Kristi Barnes, Maya Odom, and Breyana Robinson have been named recipients of the prestigious Astronaut Scholarship, awarded annually to outstanding undergraduate students pursuing STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) degrees.
Their selection makes N.C. A&T the firstHBCU to secure more than one Astronaut Scholarship in a singleapplication cycle.
Each of the scholars will receive up to $15,000 to support their educationalexpenses and will have the opportunity for lifelong engagement with prominent figures in the STEM field, including astronauts, researchers, and innovators.
“Thisrecognitionis a testament to thetalentanddeterminationof our students,” said Tonya Smith-Jackson, Ph.D., N.C. A&T’s provost and executive vice chancellor of Academic Affairs. “Kristi, Maya, and Breyana’saccomplishmentsreflect the university’scommitmentto excellence anddiversityin STEM fields.”
The road to this achievement was paved by Lenovo, whose support enabled N.C. A&T to secure a second scholarship slot, making history as the first HBCU to have multiple Astronaut Scholarship opportunities in one application cycle.
The scholarship was further bolstered by the HBCU Astronaut Group, which facilitated the addition of a third scholarship slot based on the outstanding merit of A&T’s applicants.
Expressing her pride in the scholars’ accomplishments, HonorsCollegeDean Margaret Kanipes said:
“Their remarkableachievementsexemplify the boundless potential of all Aggies,inspiringus all to reach for the stars.”
Odom, studying computer engineering, aims to bridge the gap in access to technology and resources. Robinson, specializing in laboratory animal science, is committed to increasing diversity in STEM research.
Their selection as Astronaut Scholars honors their individual achievements and also highlights N.C. A&T’s commitment to fostering excellence and diversity in STEM education.
“I amhonoredtoworkwith astounding Aggies such as Kristi, Maya, and Breyana,” said Alsace-Lorraine Gallop, A&T’s national scholarships and fellowships coordinator. “They have dedicated themselves not only to excellence in STEMinnovationbut have also made notablecontributionsto our campus andcommunity.”
With their selection, Barnes, Odom, and Robinson join a prestigious cohort of scholars poised to make significant contributions to the fields of science and technology.
Get updates delivered to you daily. Free and customizable.
Welcome to NewsBreak, an open platform where diverse perspectives converge. Most of our content comes from established publications and journalists, as well as from our extensive network of tens of thousands of creators who contribute to our platform. We empower individuals to share insightful viewpoints through short posts and comments. It’s essential to note our commitment to transparency: our Terms of Use acknowledge that our services may not always be error-free, and our Community Standards emphasize our discretion in enforcing policies. We strive to foster a dynamic environment for free expression and robust discourse through safety guardrails of human and AI moderation. Join us in shaping the news narrative together.
Comments / 0