Written by: Tony Hoppa and Joanne Zhang \u201920<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reflecting the same trailblazing spirit that has continually reinvigorated the textiles industry, the Wilson College of Textiles has launched its first need-based scholarship to help recruit next-generation talent to NC State University. Specifically focused on North Carolina\u2019s rural counties and first generation university attendees, the <\/span>Textile Pioneers Scholarship Program<\/span><\/a> aligns with NC State\u2019s land-grant mission to provide access <\/span>to students while adding to the Pack\u2019s geographical diversity<\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This year\u2019s inaugural class comprises five talented Textile Pioneers, four of whom are first in their family to attend any university: <\/span>Jeana Grace Bowker, Brooke Doll, Alex Hutchens, <\/span>Emma Myer and <\/span>Leah Reid \u2013 from Sampson, Harnett, Craven,<\/span> Beaufort and <\/span>Randolph Counties, respectively.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Funded by generous donor support, Textile Pioneers Scholarships award eligible first-year students $14,000 annually over four years. An additional $4,000 in enrichment funds will support personal and professional growth.  <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

While NC State is proud to mentor and educate students from all 100 counties of North Carolina, it has become increasingly competitive to gain entrance into the university and the Wilson College. The Textile Pioneers Scholarship Program aims to increase student quality while simultaneously enhancing access for students from diverse geographic and socioeconomic backgrounds \u2013 a growing challenge facing universities throughout the nation.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In North Carolina, counties are categorized by tiers based on four factors: average unemployment rate, median household income, percentage growth in population and adjusted property tax base per capita. Ascending in order of magnitude, Tier 1 counties pose the greatest economic challenges and barriers to higher education. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cBeing able to provide focused support to students from rural North Carolina who have extraordinary leadership potential but also financial need is near and dear to my heart,\u201d said David Hinks, dean of the Wilson College. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cAs a first-generation college attendee myself, knowing that Textile Pioneers may share that distinction in their families resonates deeply with me,\u201d Hinks noted. \u201cI am so grateful to our passionate donors who have already provided more than $5 million to support our first need-based scholarship. This is one of the most exciting developments in the Wilson College.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Driven by its mission, the Wilson College is committed to advancing the success of students <\/span>\u2013 <\/span>and the textile industry in North Carolina, the U.S. and around the world. The Textile Pioneers scholarships will help provide critical talent necessary to deliver innovative solutions to global challenges. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

To meet that need, the college is already working to create additional access for Pioneer Scholars by funding at least four additional Textiles Pioneers each year. According to Michael Ward, executive director of the North Carolina Textiles Foundation, that ambitious goal makes private giving not only critical, but even more impactful.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cMany students from Tier 1 and Tier 2 counties are highly talented and motivated, offering the intellect, creativity and passion for service that reflects our \u2018Think and Do\u2019 spirit at NC State,\u201d said Ward, who also was the first in his family to attend college. \u201cWe are deeply grateful to our founding Textile Pioneers benefactors for their transformational gifts that will allow our Pioneers to achieve their educational goals and lead the textiles industry to a bold future.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Founding benefactors include The Edward M. Armfield Sr. Foundation, Dr. Robert Barnhardt, Bill Chandler \u201872 and his wife Janice Chandler, Cone Mills Charitable Fund, Robert Fleming \u201850,  Chuck Flynt \u201862, Lyle Gardner \u201867 and his wife Rhonda Gardner, <\/span>Glen Raven Inc.<\/span><\/a>, Chuck Horne \u201873 and his son Wesley Horne \u201804, Brian McMurray \u201886 and his wife Konni McMurray, Steven Wilson, Zeno Windley \u201868 and his wife Ann Windley, and Steve Zeis \u201861 and his wife Frosene Zeis.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Funding commitments allow the Wilson College to offer specialized support services to complement its current rural recruiting efforts. Mentoring and guidance are provided during high school to enhance success with the university application process \u2013 an opportunity available regardless of which university and college a student may ultimately choose.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Upon admission and throughout the next four years, Textile Pioneers will receive dedicated mentoring, advising and tutoring to enhance academic and professional success. Additionally, they will have access to leadership training and professional skills development opportunities provided by summer internships, co-ops and networking with alumni and industry leaders.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In addition, Textiles Pioneers will benefit from enrichment experiences such as study or work abroad and undergraduate research prior to graduation \u2013 and personalized career counseling and support throughout their lives.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Befitting their scholarship name, Wilson College\u2019s Textile Pioneers are following new paths to achieve their educational goals so that others may follow. Welcome, Textile Pioneers!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

