Introducing the newest Morehead-Cain Scholars

The Morehead-Cain Foundation is pleased to announce the newest members of its community.

The scholars represent thirty-three North Carolina counties, fifteen U.S. states and the District of Columbia, and seven countries. Their academic interests span the sciences, health professions, public policy, business, and the humanities, from biomedical engineering and environmental science to philosophy, languages, and music.

The members beginning their undergraduate studies at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill this August will be joined by returning gap-year scholars.

They join a thriving cohort of thinkers, leaders, creators, and adventurers at UNC–Chapel Hill, empowered by the Morehead-Cain Program to set their potential free. In addition to a fully funded undergraduate scholarship to one of the nation’s foremost public research universities, scholars gain access to a network of peers and mentors, challenging internships and summer experiences, and an opportunity to travel the world.

The process of selecting the new class occurs over the course of six months and includes application review, virtual and in-person interviews, and other activities. The selection process relies on the expertise of Foundation staff and hundreds of alumni interviewers and volunteer evaluators. Candidates enter the process via nomination from a partnering school or program (all eligible in-state students may apply through self-nomination). The UNC Office of Undergraduate Admissions also refers strong Early Action applicants to the process.

“We welcome the newest Morehead-Cain Scholars at a moment when principled leadership has never mattered more,” said Chris Bradford, president of the Morehead-Cain Foundation. “These scholars were chosen not only for their intellect and capacity for leadership, but for the strength of their character. By joining the Morehead-Cain Program, we challenge them to pursue lives defined by moral ambition, not just achievement.”

Since its founding in 1945, the Morehead-Cain Program has been a model for countless merit scholarships throughout the United States and the world. These include the University of Virginia’s Jefferson Scholars Program, Duke University’s Benjamin N. Duke Scholars Program, and Emory University’s Woodruff Scholars Program.

High-resolution images of the Morehead-Cain Scholars can be downloaded here. A biography of each scholar is below.

Class of 2030

New Morehead-Cain Scholars are listed alphabetically by North Carolina county, state, and country. Students noted with an asterisk (*) are listed in more than one location due to either their hometown or school location.

North Carolina | Out of State | International

North Carolina

Ashe County

Rebecca Billette

*Rebecca Haley Billette (Rebecca) will graduate this spring from Watauga High School in Boone, North Carolina, where she serves as founder and president of STEMkids, president of DECA, and editor-in-chief of The Powderhorn, the school’s student newspaper. She has expanded access to STEM education by launching STEMkids, a free program fostering curiosity and hands-on inquiry for children throughout the region, and has championed business literacy and student journalism through her leadership of DECA and The Powderhorn. She plans to study economics and media and journalism at Carolina. Rebecca is the daughter of Stefanie and Shane Billette of Fleetwood, North Carolina.

Beaufort County

Lydia Smith

Lydia Allyson Smith (Lydia) will graduate this spring from Washington High School in Washington, North Carolina, where she serves as senior class president, a captain of the varsity cross country and swim teams, and vice president of Project Unify. She is an active volunteer at First Church of Christ and Roanoke Christian Camp, where she works closely with elementary-aged children, and she also serves her community as a lifeguard and youth mentor. She plans to study biomedical engineering and health and society at Carolina. Lydia is the daughter of Christina and Carl Smith of Washington, North Carolina.

Brunswick County

Kyle McCoy

Kyle James McCoy (Kyle) will graduate this spring from West Brunswick High School in Shallotte, North Carolina, where he serves as president of the DECA chapter, captain of the tennis team, and class vice president. Through DECA, he created a club scholarship fund that raised nearly $20,000, enabling students to attend state and national conferences. He also led his tennis team to its first playoff win and conference championship in more than twenty years. He plans to study environmental science and public policy at Carolina. Kyle is the son of Miranda McCoy of Holden Beach, North Carolina.

Buncombe County

Jordan Robertson

Jordan Olivia Robertson (Jordan) will graduate this spring from Charles D. Owen High School in Black Mountain, North Carolina, where she serves as student body president, captain of the cross country and track teams, and a leader in the school’s marching band. She is the founder of an annual 5K fundraiser benefiting her school and a local children’s home, and a mentor to younger students through the Link Crew program. She has also served as an American Red Cross Blood Donor Ambassador and contributed to OnTrack, a local nonprofit. She plans to study nursing and Spanish at Carolina. Jordan is the daughter of Sheri and Doug Robertson of Swannanoa, North Carolina.

Burke County

Stella Friedman

*Stella Dreisen Friedman (Stella) will graduate this spring from the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics – Morganton in Morganton, North Carolina, where she serves as a biochemistry researcher studying epigallocatechin gallate’s impact on amyloidogenic diseases, captain of the women’s track and cross country teams, and safety lead for the underwater robotics team. In student government, she serves as president pro tempore and senior senator, advocating for students and launching new campus initiatives. She also volunteers at Atrium Health and works with Operation Gratitude to support veterans. She plans to study biomedical engineering and medical anthropology at Carolina. Stella is the daughter of Angela and Jacob Friedman of Shelby, North Carolina.

