Aziya Bethea and A’Kalia Wright are the recipients of the $1,000 Magnolia Thompson Williams Scholarship, which will greatly support their academic journeys starting this fall.
Aziya is poised to embark on her studies at the University of South Carolina, where she will focus on exercise science with the ambition of becoming a physical therapist. Her vision is to elevate the quality of life for individuals recovering from injuries while fostering healthy lifestyle choices within the community. She powerfully articulates her mission: “I can help minimize the occurrence of chronic diseases such as obesity and diabetes.” Her plans include helping to prevent injuries by providing exercise and wellness programs. This will involve developing community workshops that focus on injury prevention and recovery, proper body mechanics, and the benefits of regular physical activity for improved health.
A’Kalia will be pursuing her nursing degree at Fayetteville State University, aspiring to make her mark as a nurse in the neonatal intensive care unit. She is passionate about demonstrating to parents the vital role the NICU plays in safeguarding their children’s health while providing expert patient care during this critical beginning of their lives. Furthermore, A’Kalia is deeply committed to promoting STEM education among underprivileged youth, planning to serve as a mentor and develop accessible educational resources that empower the next generation.
Together, Aziya and A’Kalia exemplify a dedication to service and an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others, making them truly deserving recipients of this scholarship.
2025 Magnolia Thompson Williams Scholarship Recipients Announced
