The Sampson County Branch of the NAACP recently awarded six scholarships to students in the area.
Through donation efforts, six $500 scholarships were awarded to graduating seniors heading to college. The students are Nina Devone, Hobbton High School; Destiny Hayes, Union High School; Destiny Horne, Hobbton High School; Jalesa Murphy, Hobbton High School; Thalia Plata, Clinton High School; and Devontae Smith, Union School.
The scholarship effort has been successful for three years. Each year, the number of students receiving awards continue to increase. Lee Byam, president of the local NAACP branch, said it was a blessing.
“We are very proud of you young people and one of our goals is to assist you in any way that we can,” Byam said.
The students went through an interview process and essay submissions. Byam said she was happy that a lot of people are learning about the scholarship program for students in Sampson County. Some of that work includes forming relationships with principals at high schools.
“That worked out very well for us and it’s been great,” Byam said.
During the recognition held Thursday, Larry Sutton, scholarship committee member, said he was impressed with the candidates and their education in public schools, which lasted more than a decade.
Now, here you are preparing to venture out from home and we hope that you make this a very important step towards achieving your goals,” Sutton said. “We are proud to be a part of helping you achieve or pursue that next step in your life.”
