A new scholarship has been established in memory of the late Dr. Alan Cameron, a longtime Minden veterinarian whose love of animals and Scottish heritage left a lasting impact on the community.
Cameron was well known throughout Webster Parish for his veterinary practice and his dedication to promoting Scottish culture. His passion for his heritage led to the formation of the Scottish Society of the Louisiana Highlands and the establishment of the annual Tartan Festival.
For nearly 20 years, Cameron hosted the festival at his Scotland Farms of Louisiana, where visitors enjoyed Scottish traditions, entertainment, and the opportunity to interact with the Highland cattle he raised on the property. In recent years, the festival has moved to Miller Quarters Park in downtown Minden, continuing the tradition Cameron helped establish.
Stephen Webb, president of the Scottish Society, said the scholarship provides an opportunity to preserve Cameron’s legacy while supporting local students.
“I think it is a true honor to be custodian of the legacy which Dr. Cameron began decades ago. This scholarship is one way we can honor him, and give back to the community which has supported and welcomed us through the years.”
Shelia Hoh, a longtime Society member who chaired the Tartan Festival for many years, also reflected on Cameron’s contributions.
“Dr. Cameron was the driving force behind the Scottish Society, and worked tirelessly for the people of Minden and Webster parish. Through this scholarship in his name, we hope to encourage others to follow in his footsteps.”
For Cameron’s family, the scholarship represents a meaningful tribute to a man who valued education as much as he cherished his heritage.
His daughter, Ashley Hamlin, expressed the family’s appreciation for the honor.
“Our family is deeply honored that the Scottish Society has chosen to establish a scholarship in my father’s memory. He believed strongly in the importance of education and instilled that value in his three daughters, always encouraging us to pursue our goals. He also had a deep love for his Scottish heritage and took great pride in helping establish the Tartan Day festival in Minden, a tradition that continues to bring people together in celebration of that heritage. It is especially meaningful to know that his legacy will live on not only through a tradition he helped create, but also through opportunities for young people to further their education. I believe this would have meant a great deal to him, and our family is sincerely grateful to the Scottish Society for honoring his life in such a lasting and meaningful way.”
The Dr. Alan Cameron Scholarship, sponsored by the Scottish Society of the Louisiana Highlands, will award $500 to a graduating senior from Webster Parish. Preference will be given to students planning to pursue a degree in veterinary medicine or biology. Applications are available at area high schools.
The scholarship is sustained through individual donations, allowing community members to contribute to Cameron’s legacy by supporting the educational goals of Webster Parish students.
Those wishing to contribute may visit www.louisianahighlands.scot, where a donation link is located at the top of the page.