Ignite Scholars Archives - �۶�ֱ�� University

Ignite Scholar Elijah Lewis Builds Community at �۶�ֱ��

Office of University Communications — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 21:02:11 +0000

Campus Connections Empower Sophomore to Grow Spiritually, Academically, and Professionally

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Ignite Scholar Elijah Lewis, of Graham, N.C., first heard about �۶�ֱ�� University from his friend A.J. Hogan. When Lewis visited campus, he also experienced the vibrant and close-knit community his friend had described.

“I believe God pointed me in this direction due to the personal connections, the amazing first impressions I had during my visits, and the inviting atmosphere of the community that he showed to me,” Lewis explained. “I also saw the career and financial opportunities �۶�ֱ�� could provide, and I knew this was where I was meant to be. I want to thank my parents for always supporting me from day one.”

Winning the Ignite Scholarship was further confirmation. “It meant everything to me,” Lewis shared. “Receiving this recognition was a huge confidence booster. I can’t imagine myself anywhere else. Without a scholarship, I wasn’t sure what I’d be able to do in life, but �۶�ֱ��’s generosity made my path clear.”

Elijah Lewis, right, Dr. Mirek Mystkowski, center, and two other students examine a sample problem while practicing for a programming contest coming up at the 39th Annual Consortium for Computing Sciences in Colleges.

His first year at �۶�ֱ��, he focused on building his spiritual and academic foundations and also connecting with people on campus. Lewis joined a Bible study group led by Hogan. It has become his greatest source of support. “That community has given me peace and encouragement to handle challenges, whether it’s tough times in life or the pressure of academics,” Lewis observed.

A computer science major with a minor in mathematics, Lewis is naturally curious. “Ever since I was a very young kid, I’d take apart devices like my iPod or explore every menu in a program just to see what was possible,” Lewis reflected. “Computer Science gives me a way to turn that curiosity into a career, and I hope to use that passion in a way that honors God.”

Elijah Lewis reads a sample problem while practicing
for a regional computer contest.

His professors, Dr. Mirek Mystkowski and Oscar Gonzales, are preparing him for success in the programming field. “They’ve consistently gone above and beyond by offering after-class opportunities, providing guidance, and even helping me make important career connections,” Lewis noted.

As a way to apply what he’s learning in class, sharpen his skills, and provide additional practical experience for his resume, Lewis is preparing for a programming contest. He’s been working with Mystkowski and a couple of other students for the event held at the 39th Annual Consortium for Computing Sciences in Colleges (CCSC) Southeastern Region meeting.

“It’s been fun and academically rewarding to get to know and work with the professor and the other two guys in an environment other than class,” Lewis acknowledged. “The actual competition will be a nice learning experience, because it’s something I’ve never done before.”

Lewis also went to the Career Fair sponsored by the �۶�ֱ�� Center for Personal and Professional Development. As part of his Business Communication and Administration Class, he prepared beforehand by writing a resume, creating a LinkedIn profile, and practicing his pitch with classmates. At the event, he met and talked with some potential employers. “�۶�ֱ�� has given me great resources and mentors who have taught me the skills I need to pursue a vocation,” he observed. “Overall, it’s given me a strong foundation that I know I can build a future on.”

About the Ignite Scholarship

Ignite Excellence is �۶�ֱ�� University’s most competitive academic scholarship. Each recipient receives a full-tuition scholarship that covers the cost of tuition for eight semesters. Recipients are selected through an on-campus interview process. They must maintain a cumulative institutional grade point average of 3.5, reside on campus, and continue to demonstrate a strong leadership ability and commitment to service. Learn more here.

About �۶�ֱ��

�۶�ֱ�� University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., �۶�ֱ�� prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Learn more at .

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At �۶�ֱ�� University, Naliah Codjovi, ‘28, Found Community to Pursue her Calling

Office of University Communications — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 13:46:16 +0000

Ignite Scholar Aims to Support Fellow Sickle Cell Patients Through a Career in Medicine

BOILING-SPRINGS, N.C.— “�۶�ֱ�� has a close-knit and welcoming community that gave me the fresh start I didn’t know I needed. It has become a place where I feel supported, seen, and able to grow,” described Naliah Codjovi, who is originally from Buffalo, New York.

She was a high school senior when her family moved to Charlotte, N.C., and her mom suggested she visit �۶�ֱ�� University. “My mom wanted me to find a community that she thought I would resonate with because I expressed that I needed something new and refreshing,” explained Codjovi, who will graduate from GWU in 2028. “I was reluctant but agreed to visit, and the town and college appealed to me, so once I did the Ignite Scholarship interview, I felt like �۶�ֱ�� could actually be my college.”

She added that winning the Ignite Scholarship was a blessing for her and her family. A biology major with a biomedical concentration and a minor in health administration, Codjovi’s goal is to become a Physician Assistant and enter the field of hematology. “When I found out I won, I remember thinking it was unbelievable,” she reflected. “It reminded me that if you put in the hard work, and God sees your effort, He will reward you in the ways you least expect. I know that I have a long educational journey ahead of me as someone who wants to enter the medical field, so winning the Ignite Excellence award was a huge financial weight lifted off my shoulders.”

