Two local students are starting their college journeys with an extra boost, thanks to the Quincy Markel Mills Scholarship. After reviewing applications from 14 eligible students, the scholarship committee selected Shamira Cherry and Raleigh Pierce as this year’s recipients.

Established to honor the life and legacy of Quincy Markel Mills, now in its second year, the scholarship has grown from offering a single award to two $750 scholarships.

2025 QUINCY MARKEL MILLS SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

Shamira Cherry, a graduate of Nash Central High School, built an impressive record of involvement during her time in school. She was an active member of the Student Government Association, the Communities in Schools program, the National Honor Society, and also cheered on the sidelines as a member of the cheerleading team.

This fall, Shamira will attend East Carolina University, where she plans to pursue her dream of becoming a pediatrician. She said she chose ECU after feeling an instant connection to the campus community during a campus tour. To rising seniors, she offers this advice: “Make sure you stay motivated. Invest in your future.”

Raleigh Pierce, a graduate of Warren Early College High School, has already spent years giving back to his community as a volunteer firefighter since the age of 16. This fall, he will head to Campbell University to major in Mechanical Engineering.

Raleigh said he was drawn to Campbell because of its architecture, atmosphere, and smaller class sizes, which made him feel at home right away. Looking ahead, he aspires to one day own his own business while continuing to serve his Warren County community. His advice for younger students is heartfelt and practical: “Don’t be afraid to branch out, be yourself, and put yourself out there,” and “If you have questions, don’t be afraid to ask.”

Scholarship committee members noted that both students embodied “a strong commitment to their community and a desire to give back,” qualities that reflect Quincy Mills’ enduring legacy.

The scholarship is named in honor of Quincy Mills, a 19-year-old whose life was tragically cut short in 2023. His father, Walter Mills described his son as “a good kid with a big, bright smile and everybody loved him.” At this time, the case is still ongoing.

Eric Copeland, a friend of the family initiated the idea to start a scholarship in Mills’s name, and received the approval from Walter. With the help of Eric’s wife, Jackie, they were able to implement it.

Copeland stated the scholarship was established to keep his memory alive and support students in their pursuit of higher education.

The scholarship is open to all high school seniors in Warren, Nash, and Halifax counties.

This year’s committee consist of Larry Jones, Jr., Marcus Kearsey, and Shrounda Douglas-Riddick.

As the scholarship grows, the organizers hope to continue investing in our youth by helping them chase their dreams.

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Chandler Kearsey, a recent graduate of Warren Early College High School (WECHS), has been named the recipient of the first Quincy Markel Mills Scholarship, one that will help her pursue higher education at East Carolina University (ECU). Kearsey was awarded $750, which she will use to support her studies as she embarks on her journey toward a degree in Management with a concentration in Human Resources.

Following in the footsteps of her father, Kearsey has set her sights on a career in Human Resources and wants to work with a Fortune 500 company. She stated she chose ECU for its diverse campus and the range of opportunities that align with her career aspirations.

The Quincy Mills Scholarship is named in honor of Quincy Mills, a 19-year-old whose life was tragically cut short in 2023. His father, Walter Mills described his son as “a good kid with a big, bright smile and everybody loved him.” Eric Copeland, a friend of the family initiated the idea to start a scholarship in Mills’s name, and received the approval from Walter. With the help of Eric’s wife, Jackie, they were able to implement it. The initial scholarship amount was set to be $500 until local Warren County group, The Brotherhood contributed an additional $250, making it a total of $750.

Copeland stated the scholarship was established to keep his memory alive and support students in their pursuit of higher education. The scholarship committee, composed of Larry Jones, Jr. and Shrounda Douglas-Riddick selected Kearsey based on being thorough in her application, and also her academic achievements, community involvement, and clear vision for her future.

WECHS principal, Shena Judkins described Kearsey as an “amazing student with a heart for people.”

Kearsey’s ambition, coupled with the support of the Quincy Mills Scholarship, places her on a promising path toward achieving her dreams. As she prepares to start her freshman year at ECU, Kearsey is eager to take full advantage of the opportunities that lie ahead.

To read more about Quincy Mills, read this RRDailyHerald.com article.

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