FROM TRAILBLAZERS TO NEW BEGINNINGS
THE TEXTILE PIONEER SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
Honoring the Inaugural Textile Pioneer Scholars and the Class of 2028 Textile Pioneer Scholars
THE FIRST FOUR TEXTILE PIONEER SCHOLARS HAVE GRADUATED: HERE’S WHAT’S NEXT FOR THEM
With support from generous donors, the four inaugural Textile Pioneer Scholars to graduate from the Wilson College of Textiles — Jeana Grace Bowker, Alex Hutchens, Emma Myer-Medina and Leah Reid — now have their eyes set on bright futures.
With caps, gowns and a thread of ambition, the first four Textile Pioneer Scholars are ready to weave their futures as new graduates of the Wilson College of Textiles.
On May 4, 2024, Jeana Grace Bowker, Alex Hutchens, Emma Myer-Medina and Leah Reid proudly crossed NC State’s commencement stage, marking the culmination of four years filled with unforgettable college experiences. Each of the four scholars thrived during their time at NC State thanks to the support and opportunities provided by visionary donors.
Established in 2018, the Textile Pioneer Scholarship Program awards financial support to exceptional students from non-metropolitan areas of North Carolina, some of whom are first-generation college attendees, who have a strong interest in the textile industry.
Serving as the Wilson College of Textiles’ first need-based scholarship, the Textile Pioneer Scholarship Program not only aligns with NC State’s land-grant mission, it also contributes to diversifying the college’s student body.
Every year, Textile Pioneer Scholars are awarded a minimum of $14,000 and up to $4,000 in enrichment funds for transformative experiences like studying abroad and participating in leadership activities. This unique scholarship program is made possible through generous donations to the North Carolina Textile Foundation (NCTF), the philanthropic arm of the Wilson College of Textiles. In turn, these scholars are exposed to endless opportunities.
The Founding Benefactors of the Textile Pioneer Scholarship Program
Catalyst investments from the following individuals and organizations led to the creation of the Textile Pioneer Scholarship Program at the Wilson College of Textiles in 2018.
• The Edward M. Armfield Sr. Foundation
• Dean Emeritus Robert Barnhardt
• The Blue Bell Foundation
• Bill Chandler ’72 and Janice Chandler
• The Carter Family Foundation
• Chuck Flynt ’62 and Diane Flynt
• Robert Fleming ’50 and Judith Fleming
• Lyle Gardner ’67 and Rhonda Gardner
• Matt Griffith ’98 and Cannon Griffith
• Chuck Horne ’73 and Diane Horne
• Wesley Horne ’04 and Isla Tabrizi
• Michael Knight ‘86 and Christy Knight
• Stephen Laton ‘70 and Martha Laton
• Cone Mills Charitable Fund
• Brian McMurray ’86 and Konni McMurray
• Robin Perkins ‘91 and Sonja Perkins
• George Perkins ‘64 and Hazel Perkins
• Glen Raven Inc.
• Jennifer Stanigar ’90
• Steven Wilson
• Zeno Windley ’68 and Ann Windley
• Steve Zeis ’61 and Frosene Zeis
“The unwavering support of our donors has been instrumental in shaping the future of these exceptional students,” says Michael Ward, the executive director of the NCTF. “Their contributions have not only laid the foundation for countless opportunities but also allowed our students to pursue their dreams and reach their fullest potential.”
Then and Now: The Class of 2024 Textile Pioneer Scholars
Jeana Grace Bowker
Windley Family Textile Pioneer Scholarship
B.S. Fashion and Textile Design: Fashion Design Concentration
Hailing from Clinton, North Carolina, Jeana Grace Bowker fell in love with fashion as a child when her grandfather taught her how to sew. What started with making simple pillows evolved into designing full-fledged fashion collections. Her latest work, which was shown this spring at the college’s Fashion and Textile Design (FTD) Emerging Designers Showcase, is entitled “The Craft.” This six-look collection drew inspiration from her love of arts, crafts and maximalist fashion while being created entirely of secondhand and scrap fabrics. Today, Jeana Grace is the founder and owner of ZIG Designs and an intern at Lands’ End in their women’s sweaters and knits fashion design department.
Alex Hutchens
Textile Pioneer Scholarship
B.S. Fashion and Textile Management: Brand Management and Marketing Concentration; Minor in Business Administration and Economics
Alex Hutchens first learned about the Wilson College of Textiles through the illustrious Summer Textile Exploration Program, commonly called STEP. During that one-of-a-kind experience, she upcycled old apparel into a new garment through a fashion design project. That was the moment when the New Bern, North Carolina native knew she belonged at the college. As a student, Alex’s expertise in brand management and marketing landed her coveted internships at Madewell, Macy’s and J. Crew. Since graduating, she has hit the ground running as a production coordinator at Peter Millar.
