Being a first-generation student feels like stepping into a doorway my family has spent years standing in front of, hoping someone would finally get the chance to walk through. It’s more than earning a degree; it’s honoring the sacrifices and quiet strength of the people who raised me. My grandparents built a foundation out of love, steadiness, and faith in what education could unlock, even if they never had the chance to pursue it themselves. Carrying their hopes with me is a responsibility I don’t take lightly. The challenges on this journey haven’t been small. There were seasons where college felt like a new language, and I had to learn every word, like how to navigate financial aid, how to advocate for myself, how to exist in spaces where no one looked like the people who raised me or understood where I came from. Each challenge stretched me, teaching me resilience and reminding me that my presence in these spaces is earned, not borrowed. My dream is to use education as a force for change. I want to teach, to lead, and to help students see themselves as part of a bigger story. I am majoring in History/Social Studies Education with a minor in political science and leadership studies. History provides the context for today’s world, and I want to help young people understand that their experiences, their roots, and their voices matter in shaping what comes next. This scholarship would move me closer to that dream. It would ease the financial pressure that follows many first-generation students and give me the space to focus fully on becoming the educator and leader I’m striving to be. More than funding, it would be a signal that my journey, and the legacy of my grandparents’ sacrifices, deserves to continue forward. I’m not perfect, but I’m determined. I’m driven by where I come from, by the example my grandparents set, and by the belief that the path I’m carving can help clear the way for others, too.

My aspiration to become a high school History teacher—especially in American History and Government—comes from a deep desire to empower young people with knowledge, confidence, and civic awareness. Teaching is one of the few professions that shapes not just the minds of students but the future they will eventually lead. My own journey through leadership, faith, and identity has shown me the impact that guidance can have on a young person’s sense of purpose, and I plan to use the classroom as a space where students discover their voice and their responsibility in the story of America. I want students to experience history as more than facts, timelines, and textbooks. History is a living narrative that shows us how people, often ordinary and overlooked, shaped the direction of this country. Government is the blueprint that reveals how our system functions and how each citizen can influence it. My goal is to make these subjects come alive—to show students that history is connected to their daily lives and that they already play a role in our nation’s ongoing development. When students understand the struggles and triumphs that formed the United States, they gain the tools to shape its future. My background in community leadership fuels this commitment. Founding the Burke County State of Youth taught me that young people crave opportunities to participate, question, and lead. When they are encouraged to engage with real issues and share their perspectives, they rise with remarkable clarity and confidence. I plan for my classroom to reflect that spirit. Whether students are analyzing primary sources, debating constitutional questions, or exploring the roots of social movements, I want them to feel history unfolding through their own reasoning and dialogue. As a Black educator, I also understand the power of representation and inclusive teaching. Too often, the stories of marginalized communities are condensed or overlooked. I believe students deserve a curriculum that captures the complexities of America—its progress, its contradictions, and the countless voices that pushed this nation toward justice. When students see themselves in the historical narrative, they also see themselves as agents of change. That sense of belonging is essential in a country where civic participation is both a right and a responsibility. Teaching Government gives me the chance to strengthen students’ civic literacy. Many young people grow frustrated with politics or feel disconnected from it, but I want them to understand civic engagement as an empowering force. By examining Supreme Court cases, voting rights, public policy, and current events, I will encourage students to form educated opinions and evaluate issues thoughtfully. My goal is not to tell them what to think but to help them develop the skills to think critically, ethically, and independently. Ultimately, I hope to use teaching to cultivate leaders. My own mentors helped me realize that leadership is not about titles but about service, empathy, and conviction. I want to create a learning environment where students grow those qualities—where they practice civil discourse, understand differing viewpoints, and recognize the impact their choices have on their communities. If students leave my classroom believing they have a role in shaping their world, then I have succeeded. My commitment to teaching American History and Government is rooted in a belief that students are the stewards of our democracy. By helping them understand the past, interpret the present, and prepare for the future, I hope to empower a generation of thoughtful, informed, and engaged citizens. This is not just a career goal—it is a mission to educate, uplift, and inspire the next wave of leaders.