Rohin Patel

*Rohin Patel (Rohin) will graduate this spring from North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics – Morganton in Morganton, North Carolina, where he serves as a student researcher in machine learning and neuroscience, president of the Technology Student Association, and a computer science teaching assistant. He has served as the North Carolina State Director of the American Youth Association, volunteered with the North Carolina State Legislature, and contributed to patient experience and health technology projects in the Data Analytics Department at UNC Health Blue Ridge Hospital. He plans to study computer science and business administration at Carolina. Rohin is the son of Keran and Harshil Patel of Waxhaw, North Carolina.

Cabarrus County

Hanna Lee

Hanna Curie Lee (Hanna) will graduate this spring from Cannon School in Charlotte, North Carolina, where she serves as founder and CEO of Liv & Cur, a Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange Youth Ambassador, and president of the Cannon Asian Student Association. Through Liv & Cur, she has partnered with local organizations and middle schools to combat period poverty and stigma and has created space for students of Asian identity to share their culture through the school’s Arts Jam and her city’s International Festival. She plans to study global studies and German at Carolina. Hanna is the daughter of Jinhee Na and Kyung Chul Lee of Concord, North Carolina.

Cleveland County

Stella Friedman

Lilliana Scott

Lilliana Blake Scott (Lilliana) will graduate this spring from Shelby High School in Shelby, North Carolina, where she serves as student body president, a Peer Group Connections leader, and captain of the varsity cheer squad. She is an active volunteer at Reading Kids Cleveland County, a local nonprofit focused on childhood literacy. She plans to study biology and neuroscience at Carolina. Lilliana is the daughter of Bradey and Damon Scott of Shelby, North Carolina.

Craven County

Victor Rivera Abaroa

Victor Alejandro Rivera Abaroa (Victor) will graduate this spring from Craven Early College High School in New Bern, North Carolina, where he served as president of the National Honor Society and a peer tutor. He has also served as vice president of the local YMCA Youth Leadership Committee, volunteered as a certified nursing assistant at Bayview Nursing and Rehab Center, tutored Spanish at Craven Community College, and served in youth leadership at St. Paul Catholic Church. He plans to study exercise and sport science and religious studies at Carolina. Victor is the son of Ana Abaroa-Salvatierra and Victor Rivera-Marquez of New Bern, North Carolina.

Cumberland County

Joah Lewis

Joah Elijah Lewis (Joah) will graduate this spring from Cumberland International Early College High School in Fayetteville, North Carolina, where he has hosted three blood drives with Blood Connections saving up to 150 lives, served as a web designer for nonprofit Fire4Prodigals with more than 100 volunteer hours supporting addiction recovery, and founded a charity soccer tournament raising over $3,000 for a coach battling stage four cancer. He plans to study business administration and Chinese at Carolina. Joah is the son of Melody Lewis of Fayetteville, North Carolina.

Durham County

Cornelia Okonkwo

*Cornelia Chinyere Okonkwo (Cornelia) will graduate this spring from the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics in Durham, North Carolina, where she serves as director of the Black Student Union, senior senator, and a residential life assistant. She serves as a teen defense attorney with the Durham Teen Court and as a UNC Association of Student Governments Fellow, researching housing disparities for undergraduates across North Carolina. She also competes on the NCSSM varsity volleyball team and volunteers with her local Keep Gastonia Beautiful chapter. She plans to study political science and journalism at Carolina. Cornelia is the daughter of Virginia and Cornelius Okonkwo of Gastonia, North Carolina.

Forsyth County

Zella Ann Cook

Zella Ann Carter Cook (Zella Ann) will graduate this spring from Mount Tabor High School in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, where she serves as student body president, co-captain of the varsity golf and diving teams, and interclub council representative for the Best Buddies chapter. She has partnered with her school district and local nonprofit SPARK to host back-to-school resource fairs and a service-learning summer program, and she coaches youth golf through a PGA Jr. League developmental program. She plans to study environmental health sciences and business at Carolina. Zella Ann is the daughter of Michaele and Carter Cook of Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

Gaston County

Cornelia Okonkwo

Guilford County

Josh Harrington

Joshua David Harrington (Josh) will graduate this spring from Southeast Guilford High School in Greensboro, North Carolina, where he serves as Unified Basketball Event Organizer, a Guilford Technical Community College student ambassador, and a Quaker Lake counselor assistant. As Unified Basketball Event Organizer, he coordinated with administrators, teachers, and peers to execute a multi-school tournament for special education athletes, now in its third year, and has worked to ensure the tradition continues after his graduation. He plans to study biology and economics at Carolina. Josh is the son of Kelly and Jake Harrington of Greensboro, North Carolina.

Henderson County

Anna McFarling

Anna Rosemary McFarling (Anna) will graduate this spring from Hendersonville High School in Hendersonville, North Carolina, where she serves as a leadership member, sports captain, and service leader. She plans to study biology and environmental health science at Carolina. Anna is the daughter of Holly Villota of Candler, North Carolina, and Mason McFarling of Asheville, North Carolina.

