The Patrick Lee Carmody Fund Scholarship: Eliza Lavway
The Patrick Lee Carmody Fund provides support for scholarships for Western Carolina University students who are majoring in communication with a broadcasting concentration (radio/television program). The Patrick Lee Carmody Scholarship is given to a rising senior with at least a 3.0-grade point average in the Communication major with a Broadcast concentration and an overall minimum grade point average of 2.75. Some other things they look for in candidates include involvement in the practice of the profession such as student activities, community outreach projects, and engagement in other off-campus learning opportunities such as internships and study abroad.
Roy A. Taylor Scholarship: Liam Bridgeman
The Roy A. Taylor Scholarship is awarded to a rising senior pursuing a bachelor’s degree in human communication (formerly speech) with consideration given to a rising junior meeting the same criteria if there are no seniors meeting the requirements.Other criteria for selection include 3.0 grade point average or higher in the major, and clear evidence of involvement in the practice of the profession through internships, student activities, or off-campus service.
Liam Bridgeman, recipient of the 2023-2024 Roy A. Taylor Scholarship
“I chose communication as my major because I knew I wanted to be on-camera doing something,” said Bridgeman. “Once I got to western and started to learn more about what happens on the other side of the camera and all of the other sides of communication outside of broadcasting and journalism.”
Dr. Kathleen Wright Scholarship: Maci Cooper
Maci Cooper, recipient of the 2023-2024 Dr. Kathleen Wright Scholarship
Dr. Kathleen Wright was a dedicated professor and head of the Department of Communication for 35 years. Wright served as Chair of the Faculty Senate and every university committee. She always had an incredible “can do” spirit when it came to her students and department. In 1996 Dr. Wright received one of the University’s highest honors, the Paul A. Reid Service Award. Upon her retirement Dr. Wright was given the status of Professor Emeritus at Western Carolina University. The Kathleen A. Wright Scholarship is awarded to a communication major with a 3.0-grade point average and higher as well as involvement in the practice of the professions such as community outreach projects.
“I chose communication because I love working with others and continuing to build strong relationships,” said Cooper. “I love expanding my knowledge in this field and learning new things everyday.”
Arthur Anderson Endowed Scholarship: Phuong Vo
Phuong Vo, recipient of the 2023-2024 Arthur Anderson Scholarship
The Arthur Anderson Endowed Scholarship Fund is for students obtaining a degree in the performing arts including radio and television. It is awarded in alternating years in conjunction with the School of State and Screen. Arthur Anderson was a radio, television, and New York based actor for over 70 years.
“I chose communication as my major because I think my communication skills are not good and no matter what field you go into, you are going to need these communication skills,” said Vo.
Curtis and Enid Meltzer scholarship: Cora Haste, Sarah Pruitt
Enid and Curtis Meltzer left a multimillion dollar estate gift to WCU, increasing their endowment to $3.3 million. Curtis took classes at WCU for fun and built a lasting bond with the university since 1989. Their endowment has and will continue to benefit hundreds of students across academic programs, cementing a lasting legacy for the Meltzers.
Cora Haste, recipient of the 2023-2024 Meltzer Scholarship
“I chose communication as my major because I love to write but more specifically, I love to tell stories,” said Haste. “I feel like everyone has a story to share and I want to help everyone’s voice be heard.
“I chose communication because I love connecting with people and I’ve always loved talking with people and building relationships,” said Pruitt. “I love that I get to research that and learn more about it.”