The scholarship is named in recognition of two outstanding athletes who have left a lasting impact. Keith Kinney, who won the individual state championship in cross country in 1976 and set the still-standing JHS record of 9:28.5 for 3200 meters in 1977, and Steve Venable, who was the state runner-up in cross country in 1976 and set the still-standing JHS record of 4:18.7 for 1600 meters in 1977.

This scholarship is open to any graduating senior who participated in the Jefferson High School boys or girls track or cross-country teams and competed in either cross-country or track. The applicant must also have plans to continue their post-secondary education.