Iredell County

Sam Harper

Samuel Kemp Harper (Sam) will graduate this spring from South Iredell High School in Statesville, North Carolina, where he serves as a four-year varsity wrestling captain and two-time state finalist, a student ambassador, and an International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme student. He plans to study biomedical engineering and mathematics at Carolina. Sam is the son of Jodi and Brad Harper of Mooresville, North Carolina.

Johnston County

Anya Muminovic

Anya Sabina Muminovic (Anya) will graduate this spring from Smithfield-Selma Senior High School in Smithfield, North Carolina, where she serves as president of Mu Alpha Theta Math Honors Society, vice president of the senior class, and a member of Unified Club. As captain of the varsity swim team, she led her school to its first state championship in women’s swimming, winning the 100-yard breaststroke title. She earned the Girl Scout Gold Award by creating a free swim-lesson program for feeder elementary schools. She plans to study pharmacy and chemistry at Carolina and compete on the women’s rowing team. Anya is the daughter of Sarah and Dejan Muminovic of Clayton, North Carolina.

Lenoir County

Cody Baggett

Cody Alan Baggett (Cody) will graduate this spring from South Lenoir High School in Deep Run, North Carolina, where he serves as the FFA president, Quizbowl captain, and a member of the Student Council Association. He is also a member of the varsity wrestling and football teams. He plans to study biology and health policy and management at Carolina to pursue a career in trauma care. Cody is the son of Nichole and Alan Baggett of Deep Run, North Carolina.

Lincoln County

Jake Tweed

Jake Wilson Tweed (Jake) will graduate this spring from Lincolnton High School in Lincolnton, North Carolina, where he serves as senior class president, captain of the varsity quiz bowl, tennis, swim, and soccer teams, and a representative on the Lincoln County Student Advisory Council. An Eagle Scout, he designed and built a hammock park at his former elementary school to encourage reading among young students, and as class president he successfully advocated for expanding advanced coursework. He plans to study neuroscience and psychology at Carolina. Jake is the son of Molly and Travis Tweed of Lincolnton, North Carolina.

Martin County

Ezzurie Williams

Ezzurie Amariana Williams (Ezzurie) will graduate this spring from Martin Innovative Early College in Williamston, North Carolina, where she serves as president of the National Honor Society, president of Beta Club, and captain of the cross country team. She has also organized annual canned food drives to support local families in need. She plans to study neuroscience and biology at Carolina. Ezzurie is the daughter of Charlie Williams of Williamston, North Carolina.

Mecklenburg County

Alex Hedrick

Alexandra Taylor Hedrick (Alex) will graduate this spring from Charlotte Country Day School in Charlotte, North Carolina, where she serves as president of the Levine Children’s Hospital tutoring club, captain of the cross country and track teams, and a member of the school’s honor council. She has worked with disabled track athletes through Special Olympics and, inspired by her fundraising with Blood Cancer United, engaged in laboratory research on CRISPR technology to treat Acute Myeloid Leukemia. She plans to study community and global public health and exercise and sports science at Carolina. Alex is the daughter of Laurie and James Hedrick of Charlotte, North Carolina.

Montgomery County

Izzie Seawell

*Isla Rayne Seawell (Izzie) will graduate this spring from Montgomery County Early College in Troy, North Carolina, where she serves as co-founder of Project Au, president of the Save Our World Club, and president of Montgomery Community College Phi Theta Kappa. She founded Project Au, a science fair coaching initiative that expands opportunities for younger students. She plans to study environmental science at Carolina. Izzie is the daughter of Heather and Matthew Seawell of Robbins, North Carolina.

Moore County

Isabella Robinson

Isabella Carmyn Robinson (Isabella) will graduate this spring from Pinecrest High School in Southern Pines, North Carolina, where she serves as captain of the women’s cross country and track and field teams, a national delegate of Girl Scouts USA, president of Key Club, and a violinist in the Sinfonietta and Moore Philharmonic orchestras. Drawing on her service and nonprofit experience, she founded Melodic Mentors, a music mentorship program focused on increasing youth retention in music. She plans to study chemistry and astrophysics at Carolina. Isabella is the daughter of Elizabeth and David Robinson of Southern Pines, North Carolina.

Izzie Seawell

Nash County

Amelia Nieves

Amelia Elizabeth Nieves (Amelia) will graduate this spring from Nash Central High School in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, where she serves as student body president, a Nash County Student Advisory Council representative, and marching band brass captain. She has also served as a tutor to peers and younger students. She plans to study psychology and education at Carolina. Amelia is the daughter of Angela and Leo Nieves of Rocky Mount, North Carolina.

Fenner Parker

Fenner Moore Parker (Fenner) will graduate this spring from Faith Christian School in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, where he serves as class president, president of the school’s YMCA Youth and Government delegation, and captain of the varsity boys’ tennis team. He founded his school’s YMCA Youth and Government chapter, creating opportunities for students to visit the North Carolina Supreme Court and Nash County Courthouse, and started a civic podcast featuring local leaders that was later adopted by a statewide organization. He plans to study political science and civic life and leadership at Carolina. Fenner is the son of Khristy and Dee Parker of Rocky Mount, North Carolina.

