Introducing the 2027 Class of Centennial Scholars

The Wilson College of Textiles is home to some of the best and brightest young minds.

When asked, students often name several factors that made their search for the perfect college an easy decision:

• The Wilson College of Textiles is the top-ranked textile institution in the world.
• Faculty go above and beyond to make their courses engaging and hands-on.
• Staff aren’t merely supportive; their guidance continues long after students graduate.
• One-of-a-kind labs encourage students to conduct their own groundbreaking research.

Another key aspect that’s echoed among students and alumni alike is the college’s ability to make a world-class textile education affordable and accessible.

One scholarship program, in particular, stands out to make that possible: the Centennial Scholarship Program.

Generosity that makes a difference

Established to celebrate the Wilson College’s 100th anniversary in 1999, the Centennial Scholarship Program provides merit-based scholarships to exceptional incoming students. These future leaders have distinguished themselves as problem-solvers and global citizens who are engaged in community service.

With support from the college’s philanthropic arm, the North Carolina Textile Foundation, Centennial scholars receive a four-year scholarship totaling $15,000 in funding each year. In turn, they’re empowered to channel their focus solely on their textile education while the costs of tuition and education fees are fully covered.

The support students receive doesn’t stop there. Centennial Scholars are allocated an additional $7,500 in enrichment funding to make the most out of their college experience. They use the funds to study and intern abroad, participate in leadership programs and explore various career exploration opportunities. 

Generous donations from the Wilson College’s wide network of supporters, which includes alumni, industry partners, faculty, staff and friends of the college, make this critical scholarship program possible.

“The meaningful influence of these gifts reaches far beyond their financial contribution,” David Hinks, dean of the Wilson College of Textiles, remarks. “Our impressive students see that they are uplifted by a community that wholeheartedly believes in their limitless potential.”

Meet the 2027 Class of Centennial Scholars

Now, it’s time to meet the 2027 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.

• Kylie Belter — Goodnight Scholarship / Centennial Scholarship
• Grace Chen — American & Efird Centennial Scholarship
• Adaline Griffin — Matthew B. Griffith Centennial Scholarship
• Abigail Jennings — C. C. Lee Centennial Scholarship
• Sophia Kudla — ITT/Roger Milliken Centennial Scholarship
• Neely Mallik — George Heyward “Floopy” Dunlap Centennial Scholarship
• Maylan Maxwell — Dickson Foundation Centennial Scholarship
• Sania Musti — Murata of America Centennial Scholarship
• Elizabeth Shepherd — Unifi Centennial Scholarship
• Sophia Stacy — Vincent Fang Centennial Scholarship
• Athalia Windham — Park Scholarship / Centennial Scholarship
• Devyn Williams — Gunter/Blank Centennial Scholarship

Kylie Belter

Goodnight Scholarship / Centennial Scholarship
Hometown: Reidsville, North Carolina
Major: B.S. Textile Engineering

Kylie Belter’s first introduction to the Wilson College of Textiles was through the Summer Textiles Exploration Program (STEP) following her junior year in high school. From there, she quickly fell in love with the new world of possibilities that opened before her eyes.

“My ultimate decision to attend the Wilson College of Textiles was most strongly influenced by the incredible experience I had with the faculty and students at the college,” Belter says. “The communication, friendship and support they demonstrated told me that this college was not just a place of learning but a place of community. I wanted to learn in a place where students and faculty lift one another up, and I feel that Wilson College really fosters that environment.”

Why did you choose your major? What are you most excited to learn about?

My chosen major, textile engineering, comes from a combination of two of my interests. I have always had an interest in fiber crafts and textile products. However, rather than focusing on the artistic side of textiles, I was always drawn to the texture, properties and construction of textile products. 

Having had good experiences with generalized engineering through the STEM program at my high school, I felt that pursuing a degree in textile engineering would be a good way to combine those interests. I am interested in learning more about the field and most importantly, discovering which pathway in textile engineering will ultimately best align with my interests and goals.

How will being a Centennial Scholar impact your college experience?

