Meet Jordan Henderson, 2026 Shainberg Scholar
The Shainberg Scholarship honors the legacy of Herbert Shainberg, a Memphis businessman known for his philanthropy and his belief in the power of kindness. His grandchildren carry that legacy forward by funding scholarships for students in the Choose901 Alumni network who have significant financial gaps, whether they're headed to a four year college or an alternative path like trade school or a certificate program. Recipients are known as Shainberg Scholars.
This year, we're introducing you to the students behind that title. Next up is Jordan Henderson.
Jordan Henderson
Alumni School: Crosstown High School
College: Rhodes College
Major: Computer Science, now training at Luke Weathers Flight Academy
Where It Started
Jordan grew up in Memphis and got to experience some of the city's most distinctive schools firsthand, including a spot in Crosstown High School's very first graduating class.
"I loved my school experience. I had the chance to experience alternative-style learning in Montessori school and at Crosstown High, where they used a Project-Based Learning model. I also had excellent exposure to STEM fields at MSSA, which I feel has better prepared me for today's world."
Chasing a Childhood Dream
Jordan graduated from Rhodes College this past May with a degree in Computer Science, but that's not where his story is headed. He's now training at Luke Weathers Flight Academy.
"My ultimate goal is to become an airline pilot, which is something I have always dreamt of since I was little."
Right now, his day job is in IT at MLGW, where his computer science background comes in handy. But he's clear-eyed about what that job actually is.
"I chose my major, computer science, as I was always interested in computers. I played a lot of video games growing up, and I have the natural tendency to learn and wonder about how things work. As of right now, I work at MLGW in the IT department, where I can definitely say that my skills are being put to use. However, I see this as more of a stepping stone in my career."
What the Scholarship Means
For Jordan, the scholarship is proof that his hometown shows up for its own.
"I feel like winning this scholarship lets me know that I can count on blessings, people in the community, and my hometown to support me. I always feel like the city of Memphis gets a bad rap in the nation. People live to harp on the bad things, and gloss over the good things. I feel like this scholarship, and the foundation beneath, is one of the good things. For me, this scholarship helps to further my flight training. Flight training costs (plane rental, instructor fees, maintenance) is one of the biggest obstacles for many pilots. This scholarship helps to offset some of those costs. For this, I am very grateful."
Beyond the Runway
Outside of flight training, Jordan is a self-taught multi-instrumentalist who played drums for the Rhodes jazz band and now plays guitar and bass for his church.
"I didn't realize it in my younger years, but I am musically-inclined, and that is one of my favorite qualities about myself. I feel that this city has a huge part to play in that. Listening to and playing music brings me joy. I hope that I can return that joy to the community in that way."
When he's not in the studio or the cockpit, you can find him at Tom Lee Park or grabbing a bite at Smackers.
Giving Back
"I think giving back to the city consists of looking at how yourself and how all of your 'you' (your personality, traits, strengths) can give back. This can come in many forms; musically for me. How can you help people?"
His advice to the students coming up behind him:
"Do not let anyone tell you what you cannot do! As long as you put in the work, you can do anything!"