Orange County

Djina Alicante-Stuesse

Djina Mandela Alicante-Stuesse (Djina) will graduate this spring from Carrboro High School in Carrboro, North Carolina, where she has served as president of the Academy of International Studies, president of the French Honors Society, and a leader of the Mock Trial program. An accomplished violinist with the Duke University String School Youth Symphony, she also co-founded the Legacy Sports Academy Club, which collaborates with an NGO supporting students in Liberia through soccer programs and practical skill development. She plans to study global studies and journalism at Carolina. Djina is the daughter of Angela Stuesse and Tutu Alicante León of Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

Ethan Liang

Ethan Wen Liang (Ethan) will graduate this spring from Chapel Hill High School in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, where he serves as president of the Computer Science Club, co-captain of the varsity swim team, and a student researcher in vat photopolymerization at the Digital Light Manufacturing and Polymeric Materials Lab at North Carolina State University. As co-captain, he led his swim team to a third-place state finish and broke a five-year school record. He has also been a long-term volunteer for Swim Across America, raising funds for cancer research. He plans to study business and biomedical engineering at Carolina. Ethan is the son of Molly Wen and Davy Liang of Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

Pender County

Elizabeth Brinson

Elizabeth Purcell Brinson (Elizabeth) will graduate this spring from Topsail High School in Hampstead, North Carolina, where she serves as president of the STAND Club, president of the National Honor Society, and vice president of the EC Buddies Club. She has advocated for an EC Prom, mentored students through the Buddies Club, and led service initiatives that reached hundreds of community members and supported girls’ education in Uganda. She plans to study political science and journalism and media at Carolina. Elizabeth is the daughter of Sarah and Dan Brinson of Hampstead, North Carolina.

Pitt County

T.J. Gribble

Anthony David Gribble (T.J.) will graduate this spring from John Paul II Catholic High School in Greenville, North Carolina, where he has served as assistant technical director and as captain of the Quiz Bowl, varsity swim, and Science Olympiad teams. During high school, he also competed in soccer, supported nonprofits as a web developer with the Teen Leadership Institute, and participated in debate and tabletop gaming clubs. He plans to study physics and Spanish at Carolina. T.J. is the son of Dana and T. D. Gribble of Greenville, North Carolina.

Maya Swaggerty

Maya Kristina Swaggerty (Maya) will graduate this spring from Junius H. Rose High School in Greenville, North Carolina, where she serves as co-editor-in-chief of Rampant Lines, founder and team captain of Boneyard Robotics 2682, and president of the school’s National Organization for Women chapter. After competing in FIRST Robotics for six years and winning awards at the international championship twice, she founded Boneyard Robotics 2682, organizing thirty members and launching community outreach programs to expand STEM access. As NOW president, she stocked her school’s bathrooms with free menstrual products. She plans to study public policy and political science at Carolina. Maya is the daughter of Elizabeth and Andy Swaggerty of Greenville, North Carolina.

Rutherford County

Garryn Thompson

Garryn Jari Thompson (Garryn) will graduate this spring from East Rutherford High School in Bostic, North Carolina, where she serves as senior class president and captain of the varsity soccer and basketball teams. Through Leadership Rutherford, she worked with peers to raise $45,700 to support construction of a new building for Mosaic Hope, a local foster care organization. She has also served on the Special Olympics Planning Committee, coached youth sports, and co-founded her school’s news channel, “Cavalier Convos.” She plans to study psychology and neuroscience at Carolina. Garryn is the daughter of Lamonda and Garrett Thompson of Bostic, North Carolina.

Sampson County

Peyton Herring

Peyton Rose Herring (Peyton) will graduate this spring from Midway High School in Newton Grove, North Carolina, where she serves as a leader for Fellowship of Christian Athletes, the captain of the varsity volleyball, basketball, and softball teams, and the student representative for Sampson County Schools’ strategic planning committee. In her community, she tutors students of all abilities, co-leads a Bible study for teenage girls, and volunteers regularly with her church. She plans to study biomedical engineering and English at Carolina. Peyton is the daughter of Rosemary Herring of Dunn, North Carolina, and the late Carl Herring.

Union County

Grace Hopper

Grace Margaret Hopper (Grace) will graduate this spring from Union Academy Charter School in Monroe, North Carolina, where she serves as DECA president, Science National Honors Society president, and class treasurer. She pioneered a medical internship program at a local hospital for Union Academy students and co-created an annual 5K, Strides Against Stress, to raise money and awareness for mental health. She plans to study biology and psychology at Carolina. Grace is the daughter of Jennie and Brad Hopper of Indian Trail, North Carolina.

Rohin Patel

Vance County

Payten Bender

*Payten Leah Bender (Payten) will graduate this spring from Vance Charter School in Henderson, North Carolina. She is the founder and president of the debate club, an officer in the school’s book club, and the founder and organizer of the Vance Charter Knight’s Squires Program, which pairs students with special needs with peer buddies. She also volunteers at a local hospital and is a member of Redeemer Community Church, where she serves in ministry programs for children and individuals with special needs. A competitive gymnast for more than ten years, she is also a certified USA Gymnastics coach and mentors young athletes. She plans to study English, comparative literature, and philosophy at Carolina. Payten is the daughter of Jill and Jonathan Bender of Norlina, North Carolina.

