A scholarship for Charlotte HIGH SCHOOL students

THE INSPIRATION 

The Dalton Leadership Scholarship was established in 2014 in honor of its namesake and his 90th birthday. From his service in World War II, where he earned a Bronze Star and Purple Heart for his heroic service, to his career as an entrepreneur, philanthropist, mission worker, Sunday school teacher, volunteer, role model, and pillar of our community, Rufus is an inspiration to many. He has supported countless worthy causes with his time, wisdom, and guidance, but perhaps his most profound influence has been a defining role and his decades-long tenure on the board of North Carolina Outward Bound School.   

THE AWARD 

This annual scholarship awards exemplary students with an all-expenses-paid, 9, 14, or 22-day backpacking, rock climbing, and/or whitewater canoeing course in the Blue Ridge Mountains. These expeditions teach students technical skills such as navigation, camp craft, the basics of backpacking or rock climbing and much more. As students learn these skills in challenging situations, they also learn the value of teamwork, compassion for others and the pursuit of excellence. 

These expeditions push students physically, socially and emotionally. Often when they think they’ve reached their limits, they find there is more within them. Surrounded by the pristine natural world and a crew of adventurous peers, students work as a team to achieve goals and learn skills.  

Students can select their top 3 courses from several available summer dates. Included in this award is the cost for the course, gear required, and round-trip ground or air transportation.  

ELIGIBILITY 

Eligible applicants must: 

• Be a current high school student (9th – 12th grade) 
• Attend a Charlotte-Mecklenburg High School  
• Show a proven desire to lead and serve others 

IM INTERESTED

STEP 1: Fill out our interest form below to receive an email from the Charlotte Program Manager with application details.

STEP 2: Get your application in. The deadline will be Sunday, March 9, 2025. If you have questions, please contact Alexys J. Woods, NCOBS Charlotte Program Manager at [email protected], 704.498.4353.  

STEP 3: Interview - Once your application is submitted and reviewed, all interested students will set up a time for a virtual interview with the Charlotte Program Manager and board members. 

STEP 4: Notification and Preparation - selected students will be notified and receive a personal link with detailed information about their course. Students will be notified by Sunday, March 23, 2025