
Empowering Tomorrow's Educators in Camellia's name
Inspiring the Future, honoring a legacy.
Inspiring the Future, honoring a legacy.
The Camellia K. Turpin Scholarship exists to honor the legacy of Camellia K. Turpin, a proud graduate of Riverhead High School and a passionate believer in the transformative power of education. This scholarship is dedicated to supporting aspiring educators who demonstrate academic excellence, a commitment to service, and a deep desire to impact future generations through teaching. By investing in future leaders in education, we continue Camellia’s unwavering belief in the value of quality educators and lifelong learning.
Camellia K. Turpin, affectionately known as “Kaye” by her family and friends, was a proud graduate of Riverhead High School.
Kaye was a devoted young mother and wife who later became a single parent while her children were in their teenage years. Through consistent parenting, unwavering guidance, and a deep belief in the power of education, she raised college graduates—each a reflection of her strength and sacrifice.
She began her career in education as a teacher’s aide at Riley Avenue and Pulaski Street Schools. Her dream was to become an English teacher, a goal she temporarily set aside to raise her family. Despite the challenges of young motherhood, Kaye remained committed to her aspirations, taking college classes whenever time allowed.
Her determination led her down a new path when she passed the Suffolk County Corrections Officers’ exam in 1983. She began working as a corrections officer and, through hard work and perseverance, retired in 2005 as the second African American woman to hold the rank of Sergeant in the department.
Kaye was a firm believer in academic excellence. She often said that education is one of the few things in life that can never be taken away—a belief she instilled in her children and those around her.
In addition to her professional and family accomplishments, Kaye was a proud and active member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, Amicae Auxiliary. Her service, sisterhood, and commitment to uplifting her community reflected the values she lived by every day.
1. What is the Camellia K. Turpin Foundation?
The Camellia K. Turpin Foundation is a nonprofit organization created to honor the life and legacy of Camellia K. Turpin, a Riverhead High School graduate who believed in the power of education and the impact of great educators. The foundation provides scholarships to students pursuing careers in education.
2. Who is eligible to apply for the scholarship?
Eligible applicants must be graduating seniors from Riverhead High School who plan to pursue a degree in education or a related field. Additional criteria include academic achievement, community involvement, and a demonstrated commitment to making a positive impact through education.
3. How can I donate to the foundation?
You can make a secure donation online through our website or local fundraising events.
4. How are scholarship recipients selected?
A selection committee reviews all applications based on academic performance, financial need, personal essays, letters of recommendation, and alignment with Camellia’s values and vision for future educators.
5. Can I set up a recurring donation?
Yes! We welcome recurring monthly or annual donations. You can set this up easily on our donation page.
6. How can I learn more about Camellia K. Turpin’s life and legacy?
You can visit the “About Camellia” section of our website to read about her story, her values, and the impact she made in her community and beyond.
Every gift big or small helps us:
.
P.O BOX 672 Calverton, NY 11933
Sign up to hear from us about specials, sales, and events.
Copyright © 2025 Camellia K. Turpin Foundation - All Rights Reserved.
We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.