Introducing the 2028 Class of Centennial Scholars

Passionate. Driven. Ready to lead.

These inspiring qualities define 10 of North Carolina’s brightest high school students, who have proudly enrolled at NC State’s Wilson College of Textiles thanks to the prestigious Centennial Scholarship Program.

By providing crucial funding, the Centennial Scholarship Program is making it possible for these outstanding young scholars to pursue their dreams at the globe’s leading textile institution — without the overwhelming financial burden that often accompanies higher education. Students aren’t only supported during their academic journey, but they’re also given the platform to ignite innovation and become leaders in the textile industry. 

In this milestone year, the Centennial Scholarship Program celebrates its 25th anniversary by welcoming 10 students from eight cities across North Carolina. These scholars bring diverse perspectives and a shared passion for textiles to the Wilson College of Textiles, where they will benefit from unparalleled educational opportunities, dedicated mentors and the extraordinary benefits of the Wilson for Life network. 

Donors fuel the Centennial Scholarship Program

Established to celebrate the Wilson College’s 100th anniversary in 1999, the Centennial Scholarship Program provides merit-based scholarships to exceptional incoming students. Generous donations from the college’s vast network of supporters — including alumni, industry partners, faculty, staff and friends — through the North Carolina Textile Foundation make this vital scholarship program possible. 

Centennial Scholars receive a four-year scholarship totaling up to $22,000 in funding each year. The support students receive doesn’t stop there. Centennial Scholars are allocated an additional $7,500 in enrichment funding to make the most of their college experience. Students typically use these funds to study and intern abroad, participate in leadership programs and explore various career opportunities. 

“Celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Centennial Scholarship Program is a testament to the incredible impact of our donors’ unwavering support,” David Hinks, dean of the Wilson College of Textiles, remarks. “Their generosity has propelled this critical scholarship program forward, allowing our college to attract the nation’s top minds who will become the visionary leaders of the textile industry.”

Meet the 2028 Class of Centennial Scholars

Now, it’s time to meet the 2028 class of Centennial Scholars and learn more about their plans for NC State and beyond.

Click on the links below to be introduced to each student.

• Lillian Blankenship — Jacques Weber Centennial Scholarship
• Jala Daye — Kahn Centennial Scholarship
• Isabelle Grimes — Jeter & Phillis Brawley Centennial Scholarship
• Audrey Kim — National Knitwear Manufacturers Centennial Scholarship
• Brownley King — W. Duke Kimbrell Centennial Scholarship
• Addison Lew — American Enka Centennial Scholarship
• Owen Minogue — Cornelson Centennial Scholarship
• Samuel Nixon — Robert E. Smith Centennial Scholarship
• Mary Susan Rideout — John Copeland Centennial Scholarship
• Aayushi Shah — Boggs Centennial Scholarship

Lillian Blankenship

Jacques Weber Centennial Scholarship
Hometown: Wilmington, North Carolina
Major: B.S. Fashion and Textile Management, Brand Management and Marketing Concentration

During Lillian Blankenship’s childhood, she moved from Wilmington, North Carolina, to live in Sofia, Bulgaria, from age eight to 13 for her mother’s job.

That formative experience instilled a deep sense of empathy in Blankenship, along with a global perspective. Her family’s travels across Europe, Africa and Asia opened her eyes to diverse perspectives, shaping her creative mindset and inspiring her love for cross-cultural fashion.

“I have always been a creative-minded individual, participating in visual arts, performing arts and any form of digital media creation,” Blankenship says. “Alongside this trait, I always showed an interest in clothes, often giving my mom elaborate fashion shows in her closet. It wasn’t until I had been working on my own small business, selling handmade jewelry and upcycled clothes, that I realized my calling to be in fashion marketing.”

Why did you choose to attend the Wilson College of Textiles?

Attending the Wilson College of Textiles will provide me with a comprehensive understanding of various facets of the textile industry, equipping me with a unique knowledge base specific to this institution. Armed with this information, I will effectively market for brands while conforming with the principles of sustainability. I am committed to leaving the Wilson College equipped with innovative approaches to address environmental concerns and enhance the overall quality of life within the fashion sector.

What has scholarship support enabled you to do that you may not have been able to do without it?