Wake County

Teja Aremanda

Teja Sai Aremanda (Teja) will graduate this spring from Panther Creek High School in Cary, North Carolina, where he serves as senior patrol leader of his Boy Scout troop, VP of Finance of his DECA chapter, and a varsity volleyball player. Through DECA, he launched an initiative that equipped more than 200 students with skills in professional etiquette, resume-building, and communication, and connected them with over 60 local business professionals at a networking event. He has also helped launch a teen mental health awareness magazine through the Empower and Help nonprofit. He plans to study mathematics and business administration at Carolina. Teja is the son of Usha Parvathaneni and Srinivas Aremanda of Morrisville, North Carolina.

Ian House

Ian Sinclaire House (Ian) will graduate this spring from Green Hope High School in Cary, North Carolina, where he serves as a student advisor to the North Carolina State Board of Education, speaker of the House of Representatives of the North Carolina Youth Legislative Assembly, and programs assistant at the North Carolina Museum of History. He founded the Student Voice Alliance, an organization that has elevated student voices across North Carolina through surveys and advocacy training in education policy. He plans to study public policy and philosophy, politics, and economics at Carolina. Ian is the son of Nicole Souther and Alan House of Cary, North Carolina.

Warren County

Payten Bender

Watauga County

Rebecca Billette

Out of State

California

Joseph Abdou

Joseph Shareef Abdou (Joseph) will graduate this spring from Viewpoint School in Calabasas, California, where he serves as student council president, head of the education inequality division of the Social Justice, Leadership, and Equity Society, and a board member of the Strike Out Cancers Club. He has expanded access to education by building an online computer science tutoring community of more than 500 members and hosting in-school workshops to address education inequality. He plans to study computer science and business at Carolina. Joseph is the son of Sherry Oddino of Santa Monica, California, and Shareef Abdou of Tarzana, California.

Riley Ericksen

Riley Theresa Farr Ericksen (Riley) will graduate this spring from The Branson School in Ross, California, where she is a member of the Branson Community Honor Board, leader of the Branson Environmental Action Club, and advances financial literacy education. As youth president of the Marin Search and Rescue Team, she is one of the few youth in the country certified in mission management and first-responder peer support. Riley is also a nationally ranked big-mountain snowboarder. She plans to study business administration and environmental science at Carolina. Riley is the daughter of Sheri and Chris Ericksen of Kentfield, California.

Ryan Reber

Ryan Cole Reber (Ryan) will graduate this spring from Justin-Siena High School in Napa, California, where he serves as student body president, captain of the varsity track team, and leader of the school’s Headspace club for men’s mental health. Inspired by growing up amid the forests, vineyards, and wildfire risk of Northern California, Ryan has developed a deep commitment to environmental stewardship. He plans to study environmental studies and urban planning at Carolina. Ryan is the son of Carol and Robert Reber of Napa, California.

Ishaan Savla

Ishaan Savla (Ishaan) will graduate this spring from Dougherty Valley High School in San Ramon, California, where he serves as student body treasurer, president of the Future Business Leaders of America club, and a member of the debate team. Appointed as student trustee on the Contra Costa County Board of Education, he represented 160,000 K–12 students, advocating for student-first educational spending and helping establish student seats on local school boards. He also co-founded Finpowrd, teaching financial literacy to more than 500 students in local classrooms. He plans to study business and public policy at Carolina. Ishaan is the son of Bhavi and Ashish Savla of San Ramon, California.

Colorado

Caroline May

Caroline Victoria May (Caroline) will graduate this spring from Littleton High School in Littleton, Colorado, where she serves as event coordinator for the Unified Program, captain of the varsity soccer team, and captain of the varsity speech and debate team. Throughout high school, she has volunteered as a Spanish translator at the Food Bank of the Rockies. She has worked with individuals with developmental disabilities, including as a camp counselor at Adam’s Camp and a Special Olympics partner for school athletic teams. She plans to study business administration and global studies at Carolina. Caroline is the daughter of Elizabeth and David May of Denver, Colorado.

District of Columbia

Lucy Wall

Lucy Faith Wall (Lucy) will graduate this spring from BASIS DC Public Charter School in Washington, D.C., where she serves as co-captain of the Science Olympiad team, co-captain of the girls varsity soccer team, and a section editor of the school newspaper. She has played a significant role in growing her school’s Science Olympiad team and the D.C. Science Olympiad circuit, helping the team qualify for nationals for several consecutive years. She is also a first violinist with the D.C. Youth Philharmonic. She plans to study physics and music at Carolina. Lucy is the daughter of Susan and Steven Wall of Washington, D.C.

Florida

Lucy Chong

Lucy Edan Chong (Lucy) will graduate this spring from Trinity Preparatory School of Florida in Winter Park, Florida, where she serves as co-editor-in-chief of The Trinity Voice, co-founder of Trinity Mock Trial, and co-captain of the varsity girls’ weightlifting team. She has coached gender minorities in debate for two years, helping them develop and articulate arguments. She has conducted original research on the risks associated with whole-body deodorants on the vaginal microbiome. She plans to study applied sciences and environmental microbiology at Carolina. Lucy is the daughter of Emma Fritz and Robert Chong of Winter Park, Florida.

