Hard work and dedication have paid off for two Knox County seniors as they have made their decision on what path they will take after high school.
For Samuel Tanner Parsons, that decision was between two of the nation’s most prestigious programs. As a member of the Panther Battalion JROTC program, Parsons decided early on that he wanted to take his skills and knowledge to the next level. In late fall, he received notification of acceptance to both the United States Naval Academy and the West Point Military Academy.
His decision of which opportunity he would choose, should either become available, was made during a summer visit. Parsons found that the Naval Academy was the better fit for his career choice in engineering. At the time, he knew the chances of him being selected were astronomical with only 1200 out of 20,000 applicants being selected.
The Naval Academy had strict application guidelines including recommendations from his congressmen and senator, a physical fitness test, leadership ability, community service, GPA, ACT score and class ranking.
The four year scholarship package is valued at $500,000 and includes room, board, food, clothes, tuition, books and a salary to attend.
An intense interview and application processed resulted in Knox Central’s Logan Disney achieving one of the University of Kentucky’s highest scholarship awards. As a Singletary Scholar at UK, Disney’s scholarship grants him a four year tuition package at the university. Special benefits of being a Singletary scholar includes receiving an iPad, special housing on campus, access to special classes, and an opportunity to study internationally abroad.
Disney was only one of four students from south central / southeastern Kentucky to receive the Singletary scholarship this year.
Both Parsons and Disney were honored by the Knox County Board of Education during the March meeting for their achievements. Individual receptions were held in their honor at Knox Central High School.
“We are very proud of the achievements of both of these young men and are excited to see what the future holds as they
pursue these opportunities,” said Superintendent Kelly Sprinkles.
“The Naval Academy and being a Singletary Scholar are among the highest of recognitions and achievements for a high school student,” said Sprinkles.
“Both Tanner and Logan have worked hard with perseverance and commitment to achieve these opportunities.”