The support from this scholarship will provide financial relief for my family, allowing me to take advantage of opportunities that I wouldn’t have been able to pursue. I would like to spend a semester studying abroad, participate in unique internship opportunities and attend seminars on sustainable marketing.

What are your professional goals or post-graduation plans, and how will your scholarship impact those goals?

I aspire to work for a retail brand managing marketing campaigns and integrating sustainable marketing into the company’s practices. I hope to enter the workforce and make a change with my unique education from the Wilson College of Textiles. This scholarship will open doors for learning opportunities, internships and industry connections that will forever impact the course of my career.

If you could say anything to the individuals who made your scholarship possible, what would you say to thank them for their generosity?

I am eternally grateful to the Jacques Weber Foundation for the support this scholarship is providing, and I am extremely appreciative of the Wilson College of Textiles’ ambitions to aid their students in this way. I am thrilled to take advantage of the unique opportunities I will experience as a Centennial Scholar and grow as a young professional surrounded by the encouraging community at the college.

Jala Daye

Kahn Centennial Scholarship
Hometown: Lewisville, North Carolina
Major: B.S. Polymer and Color Chemistry, Medical Sciences Concentration

Sparked by her visits to Disney World and the characters’ elaborate costumes, Jala Daye has been captivated by fashion since childhood. 

After taking chemistry and textile apparel classes in high school, her interest has expanded into a deep fascination with the science behind fashion. Daye’s participation in the Summer Textile Exploration Program (STEP) solidified her decision to join the Wilson College of Textiles, where she looks forward to delving into both fashion and scientific research.

“I’m extremely excited to get involved in the Wilson College of Textiles and learn about textiles through the lens of polymer and color chemistry,” Daye says. “I’m so thankful to my donor for this scholarship, which opens doors to internships and studying abroad. It also alleviates the financial stress of college. With this support, I plan to explore costumes through the Disney College Program and investigate the applications of polymer chemistry in forensics.”

Why did you choose to attend the Wilson College of Textiles?

The summer before my senior year, I attended STEP. This program allowed me to experience the Wilson College of Textiles and see that there was a major — polymer and color chemistry — that aligned with my interests. I chose the Wilson College of Textiles because of the amazing environment I experienced, their polymer and color chemistry major, and the pathways they offer to help me in both college and my professional career. I am extremely excited to get involved in the Wilson College of Textiles and cannot wait to learn about textiles through the lens of polymer and color chemistry.

What has scholarship support enabled you to do that you may not have been able to do without it?

With the generous support of this scholarship, I can research more about textiles through study abroad opportunities that will enrich my understanding of the different ways textiles can be applied. With this scholarship, I will have the opportunity to complete research and figure out how polymer chemistry can be used to help others. The scholarship provides me with the chance to complete this study abroad and research without having to worry about jobs and finances, which in addition will give me more time to volunteer and interact with my community.

What are your professional goals or post-graduation plans, and how will your scholarship impact those goals?

While I have been leaning toward mixing textiles with forensics, I cannot wait to see the many possibilities and doors that can open as a polymer and color chemistry major in the Wilson College of Textiles. This generous scholarship will have a huge impact on me achieving whichever career I choose as my education will allow me to integrate forensics into polymer chemistry while also learning what other paths there are for me professionally.

If you could say anything to the individuals who made your scholarship possible, what would you say to thank them for their generosity?

I am beyond thankful to my donor for this extensive scholarship. Your generosity allows me to pursue my goals and gain a once-in-a-lifetime experience that only the Wilson College of Textiles can offer. NC State already feels like home to me and like a place where I can truly thrive. I am genuinely so excited to start my path in the world of textiles, and I am so grateful because I know that I wouldn’t get this experience without you. Thank you for believing in me and allowing me to further my education in such a one-of-a-kind program that matches my interests and career goals perfectly.

Isabelle Grimes

Jeter & Phillis Brawley Centennial Scholarship
Hometown: Holly Springs, North Carolina
Major: B.S. Textile Engineering

Isabelle Grimes has always had a natural curiosity for the world around her and a passion for hands-on STEM activities — from designing robotic systems to exploring research opportunities, she has embraced it all. 