For me, being a Centennial Scholar will mean being a part of a support system of students who will encourage and challenge one another. Also, the financial support will allow me to take part in new and exciting experiences that promote growth. Personally, I hope to use enrichment funding to study abroad. I have never had the opportunity to leave the U.S. and as someone who loves learning about the history and cultures of different places, the experience of living in another country would be irreplaceable.

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 say thank you for having confidence in me and supporting students like me. I feel incredibly honored and humbled to have someone feel like I have a future worth investing in. 

I would also like to make a promise that I will not take the opportunities I have been given for granted. I will do my best to give back to my community and support others. I cannot thank you enough for the ability to graduate college debt free and to give my family greater financial freedom.

Grace Chen

American & Efird Centennial Scholarship
Hometown: Charlotte, North Carolina
Major: B.S. Fashion and Textile Design, Fashion Design Concentration

Following in her brother’s footsteps, Grace Chen is ecstatic that it’s finally her time to attend NC State. Along with her enthusiasm, Chen will be bringing her composure — one of her favorite traits — along with her to campus.

“I’ve always heard my mother say that my strongest trait is my composure,” she says. “From a young age, I have experienced countless unexpected events, all of which have aided me in gaining the ability to remain calm and composed during all circumstances. Since college is a completely new experience, I know I have the strength to remain calm and figure out how to navigate this exciting new path.” 

Why did you choose your major? What are you most excited to learn about?

I chose my major because I have loved designing clothes from a young age. I perceive the human body as my canvas, and I strive to use fashion design as a medium to make wearable art. I hope that at the Wilson College of Textiles, I can learn more about making sustainable art!

How do you plan to use your textiles degree?

I hope to have my own couture fashion line someday. I plan to use my degree in fashion and textile design, with a concentration in fashion design, to study specific artisan crafts such as traditional Chinese embroidery and silk dyeing. From there, I want to create garments that combine Western techniques with Eastern designs.

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 from the bottom of my heart. Your kindness and generosity have allowed me to move closer to my dream and have given me the opportunity to pursue my passions. I hope that one day I will be able to repay this generosity and give back in the same way I was shown such kindness. Thank you sincerely.

Adaline Griffin

Matthew B. Griffith Centennial Scholarship
Hometown: Marshville, North Carolina
Major: B.S. Fashion and Textile Design, Fashion Design Concentration

Adaline Griffin’s aptitude for fashion design could be seen from a young age, but her passion ballooned during high school. Since then, she has founded her own design company and created eight art-infused collections. She was even invited to showcase her work at New York Fashion Week and her designs were published in three magazines. She looks forward to expanding her artistic prowess through her studies at the Wilson College of Textiles.

“I look forward to being able to grow my character and network,” Griffin says. “It is my goal to invoke emotion, ignite others and inspire others to give back to the community during my time at the Wilson College of Textiles and beyond.” 

How will being a Centennial Scholar impact your college experience?

Being a Centennial Scholar impacts my college experience by giving me a community of like-minded students as well as enrichment funds to provide me with extra benefits like studying abroad. Not only will I be learning about fabric, but I’ll also be going back to my Chinese heritage. Additionally, this scholarship will remind me of the seven-year-old version of myself who wanted to reach for the stars. This scholarship, though I have no plans to travel to space, will encourage me to push limits, stereotypes and boundaries in my career and industry.

What kinds of activities did you do in high school that were most impactful for you?

As a sophomore, I was given the opportunity to model for Loop Magazine. During that photo shoot, the producer gave me the opportunity to hand-paint thirteen 1960s-inspired dresses. After the collection debuted, I launched my own fashion design business, Adaline and Company, in March 2021. 

Since then, I have created eight art-infused collections in two years, have been published in three magazines and am going to New York Fashion Week 2023 to showcase my “Van Gogh Collection.” In addition to fashion design, I also own and operate Adaline Griffin’s Academy of Modeling and AG Social Media Marketing.

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

Your generosity is greatly noticed, not only by my parents and myself but also by others. It is because of your hard work, dedication and loyalty to your career field that you chose to give back to the future generation.

