Dolly Parton graduated from Sevier County High School in the Class of 1964. For Dolly, who came from a large family, working hard just to make ends meet, this was a major achievement. And although high school could be challenging at times with many classmates thinking she was "a little different", her dreams were too big to hold her back. She was blessed with close friends, a loving family, a generous heart, and a great big dream to become a country music star.

The day after she graduated from high school, she boarded a bus to Nashville to pursue her dream. Since that day in 1964, she has become one of most well-known—and loved—celebrities in the world. Sometimes lost in the glamour of stardom is her enormous talent as a singer, writer, and actress. Along with this natural talent, she has developed and nurtured an incredible work ethic that, even today, few can match.

Dolly has always tried to give back to her beloved Sevier County—whom she frequently refers to as “her people”. In August, 2000, SCHSAA and Dolly announced the creation of The Dolly Parton Scholarship for Sevier County High School. Now, with the support of other local Sevier County organizations, this lucrative and prestigious Dolly Parton Scholarship is also awarded to a student in the remaining 4 counties: Pigeon Forge , Seymour, Northview Academy and Gatlinburg-Pittman High Schools.

The $15,000 Dolly Parton Scholarship is given to a student that displays the same character and determination as Dolly did when she started out on her journey in life to Dream More, Learn More, Care More & Be More.