Meet the Class of 2029 Centennial Scholars

“Wilson for Life” is more than a catchy slogan.

It’s a shared belief that students in the Wilson College of Textiles quickly realize is the heartfelt mission of staff, faculty, alumni and friends connected to the college community. 

This is already being felt by the incoming class of Centennial Scholars, who hail from cities across North Carolina and as far as over 500 miles away. 

Three words were echoed multiple times by the new scholars: “community,” “close-knit” and “home.” It’s what drew them to the textile industry and, more specifically, to the Wilson College of Textiles. Their acceptance into the Centennial Scholarship Program helped to seal the deal for the students and their loved ones. 

Thanks to this opportunity, scholars can fully embrace their time at NC State and create extraordinary student experiences, free from the weight of financial strain.

About the Centennial Scholarship Program

The Centennial Scholarship Program was established in 1999 to celebrate the Wilson College of Textiles’ 100th anniversary. Today, it 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 — the philanthropic arm of the college — make this vital scholarship program possible. 

This year, the Centennial Scholarship Program increased the minimum four-year scholarship award that scholars receive from $15,000 annually to $20,000, a significant boost made possible through the generosity of major donors and the Wilson family’s latest gift. Starting in fall 2026, each Centennial Scholar will receive a four-year scholarship totaling $20,000 to $22,000 in funding each year.

Centennial Scholars are allocated an additional $7,500 in enrichment funding to maximize their college experience. Students typically use these funds to study and intern abroad, participate in leadership programs and explore various career opportunities.

“Our donors make the Centennial Scholarship Program possible, and their generosity is fueling the dreams of the next generation of textiles leaders,” says Michael Ward, executive director of the North Carolina Textile Foundation. “We are excited to welcome this year’s class of Centennial Scholars to campus, and I can’t wait to see all they will accomplish.”

Meet the Class of 2029 Centennial Scholars

Now, it’s time to meet the 2029 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.

• Emma Fish — Robert E. Wiggins Leadership Centennial Scholarship
• Brooks Ford — ITT/Roger Milliken Centennial Scholarship
• Everett Jensen — Little Centennial Scholarship
• Reese Levinson — Jeter & Phillis Brawley Centennial Scholarship
• Brian Rojo — Lineberger Centennial Scholarship
• Neil Rostick — Beaunit Centennial Scholarship
• Jesse Toscano — North Carolina Textile Foundation Board of Directors Centennial Scholarship
• Katie Watson — Close Family Centennial Scholarship
• Maddie White — Jeter & Phillis Brawley Centennial Scholarship
• Jayla Williams — Morris Centennial Scholarship

Emma Fish

Robert E. Wiggins Leadership Centennial Scholarship
Hometown: Lillington, North Carolina
Major: B.S. Fashion and Textile Management; Brand Management and Marketing Concentration

As someone who has been a proud Wolfpack fan for as long as she can remember, Emma Fish’s dream came true when she first set foot onto campus as a student.

“Some of my favorite childhood memories include attending football and basketball games with my family,” she says. “These moments built a deep sense of connection and pride that I now carry with me as I begin this next chapter.” 

More specifically, the Wilson College of Textiles offers Fish a community that will support, challenge and inspire her throughout her entire journey. 

“My passion for fashion started when I was just eight years old,” she says. “Now, my degree at the Wilson College will allow me to blend my creativity with business-minded thinking, turning a lifelong passion into a purposeful career.”

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

During high school, I was involved in several clubs, including the Foreign Language Club, the Fellowship of Christian Students, student government, Key Club, the National Technical Honor Society and the Beta Club. I was also a member of the golf team, where I built strong friendships and learned the importance of focus, patience and perseverance. In addition, I’ve been a competitive dancer for 14 years, which has taught me time management, leadership and teamwork. I’ve also spent the past three years teaching swim lessons, sharing not only an important skill but also life-saving knowledge.

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

The support of this scholarship will empower me to embrace a variety of unique academic and leadership programs. College is expensive, and taking part in several unique programs without the pressure of financial expenses will be huge for me. My scholarship will enable me to study abroad and participate in volunteer programs that will enrich my college experience and foster personal growth.

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

I am open to a multitude of jobs that my degree will allow me to pursue. Whether it be working on marketing campaigns for fashion and textile companies or serving as a buyer for various retail stores, the opportunities are endless with the impeccable education that I will receive at the Wilson College of Textiles. I look forward to building connections over the next four years that will help guide me in my professional career.

