Wilkes Community College congratulates WCC student ambassador and 2020 graduate, Brian Foster, on his acceptance into The Goodnight Scholar Program at NC State University. Foster, son of Keith and Janice Foster of Hays, N.C., plans to major in meteorology.
“During Brian’s time with WCC, his involvement and desire to grow both personally and professionally are demonstrated daily, said Sabrina Bowman, student activities coordinator. “His strong work ethic, support for others, desire to make a difference, and smile are all contagious. Brian is a great student leader, and we are truly going to miss having him on campus! Even though we are sad to see him leave, we know he is prepared and ready to go out and do great things at NC State and in his future career.”
To apply for the scholarship, students must receive an invitation to apply based on their previous experience in academia and their community. Out of 300 students selected to apply from North Carolina, Foster was among the 20 students accepted into the program.
“I am so excited to be able to attend my dream college. The program is offered to only 20 transfer students from across the whole state and I am so blessed to be a part of it, said Brian Foster. “As a Goodnight Scholar, I am being offered a full ride to NC State University, along with several different opportunities that include mentorships with NCSU faculty, conferences with world-class educators, and entrepreneurs to present solutions to the most pertinent issues facing our state and ways to promote the STEM field. Another important aspect of the program is called “Pay it Forward,” where scholars travel across the state to encourage various students to major in the STEM field and I can explain to them why I love my STEM career so much. I have truly been blessed with an opportunity of a lifetime and I am so thankful for it. Through the Goodnight Scholars Program, I can develop my leadership skills and attend my dream school without the financial burden. I am so excited to meet my fellow scholars and I can’t wait to see what else God has planned for me!”
The Goodnight Scholars Program at NC State University strives to develop scholars into leaders within the STEM and/or education fields. The cornerstones of the program are academic excellence, professional achievements, and civic engagement. The program is funded by Dr. Jim and Ann Goodnight, and it began in 2008 with 25 scholars. Since 2008, the program has grown and now is open to accept 70 students from across North Carolina each year.