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August 20, 2025 by Hilary Jenison (photos provided)
Hingham’s Charlie Inglis, an environmental contributor for the Hingham Anchor, is already making his mark as a writer, athlete, musician, and advocate for the environment. Now, the seventh grader has earned national recognition as one of just 54 finalists for the Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship (CDB), awarded by the Institute for Educational Advancement (IEA).
The scholarship, one of the nation’s most prestigious honors for gifted seventh graders, offers a full four-year high school scholarship to selected recipients, along with mentorship and individualized educational support.
For those who know Charlie, the recognition comes as little surprise. Since age nine, he has served as the Hingham Anchor’senvironmental contributor, writing articles on issues he cares deeply about, including recycling, sustainability, and endangered species. His work has helped raise awareness in the community while giving him an early voice in local journalism.
“The application process was very rigorous,” Charlie explained. “As part of my application, I wrote several essays on topics important to me, filled out a detailed application form, and submitted videos of myself playing the piano (including at a Hingham Unity Council event). My ‘work sample’ was one of the articles I’d written recently for theAnchor! SAT scores were also part of the application; I took the SAT at Hingham High School, which was a new experience.”
Despite the challenges of the process, Charlie said the experience was rewarding.
“It was a great opportunity to reflect on my life so far and learn more about who I am and what I care about,” he said. “It feels amazing to be recognized in this way. I feel fortunate and extremely happy to be included in such a prestigious group of kids from across the country. I’m so grateful to IEA for providing this opportunity. I’m also incredibly thankful for the neverending support of my parents, family, and teachers, without whom I wouldn’t have reached this point. I have a lot of goals and I want to make an impact on the world, specifically the environment. So this recognition and opportunity is a great way to help me achieve my dreams. And lastly, I’d like to thank Mrs. Jenison for the chance to contribute to the Anchor over the past four years!”
Charlie’s curiosity and commitment to making a difference have been clear since he was young, according to his parents, Lizzie and Adam Inglis.
“It is incredibly exciting to watch Charlie grow and pursue the things he cares about,” they said. “He’s always been passionate and driven, and thrives on a challenge, whether it’s a student council election or a Model UN conference. He’s been trying to make the world a better place since he was little, and we’re so proud of everything he’s accomplished and continues to achieve.”
The moment they learned Charlie had been named a finalist was unforgettable.
“Our family is beyond grateful to the Institute for Educational Advancement for recognizing Charlie as a Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship Finalist. We all jumped up and down with excitement when we were notified. The chance to be considered for this life-changing scholarship is a dream come true. Charlie has worked very hard to reach this point, and no matter what happens next, we’re deeply proud of him.”
The Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship, established in 2002, is the only national, need-blind, merit-based scholarship for gifted seventh graders in the United States. Each year, hundreds of applicants submit extensive portfolios including essays, transcripts, test scores, recommendations, and work samples. From this competitive pool, a select group of finalists is chosen; scholarship winners will be announced this fall.
In addition to full tuition at an optimally matched high school, recipients benefit from mentorship and counseling through IEA. Even finalists who are not named scholars receive a $1,000 award to support their academic development and access to IEA’s Yunasasummer camp, which brings together gifted students from across the country.
As Charlie awaits the final decision, he remains focused on the passions that brought him here: writing, soccer, music, environmental advocacy, and just having a fun summer with his family and friends.
For Hingham, his recognition is a point of pride — and a glimpse at the potential of a young local leader determined to make an impact far beyond his hometown. We are rooting for you Charlie and know you’ll do big things always making Hingham and your parents proud!
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