Desire for service, global education has guided Elon experience for Ineaa Gray ’25

A recipient of the prestigious Edward W. Doherty and Joan K. Doherty Odyssey Scholarship, Gray '25 serves communities both at home and abroad.

Inea Gray ’25 abroad

Ineaa Gray ’25 began her time at Elon focused on service, earning herself a spot on the service honor roll last year for her work in developing an alternative break trip to Washington, D.C, as well as tutoring through the Boys and Girls Club.

Gray gained valuable life lessons from planning the alternative break trip. “What I learned and intentionally drilled into our team was that service is not about self-idolization,” Gray said. “Behave in humility in serving as part of a giving whole. We worked alongside strangers who became neighbors in our uniting vision to serve the community.”

Service is a valued part of Gray’s life. “Serving is simply something I love to do,” she said. “I believe it’s a staple activity for loving cohesive communities. A community that gives amongst itself and to others is a strong one, in my opinion. It’s bold and brave and even rebellious to preserve a cycle of giving because it takes no effort at all to rest in the mindset of taking.”

Gray is also a part of the International Business Dual Degree Program. As a part of this program, Gray is spending the final two years of college at NEOMA Business School in Reims, France. “After having a home in France for two academic years, I think the sky isn’t even the limit anymore,” she adds. “To live a life where you constantly prove to yourself that you can do whatever you put your mind to is exceptional.”

Her hard work at Elon and abroad has not gone unnoticed. In recognition for her dedication to service and education Gray received the endowed Edward W. Doherty and Joan K. Doherty Odyssey Scholarship, allowing her to maximize her Elon experience. Endowed scholarships are a testament to Gray’s exemplary qualities, as they are often awarded to students who exhibit exemplary leadership, service, and scholastic merit.

Thus, this scholarship not only signifies Gray’s academic prowess but also highlights her exceptional character and contributions to the university community. It also speaks volumes about her commitment to excellence and underscores her potential to make a significant impact in her future endeavors.