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Donate NowMeet the WINGS Scholars
Candis Choice
School: University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Mentor: Angela Powley
Candis Choice is attending UNC Charlotte, pursing a degree in Public Health. She expects to graduate in 2026. While attending school, Candis also works for the Charlotte Mecklenburg School System and volunteers at her church as an usher, in the missionary ministry and on the mission team. Candis enjoys traveling, walking, making baskets, reading and music. She is kind hearted and always has a smile to share.
Joslyn Dennis
School: University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Mentor: Lois Ingland
Joslyn Dennis is the youngest of four siblings who has never shied away from a challenge. After an 8-year hiatus from the beginning of her collegiate journey, she is on track to receive a Bachelor of Science in Health Systems Management with a minor in Public Health from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Her ultimate goal is to fulfill the call on her life to become a physician and changemaker in the health system. .In addition to her premed academic journey at UNCC, she is also a part of the inaugural group of Adult Student Ambassadors on campus, a member of the Senior Executive Leadership Cohort at UNCC, a member of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars, and is a WINGS Scholar through the Women Executives organization of Charlotte. Professionally, she serves as the Executive Assistant to the CEO at Palmetto Clean Technology, where the goal is to expand access to clean energy to drive positive environmental impact. Joslyn married her comedic best friend and self-proclaimed backup singer, the Reverend Doctor James Wesley Dennis III, who is a minister, scholar, and activist. Joslyn values relatability, courageous vulnerability, and depth over breadth. She truly strives to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.
April Ellis
School: University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Mentor: AJ Desai
April Ellis is pursuing a degree in Health Systems Management at UNC Charlotte and plans to graduate in the Fall of 2025. While taking classes, she also works for Novant Health OB/GYN and has since 2016. She is an Army veteran who served her country for 12 years. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking, reading, crafting and gaming with her son. Currently, she is also writing her first fictional short story.
Jessica Franco
School: UNC Charlotte
Mentor: Kristen Leis
Jessica Franco is earning her BFA in Graphic Design with a minor in Art History at UNC Charlotte. She expects to graduate in December of 2024. Her creative talent has been recognized with winning the poster contest for National Disability Employment Awareness Month, and her work entitled "Still Life Reflections" was selected for the Juried Student Exhibition. Her writing abilities have also been honored winning the Writing, Rhetoric and Digital Studies (WRDS) department's First Year Writing Award in her freshman year. She also received the Award for Exemplary portfolio with recognition as an outstanding submission across all categories.
A 4.0 GPA Chancellor's List student since Fall of 2020, Jessica is actively engaged on campus as a member of Gamma Rho Chapter of the Alpha Sigma Lambda Honor Society, has served as the adult student ambassador for the Office of Adult Students and Extended Services, is a 49er Connect Success Guide, and is also a member of the Society of Art Historians and Niner Designers. .
Currently working as a peer mentor and success guide with the University Center for Academic Excellence at UNCC, Jessica found she loves to encourage students, especially underrepresented students. She gains great satisfaction in guiding students to turn obstacles into opportunities for growth and to know that there is a place in the world for them to be valued contributors. She sees her creative degree as a launching pad for creative leadership. She hopes to inspire those who are less fortunate by starting a legacy of educating and giving back. Her work as a peer mentor and success guide has inspired her to continue her education, where she plans to apply for a graduate degree in M.Ed. in Educational Leadership and Higher Education.
Born in South Africa, Jessica enjoys traveling, giving back to her community local and back home, and spending time with family. Jessica's mentor is Kristen Leis.
A 4.0 GPA Chancellor's List student since Fall of 2020, Jessica is actively engaged on campus as a member of Gamma Rho Chapter of the Alpha Sigma Lambda Honor Society, has served as the adult student ambassador for the Office of Adult Students and Extended Services, is a 49er Connect Success Guide, and is also a member of the Society of Art Historians and Niner Designers. .
Currently working as a peer mentor and success guide with the University Center for Academic Excellence at UNCC, Jessica found she loves to encourage students, especially underrepresented students. She gains great satisfaction in guiding students to turn obstacles into opportunities for growth and to know that there is a place in the world for them to be valued contributors. She sees her creative degree as a launching pad for creative leadership. She hopes to inspire those who are less fortunate by starting a legacy of educating and giving back. Her work as a peer mentor and success guide has inspired her to continue her education, where she plans to apply for a graduate degree in M.Ed. in Educational Leadership and Higher Education.
Born in South Africa, Jessica enjoys traveling, giving back to her community local and back home, and spending time with family. Jessica's mentor is Kristen Leis.