As vice president of the Black Student Association, Naliah Codjovi, left, helped with Sickle Cell Awareness Week activities.

Her choice to pursue a career in hematology is personal. As someone who lives with Sickle Cell Anemia, she wants to be there for others who have this inherited blood disorder. “Living with this challenge has shown me how essential empathy is in medicine—not just treating symptoms but truly seeing and supporting patients and the Sickle Cell community,” she shared. “I want to become the kind of medical professional I always needed growing up: Someone who listens, understands, and fights for patients. My goal is to uplift the Sickle Cell community with clinics and create more equitable care around the world.”

The vice president of the Black Student Association (BSA), Codjovi is not waiting until she is out of college to encourage patients with Sickle Cell. Recently, the BSA hosted Sickle Cell Awareness Week by sponsoring activities to educate �۶�ֱ�� students about the disorder. The events also supported patients by asking students to write encouraging notes to them as well as collecting donations for Levine Cancer Center.

Naliah Codjovi writes a note to encourage
a patient with Sickle Cell Anemia.

The professors in the Department of Natural Sciences are equipping her with the skills she needs for graduate school. She appreciates the mentorship of Professor of Chemistry Dr. Stefka Eddins. “She was my chemistry professor for the first and second semester, but she has also been a guiding voice in my life,” Codjovi acknowledged. “She always knows what to say, but most importantly how to say it. She is very wise, kind, and genuine … I appreciate her reminders not to doubt myself and to focus on what’s important in my education.”

In addition to academic support, Codjovi has surrounded herself with new friends and serves as a Student Orientation Leader. Last semester, she served in the Student Government Association as a representative from Stroup Residence Hall and went with the SGA on a mission trip to Rock Hill, S.C., to help people recover after Hurricane Helene. “I feel like it is important to have a place like GWU in your life,” she related. “I did not have much of a community where I came from, so I am more than grateful to be in a place that fosters my spirituality and appreciates kindness and support as much as GWU does.”

Her family is a constant source of encouragement and she knows that she can call them any time. During her first semester at GWU, her family still lived in New York. However, her new friends on campus offered to give her a ride when she needed to go somewhere and also cheered her up when she was feeling sad and alone. They even surprised her one day by bringing karaoke and a dance party into her room. “Moments like those remind me how important it is to make connections in college, especially ones that show up for you when it really counts,” she observed.

She cherishes those special times with her friends, but also knows that life—and especially college—is a journey shaped by personal choices. “I believe an experience is what you make it, and it’s important to focus on what you can control,” Codjovi asserted. “This is definitely not an easy thing to do consistently, but every day I try to be better than who I was yesterday, and that is what matters.”

She shared the same message as an Orientation leader. “I told my group to make the most of college: Go to classes, have fun, but don’t get caught up and forget why they are here,” she remarked. “I told them not to be afraid to meet new people and to try new things. They might meet a friend right away or meet many new friends every semester.”

About the Ignite Scholarship

About �۶�ֱ�� University

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�۶�ֱ�� Ignite Scholar Ja’Kayla Alexander Embodies Excellence in Nursing and Service

Office of University Communications — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 14:14:53 +0000

Alexander Pursues Her Calling with Faith as Her Foundation and a Heart for Helping

To our readers: In celebration of 60 years of nursing education at GWU, which began in August 1965, HSON highlights some of its students who are preparing to serve in the field. Learn more here.

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—When Ja’Kayla Alexander, of Shelby, N.C., was awarded the Ignite Excellence Scholarship at �۶�ֱ�� University, she reflected on 2 Corinthians 15:7, a verse that perfectly captured her journey: “Be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded.” Through dedicated pursuit of academic success, her hopes of earning a college scholarship became a reality.

As a student in the Hunt School of Nursing, Alexander continues to be diligent in her studies to prepare for her career and meet the scholarship’s academic requirements. “I feel extremely blessed to be one of the recipients of the Ignite Scholarship,” reflected Alexander, who will graduate in 2028. “Getting this scholarship has really eased the financial pressure on me and my family. I’m still amazed that I was chosen out of so many qualified applicants and interviewees. Winning this scholarship has allowed me to pursue my career without the financial burden of debt, which means a lot to me.”

She is confident that her professors in nursing and other subjects will equip her with the skills and knowledge she needs to care for patients. “I’ll get a ton of hands-on experience during clinicals, learning how to take care of patients and handle meds and equipment,” she explained. “Plus, classes like anatomy have given me a solid understanding of the body and how to treat illnesses. I’ll also learn how to think on my feet and make quick decisions, which is super important in nursing. And, of course, I’ll have gotten better at talking to patients and working with other healthcare folks.”