The unwavering support of our donors has been instrumental in shaping the future of these exceptional students.”
— MICHAEL WARD, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE NORTH CAROLINA TEXTILE FOUNDATION
Emma Myer-Medina
Glen Raven Textile Pioneer Scholarship
B.S.
Polymer and Color Chemistry
Fascinated with chemistry and its applications to textiles, Emma Myer-Medina quickly fell in love with the college’s polymer and color chemistry program. With a passion for volunteerism, Emma became the volunteer coordinator for NC State’s Feed the Pack Food Pantry — a student-led food pantry that is open to all members of the campus community. Today, the Belhaven, North Carolina native is applying for graduate school programs that will allow her to pursue her research interests.
As a first-generation college graduate, Emma proudly credits her scholarship for giving her the confidence to continue her education.
Leah Reid
Textile Pioneer Scholarship
B.S. Fashion and Textile Management: Fashion Development and Product Management Concentration; Minor in Business Administration
As a natural-born leader, Leah Reid knew attending the Wilson College would allow her to thrive in every aspect of her education. She became one of the college’s most well-known faces through her roles as the head dean’s page, president of the Tompkins Textile Student Council and a frequent student speaker at key events, including the 2024 Scholarship and Endowment Dinner. Today, Leah, who is originally from Asheboro, North Carolina, is interviewing with prominent corporations in search of a rewarding position in marketing, merchandising or sales.
Members of the Wilson College of Textiles community aren’t alone in supporting the four graduating Textile Pioneer Scholars. To congratulate Leah, Alex, Jeana Grace and Emma on this milestone achievement, the NC State Wolfpack Outfitters team gifted them with complimentary graduation regalia to wear during their commencement ceremony.
Your contributions have allowed our students to pursue their dreams and reach their fullest potential.” — MICHAEL WARD, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE NORTH CAROLINA
TEXTILE FOUNDATION
INTRODUCING THE 2028 CLASS OF TEXTILE PIONEER SCHOLARS
With support from generous donors, four exceptional students — who all hail from non-metropolitan areas of North Carolina — have been named recipients of the Textile Pioneer Scholarship.
In the quiet corners of North Carolina, big ambitions are blossoming. Four exceptional incoming NC State students have been named recipients of the Textile Pioneer Scholarship Program at the Wilson College of Textiles, embodying how support from generous donors can turn big dreams into reality.
The newest Textile Pioneer Scholars — Dakota Coburn, Alleigh Fields, Camden Manning and Madina Tahirli — represent the diverse tapestry of the great state of North Carolina.
Supporting students and building futures
Established in 2018, the Textile Pioneer Scholarship Program provides financial support to exceptional students from PUBLISHED ON Aug. 28, 2024
non-metropolitan areas of North Carolina, many of whom are first-generation college attendees, who have a strong interest in the textile industry. Serving as the inaugural need-based scholarship for the Wilson College, the Textile Pioneer Scholarship Program not only aligns with NC State’s land-grant mission; it also contributes to diversifying the college’s student body.
Textile Pioneer Scholars receive a minimum of $14,000 each year for a span of four years along with $4,000 in enrichment funds, which can be used for studying abroad and participation in leadership activities.
This scholarship program is made possible through generous donations to the North Carolina Textile Foundation (NCTF), which serves as the philanthropic arm of the Wilson College of Textiles.
“We are thrilled to welcome these talented Textile Pioneer Scholars to the Wilson College of Textiles,” says Michael Ward, the executive director of the NCTF. “Thanks to the generous support of our donors, we can provide life-changing opportunities for students from communities across North Carolina, helping them realize their dreams at the Wilson College of Textiles.”
Meet the 2028 Class of Textile Pioneer Scholars
Now, it’s time to meet the 2028 class of Textile Pioneer Scholars and learn more about their plans for NC State and beyond.
• Dakota Coburn — Goodnight Scholarship and Textile Pioneer Scholarship
• Alleigh Fields — Sims Textile Pioneer Scholarship
• Camden Manning — Barnhill Textile Pioneer Scholarship
• Madina Tahirli — Knight Family Textile Pioneer Scholarship
Dakota Coburn
Goodnight Scholarship and the Textile Pioneer Scholarship
Hometown: Winterville, North Carolina
Major: B.S. Textile Engineering
Dakota Coburn’s journey to the Wilson College of Textiles began with a pivotal moment during her senior year of high school. After attending a presentation hosted by the college, she immediately knew that textile engineering was her path.
