Textile Student Wins Prestigious Matthews Medal

Every year, four NC State students are awarded the Mathews Medal, the highest non-academic distinction that a graduating senior can receive. The medal, issued by the Alumni Association, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the University based on leadership and service.  Ivana Mbullah, a Textile Technology major and 2016 graduate, was chosen. The Greensboro, N.C. native is the first African-American woman to receive this honor as well as the first student from the Wilson College of Textiles.

Since starting at NC State, she has served in many roles including fundraising co-chair for Relay for Life; treasurer and vice president of DanceVisions Dance Company; a member of NC State’s Sustainability Committee; a Kohl’s Ambassador for the Wilson College of Textiles; and president and vice president of the National Pan-Hellenic Council. She also served as the historian, financial secretary and president of the Mu Omicron Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

“Being awarded the Mathew’s Medal was one of the highlights of my collegiate career. It was an amazing feeling to stand amongst some of the most notable leaders in my graduating class,”she said. “The ceremony was absolutely beautiful and to be recognized by the Chancellor, the Alumni Association, my family, friends and fellows members of the Wilson College of Textiles was truly something I will cherish. There have been so many people at NC State who have inspired me to strive more, reach higher and doubt less, I am just thankful that I was able to share this moment with them.”

Mbullah has taken a position with Kohl’s Corporation in Wisconsin as a product development coordinator.