Her involvement in various extracurriculars during high school, including a robotics team and a university-level summer research internship, fueled her desire to combine creative, hands-on work with more technical engineering studies.

“I have always had a deep love of learning. Being a very hands-on person who loves STEM, I know that becoming an engineer is the best choice to suit my interests,” Grimes says. “I am passionate about textile engineering because this major combines the artistic application of textile materials with the scientific technology built around it.”

Why did you choose to attend the Wilson College of Textiles?

I quickly fell in love with the Wilson College of Textiles because of its small, supportive community, its focus on new and innovative technologies and the many opportunities it offers textile students. The field of textiles intrigued me because of the numerous applications of this technology. I am especially interested in electronic textiles and researching textile sustainability. I am excited to attend the Wilson College of Textiles as it will give me the resources, community and knowledge required to build my professional skills and be successful in my career.

What has scholarship support enabled you to do that you may not have been able to do without it?

The support I gain from my Centennial Scholarship will be invaluable. It will give me access to unique resources, meaningful experiences and a community that can help me further my education and professional skills. The financial support it offers will allow me to focus entirely on my education and give me more time to apply myself to other activities, such as community service and extracurriculars. I am also thrilled that this scholarship will provide me with the connections and opportunities to participate in internships and study abroad programs.

What are your professional goals or post-graduation plans, and how will your scholarship impact those goals?

While at the Wilson College of Textiles and throughout my career, I hope to contribute to developing new textile technologies to benefit our world, become a female leader in the textile industry and help inspire others.

While participating in TexTEC Camp last summer, I helped conduct an experiment studying how fabrics made with natural versus synthetic fibers degrade in different substances, which showed me how dangerous manufactured textiles can be to the environment. After learning about the Wilson College’s dedication to this effort, I’ve become passionate about this subject and hope to learn about and contribute to this groundbreaking research. Becoming a Centennial Scholar gives me access to resources and connections that I can use to learn more about this topic and become involved in internships and other programs where I can study and research the properties of different textile materials and how they affect the environment.

If you could say anything to the individuals who made your scholarship possible, what would you say to thank them for their generosity?

I am beyond grateful for this scholarship and all the resources it will provide for me at the Wilson College of Textiles. Thank you for giving me this scholarship and the opportunity to live out my passion for textiles and provide me with this financial relief that will allow me to focus more on my studies and education. I plan to use this scholarship’s resources to participate in internships and study abroad experiences, to conduct research that will benefit the textile industry and to live up to the high hopes and expectations granted to me as a Centennial Scholar.

Audrey Kim

National Knitwear Manufacturers Centennial Scholarship
Hometown: Pinehurst, North Carolina
Major: B.S. Textile Engineering

Audrey Kim has always thrived in supportive, close-knit communities — a quality she cherished during her time at a small high school. 

Her initial concerns about attending a larger university were put to rest after her experience with the Summer Textile Exploration Program (STEP), where she immediately felt welcomed and reassured about her place at Wilson College of Textiles.

“My time with STEP last summer reassured me that I wouldn’t feel overwhelmed,” Kim says. “I immediately felt welcomed and became more familiar with NC State as a whole. Joining the textile engineering group provided me with an in-depth exploration of textiles beyond just fashion. After engaging with Wilson College researchers and learning about their diverse projects, I knew I’d be applying. I am especially excited to be pursuing medical textiles.”

What extracurricular activities did you take part in during high school?

During my time in high school, I was involved in many clubs and organizations such as the Honor Council, Science Olympiad, Model UN and the International Club. Outside of school, an incredibly important extracurricular to me was serving as a golf coach for First Tee, a youth development organization that teaches golf, among other life skills, to various communities.

What has scholarship support enabled you to do that you may not have been able to do without it?

Scholarship support will enable me to freely broaden my educational experience around the world. I plan to dedicate more time to studying and pursuing opportunities that will expand my worldview, such as studying abroad. While I’m at NC State, I would love to spend at least one semester in Asia to diversify my understanding of textile engineering.

What are your professional goals or post-graduation plans, and how will your scholarship impact those goals?

