Marine Corps presents award to Parkway North-High School senior

Photo By Cpl. Stanley Cao | Kelley Bell, Parkway North High School senior, poses for a photo after being presented the Excellence in Leadership Award a luncheon for graduating seniors during the 40th Annual National Society of Black Engineers Convention luncheon for graduating seniors at the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center in Nashville, Tenn., March 28, 2014.The National Society of Black Engineers, founded in 1971, increased the number of culturally responsible black engineers who excel academically and positively impact the community. This is the fourth year the Marine Corps has partnered with NSBE. The United States Marine Corps also recognizes this event as a valuable opportunity to foster positive relationships with members, share the Marine story, demonstrate enthusiasm for the Corps and reinforce the idea of the armed services as a viable career option within the African American Community. There are currently 21,000 African American men and women serving in the United States Marine Corps, making up approximately 10% of the force. (Photo by Lance Cpl. Stanley Cao)  

ST. LOUIS, MO, UNITED STATES

03.31.2014

Story by Lance Cpl. Stanley Cao 

6th Marine Corps District

ST. LOUIS - Parkway North-High School senior Kelley Bell was presented the Marine Corps “Excellence in Leadership Award”, at the National Society of Black Engineers 40th Annual Convention in Nashville, Tenn., March 28, 2014.

The National Society of Black Engineers is a nonprofit association dedicated to the academic and professional success of black engineering and technical students and professionals. The organization is comprised of more than 400 chapters and 23,000 collegiate and professional members.

During a luncheon for graduating seniors, Bell was recognized by the Marine Corps for her academic success and impact she has made in her community.

“I was shocked when I was presented the award”, said Bell. “It was unexpected but I am grateful that I received the award.”

The St. Louis native has won multiple awards and honors from the Parkway School District and was one of two high school juniors in Missouri to participate in Washington University’s Advanced Summer Program for Investigation and Research Education.

The Marine Corps is in its fourth year of partnering with NSBE. There are currently 21,000 African American men and women serving in the United States Marine Corps, making up approximately 10% of the total force. The Corps hopes to use the partnership to reach men and women like Bell and NSBE members in an effort to foster relationships that gear toward the professional success of African Americans as it continues to build leaders and attract qualified African Americans.

After graduation, Bell’s goal is get a bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering and to attend medical school so she can become a radiologist.

“I hope with my engineering degree that I will be able to make better medical devices that will detect illness and diseases through X-rays”, said Bell.

• Date Taken: 03.31.2014
• Date Posted: 03.31.2014 11:18
• Story ID: 123301
• Location: ST. LOUIS, MO, US