Twanna Glover
School: Johnson C. Smith University
Mentor: Kimberly Henderson
Twanna Glover is attending Johnson C. Smith University pursuing a BS in Business Administration with a focus on management. Recently accepting a position at Atrium Health while attending school full time, Twanna will graduate in 2023. She hopes to leverage her experience in auditing, training, and HR to build a career in the healthcare industry in Human Resources. She is excited to be providing community service to the Ronald McDonald house to support her pledge for Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. When she is not working and going to school, she enjoys spending time with her four children and two grandchildren. She is especially proud of her son currently serving in the Army. Her mentor is Betty Johnson.
Amber Rae Hightower
School: University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Mentor: Lori Perro
Amber Rae Hightower, is a poet, writer, painter, and music playlist curator and consultant. She is currently attending UNC Charlotte, pursuing an Honors English major with a concentration in Creative Writing. This December, Amber will also graduate with two minors: one in Diverse Literature and the other in Culture Studies. A U.S. Navy veteran, she continues to serve fellow veterans through her work in the Military and Veteran Services Office at UNC Charlotte. Amber is a mother to a 17-year-old son and a Yorkipoo. She values the inclusion, mentorship, camaraderie, and resources that WINGS provides.
Amethyst Jones
School: Johnson C. Smith University
Mentor: Ulrike Miles
Amethyst Jones is a Johnson C. Smith scholar working on her Bachelors degree in Public Health. Her plans are to graduate in 2026. After graduation, Amethyst plans to continue her education towards a Masters Degree in Public Health and transition into a career in that field. While in school, she also works for Builders Mutual Insurance as a Claims Adjuster and has been there for three years. Amethyst is the mom of three adult children and has a granddog named Willow. She enjoys reading, traveling, eating, and working out.
Ashley Kimble
School: Johnson C. Smith University
Mentor: Paulette Ashlin
Ashley Kimble is a lover of learning, the creative arts, being inspired, and making a difference. She is currently attending Johnson C. Smith University pursuing a bachelor's degree in business administration with a concentration management. She expects to graduate in December of 2024. She also works full time at Atrium Health as a Certified Professional Coder II, where her knowledge in human anatomy and translation of dictation into diagnosis and CPT codes is essential. Since joining Atrium in 2012, she realized several promotions starting as an administrative assistant, then patient account representative medical secretary and an authorization specialist. Upon being licensed through the American Society of Professional Coders, she earned her current role. .
She seeks to obtain a certification in project management by summer of 2024 to secure a position after graduation as a Coding Project Manager leading initiatives to help reach hospital/healthcare operational goals.
Ashley has a passion for singing, writing songs and poetry, and learning about other cultures and languages. She recently completed an adult study course in Mandarin Chinese and enjoys watching Nollywood, Nigerian Hollywood movies.
She is a proud mother of two children including her daughter, also attending Johnson C. Smith as a rising sophmore, and a six-year old son whom she calls SonShine. He was diagnosed at the age of three years old with Autism Spectrum Disorder, and his affectionate name is to reflects him being bright, full of light and consistently rising above any obstacles he may face.
She appreciates being a WINGS Scholar and values the opportunity to learn from amazing, talented executives and current WINGS scholars. Ashley's mentor is Paulette Ashlin.
She seeks to obtain a certification in project management by summer of 2024 to secure a position after graduation as a Coding Project Manager leading initiatives to help reach hospital/healthcare operational goals.
Ashley has a passion for singing, writing songs and poetry, and learning about other cultures and languages. She recently completed an adult study course in Mandarin Chinese and enjoys watching Nollywood, Nigerian Hollywood movies.
She is a proud mother of two children including her daughter, also attending Johnson C. Smith as a rising sophmore, and a six-year old son whom she calls SonShine. He was diagnosed at the age of three years old with Autism Spectrum Disorder, and his affectionate name is to reflects him being bright, full of light and consistently rising above any obstacles he may face.
She appreciates being a WINGS Scholar and values the opportunity to learn from amazing, talented executives and current WINGS scholars. Ashley's mentor is Paulette Ashlin.
Jessica McDonald
School: Johnson C. Smith University
Mentor: Amber Fencl
Jessica Nicole McDonald is the only daughter and eldest child to Jesse and Irene Swinson. She was born and raised in Camden, NJ and currently lives in Charlotte, NC. Jessica is a Psychology scholar with a minor in Africana Studies. As a student leader, Jessica is actively involved as a Golden Bull Brand Ambassador, Vice President of the JCSU chapter of NAACP, member of the University Concert Choir, serves as parliamentarian for the Golden Bull Adult Success Organization and a member of JCSU Civic Engagement. She is also a Democracy Fellow for Common Cause North Carolina along with being an UNCF and WING scholar. .