Alexander’s introduction to �۶�ֱ�� began when her family moved to Shelby from Charlotte, N.C. “When I started attending Shelby High School, some of my teachers had gone to �۶�ֱ�� University and often shared their experiences with me,” she related. “As I was in my senior year and thinking about my future, �۶�ֱ�� kept popping up as a great option. So, I decided to check it out and see what it had to offer.”

�۶�ֱ�� was close to home and that is important to Alexander. She wanted to be close to her mom and sisters, and she also desired to keep her job as a nursing assistant. Through an opportunity at her school, she completed the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program and works in a skilled nursing facility. Her first job was caring for patients in an assisted living and memory care community. “I believe that this experience, coupled with the inspiration I received from my health science teacher, has been instrumental in my career development,” Alexander said. “This job has taught me the most about the nature and demands of the healthcare field. It demands immense time, patience, and empathy, and it can be challenging, but it is also incredibly rewarding.”

Ja’Kayla Alexander decided to minor in American Sign Language after
learning about deaf culture. The class frequently gets together for a
“signing” dinner to practice what they are learning.
Photo by Claire Ledford / GWU Photo Team

She continued, “Working with my residents at both facilities has taught me the most valuable lesson: To live life in the present moment. Whether it’s traveling, building a family, running a marathon, or simply reading books, we should strive to achieve and find fulfillment in every aspect of our lives. For when we grow old and reflect on our journey, we will want to feel a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment.”

The compassion and care she practiced as a CNA strengthened her desire to pursue a nursing career. “From a young age, I knew I wanted to be in a field where I could make a positive impact and help people,” Alexander affirmed. “My grandma always taught me to be selfless, reminding me that ‘when you give, God will give back to you.’ So, being in a field where I can care for the vulnerable, helpless, and those in need feels like a way that God is giving back to me.”

In an effort to expand her skills, Alexander explored her interest in American Sign Language and decided to minor in the subject. “I’ve always been fascinated by interpreters at big events, concerts, and on social media,” she shared. “I wanted to make the most of my time at GW, so I took the class. While learning about deaf culture, I realized it’s so much more than just being fascinated by interpreters. It’s an integral part of their everyday lives, and I wanted to be a part of that. I’m really grateful to learn from Mr. Russ Gribble, who is a deaf instructor, and to incorporate what I’m learning into my future career.”

She appreciates all of her professors and describes them as kind and supportive. She said her two advisors—Aubree Bell and Dr. Kerstin Queen—have provided invaluable guidance to her throughout her time on campus. She is especially grateful for the friends who share the same career path. “We often support and uplift each other since we’re all going through this together,” Alexander affirmed.

To balance the demands of school and work, she makes time for self-care. “These activities include spending time outdoors in the sun, and thrift shopping,” Alexander described. “In nursing school, knowing when to prioritize school and when to prioritize personal well-being is crucial for your success.”

She also enjoys attending events sponsored by Student Engagement. Her favorites are BINGO and any activity with free food.

Another inspiring event for Alexander was a personal story shared by Interim Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Nicole Waters during a Dimensions program. Waters is the former dean of the College of Health Sciences and a nursing professor. “It really touched my life,” Alexander said. “Her story about how faith has guided her career as a nurse inspired me as a future nurse. It even made me tear up a bit. Her message really resonated with me, and I’m so grateful for that experience.”

About the Ignite Scholarship

About �۶�ֱ��

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Ignite Scholar Lucy Merritt Found a Home at �۶�ֱ��—And the Path to Pursue Nursing

Office of University Communications — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 16:37:12 +0000

Junior Experiences the heart of GWU: Personal Connection, Academic Excellence, and the Passion to Serve

To our readers: In celebration of 60 years of nursing education at GWU, which began in August 1965, HSON highlights some of its students and alumni serving around the world. Learn more here.

BOILING SPRINGS—Growing up in Shelby, N.C., Lucy Merritt knew �۶�ֱ�� University as the place her parents attended and her grandfather worked. When she started her college search, Merritt discovered for herself the unique qualities of the GWU community.

“The family-like atmosphere just feels like home to me,” Merritt described. “Coming to events, they knew my name and remembered things about me that I shared. I felt like a name rather than a number, and that was so special and helpful in my decision-making process. Also, the �۶�ֱ�� nursing program can’t be beaten. The small class sizes, hands-on learning, and professors who are personal and truly want me to succeed were all parts of my decision to attend �۶�ֱ��, as well.”

Merritt, an Ignite Scholar, is a junior nursing major with a minor in health management. “The opportunity to receive the Ignite Scholarship was true evidence of God’s plan for my life,” Merritt acknowledged. “He provided the Ignite Scholarship right when I needed it. I will forever be grateful for the blessing that this scholarship is. I feel so honored to have been a recipient of this amazing gift. It was a relief financially, but also a huge indicator that GW was right where I was supposed to be for these years of college.”