Stella Herford

Stella Grace Herford (Stella) will graduate this spring from Episcopal School of Jacksonville in Jacksonville, Florida, where she serves as president of the Honor and Discipline Council, president of the Community Service Council, and chair of Dance Marathon. She has worked to promote integrity and accountability on campus through her council leadership and raised funds for local children’s hospitals through Dance Marathon. She also spent a summer interning at Communities in Schools of Jacksonville and competed as a four-year varsity sailor. She plans to study business and environmental science and studies at Carolina. Stella is the daughter of Natalie and West Herford of Jacksonville, Florida.

Georgia

Alex Royal

Alexander William Royal (Alex) will graduate this spring from Riverwood International Charter School in Sandy Springs, Georgia, where he serves as student body president, HOSA chapter president, and captain of the varsity swim team. He founded HealthPride, a nonprofit that distributes queer-inclusive health education materials to Southern public schools in ten states, and directed a student initiative advocating for medical drug reform policy across Metro Atlanta. An Eagle Scout recognized as an Atlanta “20 Under 20” Honoree, he also led a city-wide pajama drive providing clothing to over 750 patients in the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta system. He plans to study health policy and management at Carolina. Alex is the son of Jodie and Bill Royal of Atlanta, Georgia.

Sarah Wang

Sarah Wang (Sarah) will graduate this spring from The Westminster Schools in Atlanta, Georgia, where she serves as founder and president of the Georgia Youth Environmental Coalition, co-founder and co-captain of the Westminster World Schools Debate Team, and co-editor-in-chief of The Westminster Bi-Line. She has mobilized more than 100 students, reached over 90,000 residents through climate education and advocacy, and secured funding for a heat resilience program distributing 500 safety kits to vulnerable communities. She plans to study health policy and management and philosophy, politics, and economics at Carolina. Sarah is the daughter of Lily Ji and Haibin Wang of Atlanta, Georgia.

Hawaii

Colette Jost

Colette Grace Jost (Colette) will graduate this spring from Punahou School in Honolulu, Hawaii, where she serves as co-president of the Sustainability Club and a member of the varsity canoe paddling team. One of Hawaiʻi’s first female Eagle Scouts, she founded her troop in 2019 and has contributed hundreds of hours of community service, including work with the Heʻeia Fishpond and Kakoʻo ʻŌiwi Loʻi Farm. As the youngest member of The Coral Conservancy, she serves as an outreach educator and reef technician. She plans to study environmental studies at Carolina. Colette is the daughter of Stasia Droze Jost and Jim Jost of Kailua, Hawaii.

Maryland

Isha Chaudhuri

Isha Chaudhuri (Isha) will graduate this spring from Bryn Mawr School in Baltimore, Maryland, where she serves as Ethics Bowl president, yearbook editor-in-chief, and Community Service Learning president. She has created community-centered solutions, from developing a space comic series now used in Maryland schools to leading a $5,000-funded mural project that transformed a neglected Baltimore park into a vibrant neighborhood space. Through Ethics Bowl and MAPISAC programming, she also promotes respectful dialogue and strengthens connections between her school and the surrounding community. She plans to study chemistry and nutrition at Carolina. Isha is the daughter of Radha Roy and Anamitra Chaudhuri of Baltimore, Maryland.

Vijay Kannan

Vijay Kannan (Vijay) will graduate this spring from Walter Johnson High School in Bethesda, Maryland, where he serves as captain of the mock trial team, founder of his nonprofit Chamber for Charity, and senior class secretary. He led his school’s mock trial team to the first county championship in school history and worked in the State’s Attorney’s Office to explore problem-solving courts. He has also organized musicians to perform at nursing homes and hospitals across his county and the greater Washington, D.C., region, including the National Institutes of Health and the Capitol Building. He plans to study economics and public policy at Carolina. Vijay is the son of Sharmila Sandhu and Shyam Kannan of Bethesda, Maryland.

Massachusetts

Theodore Andersen

Theodore Jason Andersen (Theo) will graduate this spring from The Governor’s Academy in Byfield, Massachusetts, where he serves as academy president, dormitory proctor, and head of the Harvard Model Congress delegation. Additionally, Theo has spent his summers interning with the legislative offices of Congresswoman Lori Trahan and Representative Jonathan Zlotnik and working as a wedding server. He plans to study political science and history at Carolina. Theodore is the son of Barbara Dupuis and Jason Andersen of Newburyport, Massachusetts.

Marc London

Marc Joseph London (Marc) will graduate this spring from Tabor Academy in Marion, Massachusetts, where he serves as president of student council, an elected member of the student judicial board, and the head tour guide, head peer tutor, and captain of the varsity baseball team. He is the founder of Marc’s Market, a nonprofit that delivers fresh fruit weekly to families in government-subsidized housing to advance food access in underserved communities. On campus, he has also led efforts to reduce the cost of student activities to make school traditions more accessible for all students. He plans to study business at Carolina. Marc is the son of Lisa and Michael London of Needham, Massachusetts.

