01.19.2024 MOST Staff
New MOST supporters Jason Farmer and wife Darby have four kids who attend independent schools in Memphis. They look forward to helping provide need-based scholarships to other families who seek the same opportunities for their children.
What attracted you to MOST as a nonprofit you wanted to support?
Over the years, I had heard a bit about MOST, but Justin Miller really introduced me to the program when we played golf in the MOST Classic together this past October. It really opened my eyes to the mission. Especially during a pandemic, the advantages students attending private schools have had cannot be ignored.
How would you describe MOST to someone who has never heard of us?
I’m not an expert, but from what I understand, MOST provides scholarships to children who otherwise might not have the opportunity to go to the schools that they want to attend or that best suit their needs—whether academic, religious, or social. A child’s choice of schools should not be limited by where they live or by how much money their family makes. In that way, I think MOST helps families break poverty cycles, as I’m guessing many MOST Scholars will be the first in their families to attend college.
Tell us a little about you and your family.
I grew up in Memphis and went to ECS, which was a financial stretch for my family. My parents sought the religious aspect of the school for my siblings and me. Darby went to public school in Selmer, Tennessee, so we have a mix of public and private school experiences. My son started school at PDS and now attends MUS, and my daughters attend Hutchison. We have found all three schools to give our kids well-rounded social and academic experiences. From fine arts, sports, and time-management skills, we have been very happy. I feel fortunate that we can give these educational opportunities to our children, and I also feel fortunate that we can help other children attain similar opportunities.
How do you feel education makes a difference in children's lives?
I feel education and the educational environment are actually the biggest differentiators in life, with parents and friends being a very close second. Don’t get me wrong; I know there are some very, very successful people who did not go to college. However, in general, a great education—and the environment in which you are educated—often opens many doors to success. MOST enables hundreds of Memphis children each year to attend PK-12 schools that provide the right environment for them, so I believe hundreds more students each year are being set up for success in college.
Want to join the Farmers in supporting MOST scholarships? Give today!
