GREENEVILLE, Tenn. — He risked his life to save others during Hurricane Helene—now, Boone McCrary’s legacy is saving futures through a nursing scholarship created in his honor.
Boone McCrary was found several days after Helene in a creek that feeds into the Nolichucky River in Greeneville. According to the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, McCrary, his girlfriend and his dog launched a boat onto the river. The boat was swept into a bridge and capsized, throwing them into the water.
Family members said he had gone out onto the water to try to help people. It was later confirmed that he lost his life while attempting to save David Boutin.
Now, his legacy of compassion and bravery will live on through the Boone McCrary, RN Memorial Scholarship.
Created by the Ballad Health Foundation, the scholarship honors McCrary’s commitment to nursing as his second profession and his sacrifice. According to Ballad Health, more than $55,000 came from t-shirt sales designed to celebrate his life and service.
“Hurricane Helene was an unimaginably hard time for our region, especially for those of us who knew Boone,” Eric Carroll, chief executive officer of Greeneville Community Hospital, said. “I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who bought a t-shirt. I see them everywhere in our community, and it serves as a reminder to Boone’s legacy of compassion and how many people are committed to carrying that legacy forward.”
The Boone McCrary, RN Memorial Scholarship gives full financial support for an Associate’s Degree in nursing, covering tuition, school-related expenses and an additional stipend (less any other scholarships or grants). To be eligible, applicants must live in the Appalachian Highlands and commit to working for Ballad Health after graduation.
“It is absolutely stunning that our community banded together in the face of so much loss to contribute to this cause,” Jack Simpson, president of Ballad Health Foundation, said. “The generosity of our community members will enable future nurses to pursue their dreams and make a difference, just like Boone did.”
Applications are open and are being accepted through July 1. When applying, applicants should have a resume, two reference letters and a college acceptance letter.
To apply, visit balladhealth.org/scholarships. You can also learn more about the scholarship or donate here.
For more information, call 423-302-3299 or email recruitment@balladhealth.org.
To stream WBIR on your phone, you need the WBIR app.
Next up in 5
Example video title will go here for this video
Next up in 5
Example video title will go here for this video
In Other News