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 generosity of the donor of my Robert E. Wiggins Leadership Centennial Scholarship and the North Carolina Textile Foundation. NC State has always felt like home, and now, with the support of this scholarship and the incredible cohort of scholars, I feel more confident than ever in my future. I truly believe that the next four years will be some of the most transformative and rewarding years of my life.

Brooks Ford

ITT/Roger Milliken Centennial Scholarship
Hometown: Wilmington, North Carolina
Major: B.S. Polymer and Color Chemistry; Medical Sciences Concentration

After Brooks Ford learned of his father’s debilitating cancer diagnosis, he discovered that advancements in polymer chemistry were to thank for profoundly impacting his father’s quality of life.

“The application of acrylic cement was used to stabilize his spine,” he shares. “This experience ignited my interest in the materials used in the procedures by the interventional radiologist and the chemistry behind the drugs in my dad’s medical treatments.”

While pursuing his degree at NC State, Ford also wants to explore the circular economy of plastics in healthcare, promote more sustainable practices within the medical industry and reduce human exposure to microplastics and toxic chemicals during medical procedures.

“The polymer and color chemistry degree program here in the college offers a unique path to achieve my career goals in the field of human medicine,” he says. “This program will provide me with the knowledge needed to work toward my goal of contributing to medical solutions and providing cancer patients with innovative treatments, ultimately improving their quality of life and the time they have with their families, just like my dad.”

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

My Eagle Scout project in high school, which focused on studying the effect of microplastics in collaboration with the North Carolina Coastal Federation, inspired me to create a community recycling initiative for hazardous waste materials and education. As the student council president at my school for three years and an ambassador with the American Red Cross, I helped create a fun and welcoming environment where everyone felt they could make a difference in our school community and the world with their volunteer participation.

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

Before receiving the ITT/Roger Milliken Centennial Scholarship, I was concerned that I would never have the opportunity to study abroad or participate in summer research programs due to the high costs of travel and living expenses. However, this scholarship has opened up a whole new world of possibilities for me to indulge my curiosities! I am excited about the opportunities I can now explore to study, experience and develop my understanding of the fields of medicine and research while pursuing my goals.

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

After graduation, I plan to attend medical school. Whether I pursue a career in interventional radiology, oncology or another area of medicine, my degree will offer me a unique combination of theoretical and practical knowledge. I have a long academic road ahead of me, and thanks to my scholarship, my family can focus financially on obtaining the best medical care and resources for my father. With this support, I can acquire the education necessary to help others in the same capacity as the physicians and scientists who helped my family. My scholarship has paved the way for numerous opportunities that will help me develop the skills necessary to address specific medical challenges, meet the evolving needs of a global society and positively impact people’s lives.

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

It is an extraordinary honor to be awarded the ITT/Roger Milliken Centennial Scholarship from the Wilson College of Textiles. I am deeply grateful to the generous donors who made this scholarship possible, as well as to everyone in the Wilson College of Textiles for their tremendous faith in me. My family and I can now focus on the pursuit of my academic and career goals without the burden of undergraduate financial concerns. It will enable me to diversify my experiences, expand my aspirations and explore a new world of opportunities in scientific research and application. I am humbled by the generosity of this scholarship, excited about the possibilities ahead and committed to using this support to make a positive impact on the world and to honor those who have believed in and supported me.

Everett Jensen

Little Centennial Scholarship
Hometown: Raleigh, North Carolina
Major: B.S. Textile Engineering

Since he can remember, Everett Jensen has wanted to make a positive impact on the world. 

“It doesn’t need to be revolutionary, just a net positive impact,” he says. “When I participated in the Assist Center’s wearable device challenge, I knew how I wanted to make that change.” 

That experience, along with his research into the engineering field, led him to participate in the Wilson College’s Summer Textile Exploration Program (STEP).

“I participated in STEP after going to a Wake Tech Textiles outreach event, and I fell in love with not just the major, but also the close-knit community of the Wilson College,” he says. “Seeing the community at the Wilson College has enabled me to feel welcomed.”

While on campus, Jensen aims to continue making an impact through his work in the textile industry and leave the world better than when he arrived, even if only by one percent.

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

As a student at Wake STEM, I participated in Helping Hand, student council, yearbook and the National Honor Society. Furthermore, I have had the opportunity to research independently and in collaboration on topics including sustainable silk farming. I also volunteered in my community to remove waste, care for foster pets and work with my neighbors to improve our area.