I don’t know what my post-graduation plans look like at the moment, but I very much appreciate that the Centennial Scholarship opens up options for me after my time at NC State. I’m no longer compelled to immediately pursue ways to address my undergraduate debt. I can now look towards attending graduate school or pursuing employment that involves more risk or personal fulfillment.

I do know that I want to work within the world of medicine. The opportunities the Centennial Scholarship offers while I’m at NC State will help me narrow down an area of interest within medical textiles.

If you could say anything to the individuals who made your scholarship possible, what would you say to thank them for their generosity?

When I heard the news I received the scholarship, I was ecstatic to know I had been selected for this opportunity. After my time at STEP last summer, I fell in love with the close-knit community at the Wilson College of Textiles and its genuine passion for student success by providing unwavering support. I understand how important these scholarships are in relieving financial stress for students so we can focus on the more important aspects of our educational experience. Thank you so much, and I’m incredibly excited to spend the next few years with the Wilson College of Textiles!

Brownley King

W. Duke Kimbrell Centennial Scholarship
Hometown: Wilmington, North Carolina
Major: B.S. Polymer and Color Chemistry

Brownley King knew from the moment she discovered the Wilson College of Textiles that it was the perfect fit for her ambitions. 

Being part of the small, supportive Wilson College of Textiles community within the larger NC State environment greatly appeals to her. What really captivates her, though, is the innovative spirit that permeates the college.

“When I learned about Dr. Tova Williams’s sustainable dye research and Dr. Sonja Salmon’s work using enzymes to separate cotton and polyester blends for recycling purposes, I became fascinated,” King says. “These solutions to environmental problems are extremely innovative, and I knew this program was the perfect fit for me and my goals for the future.”

Why did you choose to attend the Wilson College of Textiles?

While I was always convinced that the Wilson College was the place for me, the amazing people I met during Textiles Scholarship Interview Weekend solidified my decision. Everyone immediately welcomed me with open arms and treated me like family, and I met so many new friends. Further, each of my interviewers was genuinely interested in me, and I enjoyed listening to their stories about their textile journeys. The sense of family and support was radiating the entire weekend. My positive experience that weekend sealed the deal, and I committed to NC State the day I returned home.

What has scholarship support enabled you to do that you may not have been able to do without it?

My scholarship’s enrichment funding will allow me to study abroad, which is immensely important. I plan to study abroad through the Wilson College of Textiles in Italy or another European Union country to learn about their new sustainability protocols enacted at the beginning of 2023 and see them in action.

What are your professional goals or post-graduation plans, and how will your scholarship impact those goals?

I have always had a passion for chemistry and a fascination with the composition of the world around me, and that is exactly what polymer science and color chemistry combines. I want to eventually work with corporations to help them become better neighbors to the communities around them, starting with the chemistry of their processes.

This major will allow me to eventually work as a polymer chemist or research and development chemist. Through these careers, I will ensure sustainability within products and help my company have the most efficient processes for all of the polymers that go into their products while lessening waste along the way.

If you could say anything to the individuals who made your scholarship possible, what would you say to thank them for their generosity?

Thank you for having faith in me and supporting my dreams. It means the world to me that someone would want to invest in my future in this way, and I will not let you down. This scholarship will enable me to pursue my passion and make a real difference in the world. I thank you wholeheartedly for your generosity, belief in me, dedication to textiles and sincere kindness.

Addison Lew

American Enka Centennial Scholarship
Hometown: Wilmington, North Carolina
Major: B.S. Textile Engineering

Addison Lew is excited to begin her journey as a first-year textile engineering student at the Wilson College of Textiles. 

Drawn to the college’s close-knit community and its focus on environmental sustainability, she is enthusiastic about the unique opportunities and supportive environment that the college offers. The combination of cutting-edge technology and a collaborative atmosphere is exactly what Lew was looking for in her college experience.

“I love anything outdoors — hiking, paddling, running — which has significantly contributed to my passion for environmental conservation and sustainability,” Lew says. “The Wilson College of Textiles has spoken to me in so many ways, one of which is the tight-knit nature of the community here. It is so refreshing to be a part of a family focused on uplifting each others’ goals and creating meaningful connections.”

Why did you choose to attend the Wilson College of Textiles?

