Thank You

Student Stories



The Class of 1955 Merit Scholarship – Arizona Poole

“There is nothing I could say that would fully express my gratitude, but I will work tirelessly to make a difference because of it. Your generous gift has enabled me to work toward my dream!”

Arizona Poole, recipient of The Class of 1955 Merit Scholarship


The Class of 1969 UNCG Endowed Scholarship – Antwain Hairston

“Being a student at UNCG has been delightful because of the supportive atmosphere. I feel worthy to be here, and I never really had that before in my life.”

Antwain Hairston, recipient of The Class of 1969 UNCG Endowed Scholarship


Taylor Roberson

“This scholarship allows me to focus on two major areas: psychology and the exploration of Black lives across the world…As a therapist, I hope to improve the mental and physical well-being of people of color through counseling.”

Taylor Roberson, recipient of the Elizabeth Whitney “Whitty” Ransome Endowed Scholarship in African American and African Diaspora Studies


Les Nichols

“During these times especially, help with college is in great demand, and my goal is to one day pay it forward and provide a scholarship of my own to help someone like I have been helped.”

Les Nichols, recipient of the Brenda Welling Rechtine Scholarship


Bevin Strickland

“Nursing is the ultimate act of service, not only for patients but also for the community. Nurses must be ready and able to care for a variety of patients, and UNCG has equipped me to do that.”

Bevin Strickland, recipient of the John Joseph Rall, Jr. Endowed Scholarship in Nursing


Zach Matthews ’17

“I met Mrs. Safran… Learning about her work as a critical care nurse and the business she started for cardiac event training really inspired me. I can’t thank her enough for her generosity and support while I was at UNCG.”

Zach Matthews ’17, recipient of the Susan Morris Safran Merit Scholarship in Nursing


Kellie Thomas

“Being at UNCG has been the most rewarding experience of my life…Not only have I gained valuable knowledge in the classroom, but I’ve also learned about my own strengths and challenges, and that I have the capacity to do a lot more than I would have imagined.”

Kellie Thomas, recipient of the William Holt & Ella (Rea) Turrentine Scholarship


Sarah White

“I’m blessed to receive this scholarship…It takes faith, compassion, and a generous heart to create scholarships, and I’m honored to have that trust – and a personal connection to one of the people who inspired it.”

Sarah White, recipient of the Nancy Ross, Betty Dickson, and Nancy Jo Smith Scholarship


Caeley Mayo

“When I got here, I was very nervous; I had applied so late, and I was worried I wouldn’t get financial aid…the person who helped at the financial aid office looked over my account and found scholarships I qualified for. It’s because of those scholarships that I am here at UNCG…”

Caeley Mayo, recipient of the Helen McBee Scholarship


Allison Phanthavong

“I was so surprised when I was notified that I received this scholarship….It’s incredibly uplifting to know there are people who have such faith in me. You inspire me to continue working even harder. Thank you.”

Allison Phanthavong, recipient of the Nido and Mariana Qubein Scholarship