Neuse Charter School Senior Receives Daughters Of The American Revolution Good Citizen Award

Award honors outstanding seniors for leadership, service, and academic excellence

SMITHFIELD – Neuse Charter School has announced that Bella Strickland, a senior, has been selected as this year’s recipient of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Good Citizen Award. This prestigious honor recognizes high school seniors who exemplify dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism—qualities that Bella consistently demonstrates through her leadership, academics, and service to others.

Bella was nominated and selected by the Neuse Charter School staff for her exceptional character, dedication, and achievements both inside and outside the classroom. Ranked among the top students in her class, she currently serves as President of both the Student Government Association (SGA) and the National Honor Society (NHS). In addition, she is a standout athlete on both the cross country and track and field teams, where she has competed at the state level.

“Bella is the kind of student every educator hopes to teach: intellectually vibrant, emotionally intelligent, and deeply kind,” said Dr. Melissa Blackwell, Superintendent of Neuse Charter School. “A humble leader, she possesses a quiet confidence that draws others in. She embodies service, resilience, and optimism—all qualities that make her so deserving of this honor.”

Athletic Director Connor Pulley said, “Bella is the true definition of a hard worker. I always see her volunteering her time to help teachers, students, and our athletic program. She pushes herself and her teammates to improve on and off the field, all while being one of the best cross country and track and field runners to ever come through our program.”

Cross Country Coach Curt Hobbs added, “I couldn’t be prouder of Bella for earning the prestigious Daughters of the American Revolution Scholarship Award. She’s not only one of our top athletes but also an outstanding student, SGA President, and NHS member. She leads by example, works hard in everything she does, and is a truly positive force in our school and community.”

Jeff Matisoff, Middle School Math Teacher, noted Bella’s service-minded nature. “She volunteers her time to come to my first-period math class and work with small groups of kids nearly every day. They look forward to her coming in, and she’s a huge part of their success.”

Anna Munilla, AP English Teacher, also commended Bella’s leadership and compassion. “Bella truly leads by example. She inspires others with her kindness, positivity, and steady encouragement. Her integrity and warmth make her an outstanding representative of our school community and a shining example of what it means to be a good citizen.”

Bella Strickland is the daughter of Brian and Jennifer Strickland and sister to Anna, also a student at Neuse Charter School. Her selection as the DAR Good Citizen Award winner makes her eligible to compete for the DAR Good Citizen Scholarship at the regional level. Bella plans to attend a four-year university, where she hopes to pursue her passion for writing and build a career in journalism.