From the Duke News Service

August 17, 1999

John Graham McWhorter, a 1999 graduate of Forsyth Country Day School in Lewisville, has been selected as this year's recipient of the Braxton Craven Endowed Scholarship to Duke University.

The four-year scholarship was established in 1973 with a $250,000 gift from Isobel Craven Drill, great granddaughter of Braxton Craven, first president of Trinity College, Duke University's predecessor institution. Drill, a native of Lexington, is a Duke alumna and trustee emerita. She currently lives in Jacksonville, Fla.

McWhorter, the son of John and Barbara McWhorter of 312 Balsam Drive, Lexington, was chosen on the basis of his strong academic record and significant contributions to his school and community, university officials said.

First-year students arrive on the Duke campus Aug. 25 with classes beginning Aug. 30.

McWhorter, who is an Eagle Scout, is a regular volunteer at Davidson Medical Ministries Clinic, which provides free health care to the working poor. He is also active in the youth group at First United Methodist Church of Lexington and as a volunteer with Habitat for Humanity. McWhorter has served as junior and senior class president at Forsyth Country Day. And he has been a member of the Fury Service Club and the varsity tennis team at the school. His hobbies include computer web page design.

First preference for the scholarship is given to eligible students from Davidson County, with second preference given to students from other areas of the state. The award covers full tuition. Based on estimated tuition rates, the scholarship is worth more than $92,000 to a student enrolled for four years.

[back to main news page]