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to study at the prestigious Wilson College of Textiles and for supporting younger generations. If I could give you a hug, I would, but for now please know how thankful I am to be able to come to NC State because of you. Thank you once more for your kindness, selflessness and generosity.

Abigail Jennings

C. C. Lee Centennial Scholarship
Hometown: Reedville, Virginia
Major: B.S. Fashion and Textile Management, Brand Management and Marketing Concentration

Having done extensive research to find the perfect college, it’s no surprise that Abigail Jennings already knows how she’ll get involved at the Wilson College of Textiles as soon as she steps foot on campus. Her eyes were immediately drawn to the Textile and Apparel, Technology and Management (TATM) Student Advisory Board and the Greater Good Textile Group.

“I first discovered the Wilson College of Textiles when beginning my college search,” Jennings says. “I wanted to attend a school where I could focus directly on the topics that I’m interested in. After seeing all of the highly-ranked textile-dedicated programs available, the Wilson College was at the top of my list.” 

Why did you decide to enroll at NC State University Wilson College of Textiles?

I have always had a love for all things fashion. After visiting the campus and speaking with NC State students, I knew this was the school for me. I’ve grown up in a small town in Virginia where everyone knows everyone, which made me nervous about attending a larger school. However, I felt completely at home after speaking with professors, students and staff during Interview Weekend and learning how family oriented and tight-knit the community is at the Wilson College of Textiles. Also, with Wilson being the only textiles-dedicated school in the nation, I am so excited to be learning from the best of the best.

How will being a Centennial Scholar impact your college experience?

Although my parents have supported my dreams and done everything they can to help me fulfill them, I knew that attending NC State as an out-of-state student was not going to be easy, especially financially. Being able to call my parents and tell them that I was selected as a Centennial Scholar is a moment that I will never forget. This scholarship will allow me to focus on my studies with no financial worry and have access to resources that I may not have had without my scholarship. I also hope to study abroad one day, and with this scholarship, that is possible!

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

Attending NC State would not be possible without you! I am so incredibly grateful for this opportunity and will not take it for granted. I am so excited for the next couple of years at the Wilson College of Textiles. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I cannot believe it!

Sophia Kudla

ITT/Roger Milliken Centennial Scholarship
Hometown: Wake Forest, North Carolina
Major: B.S. Textile Engineering

A lover of all things STEM, Sophia Kudla has big plans for her future. Her Centennial Scholarship will propel her forward to reach — and exceed — those dreams. She is already excited to challenge herself by using her enrichment funds to expand her future internship search. With this vital funding, Kudla can apply to intern in New York City, where a wide variety of major textile brands are headquartered. 

“Within the textile engineering industry, I plan to focus on athletic and performance textiles,” she says. “As I continue to work towards my future career, I intend on interning at an athletic brand, such as Nike or Under Armour. My Centennial Scholarship will allow me to further the connections I am able to create with brands I would like to work with, as well as provide me with potential funds that I may need during my search for a professional career.” 

Why did you choose your major? What are you most excited to learn about?

After discovering the textile engineering major, I decided to learn more about it by attending STEP (Summer Textile Exploration Program) in the summer following my junior year. I was able to get hands-on experience and knowledge about what it is like being a textile engineer, and the many different paths I can take with this degree. I am excited to see where I can focus with these skills, whether this takes me into the medical or automotive areas, or even to apparel, where I can focus on engineering textiles with specific properties. The possibilities are endless, and I know this engineering degree and program will take me farther than I could ever imagine.

What is a unique trait that you have that you believe will benefit you the most while in college?

My persistence! I am not the type of person to give up easily, and that has greatly helped me in my academic career so far. I am not afraid to think outside the box or spend hours working on something until it is completed in a way that shows my true knowledge of a subject. This is going to be a very beneficial skill throughout my college career, as I am sure to face some issues or setbacks throughout my time at NC State, especially as an engineering-geared major. This is when I will rely on my persistence to help get me through the tough moments and bring me one step closer to reaching my academic goals.

