be a leader,” Cloud said.

During the emotional presentation of the scholarship, Frost III embraced Kathy Kent, of the Floyd family, thanking her and her family for honoring him with the award.

“This won’t be wasted. I will use all of it towards my education,” Frost III said.

Councilman James M. Olguin shared with Frost III his own regret with not going to college.

“I wish I would have gone to school,” he said. “I encourage you to go to school … I [have] high expectations for you.”

Frost’s father also took time to thank the Floyd family and congratulate his son.

“I love you very much, and I’m proud of what you have accomplished,” Jack Frost Jr. said.