 <\/span>Jeana Grace Bowker<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Jeana Grace Bowker hails from Clinton, North Carolina, where she attended Harrells Christian Academy. Awarded the Windley Family Pioneer Scholarship, she plans to study <\/span>fashion and textile design<\/span><\/a> and pursue her passion for sewing and designing apparel.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cWhen I was younger, my grandfather taught me how to sew and we sewed home decorations together such as quilts and pillows,\u201d Bowker recalls. \u201cEver since, I have had a passion for sewing and taught myself how to sew and design apparel.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bowker discovered the Wilson College of Textiles through her own research of top fashion programs and guidance from her college counselor. Additionally, coming from a smaller high school, she knew she wanted the close knit family feeling that Wilson College offers.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Involved in almost every club offered by her high school, Bowker had a leadership role in all but one by her senior year. In addition to her extracurricular activities in school, she operated her own business selling handmade and seasonal decor and clothing. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

She believes that these activities were instrumental in her growth as a student and a person. \u201cEvery day I learned how to manage my time and prioritize,\u201d she said. \u201cI also learned many ins and outs of the design and business world.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In four years, she hopes to improve and grow her business, Grace and Love Designs, through knowledge gained at NC State. In addition to her major, Bowker hopes to minor in business administration to understand more of the business and operations side. Her goal after graduation is to have her business become a household brand. She\u2019s not sure what plans are in store for the future, but being a fashion designer has always been her dream.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

For Bowker, it is an incredible honor to be named a Pioneer scholar. \u201cBeing awarded this scholarship now lets me focus on my future without a huge financial roadblock,\u201d she said. \u201cI am so thankful to have received this award. I am really excited about all of the doors this will open for me!\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brooke Doll<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brooke Doll joins the Wolfpack and the Wilson College of Textiles from Angier, North Carolina, where she attended North Carolina Virtual Academy. She has been awarded a Pioneer Scholarship and plans to study <\/span>fashion and textile design<\/span><\/a> with a concentration in fashion design because she loves all aspects that go into creating a garment. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cThe most appealing thing about the major is my ability to make a difference within the textile and fashion industry,\u201d she noted. \u201cCreating awareness through art and clothing and trying to save the planet are really important to me, so being able to do that through a general passion of mine is really exciting.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Doll found the Wilson College of Textile through the <\/span>Summer Textile Exploration Program<\/span><\/a> (STEP) which helped her conceptualize her thoughts about the textile industry. After attending the program, she knew that she wanted to make a difference in textiles. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Doll decided to pursue her education here because she felt that it was a safe and comfortable environment. She sensed that the Wilson College would allow her to grow and dive deeper into textiles in a way that she hadn’t seen at any other university.  <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI think I bring a unique set of ideas and outlooks,\u201d Doll acknowledged. \u201cI am always thinking about my next project and idea and reviewing how I could make something I’ve created even better next time. I’m hoping to bring a consciousness of the earth and our impact, but also creativity within that consciousness.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

