The recipient of the 2026 Larry Lawrence Memorial Scholarship — awarded annually by the Brighton Historical Society to any Brighton area school graduate in the last five years who is going to a vocational/skilled trades school — is Cruise Trotter, a 2026 graduate of Flex-Tech High School in Brighton.
Trotter, a member of the National Honor Society, completed the Michigan Merit Curriculum/Graduation requirement at Flex Tech High School in three years.
Quentin Terrell-Cotton, Trotter’s advisor/mentor at Flex Tech, said he is a “remarkable young leader.”
“(His) positivity, curiosity, and willingness to embrace new opportunities have made a lasting impact,” Terrell-Cotton said. “Thoughtful, personable, and highly intuitive, Cruise has been a joy to work with and mentor. His future is incredibly bright, and this scholarship recognition is well deserved.”
Flex Tech encourages students to design their own path to graduation by taking advantage of interest-driven projects and flexible scheduling. Most importantly, students develop deep relationships with caring adults. Every student is assigned an advisor who tracks their progress, helps them set ambitious goals, and makes sure they graduate on time and prepared for post-secondary learning.
A quote from Trotter’s application: “With the decline of skilled trade workers in Michigan and the growing demand for electricians, I recognize that my generation has a responsibility to step forward. I am enthusiastic about entering a field that is both practical and impactful. Skilled trades are the backbone of thriving communities, and I would like to be part of the workforce that keeps Michigan strong and sustainable.”
Trotter will be attending Henry Ford College in the fall studying electrical technology.
Donations to the Larry Lawrence Memorial Scholarship can be made by going to the Brighton Area Historical Society website.
The Larry Lawrence Memorial Scholarship committee include Jerry Damon, Nancy Fredenburg, Kate Lawrence, Mike Lawrence, Lynn Strong, and Jim Vichich.
