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WNC Communities is proud to announce the 2026 recipients of the George H.V. Cecil Journey Scholarship. Journey Scholars are selected for their high academic potential, leadership and service to their communities.
The George H.V. Cecil Journey Scholarship provides renewable four-year awards of $8,000 - $12,000 to high school seniors across Western North Carolina. Established in 2002, the scholarship honors the legacy of George H.V. Cecil and his longstanding commitment to rural communities across the region.
The 2026 Journey Scholars are:
• Tristin Powell of Balsam Grove in Transylvania County
• Asher Blackwood of Rosscraggon Wood in Buncombe County
• Cam Ramsey of Holly Springs in Macon County
• Carter Crubaugh of Grape Creek in Cherokee County
• Chloe Henson of Peak Creek in Ashe County
• Kelly Bailey of Ellenboro in Rutherford County
• Larson Berry of Todd in Watauga County
This year's scholars share a strong commitment to caregiving, mentorship and hands-on service to the people around them. Many have contributed their time through community centers, schools, churches and local initiatives across Western North Carolina.
"I want to use the experiences and education I gain in college to eventually give back to the community that has supported me throughout my life," said Larson Berry of Todd. Tristin Powell of Balsam Grove Community received the Premier Scholarship, the program's highest award, given to a student who strongly embodies the core values of leadership, service and commitment to community. Powell has served in multiple student leadership roles, advocated for increased student involvement at Rosman High School and volunteered through mentoring and community outreach efforts in Balsam Grove.
"I want to use what I've learned to pour back into the people and places that have shaped me," said Powell.
Many of this year's Journey Scholars also spoke about carrying those experiences forward into their future work and education. Through healthcare, education, advocacy and community leadership, these students reflect the scholarship's long-standing investment in young people who remain deeply connected to Western North Carolina.
"Giving back to those living in Western North Carolina was important to my father, and it's an honor to continue his legacy through this program," said Edie Cecil, member of the WNC Communities Board of Directors and daughter of George H.V. Cecil.
The scholarship program continues the legacy of Mr. Cecil who was deeply committed to supporting rural communities in Western North Carolina. One of the founders of WNC Communities, Mr. Cecil served the program for more than 70 years and remained an active member of the board throughout his lifetime.
About WNC Communities: WNC Communities empowers the people of Western North Carolina to cultivate the vitality and prosperity of our mountain communities through collaboration and agricultural opportunities. To learn more about the scholarship program or WNC Communities, visit wnccommunities.org.
