Dalton Leadership Scholarship

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Dalton Leadership Scholarship

A Scholarship for Charlotte High School students with the desire to lead.

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The Inspiration

The Dalton Leadership Scholarship was established in 2014 in honor of Rufus M. Dalton and his 90th birthday. From his service in World War II — where he earned a Bronze Star and Purple Heart for his heroic service — to his career as an entrepreneur, philanthropist, mission worker, Sunday school teacher, volunteer, role model, and pillar of our community, Rufus has been an inspiration to many.

He has supported countless worthy causes with his time, wisdom, and guidance, but perhaps his most profound influence has been his defining role and decades-long tenure on the Board of Directors of North Carolina Outward Bound School.

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The Award

This annual scholarship awards exemplary students an all-expenses-paid 9-, 14-, or 22-day wilderness course in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Courses are centered around backpacking and may also include rock climbing and/or whitewater canoeing.

The scholarship covers:

Course tuition
All technical gear (backpack, tarp, ropes, etc.)
A stipend for required clothing and footwear
Round-trip transportation

This course is completely free to recipients. The total experience is valued between $3,700 – $7,500. Students may select their top three course choices from several available summer dates.

The image shows a group of people hiking up a rocky trail. They are surrounded by lush greenery and large rock formations. The hikers are wearing backpacks and appear to be enjoying their outdoor adventure. The sky is overcast, suggesting a cloudy day.

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What the Course Experience Looks Like

Each day, students wake up to fresh mountain air and prepare to take on the day’s challenge, most often backpacking to a new campsite along rugged mountain trails. Depending on the course, students may also paddle whitewater rapids or climb rock faces under the guidance of skilled instructors. Along the way, students:

- Build navigation, campcraft, cooking, and outdoor living skills
- Practice Leave No Trace ethics
- Rotate leadership roles within their crew
- Share meals, responsibilities, stories, and challenges
- Participate in service projects that give back to the land

Through shared successes and setbacks, students develop resilience, teamwork, and confidence. By the end of the course, they leave with strengthened leadership skills, meaningful friendships, and a deeper understanding of themselves and others.

The image shows two people in a red canoe navigating a river with rapids. They are both wearing helmets and using paddles to steer the canoe. The water is turbulent, and the background features trees and rocks. The overall scene suggests an adventurous outdoor activity.

The image shows a group of young people gathered outdoors, likely engaged in a navigation or map-reading activity. They are clustered around a map spread on the ground, with some individuals pointing or examining it closely. The setting appears to be a grassy area, suggesting a recreational or educational context.

The image shows a group of people climbing a rock face. They are wearing helmets and harnesses for safety. The rock face is textured and appears to be outdoors. The climbers are focused on their ascent. The scene suggests an adventurous outdoor activity.

The image shows three young women sitting outdoors. They are smiling and appear to be enjoying themselves. They are holding bowls, possibly after a meal. The setting is a wooded area, suggesting they might be camping or on a nature outing.

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What Students Learn

Leadership skills, communication, and collaboration
How to navigate conflict and build group cohesion
Technical outdoor skills (camping, backpacking, cooking, navigation)
How to embrace challenge, develop resilience, and take healthy risks
Reflection and journaling to deepen personal insight

The image shows a group of people gathered near a stream in a natural setting. They appear to be on a hike or camping trip, with backpacks visible. Some individuals are sitting on rocks, while others are standing and interacting. The scene suggests a moment of rest or instruction amidst the outdoor activity.

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Eligibility

Eligible applicants must:
Be a current high school student (9th–12th grade)
Attend a Charlotte-Mecklenburg high school
Demonstrate a desire to lead and serve others

How to Apply

Step 1: Application

Complete the initial application using the link below. The application includes:

Student and parent information
Selection of top three course choices
Short-answer responses:
- - What interests you most about participating in an Outward Bound course?
  - How have you demonstrated leadership in a specific situation?

Step 2: Interview

After applications are reviewed, students will schedule an informal interview with the Charlotte Program Director or Partnership Manager. This conversation ensures students understand the course fully and have the opportunity to ask questions before moving forward.

Step 3: Medical Paperwork

Students will receive access to their student portal via email. The portal includes required medical forms that must be completed and reviewed by the NCOBS Medical Examiner to secure a course spot.

Step 4: Preparation

Once medically cleared, students will access a detailed course information page within their portal, including packing lists and course logistics.

Students will work with the Charlotte Program Director and Partnership Manager to identify needed clothing items and receive any necessary gear support before the course begins.

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Ready to Apply?

Click Here to Complete Your Application

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Questions?

Please reach out!

Alexys J. Woods

Phone: 704.498.4353

Email: [email protected]

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