Amanda graduated fifth in her class from Huntsville High School in 1988, where she also was involved in a multitude of extracurricular activities. As a result, she received several scholarships to attend the University of Alabama where she entered the Honors Program, majoring in Corporate Finance/Investment Management and minoring in Mathematical Statistics. Amanda continued her involvement in opportunities for service with her selection as a member of Freshman Forum, Capstone Men & Women, and held several offices in her social sorority, Delta, Delta, Delta. She received numerous awards and honors at the University of Alabama including Omicron Delta Kappa, Mortar Board, Anderson Society, and XXXI Women’s Honorary. Her outstanding achievements culminated in the National Alumni Association’s Most Outstanding Woman of the University of Alabama Award.

Amanda graduated summa cum laude in 1992, and accepted a position in the commercial loan department of AmSouth Bank. Amanda married John Andrew Watson III, during the summer of 1992, becoming the third consecutive generation of her family to be married in Huntsville First United Methodist Church. It is appropriate that this award supports graduate studies, underscoring her insistence on supporting Andy’s study of law.

Amanda was very involved in the life of her church, school, and community and exemplified truth, honesty, and goodness. Amanda continually strived to excel in everything that she was involved in whether it was school, work, or service to others. She accomplished much and influenced many lives while with us.

Amanda achieved many honors academically through hard work and dedication. Consequently, this award is established to honor her memory and to allow the multitude of generous gifts that have been received in her name to assist future students who have demonstrated similar dedication in pursuing advanced educational goals.