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Donate NowMeet the WINGS Scholars
Aslihan Atkinson
School: Central Piedmont Community College
Mentor: Leslie Kraemer
Scholar
Aslihan Atkinson was born in Turkey and moved to the U.S. in 2005. Prior to becoming a WINGS Scholar, she earned her Bachelor Degree in Physics in Turkey, where she worked ten years in the school system, and continued her role in education after relocating to the States as a substitute teacher for Cabarrus and Mecklenburg schools systems. She mastered English as a second language through attending the English Training Institute at UNC Charlotte. As a WINGS Scholar, she is pursuing her Nursing degree at CPCC, expecting to graduate in 2025. She is a Certified Nursing Assistant and Certified Adult Care Medication Technician, currently working at Waltonwood Providence Assisted Living. Upon graduating, she would like to stay comfortably on her feet and use her experience and education to help in the care of others, especially children, as a mother of girls, ages 13 and 9 years. She values the confidence-building and support she receives from WINGS. Her mentor is
Leslie Kraemer.
Sydney Canchola
School: UNC Charlotte
Mentor: Kelly Noftsger
Sydney Canchola is a highly motivated and accomplished senior at UNC Charlotte, majoring in Public Health. Originally hailing from Louisiana, Sydney has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to academic excellence, earning a place on both the Chancellor and Deans list. With an impressive 3.94 GPA, Sydney's dedication to their studies is evident.
Beyond their exceptional academic performance, Sydney is actively engaged in gaining practical experience in their field. They have secured an internship with the Mecklenburg County Health Department, where they are actively involved in conducting research and working on community health initiatives. This hands-on experience has allowed Sydney to apply their knowledge and skills in a real-world setting, further enhancing their understanding of public health practices. .
Sydney's passion for making a positive impact in underserved communities is reflected in their future aspirations. They envision opening a Lactation Clinic in low-income communities, recognizing the importance of providing vital support and resources to mothers in need. Sydney's vision for this clinic is driven by their belief that every individual, regardless of socioeconomic status, deserves access to essential healthcare services.
With their exceptional academic achievements, real-world experience, and unwavering dedication to improving community health, Sydney Canchola is an extraordinary candidate for this scholarship. They possess a genuine passion for public health and a clear vision for creating positive change. Through this scholarship opportunity, Sydney is able to continue their education, expand their knowledge, and ultimately make a lasting impact on the lives of individuals and families in underserved communities.
Beyond their exceptional academic performance, Sydney is actively engaged in gaining practical experience in their field. They have secured an internship with the Mecklenburg County Health Department, where they are actively involved in conducting research and working on community health initiatives. This hands-on experience has allowed Sydney to apply their knowledge and skills in a real-world setting, further enhancing their understanding of public health practices. .
Sydney's passion for making a positive impact in underserved communities is reflected in their future aspirations. They envision opening a Lactation Clinic in low-income communities, recognizing the importance of providing vital support and resources to mothers in need. Sydney's vision for this clinic is driven by their belief that every individual, regardless of socioeconomic status, deserves access to essential healthcare services.
With their exceptional academic achievements, real-world experience, and unwavering dedication to improving community health, Sydney Canchola is an extraordinary candidate for this scholarship. They possess a genuine passion for public health and a clear vision for creating positive change. Through this scholarship opportunity, Sydney is able to continue their education, expand their knowledge, and ultimately make a lasting impact on the lives of individuals and families in underserved communities.
Caroline Carothers
School: UNC Charlotte
Mentor: Erin Lentz
Jamie Cochran
School: University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Mentor: Stephanie Richard
Jamie Cochran is attending the University of North Carolina Charlotte earning her bachelor of arts degree in communications with a focus on public relations and international public relations. She expects to graduate in 2023. After working in parks and rec, security, and food service, Jamie joined the marines where she was promoted to Sergeant while on active duty. She is proud of her service as a marine and being named to the National Society of Leadership and Success. She looks forward to continuing her education working towards an MBA to expand her knowledge in the areas of business, customer service and operations so she can launch her own company. Her vision is to build her JLevon brand into an enterprise that empowers women through fashion. The youngest of six children with three older brothers and two older sisters, Jamie is grateful for being surrounded by her loving family including parents and cousins. Her interests include fashion styling, traveling, pilates, cooking, listening to music and spending time with family. She knows it is her resilience and determination to make a way out of no way that has served her well thus far.
