NCPBA Scholarship Recipient Lucy Yopp

Feb 28, 2024

By Cindy Baugher

Lucy Yopp, who was recently awarded a scholarship from the Police Benevolent Foundation (PBF) for North Carolina, calls herself “lucky enough to grow up near the beach,” in Hampstead, North Carolina. As a complement to her years spent growing up with year-round access to the natural beauty of the beach, she has chosen to attend college at Appalachian State University in the Blue Ridge mountains of Boone, North Carolina.  App State was her choice because of its “excellent reputation and beautiful location.” With her major being communication sciences and disorders, she hopes to study speech therapy and eventually embark on a service-oriented career like speech or occupational therapy. 

Lucy Yopp pictured with her parents on a visit to Appalachian State

Born and raised in Hampstead, Lucy and her younger brother are children of parents in service-oriented professions as well. Her father works as a NC Marine Patrol Captain, overseeing officers in the southern district of NC and enforcing environmental laws regarding commercial and recreational fishing. He previously worked as an officer with the Surf City police department. As a NC Marine Patrol Officer, Lucy says her dad has “served as a strong example of assisting others, helping in the community, and working to create a better world for the future.” It is his membership in the PBA that qualified her to apply for the scholarship offered by the PBF. Lucy’s mother is a high school teacher who works with students who have mild to moderate disabilities. She is also actively involved in her church. Lucy calls her family the greatest influence in her life because they have taught her the importance of acts of service.

Lucy graduated from Topsail High School in June of 2023 with a list of accomplishments from her time in high school under her belt. She participated in the National Honor Society, Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA), and the Topsail Smile Club. She also developed her personal leadership skills through college coursework, HOSA competitions, and on the lacrosse field. All of these things set her apart as a deserving scholarship winner.

Lucy Yopp at her high school graduation showing her App State school spirit

Lucy enjoys surfing and painting when she finds herself with free time. And when asked to share something unusual about herself, she said, “I saved enough money to pay off my car before going to college.” In meeting that goal of paying off her car, it is clear that Lucy is wisely looking towards her future. Being awarded this scholarship is a step in the right direction. She says, “I am honored to be the recipient of the PBF Scholarship. As I pursue my studies and potential career in communication sciences, this funding will enable me to spend more of my time in service learning and volunteering.”

State Law Enforcement Chapter (NCPBA) Secretary Neal Ward presents Lucy Yopp’s scholarship check