Adekanle, who is majoring in nursing at App State, aspires to become a pediatric dermatologist. “I know Appalachian and the nursing program will be able to offer me a strong foundation and resources to be successful in my future profession,” she said.

After graduating from App State, Adekanle plans to pursue a nursing master’s degree to become a nurse practitioner and then enroll in either medical school or a physician assistant program, where she will specialize in dermatology. She said the Chancellor’s Scholarship will provide her with the support she needs to successfully transition from her undergraduate to her graduate career.

As a student at Triad Math and Science Academy in Greensboro, Adekanle served as flag team captain and chief editor of the school’s yearbook and was a member of the varsity-level volleyball and track and field teams. Additionally, she tutored middle school students in math and English and volunteered at Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital and Greensboro’s New Arrivals Institute for refugees and immigrants.

She is considering pursuing a minor in American Sign Language at App State.

Boone, who is majoring in chemistry-forensic science with a minor in sustainable development, said she chose to attend App State because of the university’s focus on sustainability, as well as the smaller, discussion-based classes it offers. In the Honors College, Boone said she knows she will be challenged by her peers and faculty and will be inspired to do her best.

“I have always been a shy person,” Boone shared. “The Chancellor’s Scholarship will help me grow individually and academically — propelling me to ask questions, think creatively, lead discussions, share my opinions and see different perspectives.”

Boone graduated from Ronald Wilson Reagan High School, where she was a member of the National Honor Society and the National Latin Honor Society. During her senior year, she served as editor-in-chief of the school’s newspaper. Through her church, Boone led a youth band, served on mission trips and volunteered with local agencies.

Bryant chose to come to App State because of its atmosphere and environment, stating, “I couldn’t imagine myself going anywhere else.”

Bryant is majoring in music therapy and looks forward to building relationships with professors, engaging in the local community and exploring career possibilities. “The Chancellor’s Scholarship will give me resources and allow me to go places I normally wouldn’t be able to,” they said.

At West Forsyth High School, Bryant was a member of the marching band, drama club, a community service club, the National Honor Society and other honor organizations.

Maurer, who grew up in Western North Carolina, is majoring in graphic design with a minor in sociology and aspires to succeed as an artist centered on creating social change.

They said the Chancellor’s Scholarship and support of App State’s Honors College will provide “the opportunity to explore the numerous applications of art for impact through research opportunities and interdisciplinary coursework.”

While attending the School of Inquiry and Life Sciences in Asheville, Maurer was a member of the National Honor Society, vice president of the school’s National Art Honor Society chapter and a member of Keepin’ It R.E.A.L. (Racial Equity Activating Leadership). Maurer also volunteered with local nonprofit agencies and was a freelance graphic designer for Asheville-based small businesses.

Moore said the moment she set foot on App State’s campus, it felt like a “home away from home.” The first-generation college student added she felt the support of the university’s faculty before she even committed to App State.

The Chancellor’s Scholarship will offer Moore opportunities to build connections and gain valuable experience, she said. Moore is double majoring in marketing-digital marketing and political science-public administration.

At Bessemer City High School, Moore was a member of the National Honor Society, the National Technical Honor Society and Beta Club. She founded the school’s Chess Club and participated in its Writing and Drama clubs. She also played golf and soccer for her high school.

Neri said when considering App State, he was encouraged by the Mountaineer community and the support he received from the university’s faculty. He is studying history and political science with a concentration in American politics.

Neri will use his financial and academic support at App State to excel in the opportunities he’s presented, he said. “This scholarship will allow me to fully immerse myself into my education and participate in clubs and university organizations,” he shared.

Neri graduated from William G. Enloe High School in Raleigh, where he was active in Student Council, varsity football and a podcast club. He also played in the school’s jazz ensemble.

“Earning the Chancellor’s Scholarship provides me a sense of accomplishment and demands I perform at my best. It will push me to try new things, learn more and, above all, become a better person,” Russell said.

When he asked others about App State, Russell said there was one resounding theme: The commitment of faculty to the success of their students. As one who had benefited from strong mentorship from his high school teachers, Russell said he felt he would grow more at App State than anywhere else.

Russell graduated from Charlotte Catholic High School, where he was a member of the swim team, the German Club and the National Honor Society. He also volunteered in his community and served as a lifeguard and swim instructor. Russell is majoring in exercise science at App State and hopes to attend medical school in the future.

When considering where to go to college, Smith said he found the App State Community to be dynamic, inclusive and well rounded. “It provides a diverse learning environment and multitudes of different programs, clubs and degrees,” said Smith, who is majoring in psychology with a concentration in health studies.

“The Chancellor’s Scholarship enables me to pursue my educational goals by giving me access to more resources, help and connections — including opportunities for one-on-one research with professors and studying abroad. It provides financial liberty and allows me to obtain the best education App State has to offer,” Smith said.

Smith graduated from Cape Fear High School in Fayetteville, where he was captain of the Science Olympiad Varsity Team, a freshman mentor and a member of the All-State Chorus, Beta Club and Cumberland County Academy of Scholars. He also started a student life podcast to boost student morale during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Stukes’ first experience at App State was as an attendee at the university’s Cannon Music Camp when she was a rising junior in high school. “I immediately fell in love with the close-knit community,” she said. “When I was introduced to the wonderful staff and faculty of the Hayes School of Music, I knew App State was a special place.”

Stukes said as a recipient of the Chancellor’s Scholarship she will be able to “embrace the college experience without worrying about student debt.” As a biology-cellular/molecular biology major, Stukes said she also looks forward to research opportunities. She plans to minor in instrumental music.

Stukes graduated from the Northwest School of the Arts, where she was a member of several honors organizations, including the National Honor Society. During her senior year, she was president of both the Special Olympics Club and the Health Team, and concert mistress of her high school’s advanced orchestra. She also organized schoolwide virtual events to increase social, cultural and mental awareness — including an event to commemorate Black artistry in the Charlotte community.

Vaughn said she was thrilled when she learned she would be an App State Mountaineer. “I know I’ll be supported by faculty who will provide me an excellent education and encourage me to be a lifelong learner and leader,” she said.

While Vaughn desires a career in the medical field, she said she isn’t sure yet which discipline she wants to pursue, so she plans to use the research opportunities provided by the Chancellor’s Scholarship to refine her options. “Additionally, the ability to study abroad and make connections will help point me in the right direction,” said Vaughn, who is majoring in biology.

Vaughn served as drum major, swim team captain and president of the National Honor Society at McDowell High School. She was a North Carolina DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America) competitor and a student in the two-year, online honors program offered by the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics. She also co-founded a choir for residents of a local nursing home and was a member of the Lake James Environmental Association Board.