New Hope-Solebury Senior Earns NROTC Full-Tuition Scholarship

At the conclusion of the school year, United States Navy Petty Officer Austin Boone visited New Hope-Solebury High School to recognize graduating senior Emma Ives, who received a 4-year Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) Scholarship to attend Virginia Tech next year. Emma will join Virginia Tech’s Corps of Cadets program, a longstanding and distinctive NROTC program and a great source of pride for the Virginia Tech community.

The NROTC selection process is rigorous, and the students who earn the scholarships have demonstrated outstanding academic credentials, physical fitness, leadership potential, unwavering integrity, and a willingness to serve our nation. Emma’s scholarship includes four years of full tuition, books, educational fees, and a monthly allowance. It is valued at more than $180,000.

Emma shared that she has always respected those who serve our country. She reflected, “My dad was in the US Coast Guard, both my grandparents served in the Navy, and my sister is currently participating in the NROTC program…I think it is a selfless quality to be able to put others’ lives in front of your own.”

When asked about the opportunities in her New Hope-Solebury experience that have prepared her for the NROTC program, she credits her service as the team captain for basketball and lacrosse. “Being part of a team is a huge part of who I am and helped me develop my leadership skills. I believe my teammates elected me as captain because I am composed and logical in tough situations and because I act boldly in all aspects of my life. Athletics was a source of inspiration for applying for NROTC, and I think those experiences have prepared me for the Corps of Cadets program.”

Upon her graduation, Emma will be commissioned as an officer in the United States Navy and has committed to five years of military service. She will be prepared, alongside her fellow cadets, to operate the world’s most technologically advanced weapon systems as ship and submarine drivers, jet and helicopter aviators, and special forces operators. Following her military career, Emma plans to attend dental school and pursue her aspirations to become an orthodontist.