Recreational services student employee Virtuous Harris was named the P.J. Briggs Scholarship recipient at the department’s spring banquet.
The P.J. Briggs Scholarship, an award of $4,000, is given to a rising junior or senior who is involved in recreational services, who maintains a 2.5 grade point average or higher and who has a part-time job.
Ken Briggs, P.J.’s father, started the scholarship fund in memory of his son who lost his life in a car accident in 1993. P.J. went to UNC Charlotte, worked with and participated in intramural sports and was involved with Lambda Chi Alpha.
Harris is the eldest of seven children and the first female in her family to go to a four-year accredited university. While juggling a full course load, she works two part-time jobs to help support her education. “I applied for this scholarship to help me and my family,” said Harris.
Kemet Gatchell, assistant director for promotions and special events with recreational services, said, “Virtuous was chosen because of her outstanding essay and her devotion to intramural sports, sport clubs and fitness.”
Harris is an exercise science major who is minoring in public health; she anticipates graduating May 2015. In addition to working as a sports official for recreational services, she serves as a Niner Guide for incoming students. Harris is involved in the Minority Association for Premedical Students (MAPS) and the Sports Official Association, too.