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

I will be forever grateful for the opportunities that this scholarship will provide for both me and my family. This opportunity will also connect me with my other Centennial Scholars, allowing me the opportunity to form clubs and engage in extracurricular activities around campus. With the enrichment funds, I will be able to study abroad — an opportunity that wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of this scholarship. I will now be able to attend college and leave basically debt-free, allowing myself the ability to completely immerse myself in my academics and prioritize my time at school. This is something that I hardly dreamed of, and I can’t wait for the next few years at NC State. Go Pack!

Neely Malik

George Heyward “Floopy” Dunlap Centennial Scholarship
Hometown: Cary, North Carolina
Major: B.S. Fashion and Textile Design, Textile Design Concentration

Countless tailgates, football games, trips to campus and growing up in a household with two NC State alumni left Neely Mallik dreaming of her time to finally be a part of the university. When she discovered the Wilson College of Textiles, she realized she could turn her passion for design into a career — while also joining her family’s beloved alma mater. 

“Despite knowing I wanted to go to NC State, after discovering the textile design program and attending STEP last summer, I was certain that the Wilson College of Textiles was where I wanted to be,” Malik says. “This taste of college life, as well as the community, resources, support and genuine family, is what drew me in.”

How did you first learn about the Wilson College of Textiles?

After always knowing I wanted to attend NC State, I found out about the Wilson College of Textiles through a friend who is a current fashion and textile design student. When I heard about the program, I was intrigued by the fact that I could turn my existing passion for design into a potential career, which led me to further research the college and program.

How will being a Centennial Scholar impact your college experience?

The support offered by my Centennial Scholarship will open up a world of possibilities for my next four years. This will allow me to take more risks and explore opportunities I might not have otherwise been able to pursue. Along with the honor of being named a Centennial Scholar, I will be provided resources to take advantage of new experiences, internships and opportunities that can enrich my education and enhance my career prospects. I plan to spend time studying abroad, furthering my knowledge of textiles and understanding the topic more extensively.

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

The opportunities given to me due to receiving this Centennial Scholarship are beyond compare. The honor and the support provided relieve the weight on my shoulders going into college. This relief will only ensure that I can truly focus and dedicate myself to building my future throughout the next four years. My experiences with the Wilson College of Textiles have been nothing but welcoming and supportive, and I am overwhelmed with gratitude to those who have made this possible for me.

Maylan Maxwell

Dickson Foundation Centennial Scholarship
Hometown: Shelby, North Carolina
Major: B.S. Fashion and Textile Management, Fashion Development and Product Management Concentration

Speechless. That’s the only word that Maylan Maxwell would use to describe her reaction when she learned she’d been named the recipient of a Centennial Scholarship. The life-changing funding will put her on the best path to reach her dream of working as a fashion journalist or fashion product manager without any added financial burden. 

“The Dickson Foundation Centennial Scholarship has made a career in textiles accessible to me,” she says. “The connections that the Wilson College of Textiles has with the industry and brands will provide me with so many amazing opportunities. I hope to intern over multiple summers while I am in college and build professional skills that will prepare me to work in the textile industry.”

Why did you decide to enroll in the Wilson College of Textiles?

When I started my college search, advisors and teachers told me not to worry — eventually, I would step onto a campus and just know that it was the right fit for me. I didn’t know what they were talking about until I connected with the Wilson College of Textiles. From that point on, I just knew it was where I was supposed to be. The warm, knowledgeable staff, unique curriculum, cutting-edge technology and exciting career opportunities lit a spark in me, and I saw myself thriving here. Enrolling was a very easy decision from there.

Why did you choose your major?

It is the perfect blend of everything I’m interested in. I love to sew, so the design and development aspect excites me. I also considered pursuing a degree in fashion merchandising, marketing or business, so fashion and textile management is perfect because it combines the business side with the design side.

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

Words cannot express how grateful I am to be afforded this opportunity. The Dickson Foundation is so incredibly generous, and I will be indebted to them for my entire life. I hope to repay that debt by using my career to make a positive impact on the fashion industry by helping increase sustainability practices and bringing my unique perspective. Thank you so much for your gift of the Dickson Foundation Centennial Scholarship!