Because of her own experiences with �۶�ֱ��, Merritt has served two years as a Student Recruitment Ambassador (SRA) for the Office of Admissions. “My favorite part is getting to meet so many new people and making the incoming students feel welcome and at home,” she observed. “The Admissions team and their kindness is what drew me to �۶�ֱ��, and it is so special to be part of that team now.”

Her dedication as a SRA is also the force that also drives her to become a nurse. “I find joy in serving others, and nursing allows me to do just that,” Merritt affirmed. “I love the many fields that nursing can lead to and the endless opportunities it provides. Nursing allows me to meet people at their lowest, scariest moments and brighten those moments with things like a smile, sitting to talk, or just caring for the needs that they have medically.”

Katelyn Ivey, left, watches Lucy Merritt take a
blood pressure reading.

She appreciates how the professors in the Hunt School of Nursing help students understand and master the rigorous curriculum and requirements. “The nursing department has done a wonderful job of giving me opportunities to be prepared for stepping into my career,” she noted. “They do this through lab work, simulation, skill checkoffs, interactive lectures, and so much more. They truly are the best group of professors, and I don’t think I could get through nursing school without their support.”

In particular, her nursing advisor, Assistant Professor Dr. Angel Queen, is a mentor and a role model. “She was (also) my ‘Fundamentals of Nursing’ professor in lecture and lab,” Merritt related. “She is so helpful and patient. She answers every single question I have, and that is a lot. In the Spring 2025 semester, she sat down with me and talked through a topic which I had struggled with on a quiz. It meant the world to me that she would take the time for that. I know she has prepared me well to continue on in nursing. I am so thankful for Dr. Queen.”

Beyond the personalized academic support Merritt has received are the meaningful friendships she’s developed since starting her �۶�ֱ�� journey. “Rachel Gaura, Emma Jean Hampton, and Kateley Canipe have had such a positive impact on my time at GW,” she shared. “Getting to do all of the events with them and having fun together has made my �۶�ֱ�� experience even more special. They support me in all that I do and are constantly encouraging me when I get overwhelmed or stressed out.”

Lucy Merritt, center, enjoys spending time with two friends she’s made since coming to GWU: Rachel Gaura, left, and Kateley Canipe. Photos by Claire Ledford

Merritt cherishes the people and experiences that weave together the �۶�ֱ�� community. “I love the events that we have, and the many opportunities that we get to engage with the people we know—and to meet new people,” she shared. “I really try to spend a lot of time strengthening those relationships that I have built here at �۶�ֱ�� and am excited to continue meeting new people and building new relationships!”

Listen to more of Merritt’s story in this episode of the Bulldog Mindset podcast.

About the Ignite Scholarship

About �۶�ֱ��

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Ignite Scholar Ayden Bollinger Found His Place—and Purpose—at �۶�ֱ��

Office of University Communications — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 19:01:45 +0000

Scholarship Support, Close-Knit Campus Life, and a Passion for Helping Others Guide This Biology Major Toward a Career in Pediatrics

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—As a recipient of one of �۶�ֱ�� University’s top scholarships, Ayden Bollinger is grateful to attend the college of his choice while he pursues his goal to become a pediatrician. The junior biology major/chemistry minor from Lenoir, N.C., is passionate about helping and serving people.

“Winning the Ignite Excellence Scholarship was a dream come true, not only for me, but for my family,” he shared. “Without it, my college experience would look a lot different right now.”

As he neared graduation from high school, Bollinger received a letter from �۶�ֱ��, inviting him to apply for early acceptance and merit-based scholarships. He filled out the application, was accepted, and offered a scholarship.

Ayden Bollinger, left, and a classmate work on an assignment in Anatomy and Physiology lab.

Senior Admissions Counselor Reilly Morgan called him with the good news and invited him to the GWU campus for a visit. “I loved the close-knit atmosphere during my visit,” Bollinger observed. “Everyone was very welcoming, and seeing firsthand the relationships students had with professors was definitely a selling point.”

Later, Bollinger was invited to apply for the Ignite Excellence Scholarship, which is �۶�ֱ�� University’s most competitive academic honor. Each recipient receives a full-tuition award that covers the cost of tuition for eight semesters.

Since Bollinger’s first semester at GWU, Morgan has stayed in touch to answer any questions he might have, even ones outside of the Office of Admissions. “She always guides me in the right direction and ensures everything is taken care of,” Bollinger stated. “Ms. Morgan also attended my high school on Senior Awards Day to present me with my scholarship. It meant a lot that she took time out of her day for that.”

Besides Morgan’s welcome and continued support, Bollinger has made friends and finds the faculty approachable and interested in his success. He enjoys collaborating with his classmates on assignments and is grateful for their advice and encouragement. He appreciates the professors, who are readily available to answer his questions. “I value GWU because it is Christ-centered—where spiritual growth is just as important as intellectual growth,” Bollinger reflected. “The classes are small, and I feel that you are not just a number to your professors. They get to know you by name.”