“It was so different from the other branches of engineering I had looked into,” she said. “There are so many paths and applications I could do with it, which really drew me in.”
Coming from a single-parent household, Dakota faced uncertainty about affording college. However, with the support of her Textile Pioneer Scholarship and Goodnight Scholarship, she can attend without financial hardship.
Now, she is considering pursuing a master’s degree to learn more about sustainable textiles — something she hadn’t thought possible.
Why did you choose to attend the Wilson College of Textiles?
Toward the beginning of my senior year in high school, I attended a presentation for the Wilson College of Textiles at my school. At the time, it was unclear what branch of engineering I would pursue. Once the presentation was over, I knew immediately that textile engineering was the way to go. It was so different from the other branches of engineering I had looked into. There are so many paths and applications I could do with it, which really drew me in. I also loved the idea of a close-knit community and the pursuit of sustainability that the Wilson College of Textiles champions.
What has scholarship support enabled you to do that you may not have been able to do without it? I come from a single-parent household so being able to afford college has always been up in the air for me. By receiving scholarship support, I am able to attend college without causing any financial hardship to my family. It also allows me to not have to get a job and have to somehow balance it with all of my degree work.
What are your professional goals or post-graduation plans, and how will your scholarship impact those goals? After I graduate, I plan to pursue a master’s degree and then go into the field of sustainable textiles. Without my scholarship, I would not even consider pursuing a graduate degree due to the financial costs that go along with it. It was only after receiving my scholarship that I even considered pursuing my master’s degree in the first place.
If you could say anything to the individuals who made your scholarship possible, what would you say to thank them for their generosity?
Thank you for your generosity and this wonderful opportunity. It was always a giant question mark when it came to how I would afford college. Through this scholarship, I am able to pursue my dream of becoming an engineer without the added stress of how to afford it. I will be able to grow and develop as a student and a person through this scholarship program and one day go on to contribute positively to the world.
Alleigh Fields
Sims Textile Pioneer Scholarship
Hometown: Burlington, North Carolina
Major: B.S. Fashion and Textile Management, Brand Management and Marketing Concentration
Alleigh Fields can’t wait to leverage her experiences and leadership skills to excel at the Wilson College of Textiles.
She brings a unique blend of entrepreneurial spirit and resilience, shaped by her family’s background in fabric and design, bridal retail and construction. This has deeply influenced her desire to carve her own path in the world of textiles.
“As the oldest of three siblings, I was forced to become independent at a young age and be a strong leader for my family,” Alleigh says.
“Being a part of a competitive cheer team since a young age has always motivated me to be a pivotal leader and taught me excellent teamwork and perseverance skills.”
Why did you choose to attend the Wilson College of Textiles?
I chose the Wilson College of Textiles due to its focus on innovation and sustainability, which resonates with my ambitions. It also reinforces my belief that this college is a perfect match for contributing to a successful career. The unique possibilities within the Wilson College of Textiles align perfectly with my goals, and they will challenge me and help me strive to accomplish my dreams.
What has scholarship support enabled you to do that you may not have been able to do without it? My scholarship has opened new opportunities for me to pursue my dreams of traveling overseas to shadow and learn from established designers. I hope to form valuable connections and gain insights that will help me accomplish my goals in the future. Networking with experts can open new doors to success and give me firsthand perspective within the field.
What are your professional goals or post-graduation plans, and how will your scholarship impact those goals? In the future, I hope to develop a clothing line that is sustainable, using biodegradable elements from natural and ecofriendly fibers. I hope to use innovative technologies and marketing skills to expand social media platforms to reach an extended audience. With this scholarship, I am given opportunities to gain knowledge and skills that can enable me to accomplish my aspirations. By investing in my education, this scholarship will play a crucial role in making my vision come alive and have a positive impact on the fashion industry and beyond.
If you could say anything to the individuals who made your scholarship possible, what would you say to thank them for their generosity?
I am filled with gratitude that I have the opportunity to attend the Wilson College of Textiles at NC State. Thanks to your generous scholarship support and your belief in my potential, I can follow my dreams in the world of fashion and design. As I embark on this journey, I am thrilled to engage in the rich learning environment of the Wilson College, where I will strive to gain the knowledge I need to reach my dreams of developing my own sustainable clothing line. Your investment in my education allows me to pursue my goals. Thank you for helping me in turning my dreams into reality!