Ephesians 6:5, 7–8 was once twisted to justify slavery, yet I use the passage as a reminder to serve, step up, and honor the journey of those before me. It embodies the intersection where I often stand—race, faith, and leadership. After reading Anzaldúa’s How to Tame a Wild Tongue, I felt encouraged to stop shrinking myself and instead embrace every layer of who I am. Faith drives me to serve with conviction, race pushes me to rise above stereotypes, and leadership becomes the space where these commitments take form. My faith shapes how I lead and how I show up in the world. Many view Christians as judgmental or forceful, which causes others to hide their beliefs out of fear and suppression. I refuse to let that fear silence me. Faith gives me purpose and calls me to action. In 2019, as a seventh grader, I felt an overwhelming pull to serve my community, even while doubting what someone my age could offer. Then I read 1 Timothy 4:12, and it became the encouragement I needed: age didn’t disqualify me from making change. I founded the Burke County State of Youth (BCSOY), dedicated to empowering young people to engage civically, socially, and politically. Since then, I’ve organized clothes and food drives, voter registrations, health clinics, and youth–leader summits. My faith grounds my fight for social equality and fuels my belief that leadership is about lifting others—what I define as being my brother’s keeper. Being a Black man in America means navigating a world where racism and fear follow you long before people know your name. I’ve been watched in stores, had customers refuse to place money in my hand, and felt a wave of unease when police became involved in a situation. These moments leave lasting impressions, but they also root me more deeply in the resilience inherited from generations of Black Americans—from slavery to Jim Crow to today’s struggles for equality. That legacy strengthens me and pushes me to challenge stereotypes, maintain excellence, and model to younger Black boys that we can rise above the narratives imposed on us. Using my experiences as fuel, I’ve grown to see this as a form of patriotism—contributing to a nation by proving what freedom and equality should look like in practice. Leadership is where my faith and race meet action. Serving as Student Body President allowed me to put these principles into practice. Community service projects brought my faith to life, while administrative pushback taught me perseverance and sharpened my leadership style. These experiences helped me form the motto that now guides me: leaders create other leaders, not followers. These intersections have also shaped my literacy—what I read, how I interpret stories, and why I write. My faith gives me a moral lens; my race gives me empathy and strength; leadership gives me purpose. In my American Legion Oratorical Contest speech, I explored how these forces shaped my understanding of the Constitution and my belief in protecting democratic values. Through speeches, essays, and advocacy, I’ve learned that words—when paired with conviction—can move people toward change. The blend of faith, race, and leadership continues to shape how I serve and who I’m becoming. These lessons form a foundation I carry with me as I keep growing, leading, and raising my voice.

Throughout my academic and personal journey, I have been consistently driven by a desire to create meaningful change in the lives of others. I firmly believe that education is not only a tool for personal advancement, but also a powerful instrument of societal transformation. My goal is to leverage my education in political science and public policy to address systemic inequalities and help ensure that all people—particularly marginalized and underserved communities—have equitable access to justice, opportunity, and representation, regardless of race, religion, age, or creed. As a student at Appalachian State University and a Plemmons Leadership Scholar, I am pursuing a double major in Political Science and Public Policy, with a concentration in Legal Studies and a minor in History. My academic path reflects a commitment to understanding the complex systems that shape our society. I aspire to one day earn a Juris Doctor from Howard University School of Law, where I plan to specialize in civil rights, constitutional, or family law. With this foundation, I hope to serve my community through policy reform, advocacy, and legal work that uplifts the voices of those often left unheard. My passion for service and youth engagement is evident through my long-standing involvement in local nonprofits and youth initiatives. In seventh grade, I founded the Burke County State of Youth (BCSOY), a youth-led organization focused on advocacy, awareness, and action. During my time as Executive Director, BCSOY facilitated voter registration drives, PPE and food distributions, youth banquets, and community forums that engaged elected officials in direct dialogue with local youth. This initiative sparked a county-wide movement and led to increased youth involvement in civic spaces. Additionally, I have worked directly with children through my service with the YMCA’s afterschool program as a group leader. There, I supported academic development, behavioral guidance, and program facilitation for elementary school and middle school students. In my local church, I also volunteered in the children’s ministry, teaching biblical lessons and leading interactive activities designed to nurture character and community among our youngest members. These roles provided me with valuable insight into the developmental needs of children and the importance of mentorship. I am committed to using my educational and professional career to serve others, especially through youth development, community advocacy, and systemic change. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to continue this work without financial hindrance and bring me closer to becoming a servant-leader capable of advancing equity and justice for all.

