Boone United Methodist Women Scholarship Report 2024

The Boone United Methodist Women’s Scholarship is funded by the Because We Care… initiative through your generous giving. The mission is to offer scholarships to deserving applicants to assist with their financial needs at post high school education levels. There are NO restrictions based on age, race, religion, or gender with priority given to undergraduate studies or non-traditional/adult students.

The recipients are chosen on the strength of the application as the names are not revealed until the awards are determined. We are pleased to announce the scholarship recipients for this year:

James “Brayden” Collins is a member of Boone UMC and active in the youth group as well as Young Life. He is a member of the WHS Student Council and is on the Men’s Soccer team. Brayden is described as having a great work ethic and not afraid to put himself forward. He is a visible and positive role model for other students. Brayden will be attending Appalachian State this fall.

Luci Brooke Creed is a member of Boone UMC and will be a senior at East Tennessee State University in the fall. She was awarded a coveted slot into the Radiologic Science Program. She is gaining real life experience by working at Ballad Health as a non-registered radiology technologist. She is described by her professor as an extraordinary young lady who exhibits professional conduct in all aspects of her life.

Jack “Anders” Nelsen is a member of Boone UMC. He is the leader of design and building with the WHS Robotics Club. He will be attending NC State to study mechanical engineering with a focus on robotic human aid and augmentation. Anders is described as possessing remarkable intellect and a thirst for knowledge at all levels.

Melissa Riley is a member of Boone UMC who worships with our Crossroads community. She is married with two children and is on a dual track to receive her license in school counseling as well as clinical mental health counseling (CMHC) from Appalachian State University. She is currently employed with Youth Villages and will continue her passion of helping at risk youth in Watauga County. In addition to serving children as a counselor, her time revolves around her family and their activities.

Ellary Smith is a member of Boone UMC who can be seen singing at the 8:30 am service during the summer. She is a Pioneer Playmaker, Three Sport Scholar Athlete in track, and has received the Pioneer Spotlight Award for commitment to environmental and social justice. Ellary will be attending the Hussman School of Journalism and Media at Chapel Hill. She is described by her small group leader as having an uncanny ability to connect with the hardships of others.

Lucy Willis is a member of Boone UMC who is active in Young Life and is a respected member of the WHS varsity soccer team. Lucy’s teacher describes her as a natural leader with amazing empathy. She will be attending UNC at Charlotte to major in engineering.

The committee offers praise and thanks to the Missions Committee of Boone UMC for their generous support of this worthy scholarship. The Scholarship Fund can be enhanced by contributions, memorials, and honoraria. For more information, please contact Denise Stanley, UMW Scholarship Chairperson.