Minnesota

Nabiha Kashif

Nabiha Sheza Kashif (Nabiha) will graduate this spring from Eagan High School in Eagan, Minnesota, where she serves as captain of the speech and debate team, president of the Youth Advocates for Prevention Policy, and co-president of the Multicultural Student Association. As a founding member of the Dakota County Vape Waste Team, she has led substance-use prevention initiatives reaching more than 5,000 students and created environmental incentive programs to help students quit vaping. She also helped rewrite the statewide health survey used during all teen and child checkups in Minnesota. She plans to study public health at Carolina. Nabiha is the daughter of Marium Sadaf Rashid and Muhammad Kashif of Rosemount, Minnesota.

New Jersey

Mia Subrahmanyam

Mia Subrahmanyam (Mia) will graduate this spring from Bergen County Academies in Hackensack, New Jersey, where she serves as president of the Black and Latinx Student Union, a peer leader, and founder of the Political Science Club. She has advocated for racial and educational equality through internships in education and climate policy, research on educational equity, and a senior leadership role at Dear Asian Youth, an international advocacy organization. Active in the performing arts, she played the lead in her school’s musical and performed at Carnegie Hall. She plans to study public policy and economics at Carolina. Mia is the daughter of Maude and Mohan Subrahmanyam of Wyckoff, New Jersey.

Ohio

Suhani Prakash

Suhani Prakash (Suhani) will graduate this spring from Sycamore High School in Cincinnati, Ohio, where she serves as co-editor-in-chief of The Leaf, the school newsmagazine; co-chair of Fashion for the Cure, a pediatric cancer fundraising committee; and chief marketing officer of INTERalliance, a nonprofit dedicated to equitable technology education. She is the co-founder and president of INTECH, a program in India through which she works with physicians, therapists, and teachers to provide motion-sensing technology sports experiences to schools for children with intellectual disabilities. She also crochets for her small business Ad Astra, which donates all proceeds to local mental health nonprofits, and for the Magic Yarn Project, which creates wigs for children with medically related hair loss. She plans to study community and global public health at Carolina. Suhani is the daughter of Nandita Malik and Rajan Prakash of Cincinnati, Ohio.

Pennsylvania

Ted Dudley

Edmund Dudley (Ted) will graduate this spring from Strath Haven High School in Wallingford, Pennsylvania, where he serves as captain of the varsity debate team and has achieved a second-place international ranking in Public Forum Debate. He founded the Chapter Program at Empower Debate, launching debate programs at more than 600 schools in twenty-seven countries and providing over 2,500 underserved students with $400,000 in free resources. He also founded Whisker Wishes, a student-run cat rescue that has rehomed more than 200 cats. He plans to study business administration and philosophy, politics, and economics at Carolina. Ted is the son of Lisa Croddy of Swarthmore, Pennsylvania.

Tennessee

Binyam Dunne

Binyam Fisher Dunne (Binyam) will graduate this spring from University School of Nashville in Nashville, Tennessee, where he serves as student body secretary, Community Action Day committee co-chair, and secretary general of Tennessee Model United Nations. As a floor leader for his state’s youth in government conference, he has served as a Tennessee delegate to the U.S. Senate Youth Program and the Conference on National Affairs. He also captains his school’s varsity mock trial and track teams. He plans to study global studies and peace, war, and defense at Carolina. Binyam is the son of Carol and John Dunne of Nashville, Tennessee.

Texas

Grant Bomersbach

Grant William Bomersbach (Grant) will graduate this spring from Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas in Dallas, Texas, where he serves as student body president, captain of the varsity volleyball team, and a member of Hope Squad. He volunteers weekly with disability awareness organization To Be Like Me, has twice competed in the Student Visionaries of the Year Campaign to raise money for blood cancer, and runs a personal handyman business in the Dallas area. He plans to study mathematics and business administration at Carolina. Grant is the son of Barb and Nick Bomersbach of Dallas, Texas.

John McKenna

John Robert McKenna (John) will graduate this spring from Woodrow Wilson High School in Dallas, Texas, where he serves as co-president of the AP Ambassadors program and captain of the cross country and track teams. He is also an Eagle Scout and a member of the Young Men’s Service League. He plans to study biomedical engineering at Carolina. John is the son of Alyce and Sean McKenna of Dallas, Texas.

International

Canada

Julia Li

Julia Jiawen Li (Julia) will graduate this spring from University of Toronto Schools in Toronto, Ontario, where she serves as co-founder of the poetry journal Willow Anthology, principal double bassist of three school orchestras and jazz bands, and co-chair of the Toronto Youth STEM and Innovation Conference. She published a review paper in CNS Drugs on racial and ethnic differences in multiple sclerosis treatment, performed with the Toronto Symphony Youth Orchestra, and placed thirty-third at the World Individual Public Speaking and Debating Championships. She plans to study neuroscience and sociology at Carolina. Julia is the daughter of Tong Zhou and Tian Yu Li of Etobicoke, Ontario.

