Richard McIntyre Scholarship

Avery LaCount Awarded the Richard McIntyre Scholarship for Exemplary Leadership and Community Service

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Mooresville, NC – In recognition of her outstanding leadership, dedication to service, and commitment to making a meaningful difference in her community, Avery LaCount has been named the recipient of the prestigious Richard McIntyre Scholarship.

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The scholarship, awarded annually to a student who exemplifies the core values of public service, selflessness, and community leadership, honors the legacy of Chief Richard McIntyre—a lifelong firefighter and servant leader whose impact continues to inspire future generations.

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For Avery, those values have been a part of her life since childhood. In her scholarship recommendation essay, she vividly recounts formative memories of watching her father, a firefighter, spring into action at the sound of his emergency radio. Dressed in a Little Mermaid nightgown, coloring Disney princesses, she would watch as her father rushed out the door, lights flashing and sirens blaring, answering the call to serve. These moments left a lasting impression—planting the seeds of courage, service, and compassion that would later define her own character.

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“My father has taught me the importance of sacrifice and how meaningful it is to be a part of something bigger than myself,” Avery wrote. “Giving back to the community has always been an essential part of my life.”

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That sense of purpose has never wavered. Today, Avery serves as a pantry assistant, warehouse volunteer, and resource store worker at the Mooresville Area Christian Mission, where she supports local families in crisis. Whether stocking shelves or handing out food, Avery embraces every opportunity to help others—work she describes as both humbling and fulfilling.

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Her leadership extends beyond direct service. As a member of the National Honor Society, Avery was elected to two leadership positions—Treasurer and Head of the Community Service Committee. Opting for the latter, she chose to focus on what mattered most to her: creating change in her community. Under her guidance, her team has organized a relief drive for families impacted by Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina and collaborated with local nonprofits to expand volunteer opportunities for her peers.

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“Being able to genuinely and positively impact others' lives has been an excellent experience,” Avery shared. “I love helping my peers connect with things they’re passionate about.”

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Her drive, work ethic, and values are deeply rooted in the lessons passed down by her father. She credits him for showing her what it means to lead with humility, to serve with compassion, and to commit fully—no matter how small or large the task.

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“I strive daily to be as courageous, selfless, hardworking, and impactful as he is, and I will continue to do so for the rest of my life.”

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The Richard McIntyre Scholarship is awarded not only for academic promise but for a demonstrated history of service that aligns with Chief McIntyre’s lifelong dedication to community and leadership. Avery LaCount’s story—and her ongoing commitment to those around her—embodies those very ideals.

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As she prepares for the next chapter of her academic and personal journey, Avery carries with her the legacy of service modeled by her father, and now, the recognition of a scholarship that celebrates everything she stands for.

Congratulations, Avery. Your community is proud of you, and your future is bright.