During her time in high school, volunteering made a big impact on Doll. It made her realize that wherever she may end up, she needed to make a difference in the world somehow. \u201cI had the ability to see how other people were living and how Earth is being directly impacted with our actions \u2013 and it made me realize how important those things are to me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the next four years, Doll knows she\u2019ll have great experiences with the educational opportunities available through the Wilson College of Textiles \u2013 and adequate resources to make the most of her time at NC State. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cIt means so much to me to be a recipient of the Pioneer Scholarship,\u201d said Doll. \u201cIt’s truly a dream come true.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Alex Hutchens<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Alex Hutchens is from New Bern, North Carolina, where she attended New Bern High School. Awarded a Pioneer scholarship, she plans to study <\/span>fashion and textile management<\/span><\/a> with a concentration in fashion development and product management. She has always been intrigued with the design process and how improvements can enhance sustainability.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI hope to learn more about sustainability as this has become an important concept in the fashion industry,\u201d she said. \u201cI would like to see how it has evolved and will continue to do so.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hutchens <\/span>learned about the Wilson College of Textiles through the <\/span>Summer Textile Exploration Program<\/span><\/a> where she completed a fashion design project by upcycling old apparel garments. She chose the Wilson College not only because it would provide her the best education but also thoroughly prepare her for the textiles industry. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201c<\/span>The Wilson College of Textiles will allow me to expand my knowledge creatively and divergently and I know that I would not be provided with this opportunity elsewhere,\u201d she said.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Coming from a town smaller than Raleigh, Hutchens knows that it will be immensely different. Yet, by bringing her diverse viewpoints and ideas <\/span>to NC State, she believes she will be able to help strengthen the community.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

During her time in high school, Hutchens participated in many extracurricular activities such as the National Technical Honor Society, Interact, Students for Justice, and the Student Government Association where she served as the senior class secretary. She was also the captain of the New Bern High School Drill team and a member of the dance team.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the next four years, Hutchens hopes to apply her new knowledge and relationships formed through college internships to prepare for a career to improve sustainability for leading brands in the fashion industry. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cReceiving the Pioneer Scholarship has enabled me to attend NC State University, which I otherwise would not be able to afford \u2013 or would have to work extensively to do so,\u201d noted Huchens, who is a triplet. \u201cIt is a great relief to know that much of the burden has been lifted.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Emma Myer<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Emma Myer comes to the Wilson College of Textiles from Belhaven, North Carolina, where she attended Northside High School. <\/span>Fascinated with chemistry and its application to textiles, she plans to study <\/span>polymer and color chemistry<\/span><\/a> as the recipient of the Glen Raven Pioneer Scholarship.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

After researching different colleges, <\/span>Myer <\/span>chose the Wilson College of Textiles because of the unique blend of classes and opportunities \u2013 especially the chance to study abroad. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In high school, she participated in Future Farmers of America which helped her develop communication and leadership skills. She also served as the manager for Northside\u2019s basketball teams.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Just beginning her college career, <\/span>Myer <\/span>already is looking ahead to her future. \u201cI see myself <\/span>graduating from NC State and pursuing an interesting and fulfilling career,\u201d she said. \u201cAnd I hope to stay involved with NC State and the Wilson College of Textiles even after I graduate!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

As the <\/span>Glen Raven Pioneer Scholarship<\/span> recipient, <\/span>Myer <\/span>knows that she can pursue her education without financial stress. \u201cReceiving the Pioneer Scholarship is a big honor and a huge opportunity,\u201d she affirmed. \u201cIt takes a big part of the burden off my shoulders.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Leah Reid<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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<\/b> <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Leah Reid is from Asheboro, North Carolina, where she attended Asheboro High School. Through a Pioneer Scholarship, she plans to study <\/span>fashion and textile management<\/span><\/a>  with a concentration in fashion development and product management. She is interested in the business portion of the major and how it will go hand-in-hand with the creative aspect of garment design. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cWhat appeals to me most about my intended degree and career path is the creative and team collaboration I will get to work in every day,\u201d she explained.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reid found the Wilson College of Textiles through an exhibit fair at the <\/span>North Carolina DECA<\/span><\/a> Career Development Conference. She selected the Wilson College because of its ability to prepare students for the competitive scheme of the fashion and retail industry in addition to the resources offered at the college and NC State University. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