I’m eager to make use of the Wilson College of Textiles’ unique experiences, from incredible machinery to the amazing internships that are offered. I could have never imagined so many doors would open to me, but thanks to the Wilson College of Textiles and the extreme generosity of my donor, I intend to make full use of these opportunities and learning experiences to help improve the environmental state of my community and the world at large.

What has scholarship support enabled you to do that you may not have been able to do without it?

This scholarship is an absolute game-changer for my academic plans! With the $7,500 in enrichment funding, I plan on studying abroad in Australia to broaden my perspective on the sustainable strategies we implement in the production and use of textiles. Additionally, this scholarship will enable me to focus more on participating in research projects that pique my interest while significantly relieving my financial burden. Without the Enka Centennial Scholarship, I would likely have to sacrifice these learning opportunities to pay off student debt, but thankfully, I can now put my education at the forefront of my college experience.

What are your professional goals or post-graduation plans, and how will your scholarship impact those goals?

I have always been extremely passionate about environmental conservation, and this principle is the pillar of my professional goals. I aim to help pioneer bio-digestible, financially realistic, versatile materials that can be implemented into a variety of different fields, specifically single-use medical products such as stents, syringes, gowns, etc.

My scholarship holds immense significance for these goals. With the financial burden of college lifted, I can enrich my academics beyond classes. This financial freedom opens the doors for summer research projects, internships and studying abroad, all of which will give me vital hands-on experience that can’t be substituted.

If you could say anything to the individuals who made your scholarship possible, what would you say to thank them for their generosity?

There is no way I could put into words everything this scholarship has done for my family and me. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your extreme generosity and participation in student education, as this will affect not just college but the rest of my life. It is the foundation of my entire career and contribution to my community. Beyond that, this scholarship has become a way I can express my gratitude to my family, who have paid extensive medical bills to help me manage my chronic illness. Thank you for helping me give back to them for their financial sacrifices. I deeply appreciate the opportunities you have opened and the thanks you have allowed me to give my family as well as the community you have given me access to. I truly cannot wait to join the Wilson College of Textiles family!

Owen Minogue

Cornelson Centennial Scholarship
Hometown: Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina
Major: B.S. Textile Engineering

Owen Minogue is enthusiastic about starting his journey at the Wilson College of Textiles and becoming a member of the Wolfpack. 

With a deep passion for sports, particularly football and hockey, Minogue has always thrived as a team player, dedicating years to both sports during his childhood and throughout his high school career. His interest in textiles was sparked by a curiosity about their innovative applications beyond the usual scope, including in sports and medicine.

“The generous support from the Wilson College of Textiles and its donors has set me on a path to success,” Minogue says. “I have been fortunate to have opportunities to visit the Wilson College of Textiles while attending Admitted Students Day and Textiles Scholarship Interview Weekend. At both events, I appreciated the small feel of the college, the individualized attention and the commitment and support of the faculty and staff. When combined, it all made me feel even more confident that I had made the right decision.”

Why did you choose to attend the Wilson College of Textiles?

Textiles are much more prevalent and versatile than most people think. I am excited to explore their innovative uses in sports, medicine and beyond. I hope to find a career that allows me to help people live better lives. This is what made me choose the Wilson College of Textiles. Within this college, in particular, I want to major in textile engineering. I see a path to solving real-world problems in practically any area imaginable with this field of study. 

What has scholarship support enabled you to do that you may not have been able to do without it? 

The main opportunity that this generous scholarship has afforded me is to study abroad. I would love to go to Italy due to its rich history with the Latin language and with textiles. This is an opportunity that I never thought would be possible until now. I am also excited to participate in the Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program that the Wilson College of Textiles offers. 

What are your professional goals or post-graduation plans, and how will your scholarship impact those goals?

My goal is to have a stable career, hopefully within the Raleigh area, that allows me to solve problems in the textile industry that truly improve people’s lives. I’d prefer to be in either a sports-related or medical field, but I know with the unparalleled education, connections and support I will receive at the Wilson College of Textiles, I should keep an open mind. 

After speaking to some of the current Centennial Scholars, I learned that many of them have made important connections due to having an entire team behind them providing encouragement and support. Additionally, the financial backing of this scholarship will provide me with the opportunity to focus more on furthering my education and to graduate debt free.

