Special to IFN

The Falconer Foundation, a Mooresville-based nonprofit organization serving Iredell County, has awarded a $10,000 scholarship to Lauren Hoyle.

Established in 2020, the foundation grants scholarships on an annual basis to high school seniors enrolled in either Iredell-Statesville Schools or the Mooresville Graded School district. This is the third year in a row the foundation has been able to help a local student achieve their higher education goal.

Hoyle, a graduate of Crossroads Arts and Science Early College in Statesville, was awarded the 2024 Falconer Foundation Scholarship. She is currently attending the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill majoring in studio art with a minor in engineering and physical science.

“I couldn’t be more grateful for the experiences and people who have led me to further my art,” Hoyle said. “It really is my passion, and I couldn’t imagine life without art and creativity. I hope to then serve others around me by inspiring them and engaging in community artistic culture. I want to further my community engagement in art and to be able to thrive with others who are also passionate about art and creativity. I chose an academic minor to combine with my creative major, using my interests in math and science in combination with my passion for art to strengthen my career path in a multi-creative outlet.”

As a result of sponsors, individual donations, and the grassroots efforts, the Falconer Foundation has bestowed $30,000 in scholarships to date. The first $10,000 scholarship was granted in 2022 to Lyric Contarino, a graduate of North Iredell High School, who is currently attending Brevard College. A second $10,000 scholarship was awarded in 2023 to De’Layla Overcash, a graduate of Statesville High School and current UNC-Charlotte student with a double major in dance and exercise science.

“These young individuals have proven outstanding leadership in our regional arts community, and to have combined their passions with a mission to serve others is absolutely remarkable,” said Falconer Foundation Director Cortney Frasier. “Acknowledging their hard work by helping them achieve their academic ambitions could not be more rewarding.”

“Both the community support and recognition of our crucial mission have been overwhelming. The benefaction of our local businesses, concert sponsors, and individual donors are what have made this all possible. These young trailblazers deserve every advantage we can provide them,” Falconer Foundation Chairman Dennis Cowardin added. 

Benefit concerts held in April and October of each year, since 2021, help maintain funding and continue to be successful.

Next Event

The next event is scheduled for October 19 from 3 to 6 p.m. at College Street Studios in Downtown Mooresville. The concert features live music by Coddle Creek and food and drinks for purchase from local entrepreneurs. The event, as always, is free and open to the public. Donations are encouraged and are 100 percent tax-deductible. Find out more about the Falconer Foundation HERE.