Camden Manning
Barnhill Textile Pioneer Scholarship
Hometown: Winterville, North Carolina
Major: B.S. Textile Engineering
Camden Manning’s decision to study at the Wilson College of Textiles is a deeply personal one. He’ll be following in the footsteps of his grandfather, Thomas R. Manning, Jr., a 1963 textile technology graduate.
He plans to major in textile engineering — with dual concentrations in information systems and product engineering — and hopes to add a secondary major in computer science engineering if his schedule allows. A busy course load isn’t new to Camden, who balanced being a member of five honor societies while also volunteering during high school.
“With so many materials being considered a textile, this degree will allow me to branch out and work with materials from computer devices to sports hardware and find ways to improve materials used in our everyday lives,” Camden says. “The smaller class sizes, hands-on labs and research opportunities will give me wonderful experiences.”
Why did you choose to attend the Wilson College of Textiles?
Growing up, I’ve always known that I wanted to be an engineer but was uncertain of exactly which type of engineering I would pursue. After visiting NC State and talking with Dean David Hinks, engineering faculty and current students in the Wilson College of Textiles, I knew that textile engineering was the best degree option for me.
What has scholarship support enabled you to do that you may not have been able to do without it?
With my Textile Pioneer Scholarship, I look forward to being a part of a supportive community and networking with faculty and students with similar interests. Through these connections, I am hopeful I will secure research and internship opportunities with reputable companies to make my experiences more meaningful and provide hands-on opportunities. This scholarship will allow me the opportunity to work less, focus more on my academics, and earn an additional degree more affordably. Thanks to generous donors, this scholarship will allow me to graduate with less college debt and more meaningful opportunities and connections.
What are your professional goals or post-graduation plans, and how will your scholarship impact those goals? After completing my bachelor’s degree in textile engineering, I hope to attend graduate school in business management or computer science to make me more marketable in the industry. Eventually, I hope to work with a sports or computer company to develop materials that athletes or others can use in their daily lives. This scholarship will provide meaningful opportunities outside of the classroom to better prepare me to be a leader in my field.
If you could say anything to the individuals who made your scholarship possible, what would you say to thank them for their generosity?
The many opportunities that this scholarship provides will be instrumental to my success in college. As an introverted male, I know that attending a large university will be a bit of a tough transition for me. I am thankful to have a support system of faculty and students who will help me during this journey. I am confident that the support provided and the accountability that comes with this scholarship will ensure that I work hard in and outside of the classroom. I am extremely grateful to the donors for their support and will work hard to represent this program well.
Madina Tahirli
Knight Family Textile Pioneer Scholarship
Hometown: Lenoir, North Carolina
Major: B.S. Fashion and Textile Design, Textile Design Concentration
Born in Baku, Azerbaijan, and raised in Lenoir, North Carolina, Madina Tahirli’s path to the Wilson College of Textiles was shaped by her love for her family and her passion for creativity.
Madina’s lifelong love for designing began in her early years and grew even stronger during the isolation of the pandemic. Her transition from learning crocheting through YouTube to finding her place at NC State showcases her commitment to turning her passion into a successful career in fashion.
“Creating has always been a huge part of my life,” Madina says. “Expressing myself through clothing became one of the ways I got to know myself best. Representing myself to the world and creating an impression I wanted was something that helped me gain confidence.”
Why did you choose to attend the Wilson College of Textiles?
After attending the Textiles Scholarship Interview Weekend at NC State, I chose NC State because, in many ways, I felt as if the university had chosen me. I was able to connect with new individuals but also feel as though I was truly being considered.
This feeling differed from all other experiences I had during the college application process. My acceptance into the Wilson College of Textiles allows me to transform a hobby into something much more.
What has scholarship support enabled you to do that you may not have been able to do without it? The support of this scholarship not only lightens the financial burden of a college education but also allows for other opportunities such as studying abroad. Having the opportunity to experience and research other cultures is something I have always wanted. This scholarship created an opportunity to do that while furthering my education.
What are your professional goals or post-graduation plans, and how will your scholarship impact those goals? After graduating with my bachelor’s degree in fashion and textile design from the Wilson College, I hope to continue my education. This scholarship will allow me to complete my initial degree and then earn a master’s degree in textiles. My Textile Pioneer Scholarship will also provide me with other opportunities, such as internships and job shadowing.
If you could say anything to the individuals who made your scholarship possible, what would you say to thank them for their generosity?
I am sincerely honored to have been selected as a recipient of the Knight Family Textile Pioneer Scholarship. Thanks to your generosity, I can begin my education at the Wilson College of Textiles. I am deeply appreciative of your support and this generous investment in my education.