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

Receiving a scholarship reduces my personal financial burden, and it gives me the free time to participate in all the wonderful clubs at NC State and volunteer to help my community. Also, the scholarship’s enrichment funds will enable me to study abroad and develop a multicultural lens on life and engineering.

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

As an engineer, I want to enter the world of wearable devices and prosthetics, while also collaborating with other disciplines. Not only to create these products, but to sustainably and ethically create them — a factor lacking in a large number of textile products we consume. Thanks to my scholarship, I can develop a multicultural perspective by studying abroad and establishing international connections to enhance my academic and personal growth. I then want to enter the workforce and settle into my ideal niche within the textile industry, and this scholarship will enable me to gain a foothold.

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

My scholarship is truly a life-changing opportunity, not only because of its size but also because of what it represents. It means I can go to a college where people and the atmosphere are comforting to a person with anxiety and learn a topic that my parents initially didn’t even believe was a viable career choice.

It means I can immerse myself in the Wolfpack community and expand my worldview. Since participating in STEP, I’ve been hoping to attend the Wilson College. This scholarship is not only a gratifying marker of my success, but it is also a series of doors to my future that have been opened right in front of my eyes.

Reese Levinson

Jeter & Phillis Brawley Centennial Scholarship
Hometown: Rocky River, Ohio
Major: B.S. Fashion and Textile Management; Brand Management and Marketing Concentration

Reese Levinson’s first job was at MMI Textiles, a global industrial and custom textile supplier, in its Cleveland, Ohio, warehouse. While there, she had the pleasure of meeting Amy Bircher Bruyn, the company’s founder and a member of the North Carolina Textile Foundation’s Board of Directors. That interaction changed Levinson’s life. 

“It was especially inspiring to watch a woman excel in a predominantly male-dominated industry,” she says. “Amy taught me about the various fabrics she sells, including stretch woven materials and printed narrow fabrics that come in a range of colors. I also gained insight into how these fabrics are used in U.S. military and government contracts and other industries.”  

After learning more about sourcing raw materials and dyeing and finishing them according to customers’ requests while at MMI, Levinson became fascinated with the dynamic world of fashion and textiles. That’s what drove her to pursue a fashion and textile management degree from the Wilson College of Textiles.

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

In high school, I was a part of multiple activities, including the RRHS Westshore Young Leaders and Key Club. Also, I was captain of the Rocky River Sailing Team, I ran a seven-week campaign for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, and I was treasurer of the student council. During those years, I also worked at MMI Textiles, the Cleveland Yachting Club, and I completed a shadow experience at Travelers Insurance.

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

This scholarship will allow me to travel abroad and explore the world in ways I otherwise would not be able to. I am eager to study how the textile industry impacts the United States and other countries.

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

I hope to complete internships through the connections I believe I will gain at Wilson College of Textiles, which I believe will help me secure a job in the textile industry after graduation. With the knowledge and experience I gain, I hope to develop my own product and eventually start my own company. This scholarship will support my education, provide valuable opportunities and help me take the first steps toward achieving my career goals.

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

Receiving this scholarship is a tremendous honor, and I cannot thank you enough for your generosity and support. The alumni of the Wilson College of Textiles demonstrate how much the college has given them and their desire to give back in return. I have already witnessed the strong sense of community and family that the Wilson College of Textiles fosters, and I am eager to experience it further during my time in college. I aspire to give back to the Wilson College one day and leave a legacy as meaningful as yours. I am so appreciative, and I know I will use this scholarship to support my journey to the best of my ability.

Brian Rojo

Lineberger Centennial Scholarship
Hometown: Kannapolis, North Carolina
Major: B.S. Fashion and Textile Management; Brand Management and Marketing Concentration

As a student who was highly involved during his time in high school, Brian Rojo passionately believes in using his talents to uplift others. 

“The highlight of my involvement in high school was when I founded my school’s Fashion Club to teach students how to sew, lead sustainable projects and donate handmade items to organizations in need,” he says. “Outside of school, I enjoyed tutoring students from elementary to high school and serving as a Bridge to Brown counselor for incoming freshmen.”

His decision to join the Wilson College of Textiles was made easy once he learned of the college’s innovative approach, strong community and focus on global learning. 

“After attending the Summer Textile Exploration Program, I knew it was the perfect place to turn my love for fashion into a meaningful career,” he says. “I am majoring in fashion and textile management with a concentration in brand management and marketing, and I hope to study fashion abroad using my scholarship’s enrichment grant.”

