Hello, Carolinas Region!

We had a record-breaking number of applications submitted this year for our annual Transfer Excellence Scholarship worth $500.00 USD. NINETEEN in total!!! The funds raised from the institution sponsors during the Spring and Fall Transfer Fair events are used to fund this amazing opportunity. The judges had some amazing applications to review, but ultimately, one recipient was chosen. We would like to first say congratulations to all the applicants on their recent program graduations and wish them all good luck at their four-year institutions! Without further ado...

 The alumni judges completed their scoring the Monday prior to Honors Institute. The winner was also announced in person on Sunday June 28th, 2026, during the final General Session and notified a few moments later. If you were unable to attend in person, here is the write-up from the Alumni Leadership Team:

This recipient stood out to the alumni judging panel not only for facing adversity but knew that education could alter their path and forge their future. This individual’s journey can be described as one of strength and perseverance and exemplifies what it means to never give up. 

One particular portion of this student’s essay stood out the most when discussing the difficulties associated with continuing their educational journey.  The applicant notated that “Continuous learning to me means waking up every day with an open mind and a willingness to learn something new. The day someone decides they know everything and there is nothing left to learn is the day they stop growing. Educational success should be measured by how strong a person's desire is to keep learning.”

When asked about what motivates them to be successful academically as well as in their everyday lives, they offered this perspective: “My motivation to learn won't decrease when I earn my bachelor's degree because learning has never been about collecting credentials. Learning helped me survive difficult seasons and become a better leader and parent. Somewhere between homework by candlelight and a Kroger parking lot, I learned that education isn't about proving what you know. It's about having the courage to keep growing and showing others they can too.”

It is a self-reflection that helps keep their focus on track and helps to focus on the reason they endure so much- to be an inspiration to those who come after us. This recipient will be transferring to pursue a bachelor’s degree in public relations at the University of South Carolina. Unfortunately, she was unable to join us this weekend, but is humbled and excited to have been chosen for this award. 

From Alpha Eta Kappa of Midlands Technical College, please join us in congratulating Ciara Wallace as the 2026-2027 Transfer Excellence Scholarship recipient!