Community Scholarships Awarded to Future STEM Leaders

Albemarle Corporation is proud to present the Albemarle Kings Mountain Community Scholarship, an initiative designed to support Cleveland County students pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). This scholarship reflects Albemarle’s commitment to fostering educational growth and empowering the next generation of STEM professionals in our community.

This year, four outstanding students were selected to receive the Albemarle Kings Mountain Community Scholarship. To be eligible, applicants must be high school seniors in Cleveland County who plan to pursue a STEM major at an accredited two- or four-year college, university or vocational-technical school. Recipients are selected based on academic achievement, leadership, extracurricular involvement, work experience and a written statement of career goals. Students attending trade or technical schools are eligible for a $2,500 scholarship, renewable for a second year or until their degree is earned. University students receive a $5,000 scholarship, renewable annually for four years or until graduation.

Philip-Mark Bryson

Philip-Mark Bryson, of Kings Mountain, is pursuing an associate in science degree at Cleveland Community College in Shelby. He was a member of the CTE Honors Society, National Honor Society and Beta Club, and graduated Summa Cum Laude from high school. He credits his parents, Jeanna and Mark Bryson, and his drafting teacher, Ms. Kubu, for encouraging his passion for STEM. “My parents supported my interest in drawing and design, and Ms. Kubu helped me see how those skills could shape a future in engineering,” he said.

Jason McClain

Jason McClain, of Kings Mountain, is studying automation engineering technology at Cleveland Community College. He holds a certification in robotic programming and is the son of Ida McClain, Licia McClain and Neal Hopper. He shared appreciation for several mentors who have guided his path. “I’d like to thank Dr. Bruce Mack, my mom and my dad for inspiring and supporting me,” he said.

Mackenzie Pendleton

Mackenzie Pendleton, of Lawndale, is majoring in animal science at North Carolina State University. She previously earned an associate degree from Cleveland Community College and was valedictorian of Burns High School. An avid animal caretaker and tennis player, she is the daughter of Laura and Michael Pendleton. “My animal science teacher, Mr. Jeff Cornwell, sparked my passion for STEM by providing hands-on experiences that shaped my future,” she said.

Sidney Thomas Albemarle Kings Mountain Scholar

Sydney Thomas

Sydney Thomas, of Shelby, is pursuing a chemistry degree at Furman University in Greenville, S.C. A graduate of Crest High School, she served as student body president, valedictorian and chief junior marshal. She also played varsity tennis and earned AP Scholar with Distinction honors. She is the daughter of Daniel and Sarah Thomas. “My AP chemistry teacher, Mrs. Ronda Champion, helped me realize my love for the subject and showed me how passion can lead to purpose,” she said. “I hope to make her proud by building a career in a field we both love.”