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

In high school, I served as president of the Latino Student Union, where I advocated for equitable access to advanced courses and organized peer tutoring programs. I also founded the Fashion Club to teach sustainable sewing and lead service projects that supported local organizations. Additionally, I served as a Sunday school teacher at Promise City Church, assisting with lessons to mentor and inspire young children.

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

Scholarship support will enable me to pursue study abroad opportunities in global fashion hubs like Paris and Milan. These are experiences I would not have been able to afford otherwise. I am excited to research innovative and sustainable fashion practices during my time abroad. The knowledge and insights I gain will help me incorporate these practices into my own sustainable clothing brand.

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

My goal is to launch a sustainable fashion brand, Rojo, which will blend luxury and streetwear while prioritizing ethical practices and environmental responsibility. I plan to accomplish my goals by majoring in fashion and textile management with a concentration in brand management and marketing at NC State, where I will grow as a designer and a business leader. The Lineberger Centennial Scholarship will help me fully leverage study abroad opportunities, internships and hands-on experiences within the fashion industry, ultimately shaping me into a well-rounded professional. Using my enrichment grants, I hope to immerse myself in international fashion areas by studying at institutions overseas, where I can experience diverse fashion cultures and gain insight from leading industry professionals worldwide. This scholarship will ease the financial burden and open doors that bring me closer to making my fashion brand, Rojo, a reality.

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 truly honored to receive the Lineberger Centennial Scholarship. As I prepare to begin my journey at NC State and the Wilson College of Textiles, your support allows me to pursue my passion for sustainability in fashion. I am especially excited about the opportunity to study abroad and research innovative textile and fashion practices. These experiences will help me incorporate sustainable methods into the development of my own clothing brand. Thank you for making it possible for me to follow this path with confidence and purpose.

Neil Rostick

Beaunit Centennial Scholarship
Hometown: Tryon, North Carolina
Major: B.S. Fashion and Textile Design; Fashion Design Concentration

Growing up in a small town helped to shape Neil Rostick’s perspective on life and design. 

“As a guy interested in alternative fashion, I’ve had to learn to be more confident and create space for myself,” he says. “I believe that, more than any other school I could attend, NC State and the Wilson College of Textiles will allow me to express myself and accomplish my goals.” 

Rostick plans to give his all both in and out of the classroom to succeed in the future. 

“I’m extremely motivated both academically and creatively,” Rostick shares. “I know I have what it takes to make an impact on the fashion industry.”

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

While in high school, I founded a nonprofit, Tryon Thrift at UCC, through my church, that encourages sustainability and engagement in the community. I curated donations, set prices for items, created social media content and utilized the profits for outreach to benefit my church and the local community. I was also an active member of the National Honor Society and the visual arts program.

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

I look forward to studying abroad using my scholarship! Specifically, I would like to use my enrichment funds to travel to the European Union and learn about the area’s sustainable production practices, or I’d like to intern domestically and engage in volunteer work. 

The thought of even having the opportunity to study abroad or have an internship is really amazing! More than anything, earning this scholarship has helped me realize that I can accomplish my goals. My own struggles with an eating disorder and body dysmorphia have motivated me to prioritize body inclusivity in fashion, and this scholarship will give me the platform to advocate for people like me who have struggled with their mental health.

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

I hope to one day start my own line of sustainable and body-inclusive and gender-inclusive clothing. With the money I will save through this scholarship, I would like to kickstart my business or fund my living expenses as I start my career. The education and connections provided by the Wilson College of Textiles will also give me the support I need to succeed!

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

I can’t even begin to explain how much this scholarship means to me. When I was in eating disorder treatment just a few years ago, I never could have imagined I would have the opportunity to pursue my creative passions. I’m not only doing this for myself because it’s what I love, but I’m doing it for all the kids like me who have been taught to hate the way they are. I’m eternally grateful, and I promise I won’t let you down.

Jesse Toscano

North Carolina Textile Foundation Board of Directors Centennial Scholarship
Hometown: Fuquay Varina, North Carolina
Major: B.S. Fashion and Textile Management; Fashion Development and Product Management

It was the tight-knit community that inspired Jesse Toscano to apply to attend the Wilson College of Textiles.

“Sometimes, I have imposter syndrome, but when I look back at my accomplishments, I truly believe that I belong at the Wilson College,” he says. “I am excited to start my classes and am encouraged by the incredible people I have met so far.”