In addition to being a Dean's list student, Jessica is a member of Sigma Alpha Pi, a leadership honor society and a proud member of the Gamma Lambda chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc.,where she serves as Sergeant at Arms. Previously serving as Miss Sophomore, Jessica has made it her mission to change the narrative of the campus queen by dedicating herself to service and the betterment of student engagement. As an adult learner, she strives to influence both traditional and non-traditional students to never give up and unlock their fullest potential. She stands on Luke 12:48, To whom much is given, much is required. She reminds herself of that as she balances being a wife and mother of three while pursuing her bachelor's degree. Jessica humbly serves as Miss Junior and is honored to always represent her beloved JCSU and hopes to make a positive impact through her service and involvement.
In addition to being a Dean's list student, Jessica is a member of Sigma Alpha Pi, a leadership honor society and a proud member of the Gamma Lambda chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc.,where she serves as Sergeant at Arms. Previously serving as Miss Sophomore, Jessica has made it her mission to change the narrative of the campus queen by dedicating herself to service and the betterment of student engagement. As an adult learner, she strives to influence both traditional and non-traditional students to never give up and unlock their fullest potential. She stands on Luke 12:48, To whom much is given, much is required. She reminds herself of that as she balances being a wife and mother of three while pursuing her bachelor's degree. Jessica humbly serves as Miss Junior and is honored to always represent her beloved JCSU and hopes to make a positive impact through her service and involvement.
Antonia (Toni) Moss
School: University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Mentor: Jean Veatch
Toni Moss is a devoted mother to two children and a determined student at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Her academic journey, characterized by academic excellence, has led her to consistently secure a spot on the Dean's List. Toni actively contributes to the National Society of Leadership and Success at UNC Charlotte, immersing herself in personal and leadership growth initiatives.
Beyond academics, Toni proudly serves as an Adult Ambassador, where she endeavors to positively impact the lives of her fellow students. This semester, her dedication to academics and community involvement was acknowledged with the receipt of four scholarships, including the esteemed Spectrum Scholars and Roberts Communication Scholarships. .
Looking ahead, Toni's post-graduation plans revolve around two key aspirations. First, she aims to contribute to the nonprofit sector, driven by her passion for social impact and community development. Secondly, Toni intends to pursue her Master's degree, furthering her educational journey and expanding her knowledge in a field that will empower her to make a broader difference in the lives of individuals and communities.
Beyond academics, Toni proudly serves as an Adult Ambassador, where she endeavors to positively impact the lives of her fellow students. This semester, her dedication to academics and community involvement was acknowledged with the receipt of four scholarships, including the esteemed Spectrum Scholars and Roberts Communication Scholarships. .
Looking ahead, Toni's post-graduation plans revolve around two key aspirations. First, she aims to contribute to the nonprofit sector, driven by her passion for social impact and community development. Secondly, Toni intends to pursue her Master's degree, furthering her educational journey and expanding her knowledge in a field that will empower her to make a broader difference in the lives of individuals and communities.
Shatisha Parker
School: Johnson C. Smith University
Mentor: Felecia Harris
Shatisha Parker, a Johnson C. Smith scholar, values the sisterhood she's found as a WINGS scholar above all else. This is no surprise, given her passion for serving and caring for others. Shatisha is pursuing a degree in Business Administration and expects to graduate in 2026. She plans to use her degree to build a business that will make a positive impact on people's lives. Shatisha is proud of making the Dean's List in her first year of school. When she's not in class or working at St. Mark's UMC Child Development Center, she enjoys designing t-shirts, making candles, reading, and spending time with her family.
QueenDeifilla Perry
School: Johnson & Wales University
Mentor: Paula Guilfoyle
QueenDeifilla Perry is attending Johnson and Wales University, pursuing a degree in Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management. She expects to graduate in December 2025. After graduation, QueenDeifilla aspires to be a private chef. She also dreams of opening a small, restaurant lounge in her hometown, Columbia, South Carolina.
QueenDeifilla is currently involved in organizing food drives with Nourish Up, improving educational outcomes with Youth Symposium, and keeping our community clean through roadside cleanups. She enjoys spending time with her family, as well as stepping, singing, and traveling. She values the support and wisdom of the WINGS women and appreciates the chance to learn from them.
QueenDeifilla is currently involved in organizing food drives with Nourish Up, improving educational outcomes with Youth Symposium, and keeping our community clean through roadside cleanups. She enjoys spending time with her family, as well as stepping, singing, and traveling. She values the support and wisdom of the WINGS women and appreciates the chance to learn from them.
RaeDeja Sawyer
School: Queens University of Charlotte
Mentor: Mary Hall
Busy doesn't even begin to describe RaeDeja Sawyer's life. She and her husband recently welcomed their fifth child. With five beautiful, energetic, and intelligent children, you might imagine that she doesn't have time for much else, but RaeDeja is attending Queens University and plans to graduate in May of 2025. She is pursing a degree in Political Science and Professional Writing and Rhetoric. After graduation, she plans to earn a dual JD/PhD degree and pursue a career as a lawyer. RaeDeja is particularly interested in researching how how epigenetics may impact the future of the judicial system and its outcomes. Despite her full schedule, RaeDeja also finds time to serve her community through her involvement with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.
