Mary R. Hemphill Scholarship

The Mary R. Hemphill Scholarship recognizes graduates of Charles D. Owen, Madison, or McDowell high schools in North Carolina who demonstrate academic achievement and commendable character. Students who are pursuing a doctorate in veterinary medicine in North Carolina or Tennessee and demonstrate financial need are welcome to apply. Those who have a demonstrated interest in working with large animals receive special consideration. Mary Rutledge Hemphill came from a farming background and was a long-time resident of Buncombe County, North Carolina. She and her husband Arthur Joe Hemphill, Jr. lived in Black Mountain, North Carolina for most of their lives. Not having children of their own, the Hemphills 'adopted' numerous children who became very special to them over the years. In keeping with this love of children, and her deep affinity toward animals, Mrs. Hemphill established the Mary R. Hemphill Scholarship Fund in order to assist young people in our area who wish to study veterinary medicine. Scholarships, renewable for two more years, are available to graduates of Charles D. Owen High School (Buncombe County), Madison High School (Madison County), or McDowell High School (McDowell County) who are currently attending a college or university in North Carolina or Tennessee. Applicants must be engaged in a course of study leading to the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. Selection criteria, in order of consideration: demonstrated financial need, a minimum of 3.0 weighted GPA, and work experience. The scholarship amount is $10,000 renewable for 2 more years, with 1 award given. The application deadline is June 5, 2026. To apply, students must complete an application online and submit two required letters of recommendation.