Sania Musti

Murata of America Centennial Scholarship
Hometown: Cary, North Carolina
Major: B.S. Fashion and Textile Management, Brand Management and Marketing Concentration

Sania Musti’s decision to enroll at the Wilson College of Textiles is rooted in her passion for appreciating creativity and the way it expresses itself through clothes and fashion. When visiting the college, she witnessed a strong sense of community that she looks forward to joining this fall. 

“While attending the Scholarship Interview Weekend in February, I was able to speak to several students at the Wilson College of Textiles and learn about the resources and opportunities available to students there,” she says. “I could tell that each student was passionate about what they were studying and were supported so when I imagined myself as a student here in the next year, I imagined being part of a strong community where I would always be pushed to work hard to follow my passions.”

How will being a Centennial Scholar impact your college experience?

It will have a great impact on my college experience because, in addition to the financial relief it provides to my family, it motivates me to work hard in college and make the most of the four years I have there. This Centennial Scholarship also opens the doors for new connections, activities and experiences. I am looking forward to using my enrichment funds to pursue unique opportunities that I wouldn’t have been able to pursue without the scholarship. Whether I use these funds for study abroad programs, special workshops relating to fashion and textiles, or other professional development opportunities, I feel that I can make the most of these funds to improve my experience at the Wilson College of Textiles and broaden my knowledge in the field of textiles.

What kinds of activities did you do in high school that were most impactful for you?

Throughout high school, I was involved in several extracurricular activities both in school and out of school. In school, I was an active member of the tennis team, and I later worked my way up to become team captain. Being a part of this team helped me realize the importance of fostering a positive environment when working with others and how to uplift other team members. I also competed in the Distributive Education Clubs of America, a business-oriented club that helped me develop my marketing and communication skills. In the summer I interned for a nonprofit organization, where I helped organize fundraiser events to help fight food insecurity in my community. This internship opportunity helped to show me the time and commitment required for skills such as marketing and management while showing me the impact of my volunteer work.

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 like to express my deepest gratitude for this wonderful scholarship, which has allowed me to take my passion for fashion and textiles to the next level. I would like to thank you immensely for believing in my potential and for your generosity in helping me with my academic pursuits. I aim to achieve academic excellence while leaving a positive impact on my NC State community. Once again, thank you so much for your kindness in awarding this scholarship to me. I am confident that it will change my life and assist me throughout my academic journey at the Wilson College of Textiles.

Elizabeth “Betsy” Shepherd

Unifi Centennial Scholarship
Hometown: Fayetteville, North Carolina
Major: B.S. Fashion and Textile Design, Fashion Design Concentration

Betsy Shepherd’s journey with the Wilson College of Textiles began unexpectedly. She was on her first date, as a sophomore in high school, when she attended the college’s Fashion and Textile Design (FTD) Emerging Designers Showcase. As she witnessed the creativity shown in each designer’s collection, Shepherd couldn’t help but envision herself in their place. Her aspiration took root, and her dream of attending the Wilson College of Textiles was ignited — combined with her love for children.

“I’m extremely passionate about textile youth education,” she said. “I want to show children what’s happening in their own backyard and introduce them to the flourishing textile industry in North Carolina and beyond.”

Why did you decide to enroll at NC State University Wilson College of Textiles?

I settled on the Wilson College of Textiles because of its intense focus on technology. I was impressed that all of the five Wilson College’s majors are bachelor of science degrees. For the fashion and textile design (FTD) major, this aspect is broadly shown through the level of computer-aided design utilized in the classroom. In the spring of 2021, the graduating FTD seniors put on a virtual runway show, which showcased animations of garments that they had patterned, “sewn,” troubleshot, programmed, rendered and compiled into a full fashion show. You just don’t get that experience at other schools. When I started pursuing colleges that would fuel my passion for fashion, I quickly realized that the Wilson College of Textiles offers the technology necessary to succeed in the modern textile industry. This college exudes nothing but excellence, and the Wilson College gives its students an enriching and fulfilling education geared toward curious minds and the leaders of tomorrow.

