Special to IFN
The Falconer Foundation, a Mooresville-based nonprofit organization serving Iredell County, has awarded a $10,000 scholarship to Gowri Nair.
This is the fourth consecutive year that the foundation has helped a local student achieve their higher education goal. The Foundation, established in 2020, grants scholarships on an annual basis to high school seniors enrolled in either Iredell-Statesville Schools or the Mooresville Graded School District.
Nair, a graduate of Lake Norman High School, was awarded the 2025 Falconer Foundation scholarship. She is currently attending Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) and is passionately pursuing graduate studies in creative fields. In preparation, she took multiple AP courses in high school and completed two courses at SCAD during summer 2024 as part of SCAD’s rising star program.
“I aspire to build a career that leverages my strengths in creative thinking and craftsmanship,” Nair said. “I am appreciative of the opportunity that the Falconer Foundation has provided in assisting me achieve my goals.”
Made possible by sponsors, individual donations, and the efforts of the Foundation’s Board, the Falconer Foundation has bestowed a total of $40,000 in scholarships to date.
Scholarships are awarded on an annual basis and the funds may be used for higher education opportunities or the pursuit of a certified trade. Each year, interest surveys are made available to candidates in January via school counselors and the Falconer Foundation website. Three finalists are then chosen in March to submit their portfolio applications which are reviewed by the Board and the recipient chosen in May.
“We received the highest number of applicants in 2025 which was extremely exciting for us,” said Falconer Foundation Director Cortney Frasier. “We treat our award selection process with extreme care. The student chosen must demonstrate a proven commitment to arts and service, and a confirmed desire to persist in their endeavors. There are so many deserving students; we look forward to continuing to grow the opportunities we can offer.”
“The donations we receive make a substantial and direct impact on a local student’s future,” said Dennis Cowardin, chairman of the Falconer Foundation. “I cannot express how rewarding it is to assist these remarkable young students in continuing their commendable chosen path and achieve their higher education aspirations. Our sincere appreciation goes out to our local community for the support.”
Benefit Concert
Benefit concerts held in April and October of each year, since 2021, help maintain community engagement and continue to be successful. The next event is scheduled for October 18 from 3 to 6 p.m. at College Street Studios in Downtown Mooresville. The concert features live music by Coddle Creek and food and drinks for purchase by local entrepreneurs. The event is free and open to the public; donations are encouraged and are 100% tax deductible.
LEARN MORE
Find out more about the Falconer Foundation at falconerfoundation.org.