Naomi McDonald

Naomi McDonald (Naomi) will graduate this spring from Havergal College in Toronto, Ontario, where she serves as school captain, Black student affinity head, and mechanical lead of FIRST Robotics team Umoja. As a youth council member of FIRST Robotics Canada, she has taught blind and neurodivergent students robotics and writes for Black Girls Magazine to amplify underrepresented voices. She is also the author of Midnight Warriors: The Last Breath and is contributing to research at SickKids Hospital on the effects of citrulline on the pancreas. She plans to study neuroscience at Carolina. Naomi is the daughter of Kathy and Lester McDonald of Brampton, Ontario.

China

Cathy Bai

Mozhu Bai (Cathy) will graduate this spring from Beijing No. 4 High School International Campus in Beijing, China, where she serves as founder of the Eco-Toilet Project, leader of the Community Garden Initiative, and president of the Beijing High School Debate League. She designed eco-friendly toilet prototypes and tested them in water-scarce rural regions, and she led a school garden project converting dog waste into organic fertilizer to reduce the community’s carbon footprint. Through the Debate League, she organized tournaments and tutoring sessions to expand access to competitive debate across Beijing high schools. She plans to study environmental studies and business at Carolina. Cathy is the daughter of Han Zhu and Bin Bai of Beijing, China.

India

Krishna Menon Kaul

Krishna Menon Kaul (Krishna) will graduate this spring from Sushant Public School in Muzaffarpur, India, where he serves as head boy, founder of Education for Girls, and head of partnerships and collaboration. He led a student body of more than 2,000 as head boy, while building trust within the school community and founding an education initiative that taught over 60 girls. He has also helped scale DeeSAT, supporting more than 350 students in achieving strong SAT outcomes. He plans to study business administration and economics at Carolina. Krishna is the son of Madhuraantika and Ravi Raj Kaul of Muzaffarpur, India.

Turkey

Evin Cakmak

Evin Çakmak (Evin) will graduate this spring from The Koç School in Istanbul, Turkey, where she serves as founder and president of CommUnity WE and president of the SAGE Club. As leader of CommUnity WE, she coordinates a nationwide network of sixty students to organize monthly workshops for marginalized groups, and she earned two global gold medals at the SAGE World Cup for her “Knots of Hope” initiative, which empowered women’s weaving cooperatives and provided aid to 2023 earthquake survivors. A nine-time national poetry and short story competition winner, she has also authored and published a bilingual Braille children’s book. She plans to study biochemistry and pursue a minor in pharmaceutical sciences or philosophy at Carolina. Evin is the daughter of Yasemin and Fırat Çakmak of Diyarbakır, Turkey.

United Kingdom

Darcey Amery

Darcey Bella Amery (Darcey) will graduate this spring from Pencoed Comprehensive School and Sixth Form Centre in Bridgend, Wales, where she serves as head girl, co-chair of the student council, and a Rotary/Interact Club leader. A Welsh language ambassador, she launched her school’s first literacy book drive to increase literacy rates among younger students and has raised money for global and local charities through the Rotary Club. She has also led and performed in drama, dance, and choir productions. She plans to study media and journalism and business management at Carolina. Darcey is the daughter of Francesca and Gareth Amery of Bridgend, Wales.

Meg Hoshiko

Megumi Zoe Hoshiko (Meg) will graduate this spring from Shrewsbury School in Shrewsbury, England, where she serves as head of school, captain of the cross-country team, and head of her boarding house. She founded a women’s running club, has coached and mentored younger athletes, and has represented Great Britain at international events, including the World Biathle and Triathle Championships. She also contributed to the research and design of waste sanitation products for the Imperial College Science in Medicine Schools Team Prize, where her team reached the finals. She plans to study chemistry and Spanish at Carolina. Meg is the daughter of Efua and Ricardo Hoshiko of Wirral, England.

Chaya Lynch

Chaya Lilly Lynch (Chaya) will graduate this spring from Roedean School in Brighton and Hove, England, where she serves as head of school, junior and senior house captain, and founder and editor of the school newspaper. She has volunteered with Chailey Heritage Foundation, supporting young adults with severe and complex disabilities; taught English to Ukrainian and Romanian refugees through Hope4 in Moldova; and completed a placement in the Houses of Parliament working for her local Member of Parliament. She plans to study political science and global studies at Carolina. Chaya is the daughter of Mohini and John Lynch of Battle, England.

Chigozie Mamah

Chigozie Mamah (Chigozie) will graduate this spring from Saint Ambrose College in Hale Barns, England, where he serves as deputy head boy and captain of the first XV rugby team. He has organized science club presentations and laboratory practicals for younger students, participated in charitable fundraising for international partner schools, and tutored his peers. He plans to study biomedical engineering at Carolina. Chigozie is the son of Loveline and James Mamah of Manchester, England.

Will Meyer

Carl William James Meyer (Will) will graduate this spring from Shrewsbury School in Shrewsbury, England, where he serves as eco committee leader, a varsity soccer player, and a volunteer porter at a local NHS hospital. As eco committee leader, he doubled participation in his first year and initiated meetings with the school’s waste and recycling providers to advocate for a more effective and consistent system. He plans to study applied physical sciences and chemistry at Carolina. Will is the son of Amanda and Carl Meyer of Shrewsbury, England.

May 4, 2026