Seven WCPSS high school seniors were among the 105 finalists for the Park Scholarships Class of 2015. The scholarship provides for a four-year education at NC State University. The finalists were selected following a review of more than 1,300 applications and interviews with a select group of semifinalists.

The WCPSS students include:

Ioan Bolohan of Millbrook Magnet High is president of DECA and the student body, and captain of the quiz bowl team. He is a varsity cross country runner, a member of the Service Club, and the head and founder of the Millbrook for MDA fundraiser. Bolohan plans to major in business administration and political science.

Neel Mandavilli of Southeast Raleigh Magnet High is vice president of student government, and has served as president of the Science National Honor Society. He is a tri-speaker for the North Carolina Youth Legislative Assembly. Mandavilli is a recipient of the Congressional Award Gold Medal, Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership World Leadership Congress Student Representative Award, and the U.S. Senate Youth Program Award. He plans to pursue a career in public policy.

Michael Thomas Marion of Panther Creek High is president of the student body and the Varsity Club, and captain of the varsity lacrosse team. He has volunteered at the Kramden Institute, and has been recognized as an Advanced Placement Scholar with Honors and a recipient of the Daughters of the American Revolution Good Citizenship Award. Marion plans to major in engineering.

Charan Sai Mohan of Green Hope High is president of the tutoring club, captain of the cross country team, and vice president of the Health Occupations Students of America club. He is a volunteer teacher of English as a Second Language for elementary school students, and is a recipient of the President’s Volunteer Service Award. Mohan plans to major in biomedical engineering.

Gabriela Marie Quinlan of Cary High is secretary of the senior council, vice president of the Environmental Club, and section leader in the marching band. She is a member of National Honor Society, and was awarded the Girl Scouts Silver Award. Quinlan plans to major in zoology.

Carter Thomas Robinson of Broughton High is the vice president of the Young Democrats, and a member of student government and the varsity lacrosse and cross-country teams. He is an Eagle Scout, leads the youth group and praise band at his church, and has provided entertainment for events around North Carolina with his band, Starfish Bungalow. Robinson plans to major in engineering.

James David Turner of Middle Creek High is the president and founder of the Math Honor Society, and is president of the National Honor Society. He founded and managed the nonprofit enterprise, Heartbeats for Kids, which raises funds for the North Carolina Children’s Hospital. Turner is also a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Shaw University Research Apprentice. He has been recognized as a Prudential Spirit of Community Distinguished Finalist and has earned six Presidential Volunteer Service Gold Awards for completing over 1,700 hours of community service. He plans to major in mechanical engineering.

The Park Scholarships program brings exceptional students to NC State University, based on outstanding accomplishments and potential in scholarship, leadership, service, and character. The program develops and supports Park Scholars in these areas, preparing them for lifelong contributions to the campus, state, nation, and world. The scholarship includes tuition and fees, room and board, enrichment activities, and additional expenses.