A leader in her community, Reid can bring a unique leadership style by bridging groups together at the college. \u201cI like to lead as a friend who values all opinions of the group, as well as deems no job less important than another,\u201d she said. She hopes to make an impact using her skills by adding to the family and team learning environment at the Wilson College of Textiles.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In high school, Reid was actively in <\/span>DECA<\/span><\/a>, a program that prepares emerging leaders. \u201cDECA taught me business and interview skills that I will use for the rest of my life,\u201d she said. \u201cIt also helped me build my confidence and my leadership potential.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In four years, she sees herself joining the Wilson College of Textiles alumni family with a strong background in the industry. \u201cI see myself empowered to take on my first career with many supporters behind me,\u201d Reid said.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

After graduation, she plans to start a career in merchandising for a rising fashion company. \u201cI would like to be involved directly with the management of our products and brand development or another dream of mine is to own a prom and formal wear shop much later in life.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In receiving the Pioneer Scholarship, Reid feels supported by the <\/span>North Carolina Textile Foundation<\/span><\/a>, the faculty and the entire Wilson College community. \u201cChoosing a major intended for a competitive industry made me both excited and nervous, but receiving the Pioneer Scholarship, I feel supported by the Wilson College of Textiles,\u201d she said. \u201cThey believe in me and my potential which is one of the most meaningful things that has come out of this opportunity.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Learn more about how you can make a difference in the lives of Textile Pioneers by <\/i><\/b>donating to the Pioneer Scholarship Program<\/i><\/b><\/a>. <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n","protected":false,"raw":"\n\n\n\n\n

Written by: Tony Hoppa and Joanne Zhang \u201920<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reflecting the same trailblazing spirit that has continually reinvigorated the textiles industry, the Wilson College of Textiles has launched its first need-based scholarship to help recruit next-generation talent to NC State University. Specifically focused on North Carolina\u2019s rural counties and first generation university attendees, the <\/span>Textile Pioneers Scholarship Program<\/span><\/a> aligns with NC State\u2019s land-grant mission to provide access <\/span>to students while adding to the Pack\u2019s geographical diversity<\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This year\u2019s inaugural class comprises five talented Textile Pioneers, four of whom are first in their family to attend any university: <\/span>Jeana Grace Bowker, Brooke Doll, Alex Hutchens, <\/span>Emma Myer and <\/span>Leah Reid \u2013 from Sampson, Harnett, Craven,<\/span> Beaufort and <\/span>Randolph Counties, respectively.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Funded by generous donor support, Textile Pioneers Scholarships award eligible first-year students $14,000 annually over four years. An additional $4,000 in enrichment funds will support personal and professional growth.  <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

While NC State is proud to mentor and educate students from all 100 counties of North Carolina, it has become increasingly competitive to gain entrance into the university and the Wilson College. The Textile Pioneers Scholarship Program aims to increase student quality while simultaneously enhancing access for students from diverse geographic and socioeconomic backgrounds \u2013 a growing challenge facing universities throughout the nation.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In North Carolina, counties are categorized by tiers based on four factors: average unemployment rate, median household income, percentage growth in population and adjusted property tax base per capita. Ascending in order of magnitude, Tier 1 counties pose the greatest economic challenges and barriers to higher education. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cBeing able to provide focused support to students from rural North Carolina who have extraordinary leadership potential but also financial need is near and dear to my heart,\u201d said David Hinks, dean of the Wilson College. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cAs a first-generation college attendee myself, knowing that Textile Pioneers may share that distinction in their families resonates deeply with me,\u201d Hinks noted. \u201cI am so grateful to our passionate donors who have already provided more than $5 million to support our first need-based scholarship. This is one of the most exciting developments in the Wilson College.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Driven by its mission, the Wilson College is committed to advancing the success of students <\/span>\u2013 <\/span>and the textile industry in North Carolina, the U.S. and around the world. The Textile Pioneers scholarships will help provide critical talent necessary to deliver innovative solutions to global challenges. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

