Melissa Erin Vinson

Melissa Erin Vinson – from Palm Bay, FL graduated from West Shore Jr Sr High School. Melissa has been awarded one of only ten North Carolina Textile Foundation Centennial Scholarships to study in a textile degree program at NC State. In addition, she has also earned a Park Scholarship, the most prestigious University-wide scholarship offered to students attending NC State. These two honors make Melissa one of only two Park-Centennial Scholars in a freshmen class of more than 3,500 students. The Centennial scholarship is the largest college-based scholarship offered at NC State University and is valued at nearly $48,000. As a part of this scholarship, Melissa will have access to $7,500 in enrichment funds for educational and cultural activities beyond the classroom, such as study abroad, career exploration trips and attending leadership conferences. Melissa is an AP scholar with honors and was a member of FPS (Future Problem Solvers), National Spanish Honor Society, and National Art Honor Society. She also started a fashion club at her school. Melissa played on the JV basketball team and was nominated as co-captain her last two years. The summer before her senior year, Melissa attended an educational trip to France and Spain where she was able to learn about new cultures. Melissa intends to major in Polymer and Color Chemistry.