One of the greatest issues facing the criminal justice system today is inequality—the unequal treatment and outcomes that disproportionately impact marginalized and underrepresented communities. Whether it is unequal access to quality legal representation, the overrepresentation of minorities in the prison population, or disparities in sentencing, inequality continues to erode public trust in the justice system. I have seen firsthand how inequities in education, community resources, and access to opportunity can push people into the margins long before they encounter a courtroom. My goal is to use my career to bridge these gaps, advocate for fair policies, and work toward a justice system that serves everyone equally. My passion for leadership and advocacy began at a young age. In middle school, I founded the Burke County State of Youth (BCSOY), which I led from 2019 to 2023. BCSOY’s mission was to empower young people to create positive change through advocacy, awareness, and action. We organized voter registration drives, youth leadership banquets, community PPE and food distributions, and awareness campaigns on issues affecting young people. One of our most impactful efforts was holding bilateral meetings with city, county, school, and state officials to provide a platform for youth voices on topics like equity, education, and community-police relations. Through these experiences, I learned how policy decisions and systemic structures can either empower or oppress communities—and I became determined to pursue a career that would challenge those inequalities. I have continued this work through roles on local boards and commissions. On the Morganton Human Relations Commission, I have addressed concerns related to discrimination and social justice, ensuring residents had a platform to voice their concerns. Serving on the Imagine Morganton 2040 Advisory Committee allowed me to contribute to long-term planning on issues such as housing and transportation, which often intersect with criminal justice outcomes. These roles helped me see the connection between community well-being and the justice system. Preventing systemic harm often begins outside the courtroom, through policies that create fair and thriving communities. In November 2024, I served as a North Carolina Governor Page, which gave me an inside look at state government operations and the policymaking process. I attended meetings with Governor Roy Cooper, Lieutenant Governor Mark Robinson, and the Council of State, and worked closely with staff members who ensure the government runs efficiently. This experience showed me that the most effective leaders in public service are not always in the spotlight—they are the people who work diligently to uphold fairness and serve the public good behind the scenes. It also confirmed my desire to pursue a career where I can influence policy to create equitable outcomes. Looking ahead, I will attend Appalachian State University as a Plemmons Leadership Scholar, where I plan to double major in Political Science and Public Policy with a minor in History and a concentration in Legal Studies. My ultimate goal is to earn my Juris Doctor from Howard University School of Law and specialize in constitutional, family, or civil rights law. I intend to return to North Carolina and advocate for policies that address disparities in the justice system—such as expanding access to quality defense, strengthening diversion programs for youth, and dismantling the school-to-prison pipeline. This scholarship will provide the financial support I need to fully pursue internships, community projects, and research opportunities that align with my mission of advancing equality. My experiences with BCSOY, local commissions, and the Governor Page Program have already given me a strong foundation in advocacy and public service. I believe that by combining these experiences with a strong academic and legal education, I can help create a criminal justice system that reflects fairness, equity, and the true ideals of democracy.