He is thankful for the donors of his scholarship for believing in his potential and seeing the best in him.

“That may sound cliché, but I know in my heart and mind that I am capable of greatness and success,” Toscano shares. “I am willing to do whatever it takes and work however hard I need to in order to build something incredible.”

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

In high school, I worked two jobs over the four years, and I also had an internship with a Wilson College of Textiles graduate. I volunteered with individuals with special needs through the Special Olympics and in the classroom. I was also a part of a consumer science-based club, where I served as the vice president of recognition one year. Our club went to the national championship two years in a row.

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

Because of this scholarship, I have the opportunity to get to know my peers, which has helped me foster a positive foundation going into the first day of class. My scholarship is also enabling me to study abroad in Japan, which is somewhere I have always dreamt of going.

Lastly, as one of four brothers who are all currently in college, this scholarship has taken away the financial burden from me and my parents, and it will allow me to graduate debt-free.

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

My professional goal is to start my own fashion label focused on streetwear and sustainability. My current plan is to work for a streetwear brand based in New York City and then use the things I will learn at the Wilson College and the experiences I will gain to have the best chance of success when creating my startup. 

My scholarship will impact these plans first and foremost by funding my education. My scholarship will also help by providing me with the opportunity to network with a wide range of people and develop my leadership skills.

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

It is hard to express in words how grateful I am for this scholarship and how thankful I am to the donors of this scholarship for generously giving me the opportunity to complete a world-class education at an incredible university. 

I am honored to have been selected, and I will show that through the way I carry myself and represent the Wilson College of Textiles and the North Carolina Textile Foundation. I love this community, and I feel very secure knowing that the Wilson College has my back.

Katie Watson

Close Family Centennial Scholarship
Hometown: Wilmington, North Carolina
Major: B.S. Fashion and Textile Management; Brand Management and Marketing Concentration

In her kindergarten yearbook, Katie Watson excitedly wrote out her plans for the future: “I want to be a fashion icon.” While her dreams have changed slightly since then, her passion for fashion has only grown.

“My formal introduction to the industry was a sewing and fashion design course during my freshman year of high school,” she explains. “I excelled in that class, which inspired me to start a sewing club when the class was no longer offered.”

At fifteen, she dove headfirst into the fundamentals of retail through her job at a women’s boutique. From customer service and product merchandising to the ins and outs of social media marketing, Watson discovered her love for the business side of fashion along the way. This led her to the Wilson College of Textiles.

“Studying brand management and marketing is the perfect combination of my passion for fashion and my fascination for business and strategy,” she says. “The plethora of opportunities and knowledge the Wilson College of Textiles offers will help me pursue a career that has been a dream of mine since I was five.”

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

Throughout high school, I have embraced leadership and creativity across various fields. As captain of the varsity field hockey and lacrosse teams, I learned the value of teamwork and perseverance. Founding and leading the Girls Supporting Girls Club allowed me to make a meaningful impact in my community, while my involvement in the YMCA’s Youth and Government Program strengthened my leadership and communication skills. Additionally, my passion for fashion and design flourished through my involvement in costume design and stage management within my school’s theater department. I also gained hands-on retail experience working at a clothing boutique in Wilmington, North Carolina, which further fueled my interest in the business side of fashion.

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

Thanks to this scholarship, I have the opportunity to pursue my education without financial barriers, allowing me to fully engage in new learning experiences. I even attended the Summer Start in Prague program, which allowed me to gain valuable international experience and broaden my perspective on the global fashion industry. I am truly grateful for this support and look forward to exploring even more study abroad opportunities in the future.

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

My passion lies in the business side of fashion, and my goal is to become a retail buyer or brand manager. This scholarship will allow me to fully immerse myself in my studies, explore industry opportunities and develop the skills needed to succeed in this dynamic field. Being a Centennial Scholar is an incredible opportunity that will help me turn my dreams into reality.

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 sincerely grateful for your generous support, which will play a significant role in my future education here at the Wilson College of Textiles. I look forward to the opportunity to grow academically, gain hands-on experience and collaborate with inspiring faculty and peers. 

My scholarship will allow me to focus on my studies and take full advantage of the incredible resources and opportunities available at NC State. Your generosity is helping to shape my future, and I am truly honored to be a recipient of your support. Thank you for investing in my education and dreams!

Maddie White

Jeter & Phillis Brawley Centennial Scholarship
Hometown: Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Major: B.S. Textiles, Undeclared

It was the Summer Textile Exploration Program at the Wilson College of Textiles that opened Maddie White’s eyes to a future career in textiles. 