Ignite Scholar Ayden Bollinger completes a lab assignment.

Being at �۶�ֱ�� has given Bollinger an opportunity to meet new people and develop independence, while staying connected to his community in Lenoir. “I coach two youth basketball teams, serve as a referee, and remain engaged in my church’s youth Sunday school class,” he related.

He has served as a youth league basketball referee for two years. “I started refereeing basketball and coaching, because it was a way to stay connected to a game that I love so much. I have played basketball since I was little, starting with youth recreational leagues. I also played at my middle and high school.”

While coaching keeps him involved in basketball and serving as a mentor to young people, a career in pediatrics will also give him an opportunity to build long-term relationships with patients and their families, and “to support them through different stages of their lives, from everyday concerns to serious health challenges,” Bollinger shared. “You can make a real difference from the beginning of a person’s life. I like to learn, and I feel that being a pediatrician involves lifelong learning.”

Learn more about the Ignite Excellence Scholarship.

Note to our readers: This article reflects the University’s tuition and fee schedule at the time of publication. Tuition and financial aid policies change annually. For the most up-to-date and accurate information on current tuition rates and financial aid resources, please visit the University’s official Admissions page.

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Shaping the Future: Ignite Scholar Annali Silver Seeks to Inspire Rural Students Through History

Office of University Communications — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 18:30:13 +0000

�۶�ֱ�� Senior Prepares to Teach and Lead, Honoring Her Roots and Passion for Education

By Makella Knowles, Intern for University Communications

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Annali Silver has been surrounded by all things �۶�ֱ�� since she was a youngster. Now, as a senior history education major, she praises the program and how it has allowed her to step into her dream of becoming a high school history teacher. Born and raised in Bakersville, N.C., Silver was often in the Boiling Springs area when she was a child visiting Flint Hill Church for Bible Drill Competitions that challenge students to memorize and locate scriptures.

Silver has many other connections to GWU, as her father is an alumnus who started in 1993, a member of the first freshmen class to begin studies after �۶�ֱ�� achieved University status. She learned about the Ignite Scholarship Program from her softball coach’s wife, who used to teach at �۶�ֱ��. When she came to campus for the Ignite interview, she spoke to a science professor who remembered her father, and she remembers how helpful and friendly each person was during the interview process. “The entire day solidified the love I had for �۶�ֱ��,” she said.

Bakersville is a small, mountainous town near the Tennessee border, and Silver reflects on her experiences attending school in a close-knit, rural community. While she noticed areas for growth, such as more structured history courses in middle school and consistent staffing, she found inspiration in her high school American history teacher. He “made sure my peers and I were accommodated while not holding back the other students,” she explains. “I aspire to be this sort of teacher for rural students who may have had a lack of history before high school.”

�۶�ֱ�� was one of few colleges in North Carolina that offered a history education degree, so after receiving the Ignite Scholarship, coming to �۶�ֱ�� was an easy decision for Silver. “I took all of these aligning aspects as a sign from God that �۶�ֱ�� was where I was supposed to be and what a blessing it has been,” she comments.

Annali Silver likes the close community of �۶�ֱ�� and participating with friends in the many activities sponsored by Student Engagement.

The College of Education and the Department of Social Sciences have set Silver up for success, and she speaks on how impactful the small class sizes and caring professors have been in her college journey. She specifically mentions Dr. Timothy Vanderburg and Dr. David Yelton as professors who have encouraged her with advice and instruction.

Post-graduation, Silver would like to head back to her hometown area, working as a high school American history teacher and coaching a sport like her father did when she was growing up. She would also love to come back to �۶�ֱ�� and help incoming students through the Ignite interview process, supporting students who were in the same place she was years ago.

Silver applies herself academically, receiving membership in Alpha Chi, the highest academic honor offered at �۶�ֱ��. She credits her success to her family, “I am where I am today because of their hard work.”

While academics is important, Silver also feels that being involved on campus creates valuable connections and relationships. She participates in various intramural sports, continuing her love of basketball, volleyball, and softball that she’s had from a young age. When her classes and schedule get to be too much, Silver likes to take breaks with the friends she’s had since freshman year. They participate in on-campus events like The Gathering, Paint-A-Palooza, Pancake Bingo, formal dances, and athletic events. She shares, “These are the memories that you will keep, not the grades you made or the time spent on assignments. Find your balance and stick with it!”

Makella Knowles, of Indian Trail, N.C., is a senior majoring in English and minoring in Spanish and marketing.

About the Ignite Scholarship

Ignite Excellence is �۶�ֱ�� University’s most competitive academic scholarship. Each recipient receives a full-tuition scholarship that covers the cost of tuition for eight semesters. Recipients are selected through an on-campus interview process. Applicants must reside on campus, be enrolled full-time, and maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.5. Learn more here.