To meet that need, the college is already working to create additional access for Pioneer Scholars by funding at least four additional Textiles Pioneers each year. According to Michael Ward, executive director of the North Carolina Textiles Foundation, that ambitious goal makes private giving not only critical, but even more impactful.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cMany students from Tier 1 and Tier 2 counties are highly talented and motivated, offering the intellect, creativity and passion for service that reflects our \u2018Think and Do\u2019 spirit at NC State,\u201d said Ward, who also was the first in his family to attend college. \u201cWe are deeply grateful to our founding Textile Pioneers benefactors for their transformational gifts that will allow our Pioneers to achieve their educational goals and lead the textiles industry to a bold future.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Founding benefactors include The Edward M. Armfield Sr. Foundation, Dr. Robert Barnhardt, Bill Chandler \u201872 and his wife Janice Chandler, Cone Mills Charitable Fund, Robert Fleming \u201850,  Chuck Flynt \u201862, Lyle Gardner \u201867 and his wife Rhonda Gardner, <\/span>Glen Raven Inc.<\/span><\/a>, Chuck Horne \u201873 and his son Wesley Horne \u201804, Brian McMurray \u201886 and his wife Konni McMurray, Steven Wilson, Zeno Windley \u201868 and his wife Ann Windley, and Steve Zeis \u201861 and his wife Frosene Zeis.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Funding commitments allow the Wilson College to offer specialized support services to complement its current rural recruiting efforts. Mentoring and guidance are provided during high school to enhance success with the university application process \u2013 an opportunity available regardless of which university and college a student may ultimately choose.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Upon admission and throughout the next four years, Textile Pioneers will receive dedicated mentoring, advising and tutoring to enhance academic and professional success. Additionally, they will have access to leadership training and professional skills development opportunities provided by summer internships, co-ops and networking with alumni and industry leaders.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In addition, Textiles Pioneers will benefit from enrichment experiences such as study or work abroad and undergraduate research prior to graduation \u2013 and personalized career counseling and support throughout their lives.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Befitting their scholarship name, Wilson College\u2019s Textile Pioneers are following new paths to achieve their educational goals so that others may follow. Welcome, Textile Pioneers!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

 <\/span>Jeana Grace Bowker<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Jeana Grace Bowker hails from Clinton, North Carolina, where she attended Harrells Christian Academy. Awarded the Windley Family Pioneer Scholarship, she plans to study <\/span>fashion and textile design<\/span><\/a> and pursue her passion for sewing and designing apparel.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cWhen I was younger, my grandfather taught me how to sew and we sewed home decorations together such as quilts and pillows,\u201d Bowker recalls. \u201cEver since, I have had a passion for sewing and taught myself how to sew and design apparel.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bowker discovered the Wilson College of Textiles through her own research of top fashion programs and guidance from her college counselor. Additionally, coming from a smaller high school, she knew she wanted the close knit family feeling that Wilson College offers.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Involved in almost every club offered by her high school, Bowker had a leadership role in all but one by her senior year. In addition to her extracurricular activities in school, she operated her own business selling handmade and seasonal decor and clothing. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

She believes that these activities were instrumental in her growth as a student and a person. \u201cEvery day I learned how to manage my time and prioritize,\u201d she said. \u201cI also learned many ins and outs of the design and business world.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In four years, she hopes to improve and grow her business, Grace and Love Designs, through knowledge gained at NC State. In addition to her major, Bowker hopes to minor in business administration to understand more of the business and operations side. Her goal after graduation is to have her business become a household brand. She\u2019s not sure what plans are in store for the future, but being a fashion designer has always been her dream.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

