The Better Business Bureau serving Eastern NC has announced that Noah Kiser, a junior at Smithfield Selma High School, has been named the recipient of the $5,000 Spring 2015 BBB Torch Scholarship. BBB Torch Scholarships recognize students who personify high ethics as demonstrated through leadership, community service, overall personal integrity and academic history.
Torch Scholarship entries were evaluated by an independent panel of judges comprised of volunteer business and community leaders in eastern North Carolina. A record number of entries was received this year from both high school students and college undergraduates in BBB’s 33-county service area.
“We received 50% more applications than the record number that was submitted in December 2014. Virtually every one of the students excelled in all phases, including academics, community service, and extracurricular activities,” said Steve Fromme, Executive Director of BBB serving Eastern North Carolina’s Educational Foundation. “What separated Noah from the competition was his unique approach to his essay. It was thoughtful, well-written and expressed the ethical standards BBB emphasizes.”
Applicants were evaluated primarily on an essay involving an ethical dilemma. Other judging criteria included involvement in the community, leadership positions and academic achievement. Applicants were also required to obtain a letter of recommendation from a BBB Accredited Business.
BBB will be awarding additional Torch Scholarships in fall 2015. For information on applying, visit bbbscholarship.org.
Better Business Bureau serving Eastern North Carolina is a 501(c)(6) not-for-profit corporation serving 33 counties in eastern North Carolina. The organization is funded primarily by BBB Accredited Business fees from more than 3,000 local businesses and professional firms.