About �۶�ֱ��

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�۶�ֱ�� Awards Full-Tuition Ignite Scholarship to Eight Students

Office of University Communications — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 15:24:30 +0000

Winners Chosen From 293 Qualified Applicants Invited to Campus for Interviews

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ�� University recently presented its full-tuition eight-semester Ignite Scholarship to eight students from North Carolina, South Carolina and California. They rose to the top among the 293 qualified applicants who interviewed for the scholarship. The finalists had an average unweighted GPA of 3.79, and were from 18 states, including California, Maine, Texas and Wisconsin. Everyone who interviewed is eligible to receive $2,000 per year at GWU.

The full-tuition winners were:

Paytyn Carissa Barker, of Cherokee, N.C., biology major.
Eason Cole Ezell, of Waynesville, N.C., exercise science major.
Jackson Paul Hartley, of Winston-Salem, N.C., Christian studies major.
Andrea Brielle Hartman, of Murrieta, Calif., psychology major.
Gage N. Helms, of Denver, N.C., business management major.
Marnina Y. Krist, of Fuquay Varina, N.C., psychology major.
Etera Desiree’ Pendleton, of Monroe, N.C., Christian studies major.
Delani Faith Wright, of Chesnee, S.C., nursing major.

“We are thrilled to welcome the incoming Class of 2025 to the �۶�ֱ�� family!” affirmed Director of Admissions for Undergraduate Admissions Molly Allison. “These outstanding students represent the diverse and talented individuals who will make up this incredible class. Coming from a variety of backgrounds and pursuing a wide range of academic passions, each of them brings unique gifts that will enrich our community. We can’t wait to see all they will accomplish at �۶�ֱ��!”

During the Honors Experience, students
participate in community service activities. They are
automatically invited to interview for the Ignite.

Four of the Ignite Scholars—Hartley, Hartman, Krist and Pendleton—attended the Honors Experience in July 2024. The immersive week introduces students to all aspects of life on the University’s campus—from going to class and chapel to dining and volunteering in the community. The students develop friendships while attending classes and working side-by-side at a local food ministry, the community garden and the Boys and Girls Club in Shelby, N.C.

If the students decide to attend �۶�ֱ��, they will receive credit for the classes they took as part of the program. During the week, they explored a variety of topics: writing, prayer, physics, biology, psychology and American Sign Language. In addition, they are automatically invited to interview for �۶�ֱ��’s full-tuition Ignite Excellence Scholarship.

Vice President and University Chaplain for Christian Life and Service Josh Parrott helped to coordinate the program. “This was an exceptional group of high school students, and they especially loved their time in the classroom with our world-class faculty,” he shared.

Learn more about The Honors Experience.

About the Ignite Scholarship

Ignite Excellence is �۶�ֱ�� University’s most competitive academic scholarship. Each recipient receives a full-tuition scholarship that covers the cost of tuition for eight semesters. Recipients are selected through an on-campus interview process. Applicants must reside on campus, be enrolled full-time, and maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.5. Learn more here.

About �۶�ֱ��

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Hitting the Right Notes: Corwin Stanley Balances Music, Ministry, and Entrepreneurship

Office of University Communications — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 11:00:00 +0000

�۶�ֱ�� Ignite Scholar Thankful for Donors who Contribute on Double Dawg Day to Help Him Pursue His Musical Talents and Business

By Makella Knowles, Intern for University Communications

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Corwin Stanley, a sophomore music worship major with a double primary in trumpet and voice, has exciting goals for his future. Growing up in Mooresville, N.C., Stanley was familiar with �۶�ֱ�� early on, initially hearing about the school from his elementary school piano teacher. He was drawn immediately to the church music program and explains how “as the child of a music minister, my home was always filled with music and ministry, shaping my passion from an early age.”

Being eligible to compete for the Ignite Excellence Scholarship, which is partially funded by donations to �۶�ֱ�� on Double Dawg Day, gave him the opportunity to learn more about �۶�ֱ��. And, winning the Ignite four-semester, full-tuition award was a blessing. “I’m incredibly grateful for the donors who support scholarships like the Ignite,” Stanley acknowledges. “Their generosity has made it possible for me to pursue my passion for church music. My family and I deeply appreciate the impact of these gifts, and I hope to pay it forward one day!”

The proximity to home and GWU’s Baptist background were other deciding factors when Stanley chose to attend �۶�ֱ��. “During my first interaction with the school, I experienced a genuine sense of community, where professors and staff made it clear they value personal relationships and individual growth,” he remembers. “It’s a place where I knew I could form meaningful connections, grow in my faith, and pursue my passions.”

Being so close to home, he has been able to stay connected with his church. His involvement in the church choir and orchestra growing up has also shaped his desire to serve God through music at �۶�ֱ��.

Stanley speaks highly of the Department of Music and values the mentorship of the faculty. Associate Professor of Music Tim Hudson is Stanley’s trumpet professor and a great source of wisdom and instruction. Dr. Bruce Moser and Dr. Joshua Cheney, two more of Stanley’s professors, have taught him a wide range of skills to equip him for the music field.

