Southeast foundation establishes Kaden Robert scholarship

The Kaden Robert Memorial Scholarship has been established through the Southeast Missouri University Foundation in memory of Kaden Robert, a Kelly High School sophomore killed last summer when a handgun accidentally discharged in the high school parking lot after a pickup basketball game with friends.

The new scholarship is part of the Honoring Tradition -- Inspiring Success comprehensive campaign through the foundation. The program allowed donors to make a minimum commitment of $5,000 to a maximum commitment of $10,000 through donation or pledge that qualified for a $1-for-$1 match.

The scholarship will be awarded to a Southeast freshman who is a Kelly High School graduate and participated in high-school athletics, according to a news release from Southeast.

Recipients must have a minimum 2.0 grade-point average, and financial need will be considered but is not required for the award. The selection committee will include a representative from Kelly High School, Aaron and Rhonda Robert, and representatives from Southeast Athletics and the foundation.

Robert was an honor student and a member of the Pep Club, the release said. He was active in sports and enjoyed playing baseball and, most recently, football and weightlifting. He also loved traveling with his baseball team to games in Missouri, Tennessee and Mississippi.

Pertinent address:

One University Plaza, Cape Girardeau, Mo.