Introducing the 2025 Amanda Ireland Ward Scholarship Recipients

Each year, the Amanda Ireland Ward Scholarship gives us a chance to pause and celebrate young people in our community who reflect the values Mandy Ward carried with her every day—service, leadership, and compassion. This year, we’re proud to recognize two outstanding Guilford County graduates: La’Tierra Potts and Chloe Mark.

La’Tierra Potts, a graduate of James Benson Dudley Early College Academy, is heading to UNC Charlotte to study Pre-Nursing. As a first-generation college student, La’Tierra has shown remarkable dedication both inside and outside the classroom. She served as vice president of her school’s Student Government Association, is a member of the National Honor Society and CTE National Honor Society, and has volunteered her time with Cone Health and various school and community initiatives. Working as a Certified Nursing Assistant has only strengthened her passion for healthcare and fueled her long-term goal of becoming a pediatrician.

Chloe Mark, a graduate of Grimsley High School, will also attend UNC Charlotte, where she plans to major in Meteorology. For Chloe, studying the weather isn’t just an academic interest—it’s been a longtime dream. When touring UNC Charlotte, she felt an immediate connection with the campus and knew it was where she wanted to take her next steps. Chloe is looking forward to building new friendships, growing as a person, and diving deeper into her studies in climate and atmospheric science.

The Amanda Ireland Ward Scholarship was established in memory of Mandy Ward, a cherished advocate with the Kellin Foundation and lead coordinator of the Greensboro Child Response Initiative. Mandy’s sudden passing in 2016 left a lasting void in the lives of many, but her legacy lives on through programs like this scholarship and the Smiles for Miles Fun Run at Shea’s Chase, both of which carry forward her spirit of encouragement, community, and care for others. Each scholarship is a small but meaningful way to continue the work she loved—supporting young people with a heart for service and a drive to lead.

We’re honored to support La’Tierra and Chloe as they begin this next chapter and look forward to seeing all they will accomplish.