If you could say anything to the individuals who made your scholarship possible, what would you say to thank them for their generosity?

I would just like to thank the Wilson College of Textiles, the North Carolina Textile Foundation and the donors of the Cornelson Centennial Scholarship for having faith in me and supporting me throughout my college career. I have grown up in the Raleigh area going to NC State basketball, baseball and football games, walking around campus, and connecting with NC State fans and alumni around me. It has always been a dream of mine to attend this university. 

I pride myself on being a hard worker and will strive to show that this support has gone to a good cause through my success while at the university and once I graduate. I know that I am representing the Wolfpack family and the Wilson College of Textiles in the real world. This generosity is life changing and I would just, once again, like to say “Thank You” to all of those involved in the funding and decision process.

Samuel Nixon

Robert E. Smith Centennial Scholarship
Hometown: Boone, North Carolina
Major: B.S. Textile Engineering

Samuel Nixon, hailing from Boone, North Carolina, is eagerly anticipating his journey as a textile engineering major at NC State this fall. 

Passionate about outdoor adventures, including skiing, running and climbing, as well as music, Sam is looking forward to the new experiences and connections he will forge at the university and, more specifically, at the Wilson College of Textiles — his new home.

“I was amazed at the generosity and feeling of inclusion that I was provided with during Textiles Scholarship Interview Weekend,” Nixon says. “The opportunities I learned about and the ‘small school’ feeling within such a large university made choosing the Wilson College of Textiles an easy decision. I immediately knew that it was for me.”

What extracurricular activities did you take part in during high school?

I have been involved in my high school’s student council, as well as an ambassador for my school. I have also been heavily involved in athletics as an all-conference cross country runner and track and field athlete. Outside of school, I often spend my time with Younglife, a Christian organization.

What has scholarship support enabled you to do that you may not have been able to do without it?

I hope to use my scholarship support to study abroad. Traveling has always been a passion of mine, so being able to further my education while experiencing a foreign country is an opportunity I am extremely excited about.

What are your professional goals or post-graduation plans, and how will your scholarship impact those goals?

I plan to graduate with a degree in textile engineering and use it to find a job in the outdoor retail industry. This would fulfill my passion for the outdoors and the means to which they are accessible. This scholarship will provide me with opportunities for internships and connections directly into the industry.

If you could say anything to the individuals who made your scholarship possible, what would you say to thank them for their generosity?

I am so thankful for my Centennial Scholarship and the opportunity it will give me. I look forward to sharing what I will learn and the experiences that will come from being a Centennial Scholar!

Mary Susan Rideout

John Copeland Centennial Scholarship
Hometown: Raleigh, North Carolina
Major: B.S. Fashion and Textile Management, Brand Management and Marketing Concentration

Mary Susan Rideout, a Raleigh native with a lifelong aspiration to study at NC State, has found her perfect match in the Wilson College of Textiles. 

Her passion for fashion, which began when she created her own fashion blog at age 14, has driven her to pursue a career in this dynamic field. As part of her high school capstone project, Rideout collaborated with LoveShackFancy, a global fashion, beauty, home and lifestyle brand headquartered in New York City, to further deepen her commitment to the fashion industry.

“I have always grown up with the aspiration of studying at NC State. However, it was not until I found my passion for fashion that I knew I wanted to make the Wilson College my home,” Rideout says. “Throughout my research, I have become very invested in sustainability, which I appreciate is a core value at the Wilson College of Textiles. I look forward to the opportunities that being a Centennial Scholar will provide throughout my education and career. I know that attending a school as prestigious as the Wilson College of Textiles is a great honor and the best place to begin my meaningful career in fashion.”

What extracurricular activities did you take part in during high school?

I was elected as a school marshal, a member of student government, a student ambassador, a day prefect, a member of the athletic council, the founder and president of the One Love Club, and a four-year member and captain of the varsity field hockey team and lacrosse team. Additionally, I was the founder and captain of the inaugural cheer team.

What has scholarship support enabled you to do that you may not have been able to do without it?

Scholarship support will enable my family to provide me with funding to pursue additional educational opportunities, summer internships out of state, and possibly graduate school in the future. I also plan to use my enrichment funds to study abroad and travel to further my research and education. I realize I’m gaining a network of donors and past scholarship recipients, and I am honored to be associated with this group as a current scholar.

