First Burke/Joines Scholarship Recipient Graduates
Melanie Lara is the first Burke/Joines Scholarship recipient to graduate from Forsyth Technical Community College. Lara, who was awarded the scholarship in 2016 while a senior at R.J. Reynolds High School, received her associate’s degree and will be attending Salem College.
The scholarship pays the cost of tuition and books for up to six semesters at Forsyth Tech. Mayor Allen Joines and Mayor Pro Tempore Vivian H. Burke initiated the scholarship program in 2016 to help deserving students attend Forsyth Tech and further their job qualifications.
Actual scholarship amounts vary for each recipient depending on the course of study and what other grants and scholarships a recipient receives.
To be eligible, applicants must be a resident of public housing, a resident of subsidized housing, or have a household income at or below the poverty level; and be a senior in a Winston-Salem/Forsyth County high school or be able to complete a GED before starting classes at Forsyth Tech.
Scholarship recipients must maintain a minimum grade point average of 2.0 in an approved course of study, participate in internships while at Forsyth Tech, and agree to meet with a mentor who will monitor and guide them. Recipients must agree to make a concentrated and good faith effort, with the help of their mentors, to obtain employment or continue their education after they complete their studies at Forsyth Tech.
Applications for the scholarships are available in high school guidance offices.