“Originally, I was introduced to the Wilson College of Textiles through my love for fashion and sewing, so it’s safe to say I am a big fan of the arts,” she says. “Community has always been an important aspect of my life, and that is one of my top reasons for choosing this college.”

She aims to major in either textile engineering or textile technology, but she wants to see which pathway is the best fit for her through first-hand experience. And, she’s thankful to the college’s community for being a source of inspiration and support. 

“I’ve received unwavering kindness from students and staff alike, and I believe it will facilitate the perfect environment for me to thrive academically and socially,” she says. “I’m ready to explore this next chapter of life and cannot wait to get started!”

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

While in high school, I volunteered weekly at the Carying Place, where I developed and ran creative activities for children ages 6 to 12 while their families sought financial counseling. I also participated in my school’s Distributive Education Clubs of America chapter, where I competed on an international scale and received honors at both the district and state levels. Finally, I interned at Apex Elementary School to design and execute hands-on STEM-based activities for fifth-grade students, as well as led brainstorming sessions with my supervisor and collaborated in a professional setting.

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

With the support of the Centennial Scholarship Program, I have the opportunity to participate in study abroad and research opportunities that I did not think were possible. These endeavors will aid in my growth as an individual and as a future professional in the textile industry. They will give me the chance to network and establish an understanding of the industry on a global scale.

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

My ultimate goal is to create a positive and lasting impact on the textile industry. Although I am unsure of what path that will take, my scholarship provides me with an opportunity to dedicate my time to figuring that out. With financial assistance, I can participate in internships and industry activities to enhance my skillset. I am also excited to become a mentor for future Wilson College of Textiles students and scholars, and I want to provide the support that has been provided to me.

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

It is a tremendous honor to receive the Centennial Scholarship, and I am unequivocally grateful to the donors for this opportunity to continue my academic journey at NC State. My top priority is to become a strong and collaborative member of the college community by participating in student organizations as well as maintaining a strong academic standing. 

I’m excited to learn about the textile industry, and I hope to make a lasting impact with the knowledge I gain from the Wilson College of Textiles. Thank you again for your support and thoughtfulness. I will work hard to make the most out of the opportunity presented to me.

Jayla Williams

Theodore Page Morris Centennial Scholarship
Hometown: Mount Gilead, North Carolina
Major: B.S. Textile Engineering

Jayla Williams is quite literally reaching for the stars. She’s excited to use her future textile engineering degree to design space suits for NASA.

“This dream is why I chose the Wilson College of Textiles,” she shares. “I have always been interested in fabrics and textile production, but once I learned that I truly loved space, I knew I had to combine my love for both in any way possible.”

Until a few years ago, Williams didn’t even know this degree path existed. So when she learned about the Wilson College and the textile engineering field, she decided to push her curiosity even further by attending the Summer Textile Exploration Program. 

“Coming from a small rural county in the middle of nowhere has not stopped me from dreaming big,” she says. “Some other things I enjoy doing include art, knitting, thrifting, psychology, phlebotomy, going to theme parks and anything related to science fiction.”

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

I was the secretary of my school’s Art Club and Beta Club. I was an active member in the Yearbook Club, Fashion Club and Phi Theta Kappa. I also was an active student member of the National 4-H Council.

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

Scholarship support will enable me to work toward earning my degree without the added stress of worrying about how I am going to pay for my schooling. This will also give me more opportunities that I would not have had otherwise.

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

My goal after I receive my degree in textile engineering is to gain my master’s degree in textile engineering at NC State. Then, I hope to pursue my dream of working with NASA on various types of space suits. My scholarship will give me the funding and opportunity to not only achieve my goals successfully but also to hopefully learn at NASA during my time in college.

My scholarship will give me the opportunity to grow and learn in ways that previously were not possible.

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 personally thank my donor for giving me the ability and opportunity to pursue my dreams. My experience at the Wilson College of Textiles has already been one of great intrigue and fun. I can’t wait to continue my journey here, thanks to you!

Support the next generation of Centennial Scholars

Are you interested in supporting future textile leaders by donating to the Centennial Scholarship Program? Click the link below to give to the North Carolina Textile Foundation Centennial Scholarship Endowment Fund.

To learn more about how you can support textiles students, please contact the North Carolina Textile Foundation at nctextilefoundation@ncsu.edu or (919) 515-3878.