Tyra Taylor
School: Central Piedmont Community College
Mentor: Kati Everett
Tyra Taylor is an early childhood educator currently pursuing an associate degree at Central Piedmont Community College, set to graduate in August 2024. As a teacher with Smart Start Mecklenburg County, Tyra plays a vital role in shaping the early years of the children under her care, nurturing their development and fostering a love for learning. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, she also works events alongside her son-in-law, who leads the largest black-owned catering company in the area.
What sets Tyra apart is her unwavering dedication to being a voice for those who might not have one. She aspires to be a career advocate for children and families facing the unique challenges posed by learning differences, such as ADHD and Autism. This determination is deeply personal for her, as she has an adult child with special needs due to spina bifida. Tyra's first-hand experience with the challenges that come with this condition has instilled in her a powerful drive to make a difference, not just for her child, but for countless others who share similar struggles. .
Outside of her professional and educational pursuits, Tyra is a creative soul with a deep love for music, particularly jazz, and all forms of art. She shares this love for art with her students, enhancing their educational experience and fostering their creativity.
Tyra is thrilled to embark on this new journey with her fellow WINGS scholars and mentor Kati Everett and is embracing all opportunities ahead. Tyra's journey is a testament to her resilience, trust in a higher purpose, and her unwavering passion for empowering those in need. She is an individual who inspires others with her dedication and serves as a beacon of hope for countless families and children.
What sets Tyra apart is her unwavering dedication to being a voice for those who might not have one. She aspires to be a career advocate for children and families facing the unique challenges posed by learning differences, such as ADHD and Autism. This determination is deeply personal for her, as she has an adult child with special needs due to spina bifida. Tyra's first-hand experience with the challenges that come with this condition has instilled in her a powerful drive to make a difference, not just for her child, but for countless others who share similar struggles. .
Outside of her professional and educational pursuits, Tyra is a creative soul with a deep love for music, particularly jazz, and all forms of art. She shares this love for art with her students, enhancing their educational experience and fostering their creativity.
Tyra is thrilled to embark on this new journey with her fellow WINGS scholars and mentor Kati Everett and is embracing all opportunities ahead. Tyra's journey is a testament to her resilience, trust in a higher purpose, and her unwavering passion for empowering those in need. She is an individual who inspires others with her dedication and serves as a beacon of hope for countless families and children.
Angela Wilson
School: Johnson C. Smith University
Mentor: Julie Huffman
Angela Wilson dreams of establishing a facility for women who have experienced domestic violence. The Bachelor of Social Work degree she is pursuing at Johnson C. Smith University, which she will complete in 2025, is a key step toward achieving that goal. As a volunteer at Impact Abuse Prevention Services, Angela has witnessed firsthand how support can empower individuals on their healing journey. She has found a similar kind of support from her WINGS mentor, whom she deeply values. Angela shares that when she feels like giving up, her mentor is there to remind her she is not alone. This encouragement helps her realize that each step she takes brings her closer to making her dream a reality. In addition to her mentor, Angela also credits her husband and family for their unwavering encouragement.
Jasmine Woosley
School: Johnson C. Smith University
Mentor: Cynthia Bush
As a Golden Bull Brand Ambassador, Jasmine Woosley is always singing the praises of Johnson C. Smith University. A Communications Arts major, she is pursuing her passion and already honing her skills. Jasmine recorded and self-produced her first album, In The Meantime, after the heartbreaking loss of her parents, only a few years apart. Through music and words, she explores life and its many emotions. As a self-proclaimed "agent of change", Jasmine encourages fellow JCSU students to use their voice through the The Label, an on-campus organization she founded. She likes to say she is from "Dreamville", and believes in the power of possibility. With the support of WINGS, Jasmine is on track to graduate in 2026 and continue reaching for her dreams.
Lindsay Wright
School: Appalachain State University
Mentor: Cynthia Bush
Lindsay Wright is attending CPCC, earning her Associates Degree in Nursing in order to fulfill her dream of becoming a Registered Nurse. She is expected to graduate in December of 2023. Currently working with Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church as an administrative assistant, she enjoys volunteering at church in various ministries including Children's Sunday School, the nursery and AWANA children's program. Married to Matthew for 11 years, she and her husband feel blessed to have their sweet daughters, Adah (6) and Evelyn (3) in their lives. Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes, Lindsay consider health a blessing and of utmost importance. Her journey through diabetes has inspired her to become a nurse to support other patients in need. Her mentor is Cynthia Bush. She values WINGS as reinforcing that her education is an invaluable investment in her future. She is so grateful for the opportunity to participate in such a unique program and create friendships that she knows will last a lifetime.