Neuse Charter Student Recognized With DAR Scholarship, Top State Honors

SMITHFIELD – Neuse Charter School announces that senior Bella Strickland, the school’s 2025 Smith-Bryan Chapter DAR Good Citizen Award nominee, has been awarded the Smith-Bryan Chapter DAR Good Citizen Scholarship and earned second place at the regional level—an extraordinary accomplishment highlighting her academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to service. Her success at both the chapter and regional levels places her among an elite group of students recognized across the region for outstanding character and achievement.

In addition to her DAR accomplishments, Bella has been named a semifinalist for both the Morehead-Cain Scholarship at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the Park Scholarship at North Carolina State University. These full-ride merit scholarships are among the most prestigious undergraduate awards in the nation, selecting only a small number of students who demonstrate exceptional academic ability, leadership, character, and service. Being named a semifinalist for both programs underscores Bella’s remarkable accomplishments and potential.

“The rare student who can lead a meeting, win a race, ace a math problem, and still show up to help someone else—usually before anyone even asks—is Bella,” said Keeli McLamb, College and Career Advisor. “She balances leadership, academics, athletics, and service with grace and a quiet smile. She’s proof that you don’t have to be loud to be powerful, and the school community recognizes her achievements.”

Bella currently serves as President of both the Student Government Association (SGA) and the National Honor Society (NHS). She is also a state-level competitor in cross-country and track and field and regularly volunteers her time to support teachers and mentor younger students.

Neuse Charter School acknowledges Bella, daughter of Brian and Jennifer Strickland and sister to Anna, for her outstanding accomplishments. As she continues to pursue opportunities, the school community stands behind her, inspired by her leadership and commitment to service.