Why did you choose your major? What are you most excited to learn about?

During my college search, I knew I wanted to have a fashion design-based major, and I knew I was most interested in three-dimensional garments. After I narrowed my list of potential schools down to just one school, I chose to major in fashion and textile design with a concentration in fashion design because this concentration enables me to spend nearly equal amounts of time learning about technology, sustainability and sewing/design techniques. I don’t think it’s possible to be bored as an FTD student. There is always something to learn at the Wilson College, and there are always people primed and ready to teach you.

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

I don’t think I could ever adequately express my gratitude to the donors who made my Centennial Scholarship possible. If I could say anything to these individuals, I would thank them for feeding my passion and assure them that they are investing in a student who wants to be a pioneer in the textile industry. I would tell them about my dreams of studying abroad and explain how this scholarship helps me to build connections with the North Carolina Textile Foundation and the broader textile industry in our state. Above all, I would thank them for believing in me and the plans I have for my college career at the Wilson College of Textiles.

Sophia Stacy

Vincent Fang Centennial Scholarship
Hometown: Fort Mitchell, Kentucky
Major: B.S. Fashion and Textile Design, Fashion Design Concentration

Originally from a small city in Northern Kentucky, Sophia Stacy knew she’d have limited access to fashion design programs and industry opportunities if she stayed close to home. Motivated by a thirst for something extraordinary, she began researching out-of-state programs which eventually led her to the Wilson College of Textiles. She quickly seized the opportunity for a distinctive educational experience and applied. The rest is history. 

“The vibrant camaraderie, the bonds that faculty and fellow students share conveyed to me that the Wilson College of Textiles is more than just a place of education,” she reflects. “It’s a nurturing community. It’s a place where lifting each other up is woven into the very fabric of learning, and that’s where I want to flourish.”

How will being a Centennial Scholar impact your college experience?

As an out-of-state student from Kentucky, the only way that I could attend NC State was if I had financial support. My Centennial Scholarship has allowed me to go to my dream school with advantageous opportunities. The scholarship support will also provide enrichment funds. I plan to use these funds to study abroad for a semester in Italy and immerse myself in one of the fashion hubs of the world. I am honored to receive this scholarship, which has undoubtedly improved my college experience.

Why did you decide to enroll at NC State University Wilson College of Textiles?

I found NC State and the Wilson College of Textiles online, but I fell in love when visiting the campus and attending the Summer Textile Exploration Program. Overall, I found the program at NC State to be the most appealing out of any of the schools I researched or visited. I plan to partake in the advantageous and exciting study abroad program that NC State has built into the fashion and textile design major. Additionally, I come from an all-girls high school, where I have received encouragement from my teachers, administration and classmates. I knew moving so far away from home meant I needed a university that would support me similarly. I am sure that the Wilson College will do just that. I know I will establish a successful future through the college’s career services and internship opportunities.

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 incredibly grateful for the generosity of my donor. This honor directly expresses that the time and effort I have put in has paid off exactly how I hoped. It also shows me that I am a notable candidate someone was willing to invest in, knowing that I will make a positive and rewarding influence on both the Wilson College of Textiles and the textile industry collectively. The support from this scholarship has made it possible for me to attend NC State and the Wilson College of Textiles, where I will prepare for success in my career.

Athalia Windham

Park Scholarship / Centennial Scholarship
Hometown: Livingston, Montana
Major: B.S. Textile Engineering

Ever since she was a small child, Athalia Windham has always envisioned herself among the stars. Her dream is an ambitious one: to use her textile engineering degree to contribute to the development of space suits for the astronauts embarking on their historic journeys to Mars. She knows that the Wilson College of Textiles will help her get there.

“The reason I decided to enroll at the college was because of the community that I had witnessed and experienced there,” she says. “I am from a very small town and the thought of attending a school as large as NC State was very intimidating. At the Wilson College of Textiles, though, everyone was so welcoming and kind I knew I could find a place to belong.”