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.
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: Betty Johnson
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.
Lisa Harris
School: University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Mentor: University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Lisa Harris originally hails from New York City and is the youngest of five siblings who all still reside in different boroughs of New York. Lisa is the proud mother of two daughters and one grandson. She, with a passion for the health and the wellness of others, has worked clinically in various specialties of healthcare for over twenty years. Lisa has decided to expand her reach in the healing of others by working for the recreation center as a personal trainer at the University of North Carolina Charlotte, where she is currently a junior earning her BA in Psychology and Public Health. Lisa likes to spend time advancing in her spiritual walk, spending time with her friends and family, helping others, working out and delving into natural and holistic medicine to improve ones health.
Amber Rae Hightower
School: University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Mentor: Lori Perro
Ashley Kimble-Johnson
School: Johnson C. Smith University
Mentor: Paulette Ashlin
Ashley Kimble-Johnson 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.
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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.
Kathleen LaGuerre
School: Central Piedmont Community College
Mentor: Angela Broome Powley
Kim Lewis
School: Johnson C. Smith University
Mentor: Sharon Harrington
Kim Lewis is a Lead Certified Peer Support Specialist for Promise Resource Network. Kim has worked for PRN since 2013 and during this time she has been instrumental in her role as Community Resource Coordinator. Kim is an expert at identifying gaps within our community and strives to provide solutions around the complex systems of care embedded within Mecklenburg County. Kim has developed strategic partnerships with numerous agencies and community resources that have supported marginalized individuals that are desperately struggling with finding supportive services as it relates to their physical, financial, and mental wellness. Lastly, she enjoys spending time with her family, reading, traveling, and painting.
Chartu Lopez-White
School: Johnson & Wales University
Mentor: Cathy Carlino
Chartu Lopez-White is a Culinary Arts major at Johnson and Wales University. She previously attended the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, earning a degree in Political Science. She spent 10 years working in the government sector and in political campaigns. She has served with AmeriCorps, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and the Department of Housing and Urban Development before moving to campaigns, working on municipal, statewide, and presidential races. After the pandemic, Chartu decided to pursue her first passion, cooking. She hopes to combine her passions for social justice and food by leading an organization that provides healthy and delicious meals for communities in need and teaches people about the history and culture of the foods they eat.
Bethany Mavromatis
School: UNC Charlotte
Mentor: Mary Vickers-Koch
Bethany Mavromatis is currently attending UNC-Charlotte pursuing a degree in Psychology, with a desire to ultimately achieve a doctoral degree in policy or psychology. She expects to graduate in May of 2024. Originally from Chincoteague Island, Virginia, Bethany is a U.S. Navy veteran, having served as a Petty Officer 2nd Class. She is the president of the Student Veteran's Association, and also serves as Vice President of the Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society. In 2017-2018, she was awarded Junior Sailor of the Year at her last command at NSA Souda Bay Greece. She is passionate about helping fellow student veterans feel more comfortable amidst their transition into civilian and student life. She enjoys roller skating and focuses on maintaining a healthy work/life balance. Her mentor is Mary Vickers-Koch.
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.
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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
I'm Toni Moss, a devoted mother to two children and a determined student at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. My academic journey, characterized by academic excellence, has led me to consistently secure a spot on the Dean's List. I actively contribute to the National Society of Leadership and Success at UNC Charlotte, immersing myself in personal and leadership growth initiatives.
Beyond academics, I proudly serve as an Adult Ambassador, where I endeavor to positively impact the lives of my fellow students. This semester, my dedication to academics and community involvement has been acknowledged with the receipt of four scholarships, including the esteemed Spectrum Scholars and Roberts Communication Scholarships. .
Looking ahead, my post-graduation plans revolve around two key aspirations. First, I aim to contribute to the nonprofit sector, driven by my passion for social impact and community development. Secondly, I intend to pursue my Master's degree, furthering my educational journey and expanding my knowledge in a field that will empower me to make a broader difference in the lives of individuals and communities.
Beyond academics, I proudly serve as an Adult Ambassador, where I endeavor to positively impact the lives of my fellow students. This semester, my dedication to academics and community involvement has been acknowledged with the receipt of four scholarships, including the esteemed Spectrum Scholars and Roberts Communication Scholarships. .
