By Kaitlyn Parker, External Affairs Intern
As North Carolina students turn their tassels and look towards the future, a group of graduates have plans to return to revitalize their rural communities.
“I am proud to celebrate our Golden LEAF Scholar graduates,” said Golden LEAF President, Chief Executive Officer Scott T. Hamilton. “These students have gained valuable knowledge and experience that will benefit both their futures and the rural communities they call home. Congratulations to the Class of 2026!”
This spring, 121 Golden LEAF Scholars will be graduating from a North Carolina College or University. Since 2000, more than 6,300 rural North Carolina students have received the Golden LEAF Colleges and Universities Scholarship.
Continuing reading to learn about these Golden LEAF Scholars’ exciting plans after their graduation.
Elise Hines of Edgecombe County is graduating from North Carolina State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a minor in Psychology. After graduation, Hines plans on joining the workforce as a teacher in her home county.
“As someone who grew up in this community,” said Hines, “it means a lot to me to return and give back to the same school system that played such a big role in shaping who I am today.”
Hines credits her school district and community for fostering her love of education and passion for helping others. Hines’ teachers taught her that building connections with others can make a big impact, inspiring her to do the same for the next generation of students.
“Growing up in a rural, Title I school district shaped my passion for education and my desire to give back,” said Hines. “I saw firsthand how meaningful relationships with teachers can make a difference, and that has inspired me to be that same support for my future students.”
Jarius Fajardo of Cumberland County is graduating from Methodist University with a degree in Business Administration and a minor in Entrepreneurship. The Golden LEAF Scholarship helped Fajardo balance his life as a student and as an athlete.
“It took a lot of financial pressure off me,” said Fajardo. “Which helped me focus on school, track, and work. As a student-athlete, that balance isn’t easy, so having that support really helped me stay consistent and perform at a high level.”
After graduation, Fajardo wants to use his degree to help businesses increase capital and make smarter decisions surrounding their finances.
“After I graduate, I’m planning to become a financial analyst,” said Fajardo. “I want to work with data, help businesses make better decisions, and continue growing in the finance field. I am excited about and open to opportunities where I can use my skills to help support growth in rural areas.”
Jacen Carver of Macon County is graduating from Western Carolina University with a degree in Business Administration and Law. As the first in his family to attend college, the Golden LEAF Scholarship opened an opportunity for funding and community. After graduation, he wants to expand his nonprofit, Southern Samaritans.
“I plan on continuing my nonprofit,” Carver said. “I want to use my business degree to run our thrift store and use my background in construction and landscaping to further our repair work.”
Southern Samaritans thrift store is in Andrews, NC, and they service Cherokee, Macon, Wayne, Graham, and Clay counties for repair work.
“A lot of people in rural western North Carolina cannot afford new construction work or repairs on their homes,” Carver said. “We haven’t charged anyone for repair work, so far. All the funding comes from the thrift store. By helping people with these repairs we feel that we’re using our talents for the better.”
For Carver, staying in Macon county meant fulfilling his own needs while also strengthening his local community.
“Some people think that if western North Carolina doesn’t have what they need that they have to move to the big city,” said Carver. “That just isn’t the case. What they don’t realize is that they can fulfill the need they have at home by filling that gap with something they create.”
As these graduates take the next steps in their journeys, they carry with them not only the knowledge gained through their education, but also a deep commitment to the places they call home. Their aspirations reflect the mission of the Golden LEAF Scholarship—to invest in students who will, in turn, invest in rural North Carolina. Whether in classrooms, businesses, or community organizations, the Class of 2026 is poised to make meaningful contributions that will strengthen local economies and improve quality of life across the state for years to come.
Click here to learn more about the Golden LEAF Colleges and Universities Scholarship.