What kinds of activities did you do in high school that were most impactful for you?

The most impactful activities for me in high school were always the clubs or organizations that would allow me to become involved in my community, such as Big Brothers Big Sisters. It allowed me to feel a deeper sense of pride in my community when I had such a personal connection to people in my town who I otherwise may not have gotten to interact with.

What are you interested in becoming involved in through NC State or the Wilson College and why?

I am interested in becoming involved in multiple clubs, such as the Textile Technology and Engineering Society, and participating in the undergraduate research available at the Wilson College of Textiles. I believe that by growing my social and leadership skills in tandem with my intellectual capabilities, I will be a more well-rounded person capable of better helping and connecting with those around me.

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

I plan to use my degree to create products for aerospace. My dream would be to work on a space suit for the astronauts on the mission to Mars. This scholarship will allow me to pursue knowledge without the stress of financial strain. I will be able to better focus on my schoolwork and on becoming involved with both NC State as a while and the Wilson College of Textiles. Thank you for allowing me to make the lofty dreams of my eight-year-old self possible.

Devyn Williams

Gunter/Blank Centennial Scholarship
Hometown: Columbia, South Carolina
Major: B.S. Fashion and Textile Design, Fashion Design Concentration

Embracing creativity as her true north, Devyn Williams hopes to unfurl her artistic talents on multiple stages. She wants to see herself not only as a performer but also as a costume designer, who weaves written characters into fully-fleshed beings. Theater, for Williams, is a conduit for self-expression and storytelling, a realm where her voice and creativity resonate.

“I chose fashion design as my concentration because I love to be involved in the entire process of making something from nothing,” she says. “Fashion design opens doors to allow inspiration to come from anything such as a book, nature, a time period or even social issues. The hands-on experience of selecting materials, choosing the pattern and sewing the pieces brings me so much joy. I want to expand upon it at the Wilson College of Textiles.”

How did you first learn about the Wilson College of Textiles?

I found the Wilson College of Textiles by chance at the beginning of my senior year in high school when I was looking for what I was going to major in. Ironically, I had also discovered a Wilson College alumna’s YouTube channel: Kiana Bonollo. This was when I was in the process of making my prom dress a year prior to applying to NC State.

Why did you decide to enroll at NC State University Wilson College of Textiles?

Knowing what one wants to do or become in the future is generally a decision that develops over time as one experiences life. But sometimes clarity can happen in a moment. One cannot predict when that moment will come, however, when it does, a direction in life emerges for the first time. That was the feeling I experienced when I found the Wilson College. An indescribable peace radiated over me as I learned about the classes, majors, club organizations, internships and extracurriculars as well as the inclusive environment. NC State, and more specifically the Wilson College of Textiles, gave me hope that I could truly pursue what I love and be fulfilled. This feeling was only intensified by the community of students and staff with whom I was able to interact during my visits. I am a creative individual who enjoys immersing myself in both science and art. The Wilson College of Textiles is an integration of all of my passions and provides a holistic point of view for study.

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

Words cannot express how grateful I am for the opportunity to be a member of the NC State and Wilson College of Textiles communities. Although I have not formally attended the classes at the college, each time I have visited, participated in interviews or interacted with upperclassmen, I have felt welcomed and valued as an individual. The willingness of the staff and students to help and support incoming and prospective students was heartening. From my short interactions with the professors, I could see how much they are devoted to their work and how they believe in nurturing future generations to succeed. It felt like a dream to walk through the Wilson College and see like-minded individuals who embraced creativity, curiosity and problem-solving. I already feel that NC State and Wilson College are a home away from home.

Receiving this scholarship has allowed me to attend this prestigious college and create my own path. The goals, plans and future endeavors I wish to pursue are now available because of my Centennial Scholarship. Thank you for your generosity. I will use this scholarship not only to benefit myself but to help others and have a positive impact on my community. This scholarship is a most significant step in creating a life filled with joy, creativity and meaning. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.