Sharon C. Ryan Memorial Scholarship

Scholarship Sponsored by Twiddy & Company

Description
The scholarship was established to honor Sharon’s long service and community impact at Twiddy & Company. It supports undergraduate students who demonstrate academic commitment and leadership, with a preference for applicants connected to Northeastern North Carolina. The selection committee evaluates candidates holistically, balancing academic record, community ties, and leadership experience. Applicants do not need prior familiarity with the Outer Banks, though researching the region is encouraged.

**Key points:**
- Scholarship honors Sharon’s contributions to Twiddy & Company and the local community.
- Open to undergraduate students enrolled at U.S. colleges or universities.
- Selection considers academics, leadership, and community connection.
- Familiarity with the Outer Banks is encouraged but not required.

History of the Award
Sharon worked for more than 19 years in Twiddy & Company’s Maintenance Department after being recruited by Doug Twiddy. During her tenure she coordinated services for vacation homes, built long-standing relationships with local vendors and families, and became a trusted, warm presence in the community and at company events. She is remembered for her strong work ethic, ever-present smile, and enthusiastic spirit. The scholarship commemorates her dedication to service and community ties on the Outer Banks.

**Key points:**
- Sharon served 19+ years in Twiddy’s Maintenance Department.
- She developed deep local relationships and a reputation for reliability.
- The award commemorates her service, friendliness, and community impact.

Eligibility
Applicants must meet several baseline requirements before submission; a selection committee reviews applications against these criteria. Preference is given to students with ties to Northeastern North Carolina, but this is not mandatory. Candidates must be enrolled in a college or university in the United States and maintain at least a 3.0 GPA (or international equivalent). The committee expects evidence of academic standing and engagement through submitted documentation.

**Key points:**
- Must be enrolled at a U.S. college or university.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 (or international equivalent) required.
- Preference for applicants with ties to Northeastern North Carolina.
- Applications are reviewed by a selection committee.

Desired Applicant
The ideal recipient combines solid academics with active involvement and leadership in campus or community organizations. The selection favors applicants who can demonstrate responsibility, initiative, and a record of contributing to groups or causes. Personal character and references that attest to professionalism and community engagement will strengthen an application. Applicants who can articulate how their experience connects to hospitality, community service, or regional ties are particularly competitive.

**Key points:**
- Demonstrated leadership in on- or off-campus organizations.
- Evidence of initiative and community contribution.
- Strong character and professional references recommended.
- Preference for applicants who connect their experience to hospitality or regional ties.

Application Materials
Applicants must submit a complete set of documents to be considered. Required items include a minimum 500-word essay on one of two specified topics, official college transcripts showing courses and current GPA, two reference letters (one character and one professional), and a professional resume. Essays should respond to either “What does family vacation mean to you?” or “How will the evolution of technology influence the hospitality industry?” and be original work.

**Key points:**
- Required: 500+ word essay on a specified topic.
- Required: Official transcripts showing courses and GPA.
- Required: Two letters of recommendation (one character, one professional).
- Required: Professional resume.

Application Timeline and Submission
Entries are currently being accepted for the Fall 2026 semester. Submit your name, contact information, completed application, and all required materials via email to scholarship@twiddy.com. If you have questions about eligibility or the application, contact the same email address for assistance. The selection committee will review timely and complete submissions; confirm any specific internal deadlines with scholarship@twiddy.com if needed.

**Key points:**
- Accepting applications for Fall 2026.
- Submit all materials to scholarship@twiddy.com.
- Use the same email for questions about eligibility or deadlines.
- Ensure submissions are complete and sent before any internal cutoff dates.