am Jamar Malik Harris, a senior at Freedom High School and a young Christian man dedicated to serving my community. From a young age, I felt the call to leadership and service. The desire to create positive change and inspire other young people to do the same has been my driving motivation. For the past several years, I have worked to spark youth engagement in Burke County. As a seventh grader, I founded the Burke County State of Youth (BCSOY), which I led from 2019 to 2023. The mission of BCSOY is to inspire teens to create real and positive change in our community through advocacy, awareness, and action. Our diverse team organized clothing and food drives, vaccine clinics, PPE distributions, voter registration events, youth leadership banquets, and social media advocacy campaigns. We also held bilateral meetings with city, county, school, and state governments to ensure that youth voices were heard. In recognition of my leadership, I was nominated by Mayor Ronnie Thompson and Judy Brown of Burke United Christian Ministries for the Governor’s Volunteer Service Award, which I received in 2022. My commitment to service extends beyond BCSOY. I currently serve on the Morganton Human Relations Commission, addressing community concerns on a variety of social issues, and I contributed to long-term city planning as part of the Imagine Morganton 2040 Advisory Committee. Within Freedom High School, I have served as Brass Captain for the Marching Band, leading and mentoring the brass section, and as the inaugural Tri-M Music Honor Society President, where I sought to recognize students who demonstrated leadership and musicianship. As Student Body President, I work to ensure that every student’s voice is heard, even when I do not always see eye-to-eye with administration or peers. My focus has been on ensuring that students feel comfortable approaching me and that their concerns lead to real action. In November 2024, I was honored to serve as a NC Governor Page, interning in the executive mansion and gaining firsthand insight into the operations of the executive branch. I attended meetings with Governor Roy Cooper, Lieutenant Governor Mark Robinson, and members of the Council of State. This experience reminded me that true leadership goes beyond titles or being in the spotlight. Leadership is rooted in teamwork, collaboration, and dedication to serving the people. Working alongside political scientists, department secretaries, and staff members inspired me to deepen my own commitment to public service—not for recognition, but out of a selfless dedication to others. To build on these experiences, I will attend Appalachian State University to pursue a double major in Political Science and Public Policy, with a minor in History and a concentration in Legal Studies. My ultimate goal is to transfer to Howard University School of Law to earn my Juris Doctor and specialize in family, constitutional, or civil rights law. I intend to return to North Carolina to serve as an advocate for justice and equity, ensuring that the needs of the people are met and that everyone has the opportunity to achieve their ambitions. I believe that our world urgently needs leaders who will stand for what is right and uphold the ideals that every individual—regardless of creed, race, or orientation—deserves to thrive and be heard. My personal pursuit of education, integrity, and service is my way of creating meaningful change. As Ralph Nader said, “Leaders don’t create followers, they create more leaders.” My aspiration is to lead in a way that inspires others to rise and lead as well.

am Jamar Malik Harris, a senior at Freedom High School and a young Christian man dedicated to serving my community. From a young age, I felt the call to leadership and service. The desire to create positive change and inspire other young people to do the same has been my driving motivation. For the past several years, I have worked to spark youth engagement in Burke County. As a seventh grader, I founded the Burke County State of Youth (BCSOY), which I led from 2019 to 2023. The mission of BCSOY is to inspire teens to create real and positive change in our community through advocacy, awareness, and action. Our diverse team organized clothing and food drives, vaccine clinics, PPE distributions, voter registration events, youth leadership banquets, and social media advocacy campaigns. We also held bilateral meetings with city, county, school, and state governments to ensure that youth voices were heard. In recognition of my leadership, I was nominated by Mayor Ronnie Thompson and Judy Brown of Burke United Christian Ministries for the Governor’s Volunteer Service Award, which I received in 2022. My commitment to service extends beyond BCSOY. I currently serve on the Morganton Human Relations Commission, addressing community concerns on a variety of social issues, and I contributed to long-term city planning as part of the Imagine Morganton 2040 Advisory Committee. Within Freedom High School, I have served as Brass Captain for the Marching Band, leading and mentoring the brass section, and as the inaugural Tri-M Music Honor Society President, where I sought to recognize students who demonstrated leadership and musicianship. As Student Body President, I work to ensure that every student’s voice is heard, even when I do not always see eye-to-eye with administration or peers. My focus has been on ensuring that students feel comfortable approaching me and that their concerns lead to real action. In November 2024, I was honored to serve as a NC Governor Page, interning in the executive mansion and gaining firsthand insight into the operations of the executive branch. I attended meetings with Governor Roy Cooper, Lieutenant Governor Mark Robinson, and members of the Council of State. This experience reminded me that true leadership goes beyond titles or being in the spotlight. Leadership is rooted in teamwork, collaboration, and dedication to serving the people. Working alongside political scientists, department secretaries, and staff members inspired me to deepen my own commitment to public service—not for recognition, but out of a selfless dedication to others. To build on these experiences, I will attend Appalachian State University to pursue a double major in Political Science and Public Policy, with a minor in History and a concentration in Legal Studies. My ultimate goal is to transfer to Howard University School of Law to earn my Juris Doctor and specialize in family, constitutional, or civil rights law. I intend to return to North Carolina to serve as an advocate for justice and equity, ensuring that the needs of the people are met and that everyone has the opportunity to achieve their ambitions. I believe that our world urgently needs leaders who will stand for what is right and uphold the ideals that every individual—regardless of creed, race, or orientation—deserves to thrive and be heard. My personal pursuit of education, integrity, and service is my way of creating meaningful change. As Ralph Nader said, “Leaders don’t create followers, they create more leaders.” My aspiration is to lead in a way that inspires others to rise and lead as well.

