Each year, the generosity of the May family continues to make a lasting difference in the lives of Winterville students through the John Milton & Sue May Scholarship. Established to honor the legacy of two individuals whose commitment to this community continues to inspire others, the scholarship recognizes a graduating high school senior who demonstrates academic achievement, community involvement, and a heart for serving others.
This year’s recipient, Tessa Waddell, embodies those qualities in remarkable ways.
Throughout high school, Tessa has consistently looked for opportunities to lead by serving. Whether mentoring younger students through her church’s Vacation Bible School, volunteering in her mother’s kindergarten classroom at Wintergreen Primary, or helping incoming freshmen transition to high school as a Link Crew leader, she has found joy in investing in others. In her scholarship essay, Tessa reflected that community service isn’t just about helping people – it’s about recognizing the impact others have had on your own life and choosing to pay that forward.
That perspective has been shaped by her own experiences. At 11 years old, Tessa faced a significant health challenge when doctors discovered a pancreatic tumor, beginning a journey of ongoing health obstacles that has taught her resilience from an early age. In her essay, she shared that she often reminds herself, “I have gone through worse,” a simple mindset that helps her keep life’s challenges in perspective and continue moving forward. Rather than allowing those experiences to define her, Tessa has let them strengthen her determination, deepen her compassion for others, and reinforce her desire to use her talents to improve the lives of those around her.
A member of DH Conley’s varsity cheerleading team since her freshman year, Tessa stepped into leadership roles early and credits those experiences with helping her grow in confidence. Once naturally introverted, she intentionally challenged herself to become more involved, discovering a passion for encouraging and supporting those around her.
This fall, Tessa will attend North Carolina State University to study mechanical engineering. She hopes to one day design products and technologies that improve people’s lives while continuing to serve her community through campus organizations, mentorship opportunities, and future outreach efforts.
Her dedication has also been recognized through several additional scholarships, including the Distinguished Young Women of Pitt County Scholarship, the University Kiwanis Scholarship, the Winterville Kiwanis Scholarship, and DH Conley High School’s Spencer Hampton Scholarship.
The Winterville Chamber of Commerce is honored to recognize Tessa Waddell as this year’s John Milton & Sue May Scholarship recipient. We are deeply grateful to the May family for continuing to invest in the next generation of Winterville leaders, ensuring that students like Tessa have the opportunity to pursue their dreams while carrying forward a spirit of service, resilience, and community.
