Sydney McCurry, a senior at Mountain Heritage High School, has been named a recipient of the highly coveted Park Scholarship from North Carolina State University (NC State). This esteemed award is granted to a select number of incoming freshmen each year and recognizes outstanding achievements in scholarship, leadership, service, and character.
The Park Scholarship is a four-year award that covers tuition, books, and other educational expenses. McCurry’s selection underscores her exceptional academic performance, leadership abilities, and dedication to community service.
Sydney, the daughter of Amy and Keith McCurry, will pursue a degree in Aerospace Engineering at NC State. Throughout her high school career, she has consistently demonstrated academic excellence, earning a place on the A Honor Roll each year since 2022. Her list of honors includes the 2024 AP Scholar Award, recognition as a member of the National Honor Society, and accolades from the National Rural and Small Town Recognition Program and the National First-Generation Recognition Program.
In addition to her academic achievements, Sydney has been an active participant in numerous extracurricular activities. She has served as a Varsity Cheerleader for all four years of high school, including roles as Co-Captain and Captain. She is also involved in the Spanish National Honor Society, the National Technical Honor Society, and several clubs, including the Interact Club, Astronomy Club, and Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), where she has earned top honors in both regional and state leadership competitions.
Sydney’s commitment to her community is evident through her volunteer work with organizations such as the Hurricane Helene Relief Effort, French Broad Breakfast, Deyton Elementary School Glow Night, and the Yancey County Pregnancy Center. She has also contributed to local events such as the MHHS Clean-Up, Yancey County Fall Festival, and Yancey County Nursing Home, among others.
In addition to her extensive volunteer work, Sydney holds certifications in CPR/First Aid, Microsoft Word and PowerPoint, as well as Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator.
“Sydney McCurry exemplifies the qualities of a Park Scholar through her dedication to both her academic pursuits and her community,” said Susan Reecer, MHHS counselor. “We are incredibly proud of her achievements and look forward to seeing the remarkable impact she will continue to make at NC State University and beyond.”
Sydney’s award marks a significant milestone in her academic journey, and her future looks bright as she embarks on her studies in aerospace engineering at NC State University.
About the Park Scholarship:
The Park Scholarship, one of the most prestigious honors awarded to incoming freshmen at NC State, recognizes students who demonstrate exceptional leadership, service, scholarship, and character. The scholarship is a four-year, full-ride award covering tuition, fees, books, and living expenses. The Park Scholars program is designed to nurture and challenge students as they grow into future leaders.