Looking ahead, my post-graduation plans revolve around two key aspirations. First, I aim to contribute to the nonprofit sector, driven by my passion for social impact and community development. Secondly, I intend to pursue my Master's degree, furthering my educational journey and expanding my knowledge in a field that will empower me to make a broader difference in the lives of individuals and communities.
Kimberly Nelson
School: Johnson C. Smith University
Mentor: LaRita Barber
Kimberly Nelson is an Integrative Interdisciplinarian Scholar, Certified Scrum Master and President of Global Impact Industries, a Minority, Women-Owned SBE and HUB certified management enterprise consortium established in the state of North Carolina. After serving in several executive leadership board capacities as the Vice Chair for the 12th Congressional District, Africa Growth Opportunity Act delegate, Legislative Chair for the Charlotte Chamber of Commerce as a civic advocacy leader ignited her entrepreneurship journey to pursue her BA in Interdisciplinary Studies with concentrations in International Business Administration and Data Analytics at Johnson C. Smith University. Kimberly established her first small business development data analytics use case in partnership with Johnson C. Smith University, North Carolina State University and Lenovo to help entrepreneurs build, scale, and grow.
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She is impassioned to help bridge global diaspora business opportunities with the continent of Africa, giving back, currently serving on committees with the Center for Digital Equity, Community Relations Committee, Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority as the Audit Chair and Budget Committee, Chair of the Golden Bulls Adult Success Organization at JCSU and member of National League of Cities. In May 2023, Kimberly was accepted in the Collegiate Voices of Change Political Institute made possible by Lehrman Institute at Yale University and the Council of Independent Colleges. Receiving numerous scholarships and certifications to name a few with the President Scholars Award, Dean's List, Alpha Sigma Lambda National Honor Society, a proud Congressional Black Caucus Foundation and WINGS Scholar, Charlotte Region Commercial Board of Realtors, The Charlotte Crown Black Real Estate, and Project Destined granted her the opportunity to work with Asana Partners Commercial Real Estate Program. She also has been a part of prestigious leadership development cohorts African Union Leadership Forum, American Leadership Forum, and Leadership Charlotte. She has been recognized as an Emerging Leader of Who's Who Black Charlotte in 2013 and the Urban Rebound Count Me In for Women's Economic Independence Business Accelerator Award Winner. Kimberly is an economic evangelist, transformative enterpriser, continuous learner with an aptitude for market research, relationship management, strategic regional/global planning, and implementation. Kimberly is a resilient in the test of times and happily married to her dynamic loving husband Paul Nelson from Sierra Leone.
She is impassioned to help bridge global diaspora business opportunities with the continent of Africa, giving back, currently serving on committees with the Center for Digital Equity, Community Relations Committee, Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority as the Audit Chair and Budget Committee, Chair of the Golden Bulls Adult Success Organization at JCSU and member of National League of Cities. In May 2023, Kimberly was accepted in the Collegiate Voices of Change Political Institute made possible by Lehrman Institute at Yale University and the Council of Independent Colleges. Receiving numerous scholarships and certifications to name a few with the President Scholars Award, Dean's List, Alpha Sigma Lambda National Honor Society, a proud Congressional Black Caucus Foundation and WINGS Scholar, Charlotte Region Commercial Board of Realtors, The Charlotte Crown Black Real Estate, and Project Destined granted her the opportunity to work with Asana Partners Commercial Real Estate Program. She also has been a part of prestigious leadership development cohorts African Union Leadership Forum, American Leadership Forum, and Leadership Charlotte. She has been recognized as an Emerging Leader of Who's Who Black Charlotte in 2013 and the Urban Rebound Count Me In for Women's Economic Independence Business Accelerator Award Winner. Kimberly is an economic evangelist, transformative enterpriser, continuous learner with an aptitude for market research, relationship management, strategic regional/global planning, and implementation. Kimberly is a resilient in the test of times and happily married to her dynamic loving husband Paul Nelson from Sierra Leone.
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.
Mayra Torres
School: University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Mentor: Nimisha Kurup
"There is nothing more rewarding and inspiring than having the honor to be around such successful women, who inspire us to pursue our dreams no matter what."
Mayra Torres is a senior at UNC-Charlotte pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in Health Systems Management with a double minor in Psychology and Public Health. Her expected graduation is December 2023. She currently works as a Lead Ophthalmic Technician at Charlotte Eye, Ear Nose and Throat. Her responsibilities include patient preparation for doctor, assisting in minor procedures, coordinating surgeries, maintaining OSHA logs, and filling in wherever needed. She joined the firm in 2015 as an ophthalmic assistant, receiving several promotions including becoming a Certified Ophthalmic Assistant, receiving her Ophthalmic Scribe Certification, and then becoming a Certified Ophthalmic Technician in 2020. .