For Bowker, it is an incredible honor to be named a Pioneer scholar. \u201cBeing awarded this scholarship now lets me focus on my future without a huge financial roadblock,\u201d she said. \u201cI am so thankful to have received this award. I am really excited about all of the doors this will open for me!\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brooke Doll<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brooke Doll joins the Wolfpack and the Wilson College of Textiles from Angier, North Carolina, where she attended North Carolina Virtual Academy. She has been awarded a Pioneer Scholarship and plans to study <\/span>fashion and textile design<\/span><\/a> with a concentration in fashion design because she loves all aspects that go into creating a garment. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cThe most appealing thing about the major is my ability to make a difference within the textile and fashion industry,\u201d she noted. \u201cCreating awareness through art and clothing and trying to save the planet are really important to me, so being able to do that through a general passion of mine is really exciting.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Doll found the Wilson College of Textile through the <\/span>Summer Textile Exploration Program<\/span><\/a> (STEP) which helped her conceptualize her thoughts about the textile industry. After attending the program, she knew that she wanted to make a difference in textiles. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Doll decided to pursue her education here because she felt that it was a safe and comfortable environment. She sensed that the Wilson College would allow her to grow and dive deeper into textiles in a way that she hadn't seen at any other university.  <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI think I bring a unique set of ideas and outlooks,\u201d Doll acknowledged. \u201cI am always thinking about my next project and idea and reviewing how I could make something I've created even better next time. I'm hoping to bring a consciousness of the earth and our impact, but also creativity within that consciousness.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

During her time in high school, volunteering made a big impact on Doll. It made her realize that wherever she may end up, she needed to make a difference in the world somehow. \u201cI had the ability to see how other people were living and how Earth is being directly impacted with our actions \u2013 and it made me realize how important those things are to me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the next four years, Doll knows she\u2019ll have great experiences with the educational opportunities available through the Wilson College of Textiles \u2013 and adequate resources to make the most of her time at NC State. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cIt means so much to me to be a recipient of the Pioneer Scholarship,\u201d said Doll. \u201cIt's truly a dream come true.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Alex Hutchens<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Alex Hutchens is from New Bern, North Carolina, where she attended New Bern High School. Awarded a Pioneer scholarship, she plans to study <\/span>fashion and textile management<\/span><\/a> with a concentration in fashion development and product management. She has always been intrigued with the design process and how improvements can enhance sustainability.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI hope to learn more about sustainability as this has become an important concept in the fashion industry,\u201d she said. \u201cI would like to see how it has evolved and will continue to do so.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hutchens <\/span>learned about the Wilson College of Textiles through the <\/span>Summer Textile Exploration Program<\/span><\/a> where she completed a fashion design project by upcycling old apparel garments. She chose the Wilson College not only because it would provide her the best education but also thoroughly prepare her for the textiles industry. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201c<\/span>The Wilson College of Textiles will allow me to expand my knowledge creatively and divergently and I know that I would not be provided with this opportunity elsewhere,\u201d she said.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Coming from a town smaller than Raleigh, Hutchens knows that it will be immensely different. Yet, by bringing her diverse viewpoints and ideas <\/span>to NC State, she believes she will be able to help strengthen the community.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

During her time in high school, Hutchens participated in many extracurricular activities such as the National Technical Honor Society, Interact, Students for Justice, and the Student Government Association where she served as the senior class secretary. She was also the captain of the New Bern High School Drill team and a member of the dance team.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the next four years, Hutchens hopes to apply her new knowledge and relationships formed through college internships to prepare for a career to improve sustainability for leading brands in the fashion industry. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cReceiving the Pioneer Scholarship has enabled me to attend NC State University, which I otherwise would not be able to afford \u2013 or would have to work extensively to do so,\u201d noted Huchens, who is a triplet. \u201cIt is a great relief to know that much of the burden has been lifted.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Emma Myer<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Emma Myer comes to the Wilson College of Textiles from Belhaven, North Carolina, where she attended Northside High School. <\/span>Fascinated with chemistry and its application to textiles, she plans to study <\/span>polymer and color chemistry<\/span><\/a> as the recipient of the Glen Raven Pioneer Scholarship.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