Corwin Stanley earned second place in the 2024
Dawg House Pitch Competition.

Through concert choir with Cheney, Stanley had the privilege of traveling to France in the summer of 2024 to participate in a program to honor the 80th anniversary of D-day. The choir performed the Durufle requiem, which was composed in Normandy to honor the dead. “It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allowed me to explore a new culture and create unforgettable memories,” he remembers. While there, he was able to experience the historical side of France when visiting Utah and Omaha beach, as well as the cultural side in Paris. He would love to return to the country again someday.

At �۶�ֱ��, Stanley fills his time with enriching activities to further his career as a business owner and in ministry. He has served as a bass player for The Gathering (student-led worship) on campus. He values time management and prioritization in his often-demanding academic schedule, but still allows himself time to unwind by taking trips to nearby Moss Lake to fish or to the gym with friends for the afternoon.

When he’s not on campus, he’s back home mowing lawns and growing his business. An entrepreneur, he is the proud owner of Stanley Lawn Care. Going on six seasons, his business has continued to build clientele and relationships in his hometown. He started by going door-to-door in high school with his push mower. Now, after winning second place and $1,000 in last year’s �۶�ֱ�� Dawg House Pitch Competition, he has purchased a higher-end lawn mower and doubled his profits. He hopes to keep up with Stanley Lawn Care for the rest of his college journey before moving on to commercialize it post-grad while working in a ministry role of some kind.

Double Dawg Day – April 10

On this annual day of giving, donors can take advantage of matching opportunities that could double the impact of their giving. These matching donations are made possible thanks to the generosity of other donors. Faculty and staff have the convenient option of donating through payroll deduction.

Choose the people, programs and causes you want to support across the GWU campus. Some options include:

University Priority Fund, which supports the greatest needs of the University.
Annual Fund, which supports student scholarships, like the Ignite Excellence.
School/College Priority Fund, which provides the dean with the ability to respond quickly to emerging opportunities, transform the student experience and strengthen operational capacity.
The University’s 22 athletic teams, which supports facilities and training.

For more information about #DoubleDawgDay or to become a Social Media Advocate for the day, click .

Makella Knowles, of Indian Trail, N.C., is a senior majoring in English and minoring in Spanish and marketing.

About the Ignite Scholarship

Ignite Excellence is �۶�ֱ�� University’s most competitive academic scholarship. Each recipient receives a full-tuition scholarship that covers the cost of tuition for eight semesters. Recipients are selected through an on-campus interview process. Applicants must reside on campus, be enrolled full-time, and maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.5. Learn more here.

About �۶�ֱ��

The post Hitting the Right Notes: Corwin Stanley Balances Music, Ministry, and Entrepreneurship appeared first on �۶�ֱ�� University.

‘Always a Teacher’: Mindy Jae Brown Drawn to Career in Education From a Young Age

Office of University Communications — Wed, 26 Feb 2025 14:08:05 +0000

�۶�ֱ�� Ignite Scholar Hopes to Inspire Young Minds in Cleveland County, N.C.

By Makella Knowles, Intern for University Communications

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Mindy Jae Brown had the makings of a teacher from a young age. From playing “teacher” while she was growing up, to interning at an elementary school during her senior year of high school, teaching has been a strong theme in Brown’s life. Now in her second year at �۶�ֱ�� as a senior elementary education major, Brown is gearing up to begin her student teaching next year. While she didn’t settle on being a teacher until her junior year of high school, she says her mom “always saw me as a teacher” and “everything else was just a phase.”

Growing up in Polkville, N.C., Brown came to �۶�ֱ�� for CentriKid summer camps. In fact, her grandfather used to be on staff and her grandmother went to �۶�ֱ�� when it was still a high school. She’s very close to her family, describing herself as a “velcro child.” Once she received the Ignite Scholarship and recognized she was only 30 minutes away from home the deal was sealed for her. Brown found out about the Ignite full-tuition award from a former high school classmate who received the scholarship a few years before her. Brown remarks how it was “by the grace of God” she was selected for the honor after the interview.

Mindy Jae Brown, left, works with her group on a class assignment.

Brown has a busy social life on campus, involving herself in many of the activities Campus Ministries United has to offer. She regularly attends The Gathering (student-led worship), family group, and Delight Women’s Bible Study. One of her favorite parts of the week is the “Dancing with the Stars” watch party she hosts for her friends and suitemates after The Gathering on Tuesday nights. The evening is complete with treats, snacks, and their own ranking of the contestants’ performances. Additionally, Brown is on the leadership team for the Student North Carolina Association of Educators chapter at �۶�ֱ��. She works closely with the faculty member in charge of the chapter, Dr. Brittany Evans, who is also her literacy teacher. Brown sings praises for Evans, remarking on how encouraging and supportive Evans has been in her college career thus far.

