SALISBURY — Crosby Scholars Rowan hosted a Senior Celebration to commemorate the accomplishments of the Class of 2024. The event took place earlier this month at the F&M Trolley Barn to recognize the dedication and hard work of the graduating seniors, who have demonstrated accountability, leadership and academic achievement throughout their journey with Crosby Scholars. Family members, alongside community partners, gathered to acknowledge the graduates.

The Class of 2024, comprising 171 seniors from 7 high schools, received red, black and white honors cords. More than $78,500 in scholarships was awarded to 38 graduating seniors. Collectively, they amassed an impressive total of more than 7,650 hours of community service, reflecting their deep-rooted determination to positively impact their communities. The graduates participated in more than 2,205 Crosby Scholars academies and attended 684 senior advising sessions. 

A highlight of the event was the recognition of 55 Crosby Scholars as “Gwin Barr All-Stars.” This prestigious honor is bestowed upon those who have completed all program requirements from 6th to 12th grade. Their steadfast dedication and perseverance serve as a testament to their remarkable commitment to academic excellence and personal growth.

Valerie Jordan, a senior and ACTION Leader, reflected on her years as a Crosby Scholar and shared how the program has been a guide to making her college dreams a reality. She encouraged her peers to remember the tools and life lessons they have acquired and to carry them forward as they walk across the stage at graduation and onto their college campuses. Amid the time of reflection, the program paused to honor the memory of Dalton Gay, a member of the Class of 2024. Dalton will be remembered as a valued member of our Crosby Scholars family, and his memory will continue to inspire us all. 

Crosby Scholars extends its heartfelt congratulations to the Class of 2024 and expresses gratitude to all those who have supported these exceptional young individuals along their path. Thank you to Goodwill Industries, F&M Bank, Cheerwine, our community partners, and families who helped celebrate the graduating seniors. To Dalton’s family, we extend our deepest gratitude for joining us in celebrating his life and for accepting his Crosby Honor Cords.

All alumni of the Crosby Scholars program are eligible to apply for Last Dollar Grant funding toward unmet financial need for up to four years of study.

Crosby Scholars, in its 11th year in Rowan County, continues to be a free program for public middle and high school students. All 6th- through- 10th-grade Rowan-Salisbury students are eligible to apply when open enrollment begins in August for the 2024-25 school year. For more information, go to www.crosbyscholarsrowan.org.