After researching different colleges, <\/span>Myer <\/span>chose the Wilson College of Textiles because of the unique blend of classes and opportunities \u2013 especially the chance to study abroad. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In high school, she participated in Future Farmers of America which helped her develop communication and leadership skills. She also served as the manager for Northside\u2019s basketball teams.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Just beginning her college career, <\/span>Myer <\/span>already is looking ahead to her future. \u201cI see myself <\/span>graduating from NC State and pursuing an interesting and fulfilling career,\u201d she said. \u201cAnd I hope to stay involved with NC State and the Wilson College of Textiles even after I graduate!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

As the <\/span>Glen Raven Pioneer Scholarship<\/span> recipient, <\/span>Myer <\/span>knows that she can pursue her education without financial stress. \u201cReceiving the Pioneer Scholarship is a big honor and a huge opportunity,\u201d she affirmed. \u201cIt takes a big part of the burden off my shoulders.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Leah Reid<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

<\/b> <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Leah Reid is from Asheboro, North Carolina, where she attended Asheboro High School. Through a Pioneer Scholarship, she plans to study <\/span>fashion and textile management<\/span><\/a>  with a concentration in fashion development and product management. She is interested in the business portion of the major and how it will go hand-in-hand with the creative aspect of garment design. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cWhat appeals to me most about my intended degree and career path is the creative and team collaboration I will get to work in every day,\u201d she explained.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reid found the Wilson College of Textiles through an exhibit fair at the <\/span>North Carolina DECA<\/span><\/a> Career Development Conference. She selected the Wilson College because of its ability to prepare students for the competitive scheme of the fashion and retail industry in addition to the resources offered at the college and NC State University. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

A leader in her community, Reid can bring a unique leadership style by bridging groups together at the college. \u201cI like to lead as a friend who values all opinions of the group, as well as deems no job less important than another,\u201d she said. She hopes to make an impact using her skills by adding to the family and team learning environment at the Wilson College of Textiles.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In high school, Reid was actively in <\/span>DECA<\/span><\/a>, a program that prepares emerging leaders. \u201cDECA taught me business and interview skills that I will use for the rest of my life,\u201d she said. \u201cIt also helped me build my confidence and my leadership potential.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In four years, she sees herself joining the Wilson College of Textiles alumni family with a strong background in the industry. \u201cI see myself empowered to take on my first career with many supporters behind me,\u201d Reid said.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

After graduation, she plans to start a career in merchandising for a rising fashion company. \u201cI would like to be involved directly with the management of our products and brand development or another dream of mine is to own a prom and formal wear shop much later in life.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In receiving the Pioneer Scholarship, Reid feels supported by the <\/span>North Carolina Textile Foundation<\/span><\/a>, the faculty and the entire Wilson College community. \u201cChoosing a major intended for a competitive industry made me both excited and nervous, but receiving the Pioneer Scholarship, I feel supported by the Wilson College of Textiles,\u201d she said. \u201cThey believe in me and my potential which is one of the most meaningful things that has come out of this opportunity.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Learn more about how you can make a difference in the lives of Textile Pioneers by <\/i><\/b>donating to the Pioneer Scholarship Program<\/i><\/b><\/a>. <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n"},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Wilson College scholarship program opens doors for rural North Carolina high school graduates. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":12,"featured_media":28130,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"source":"","ncst_custom_author":"","ncst_show_custom_author":false,"ncst_dynamicHeaderBlockName":"ncst\/default-post-header","ncst_dynamicHeaderData":"{\"showAuthor\":true,\"showDate\":true,\"showFeaturedVideo\":false,\"caption\":\"\",\"displayCategoryID\":2132}","ncst_content_audit_freq":"","ncst_content_audit_date":"","ncst_content_audit_display":false,"ncst_backToTopFlag":"","footnotes":"","_links_to":"","_links_to_target":""},"categories":[490,666,502,496,479],"tags":[566,683,1069,2335,684],"_ncst_magazine_issue":[],"class_list":["post-15630","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-our-people","category-perspectives","category-student-success","category-tatm","category-tecs","tag-industry","tag-nctf","tag-north-carolina","tag-pioneer-scholarship","tag-step"],"displayCategory":null,"acf":{"ncst_posts_meta_modified_date":null},"yoast_head":"