The Lee Vernon McNeill Oly-SETC Scholarship

Lee Vernon McNeill, a native of St. Pauls, NC, was an extraordinary American track and field athlete whose legacy continues to inspire generations. A five-time All-American and record-setting sprinter at East Carolina University, McNeill was also an Olympic gold medalist whose career left an indelible mark on the world of athletics.

 

As one of the first athletes from North Carolina to make a significant impact on the international sprinting stage, Lee’s achievements are legendary. In 1985, he made headlines by defeating Olympic champion Carl Lewis in the 100-meter dash semifinals at the USA Outdoor Track and Field Championships. Two years later, he helped secure gold for the U.S. in the 4×100-meter relay at the 1987 World Championships. He went on to represent Team USA at the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul, South Korea.

 

Lee McNeill’s journey was a testament to excellence, discipline, and unwavering determination—qualities that continue to inspire athletes across the country.

 

This scholarship was created to honor his memory and preserve his legacy both on and off the track. It aims to encourage aspiring student-athletes to pursue their dreams with the same drive and integrity that defined Lee’s remarkable life

 

The Lee Vernon McNeill Oly-SETC Scholarship is open to all track athletes who graduated in the current year in North Carolina who have a minimum 2.4 GPA. Students who are interested in applying for this scholarship will need to fill out the attached Google Form. After submitting the form, students will need to submit the following information by email to soaringeaglesscholarship@gmail.com in order to complete the application process:

 

• 1.) TWO letters of recommendation. The first letter should be from their track coach, preferably the head track coach, detailing their contribution to the track team over the course of their high school career. The second letter should be from a community member, such as a teacher, pastor, or mentor, who can detail their involvement in the community or how they have helped to build the community around them.
• 2.) An unofficial copy of their final transcript.

 

Please make sure that you submit these documents in ONE email and specify in the subject line of the email your name and reference to the Lee Vernon Scholarship. (EX: Jane Doe–Lee Vernon Scholarship). Note: The Application process must be complete in order to be considered.  

 

There will be four $500.00 scholarships awarded to two young men and two young ladies who have excelled as members of their track team and in their school and community.

 

The application deadline is August 15th by 11:59 pm (of the current year).  The winner will be announced after September 1st.

 

If you have questions, please reach out to Ms. Ronnet Purdie, Scholarship Coordinator, at soaringeaglesscholarship@gmail.com.

Application Form