Parker Alexander, headquartered in Monroe, has announced the $1,000 scholarship winner of its 2026 Scholarship essay contest. Participants were asked to propose original ideas for improving traffic safety in Northeast Louisiana.
Leo Woody, a senior at West Monroe High School, received a $1,000 scholarship prize for his essay “Improving Traffic Safety in Northeast Louisiana: A Community-Focused Approach.” The scholarship was presented to him by Kevin Alexander of Parker Alexander at West Monroe High School's Senior Awards Program held on Friday, May 8, 2026.
Woody highlighted practical, low-cost community education efforts, particularly educating corner-lot property owners on maintaining clear line-of-sight at intersections by trimming overgrown bushes, removing signage, and relocating parked vehicles that obstruct driver visibility. His proposal also included a public education campaign and distribution of reflective gear (via local fire departments) to enhance pedestrian safety along rural roads without sidewalks.
Since its inception, the Parker Alexander Scholarship Program has awarded more than $15,000 to Northeast Louisiana students. The program supports local students’ educational goals while encouraging thoughtful engagement with important community issues.