Brown expresses gratitude for many things in the College of Education, specifically the small class sizes and the professor-to-student ratio. She discusses how she and her classmates are never embarrassed to present because of the positive environment and how validating it is to have all the professors know her by name. Brown takes her studies seriously, keeping a detailed planner so she can enjoy the satisfaction of crossing a task off of her list before rewarding herself with an episode of her favorite show. She is grateful not to struggle with procrastination or assignment anxiety, and her hard work has paid off after coming to �۶�ֱ�� with an associate degree.

After graduation, Brown hopes to get a job at her home elementary school in Polkville, working with kindergarten through second-graders. Going to Burns High School in Lawndale, N.C., and now �۶�ֱ�� has created a deep love for Cleveland County in Brown and she plans to stay here after starting her teaching career.

Makella Knowles, of Indian Trail, N.C., is a senior majoring in English and minoring in Spanish and marketing.

About the Ignite Scholarship

Ignite Excellence is �۶�ֱ�� University’s most competitive academic scholarship. Each recipient receives a full-tuition scholarship that covers the cost of tuition for eight semesters. Recipients are selected through an on-campus interview process. Applicants must reside on campus, be enrolled full-time, and maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.5. Learn more here.

About �۶�ֱ��

The post ‘Always a Teacher’: Mindy Jae Brown Drawn to Career in Education From a Young Age appeared first on �۶�ֱ�� University.

Securing His Future: Ignite Scholar Issa Cogdell Pursues Dream of Entrepreneurship

Office of University Communications — Mon, 03 Feb 2025 18:23:22 +0000

�۶�ֱ��’s Cybersecurity Program and PACE Leadership Certificate Paves the Way

By Makella Knowles, Intern for University Communications

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Issa Cogdell, a student at �۶�ֱ�� University, is majoring in computer science and minoring in cybersecurity to fulfill his dreams of financial freedom and entrepreneurship. Originally an accounting major, Cogdell switched to the tech field after a friend shared his successful experience in cybersecurity. His friend knew about Cogdell’s love for computers since his seventh-grade coding and entrepreneurship class, and encouraged him to further develop that interest in college.

A winner of the Ignite Scholarship at �۶�ֱ��, Cogdell has been able to harness his computer skills into a career path. Growing up watching his mother’s hard work and determination has kept him strongly devoted to his classes in the Department of Mathematical and Computer Sciences. He names Assistant Professor Oscar Gonzalez and Professor Dr. Mirek Mystkowski as the two faculty members who have encouraged him the most in his academic journey. Gonzalez explains topics to his students with a practical approach, and Cogdell credits him as the one who initiated his interest in the field.

Despite his demanding academic schedule, Cogdell is involved in a wide range of beneficial clubs and organizations. Being a member of the Searight Professional and Continuing Education (PACE) Leadership Program affords him many career advancement opportunities. Through the program, he was able to start a digital library outreach using QR codes for local churches. Offering this resource allowed people in the community to get back into church and reading for free. Cogdell is also a member of Men of Impact, a club that offers professional career advancement and networking opportunities, and organizes volunteer events like litter clean ups around the town of Boiling Springs.

Issa Cogdell meets with the members of the �۶�ֱ�� Ethics Bowl team to practice for the competition.

A new addition to Cogdell’s schedule is participation in Ethics Bowl with Assistant Professor of Religious Studies Dr. Anna Sieges-Beal. The Ethics Bowl team researches contemporary topics and debates them in a competition with teams from other independent colleges in North Carolina. Another important group to him is the Black Student Association. In this community of friends and peers, Cogdell says he has found a home away from home.

With such a demanding schedule, Cogdell makes sure to stay accountable, partnering with his friends and classmates to make a plan to get things done and stay on top of his schoolwork. After earning his degree, Cogdell hopes to go straight into the workforce. Through the Searight PACE program, he has obtained many of the certifications needed for his field, setting him up for success without the need for grad school. Whether in his classes or his social life, Cogdell is dedicated and has a solid plan for his future with hopes of owning his own business one day and gaining financial independence.

Makella Knowles, of Indian Trail, N.C., is a senior majoring in English and minoring in Spanish and marketing.

Learn more about the cybersecurity program.

About the Ignite Scholarship

Ignite Excellence is �۶�ֱ�� University’s most competitive academic scholarship. Each recipient receives a full-tuition scholarship that covers the cost of tuition for eight semesters. Recipients are selected through an on-campus interview process. Applicants must reside on campus, be enrolled full-time, and maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.5. Learn more here.

About Searight Professional and Continuing Education (PACE)

�۶�ֱ�� University’s Searight Professional and Continuing Education program offers very specific, online and in-person courses to enhance the skill levels of professionals ranging from entry level to mid-management, executive, and beyond. Additionally, the Leadership Certificate program and award created for undergraduate students prepares them for leadership and service in their professional careers and in their personal lives. Learn more here.

About �۶�ֱ��

The post Securing His Future: Ignite Scholar Issa Cogdell Pursues Dream of Entrepreneurship appeared first on �۶�ֱ�� University.