am Jamar Malik Harris, a senior at Freedom High School and a young Christian man dedicated to serving my community. From a young age, I felt the call to leadership and service. The desire to create positive change and inspire other young people to do the same has been my driving motivation. For the past several years, I have worked to spark youth engagement in Burke County. As a seventh grader, I founded the Burke County State of Youth (BCSOY), which I led from 2019 to 2023. The mission of BCSOY is to inspire teens to create real and positive change in our community through advocacy, awareness, and action. Our diverse team organized clothing and food drives, vaccine clinics, PPE distributions, voter registration events, youth leadership banquets, and social media advocacy campaigns. We also held bilateral meetings with city, county, school, and state governments to ensure that youth voices were heard. In recognition of my leadership, I was nominated by Mayor Ronnie Thompson and Judy Brown of Burke United Christian Ministries for the Governor’s Volunteer Service Award, which I received in 2022. My commitment to service extends beyond BCSOY. I currently serve on the Morganton Human Relations Commission, addressing community concerns on a variety of social issues, and I contributed to long-term city planning as part of the Imagine Morganton 2040 Advisory Committee. Within Freedom High School, I have served as Brass Captain for the Marching Band, leading and mentoring the brass section, and as the inaugural Tri-M Music Honor Society President, where I sought to recognize students who demonstrated leadership and musicianship. As Student Body President, I work to ensure that every student’s voice is heard, even when I do not always see eye-to-eye with administration or peers. My focus has been on ensuring that students feel comfortable approaching me and that their concerns lead to real action. In November 2024, I was honored to serve as a NC Governor Page, interning in the executive mansion and gaining firsthand insight into the operations of the executive branch. I attended meetings with Governor Roy Cooper, Lieutenant Governor Mark Robinson, and members of the Council of State. This experience reminded me that true leadership goes beyond titles or being in the spotlight. Leadership is rooted in teamwork, collaboration, and dedication to serving the people. Working alongside political scientists, department secretaries, and staff members inspired me to deepen my own commitment to public service—not for recognition, but out of a selfless dedication to others. To build on these experiences, I will attend Appalachian State University to pursue a double major in Political Science and Public Policy, with a minor in History and a concentration in Legal Studies. My ultimate goal is to transfer to Howard University School of Law to earn my Juris Doctor and specialize in family, constitutional, or civil rights law. I intend to return to North Carolina to serve as an advocate for justice and equity, ensuring that the needs of the people are met and that everyone has the opportunity to achieve their ambitions. I believe that our world urgently needs leaders who will stand for what is right and uphold the ideals that every individual—regardless of creed, race, or orientation—deserves to thrive and be heard. My personal pursuit of education, integrity, and service is my way of creating meaningful change. As Ralph Nader said, “Leaders don’t create followers, they create more leaders.” My aspiration is to lead in a way that inspires others to rise and lead as well.