In a heartfelt tribute to her late parents, Amy Neal Bundy has initiated a scholarship aimed at nurturing the artistic talents of students at North Pointe Elementary School in Boone County.
Following the passing of her parents in 2021, Bundy, in collaboration with her family, established the Bingham-Neal Visual Arts and Musical Excellence Scholarship as a testament to her parents’ legacy and their unwavering passion for arts and music. Shirley Bingham Neal, a descendant of the family that owned the land where North Pointe Elementary now stands, and Ronald Neal, a self-employed insurance agent and a devoted musician, shared a deep-seated commitment to education and the arts.
The scholarship, which awards $1000 annually, is designed to assist students pursuing music and art endeavors. Open to current and former students of North Pointe Elementary, the scholarship prioritizes candidates demonstrating financial need, strong work ethic, and dedication to their artistic pursuits.
Bundy’s parents, who valued extracurricular activities as enriching supplements to formal education, instilled in their children a profound appreciation for the arts. Recognizing the financial barriers that may hinder students from pursuing their artistic passions, Bundy aims to alleviate these obstacles through the scholarship, enabling deserving students to access opportunities in music and visual arts.
Applicants for the scholarship are required to submit a letter outlining their financial need and describing their artistic talents, along with a performance video showcasing their skills. The scholarship funds can be utilized for various purposes, including college expenses, private lessons, instruments, art supplies, and performance-related costs.
Kelly Smith, Principal of North Pointe Elementary, underscores the transformative power of education and the significance of nurturing students’ talents. The scholarship winner will be announced at the school’s fifth-grade promotion ceremony on May 22, continuing the tradition of recognizing and supporting young artists.
Bundy hopes to raise awareness of the scholarship’s availability, ensuring that more students can benefit from its support and pursue their artistic aspirations. Reflecting on her family’s journey, Bundy emphasizes the profound impact of education and the potential to positively change lives through access to artistic opportunities.
