First Bone Scholars begin classes

N.C. State University’s first Bone Scholars began taking classes with the beginning of the 2010 fall semester.

The Bone Scholars program was created by Dale and Genia Bone, who established an endowment that will provide scholarships to migrant farm workers and their families. The first three Bone Scholars are Omar Acosta and Guadalupe Arce-Jimenez, both of Johnston County, and Stephanie Knowles of Henderson County.

All three are first-year students. Acosta and Arce-Jimenez plan to major in biological sciences, and both hope to attend medical school following graduation. Knowles will major in animal science and hopes to be a veterinarian. Acosta, Arce-Jimenez and Knowles will receive scholarships of up to $5,000 per year for four years totaling up to $20,000.

Dale Bone, now retired, is known as one of North Carolina’s most successful agricultural businessmen. Under the banners of Dale Bone Farms Inc. and Nash Produce Co., he farmed more than 14,000 acres, producing cucumbers, melons, sweet potatoes, other produce and tobacco. He also distinguished himself as an advocate for agribusiness among local, state and national policymakers. He is a past president of the National Council of Agricultural Employers.

A College of Agriculture and Life Sciences graduate, Bone stressed the importance of education to his employees and supported their efforts to become better educated. He paid tuition plus hourly wages to employees who attended English classes at Nash Community College.

The Bones and the three Bone Scholars were honored at a June 19 luncheon held at the N.C. State University Club. The event was attended by CALS Dean Johnny Wynne, Dr. Ken Esbenshade, associate dean and director of Academic Programs, Keith Oakley, executive director for college advancement; Dr. Bill Collins, CALS senior director of development, Dr. Lisa Guion, assistant dean for diversity, outreach and engagement; and Bone Scholar family members.

— Dave Caldwell