A member of the National Society of Leadership and Success, Mayra was also accepted into the Tau Sigma National Honor Society in October of 2022. Her hope upon graduation is to be promoted to practice manager within her current firm. Ultimately, she would like to make a difference through leading a human resources department and making a difference in the work dynamic for those in the industry. She enjoys traveling, movie night with her family, and staying active spending time at the Whitewater Center.
She enjoys time with family, traveling and spending time outdoors. She has valued the relationship she has built with her mentor and fellow mentees, learning about their journeys and supporting one another.
Mayra Torres is a senior at UNC-Charlotte pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in Health Systems Management with a double minor in Psychology and Public Health. Her expected graduation is December 2023. She currently works as a Lead Ophthalmic Technician at Charlotte Eye, Ear Nose and Throat. Her responsibilities include patient preparation for doctor, assisting in minor procedures, coordinating surgeries, maintaining OSHA logs, and filling in wherever needed. She joined the firm in 2015 as an ophthalmic assistant, receiving several promotions including becoming a Certified Ophthalmic Assistant, receiving her Ophthalmic Scribe Certification, and then becoming a Certified Ophthalmic Technician in 2020. .
A member of the National Society of Leadership and Success, Mayra was also accepted into the Tau Sigma National Honor Society in October of 2022. Her hope upon graduation is to be promoted to practice manager within her current firm. Ultimately, she would like to make a difference through leading a human resources department and making a difference in the work dynamic for those in the industry. She enjoys traveling, movie night with her family, and staying active spending time at the Whitewater Center.
She enjoys time with family, traveling and spending time outdoors. She has valued the relationship she has built with her mentor and fellow mentees, learning about their journeys and supporting one another.
Jill Willis
School: Queens University of Charlotte
Mentor: Katie Nygren
Jill is attending Queens University pursuing her Bachelor of Arts in Music with a concentration in Conducting. When not going to school fulltime, she is employed at Harrison United Methodist Church, serving as Director of Traditional Worship and Director of Children's Music. Jill will be graduating in May 2024, when she hopes to leverage her areas of expertise in conducting, choral, children and youth music and teaching to continue to fulfill a lifelong dream of working with a choral groups, whether in churches or the community, to bring music into the lives of all. She cherishes time with her husband, two adult children and pets, while enjoying hobbies that include health and fitness, gardening, reading, cooking, decorating with a special interest in vintage and antique architecture.
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Her dream is to pursue her master's degree in music therapy as a profession. She has been immersed in music since she was a child, singing long before she was speaking. She believes music is a powerful healer and looks forward to continuing her educational journey to achieve this goal. What she values most about WINGS is the empowering support and the inspiring stories that have motivated her. She especially values her mentor, who she sees as smart, kind, and authentic, which she finds incredibly encouraging. Her mentor is Katie Nygren.
Her dream is to pursue her master's degree in music therapy as a profession. She has been immersed in music since she was a child, singing long before she was speaking. She believes music is a powerful healer and looks forward to continuing her educational journey to achieve this goal. What she values most about WINGS is the empowering support and the inspiring stories that have motivated her. She especially values her mentor, who she sees as smart, kind, and authentic, which she finds incredibly encouraging. Her mentor is Katie Nygren.
Angela Wilson
School: Johnson C. Smith University
Mentor: Julie Huffman
Nye Woods
School: Queens University of Charlotte
Mentor: Tchernavia Montgomery
Nyeshia "Nye" Woods is a senior at Queens University of Charlotte earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. With more than 10 years of experience in the healthcare industry, Nye currently works as a Certified Hemodialysis Technician with Atrium Health, overseeing patients' dialysis treatment. Her goal is to become a Pediatric Nurse; inspired by her own child who receives care for a chronic condition. Her long-term goal is to become a Pediatric Family Nurse Practitioner, due to her love of children and her desire to be an outstanding professional caregiver.
Tchernavia Montgomery is her mentor.
Lindsay Wright
School: Central Piedmont Community College
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.
Alice Zellars
School: Johnson & Wales University
Mentor: Megan Boyers