Congratulations to our Fall 2023 Beacon® Scholarship Winners

Carrot-Top Industries is proud to announce our Fall 2023 Beacon® Scholarship for Rural America recipients Sarah Workman and Michael Groe. Chosen from applicants nationwide for their inspirational patriotism, our winners exemplify the power of community within America's rural towns.

Driven by the belief that the cost of education should not limit future success, we began the Beacon® Scholarship in 2018, which supports the American dream that all U.S. citizens should have an equal opportunity to succeed through hard work, initiative, and perseverance. The Fall 2023 Beacon® Scholarship awards $1,000 to two students residing in rural areas and meeting low-income criteria. To participate, graduating seniors, currently enrolled college students, and adult learners with a 3.0 GPA or higher submit an essay detailing how they display patriotism through community involvement.

All scholarship winners must meet eligibility requirements while showcasing their future educational goals and dedication to continued community involvement. While every applicant uniquely displayed their patriotism, they all shared a common commitment toward volunteering, honoring past generations, and bettering their towns through acts of service.

Fall Beacon Scholarship Winner #1 - Sarah Workman

Sarah Workman is a college student from Ramseur, North Carolina, a town with just over 1,700 people. With a modest economy, employing only 649 workers, Ramseur is a quintessential small town. While the population ages, young people like Workman are a beacon of hope, signaling a shift toward prosperity in the future.  

After graduating from Faith Christian School in 2023 with a 3.97 GPA, Workman plans to receive her Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics and a Minor in Business from Liberty University while also getting a commercial pilot certificate. "I thrive in an environment where I can benefit others and witness results," Workman states. "I am so delighted when working with individuals during my annual community service projects and nonprofit organizations like the Asheboro/Randolph Chamber of Commerce, Hospice of Randolph, and Special Needs Scout Troop 571." 

Excerpts from Workman's essay on her love for community involvement:

 "I have thoroughly enjoyed volunteering with the Special Needs Scout Troop 571. As a result of my knowledge of American Sign Language, I am able to communicate and help a deaf Scout member become more engaged with the troop and their activities. It was also rewarding to build a comradery during their fundraising efforts at a local car wash."

"I have been blessed with opportunities to lead projects showing my love and support of our great country along with impacting my community and aviation. Looking into the future, after receiving Liberty University's Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics and a Minor in Business, along with a commercial pilot certificate, my objective is to transport relief supplies and personnel to victims of natural disasters. I would consider it an honor to be employed by a ministry-based organization executing a mission greater than myself. "

Fall Beacon Scholarship Winner #2 Michael Groe 

Michael Groe is a college student attending the Northeast Marine Institute, hoping to receive his Associate in Applied Science in Nautical Science. Before college, he resided in Dalbo, Minnesota, a town with only 890 residents. Groe lived with his great-grandfather, a 90-year-old retired disabled Army National Guard veteran, and graduated from Havelock High School in spring 2023. When he wasn't caring for his grandfather, he spent his days volunteering in his surrounding community.  

Patriotism has always been a natural way of life for Groe. "As an elementary student, I remember we would walk across the street and pay our respect to those who lost their lives in prayer," he recalls. "Or help line the sidewalk with the boots of fallen soldiers with dog tags and American flags for Memorial Day." One way Groe shows his patriotism is by obeying the law and getting involved in local government. Groe believes, "This is a responsibility of every citizen...you should be voting on the local officials and ensuring they are doing the job they are elected to do properly." 

Excerpts from Groe's essay on his dedication to community involvement: 

"I (citizens) have responsibilities, things that we should do but are not required by law. For example, voting, attending civic meetings, petitioning the government, and running for office. One of your most important responsibilities is taking part in community service to help others in need in your community. Volunteering is a huge part of being an active citizen in the community." 

"Action within a small community is better for the community rather than the individual. By fulfilling your obligations and responsibilities as a citizen, you are protecting the common good for all citizens even if you are in a small rural town. It is your Civic Duty to "do the right" thing. Rural towns make a big difference, and the difference starts with me." 

Promote Our Scholarship to Low-Income Students 

If you know a student who exemplifies patriotism and a passion for their community, encourage them to apply for Carrot-Top Industries' Beacon® Scholarship for Rural America. As the premier manufacturer of American-made flags and accessories, we are passionate about helping U.S. citizens on their path to success. Contact our friendly Customer Care Team for more information on our full line of products.  

You can learn more about applying for the Beacon® Scholarship for Rural America on our website.  

Upcoming application deadlines for the 2023-2024 Beacon® Scholarship for Rural America are: 

Spring 2024: November 30, 2023