Park Scholar Initiatives

Krispy Kreme Challenge

The Krispy Kreme Challenge is an annual tradition at NC State. The event, founded and led by Park Scholars, is a race that’s best described by the numbers: 5 miles, 12 donuts, 60 minutes or less.

However, the challenge is more than a gastric and physical endurance test. What started with 11 individuals has grown to approximately 8,000 participants annually. Since its inception in 2004, the event has raised more than $2 million for the North Carolina Children’s Hospital.

Service Raleigh

Service Raleigh is the largest student-coordinated service project in the Triangle. The event was first launched in 1998 as a collaboration between Park Scholarships and NC State Student Government. Service Raleigh has grown to include nearly 2,000 volunteers and generates approximately 6,000 hours of community service each year to benefit residents of the greater Wake County area. Projects range from labeling storm drains with the Neuse Riverkeeper Foundation to collecting and distributing food with the Inter-Faith Food Shuttle.

Park Under-Resourced Assistance

Started by Park Scholars in the Class of 2024, Park Under-Resourced Assistance (PURA) is available to help candidates through each phase of the selection process. PURA supports under-resourced applicants to NC State University and the Park Scholarships program by offering constructive essay feedback and advice throughout the interview process. Park Scholars invite under-resourced applicants to interact with the community and grow alongside Park Scholars.