What are your professional goals or post-graduation plans, and how will your scholarship impact those goals?

My goal is to either attend graduate school or immediately begin working in the fashion industry after college. My Centennial Scholarship will not only provide me with resources to help make that happen but also a network of contacts to support my career goals. Since completing my senior capstone project with LoveShackFancy during high school, it is my current goal to intern at their New York office and pursue a job with them post graduation.

If you could say anything to the individuals who made your scholarship possible, what would you say to thank them for their generosity?

Please accept my sincere thanks for believing in me and supporting my academic and career aspirations. It means so much to me that you are willing to contribute financially to help me as I begin my college career. I look forward to sharing my experiences at the Wilson College of Textiles with you in the following years and am so excited to become part of this community. Once again, thank you so much, your support inspires me to be my best self.

Aayushi Shah

Boggs Nelson Centennial Scholarship
Hometown: High Point, North Carolina
Major: B.S. Fashion and Textile Management, Fashion Development and Product Management Concentration

Aayushi Shah’s Indian heritage has always been a source of pride and inspiration for her. So, it was only natural that she wanted to bring that cultural richness to a wider audience. 

As she searched for the right college, Shah sought a place that would support her dream of launching a sustainable Indian fashion brand. Her lifelong fascination with apparel design and commitment to sustainability led her to the Wilson College of Textiles, where she plans to incorporate environmental conservation into her studies.

“Throughout my life, the design and construction of apparel have been my primary interests,” Shah says. “Frequently incorporating this interest into my crafting as a child, I created garments out of paper and plastic for my dolls. Often, I would save even the smallest of scraps to avoid waste. I believe it is our responsibility as humans to care for and save our only earth, and Wilson College’s core value of sustainability calls out to me.”

Why did you choose to attend the Wilson College of Textiles?

I attended the 2023 Summer Textile Exploration Program for apparel design at the Wilson College of Textiles. While there, I was captivated by the innovative fashion studios, computer-aided design and knitting technology that contribute to the progression of the fashion industry. 

Alongside this, the focus on sustainable practices, such as the persistent use of recycled fabric, confirmed my decision that the Wilson College of Textiles would be my future home. I know I can create a successful career here because sustainability is at the college’s core. The facilities at the Wilson College will enrich my future, further enhancing my existing qualities: I am dedicated, meticulous and empathic. I am eager to continue channeling these qualities in the uplifting environment of the Wilson College of Textiles.

What has scholarship support enabled you to do that you may not have been able to do without it?

I plan to launch my sustainable Indian fashion brand in college, getting a head start on my dream as a firm believer in sustainable and ethical manufacturing. The Boggs Nelson Centennial Scholarship will allow me to study abroad in India to embrace my heritage and learn various Indian garment-making techniques that I can use in my brand, such as bandhani, chikanri and leheriya. The Wilson College of Textiles will teach me various sustainable practices that I can spread in India while also learning the multitude of methods in which Indian garment creation already incorporates sustainability so I can incorporate these practices into my brand.

What are your professional goals or post-graduation plans, and how will your scholarship impact those goals?

My goals after graduation include growing my sustainable Indian fashion brand that combines my passion for environmental conservation and my culture. Although I love fashion, my primary goal for this brand is to help our only earth. I plan to utilize a portion of the profit I make through this company for charity and nonprofits that benefit the environment.

If you could say anything to the individuals who made your scholarship possible, what would you say to thank them for their generosity?

No amount of gratitude can truly express how grateful I am for the Boggs Nelson Centennial Scholarship, which has provided me with extraordinary opportunities I would not receive anywhere else. The Wilson College of Textiles is more than just a community; it is a family, and becoming a part of this family is my greatest accomplishment. 

The incredible experiences I have already had at the Wilson College and the connections with many faculty members and students have confirmed that this college is my home away from home. At the Wilson College, I have been able to learn not only about sustainability, fashion and the textile industry, but also about motivation, peer guidance and a sense of belonging. I am immensely grateful for the Boggs Nelson Centennial Scholarship as it allows me to continue being a member of this family while pursuing opportunities I would not be able to without it.