Hall of Fame
The Summer Scholars On Stage Hall of Fame honors individuals whose creativity, leadership, and dedication have shaped the spirit and legacy of the program. Inductees are recognized for their contributions—whether through artistic achievement, mentorship, service, or ongoing support of our students and productions.
Class of 2025
Dr. Deb Wells
Inducted 2025
Dr. Deb Wells is a Mississippi licensed professional counselor with a supervision credential. As president of the Mississippi Licensed Professional Counselor Association, she was instrumental in developing supervision training.
For 13 years she maintained a private counseling practice in Columbus while also serving as an instructor in the Department of Counseling Education at Mississippi State University. She currently directs the Mississippi University for Women Counseling Center and plans to retire in 2025, though she will continue counseling and supervision.
Deb has been an important part of Summer Scholars for over 40 years, serving as Girls' Counselor and later Head Counselor. She has sponsored numerous campers financially and is remembered for her compassion and dedication to the early years of Summer Scholars.
Class of 2024
Kris Lee
Inducted 2024
Camper 1991–1995, Production Director 2008–2011, 2013–2024. Kris Lee’s creativity and steady leadership helped guide generations of Summer Scholars through the rehearsal process and onto the stage.
Class of 2023
The Rutherford Family
Inducted 2023
Joel Sr., Debbie, Kati, and Kelly Rutherford are recognized as lifelong contributors whose ongoing support, leadership, and presence have helped sustain the spirit and traditions of Summer Scholars On Stage.
Class of 2022
Leah Wright
Inducted 2022
“Our Camp Mom.” Camper 2004–2006, Junior Counselor 2005–2006, Girl’s Counselor 2007–2011, Head Counselor 2012–. Leah’s care for campers and staff and her deep knowledge of camp traditions have made her a central figure in the Summer Scholars family.
Class of 2019
Lorie White
Inducted 2019
Our CFO / “Camp Financial Officer.” Counseling Education, College of Education 1994–2006. Lorie’s steady guidance and financial oversight helped keep Summer Scholars thriving behind the scenes.
Class of 2018
Elizabeth Hood Blinn
Inducted 2018
Writer, violinist, and inspirational role model. Camper 1987–1992; Writing Assistant 1993–1994. Elizabeth’s artistry and mentorship inspired countless students to explore their own creative voices.
Class of 2017
Anne Gaddis-Cross
Inducted 2017
Camp Archivist 2002, Office Manager, Contributor. “Our camp historian; preserving our past with eyes on our future.” Anne’s careful stewardship of records and stories ensures that Summer Scholars’ history is remembered and celebrated.
Class of 2016
Sean A. Richmond
Inducted 2016
Boy’s Counselor 1991–1996; Associate Director 1997–2024. Known as one of “Our Camp Dads,” Sean’s leadership and care shaped the experience of generations of campers.
Joel D. Rutherford, Jr.
Inducted 2016
Camper 1981–1984; Boy’s Counselor 1987–1989; Associate Director 1991–2004. Also one of “Our Camp Dads,” Joel’s consistent presence and support helped define the camp’s culture of care and creativity.
Class of 2015
Joe Evans
Inducted 2015
Music and Drama Instructor, Boys Counselor, Camper. Celebrated as “The King of Bling,” Joe Evans brought energy, humor, and musical excellence to the stage and rehearsal room.
Class of 2014
Kelvin Chen and James Crowell
Inducted 2014
Contributors (2011–). They “set up and administered the Stage Camp’s online ticketing website,” modernizing how audiences connect with Summer Scholars performances.
The Family of Lorena J. “Rockie” Smith
Inducted 2014
Contributors (1983–). Honored “in memory of her years ‘On Stage,’” the family of Lorena J. “Rockie” Smith is recognized for their enduring support and connection to the camp.
Class of 2011
Jonathan and Linda Pote
Inducted 2011
Contributors (1983–). Honored “in memory of their daughter Hannah Pote,” Jonathan and Linda’s generosity and support have provided opportunities for many Summer Scholars.
Class of 2010
Dominic J. Cunetto
Inducted 2010
Presenter 1983–1984. Remembered as “Our first Director,” Dominic helped set the tone for the Summer Scholars experience in its earliest years.
Bettie L. Rector
Inducted 2010
Head Counselor 1982–1986. Known as “Our first Mom,” Bettie cared for campers and staff with warmth, guidance, and a steady presence.
Keith and Ruth Remy
Inducted 2010
Contributors (1993–). Honored “in memory of their son David Remy,” Keith and Ruth’s support has helped sustain the camp community.
Class of 2009
Deb Funderburk
Inducted 2009
Dance Instructor / Choreographer, 1993–. “Taught us ‘kick ball change for Jesus.’ Showed us we could dance for a lifetime.”
Shirley Taylor
Inducted 2009
Music Instructor 1983–1990, 2000–2002. “Set our dreams to music. Made us feel like stars.”
Wayne Durst
Inducted 2009
Stagecraft Instructor / Set Designer 1983–1984, 1985–. “He built more than our sets. He built our imaginations.”
Class of 2008
Paula Mabry
Inducted 2008
Presenter 1982–1999, 2001, 2003–2007. “Nurtured both the production and campers into what they are today.”
Class of 2007
Joe Ray Underwood
Inducted 2007
Camp Director 1982–. “His dream, his master plan, his legacy.” Joe Ray’s vision and leadership created the foundation on which Summer Scholars On Stage continues to grow.