RALEIGH - Two local students recently received scholarship support that honors their Patawomeck Tribe heritage. Siblings Della and Axel Eaves discovered and applied for the opportunity, which was sponsored with a grant from the national Black and Indian Mission Office.
According to its website, the organization gives to Catholic dioceses, schools and religious education programs to support the evangelization of African American, Native American and Alaska Native Communities.
The students attend St. Catherine of Siena Catholic School in Wake Forest. Axel, a rising 6th grader, recently won the state-level Daughters of the American Revolution essay contest, becoming both the first state winner from his district and the youngest winner ever. Della, a rising 8th grader, advanced through chapter and district levels in her own essay competition and was selected as an 8th grade graduation marshal at her school because of her academic performance.
Their mother, Kathleen Eaves, expressed deep gratitude for the scholarship program, which awarded $200 to each student to use toward tuition at a Catholic school in the Diocese of Raleigh.
She said that while the financial help is appreciated, what means the most is how the scholarship honors and remembers her family’s history.
"That meant more to us than we can say. It showed a true commitment to honoring Native descendants, especially families like ours who had to assimilate, while quietly trying to hold onto our traditions throughout the years,” Eaves said, adding that the tribe her family descends from, Patawomeck, has roots in the state of Virginia.
The scholarship experience has also strengthened the students’ connection to their faith community.
"Through this experience, they've really seen how the Catholic Church embraces and welcomes everyone," Eaves noted.
Beyond their academic achievements, both students are active in extracurricular pursuits, including sports. Della enjoys creating art, particularly pottery, while Axel has found success in chess, serving as captain of the undefeated St. Catherine of Siena chess team.
"This experience has also inspired them to find ways to give back, and they're more excited than ever to lead with kindness and generosity," Eaves said.
Looking ahead, the family plans to maintain their connection with the scholarship program and continue sharing updates on the students' progress.
Anna Bragg is the director of marketing and enrollment for the Office of Education in the Diocese of Raleigh.