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McCormick Celebrates Unsung Heroes with Scholarships

On May 14, 2026, McCormick & Company, a global leader in flavor, recognized exceptional student-athletes with the 2026 Unsung Heroes event. The ceremony held in the vibrant MT Bank Exchange at Baltimore's France-Merrick Performing Arts Center honored two remarkable individuals: Tempris Harrison from Frederick Douglass High School and Avery Ray from Franklin High School. Both students received the prestigious Charles Perry McCormick Scholarship, valued at $40,000 each over four years.

The Unsung Heroes program, which was initiated in 1940 by Charles P. McCormick Sr., aims to honor those student-athletes who contribute selflessly to their teams and school communities without seeking personal accolades. This year, over 100 nominees were recognized for their dedication and commitment to the ideal of teamwork.

The event featured keynote speaker Justin Forsett, a former running back for the Baltimore Ravens and a 9-time NFL Pro Bowl veteran. Forsett shared his inspiring journey, emphasizing the importance of resilience in overcoming adversity. He encouraged the audience to trust in their abilities, stating, "Greatness grows best in the shadows," reinforcing the significance of inner strength and perseverance.

Tempris Harrison's Journey

Tempris Harrison, a senior middle-distance runner and team captain, exemplifies the spirit of determination and resilience. Her athletic journey is a testament to her tenacity, as she faced various personal challenges, including family issues and changing schools. Despite these hardships, track became her sanctuary, helping her forge a strong sense of confidence and community. Competing in events such as the 400m and 800m, Tempris continuously prioritizes her team's success, often stepping in for relays on short notice, and taking the time to mentor younger athletes. Her leadership qualities and dedication make her a deserving recipient of the Unsung Hero award and the corresponding scholarship.

Avery Ray's Leadership and Service

Avery Ray's story is one of triumph over adversity. Restricted from contact sports due to personal challenges, Avery found his niche in the Allied program. He has made a name for himself as a four-year leader and state champion in bocce, while also competing in soccer and softball. With an impressive GPA of 4.2, Avery balances his schoolwork with part-time employment, tutoring responsibilities, and even hosts a podcast, all while contributing positively to his school community. His commitment to service and teamwork is an inspiring example of what it means to be an Unsung Hero.

Additional Scholarship Recipients

The ceremony also acknowledged four other students for their accomplishments. Kate Cabrera from Loch Raven High School and Tavon Brown from Reginald F. Lewis High School received $7,500 scholarships, while Bianca Crainiceanu from Baltimore Polytechnic Institute and Donte Harrison from Benjamin Franklin High School were awarded $5,000 scholarships. McCormick proudly congratulates all the 2026 Unsung Heroes for their remarkable achievements.

McCormick's Commitment to Empowerment

At its core, McCormick believes in the power of people, and through initiatives like the Unsung Heroes program, it continues to inspire the next generation of leaders. With a trademark portfolio that includes renowned brands such as McCormick, French’s, and OLD BAY, the company generates around $7 billion in sales annually across 150 countries. McCormick is dedicated to making life more flavorful by empowering individuals and communities. For more information about McCormick and its initiatives, visit www.mccormickcorporation.com or follow them on social media.

In conclusion, the McCormick Unsung Heroes event not only celebrated the achievements of student-athletes but also highlighted the essential values of selflessness, teamwork, and resilience that should be cherished in every community.