Elizabeth City, N.C. — Ten students from Elizabeth City State University (ECSU) have been awarded the U.S. Department of State’s Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship during the Oct. 2024 cycle. This milestone solidifies ECSU’s standing as a leader in global engagement, ranking as one of North Carolina’s top HBCU producers of Gilman Scholars and among the top 10 institutions in the state for this award since their first scholar was awarded in 2019.
These Vikings have shattered boundaries with a 52.6 percent success rate during the most recent cycle, proving the university’s commitment to academic excellence and international engagement.
With 53 recipients since 2019, ECSU’s Office of International Programs continues to empower students to expand their horizons and impact the world.
“Thanks to the work of our many Study Abroad Alumni Ambassadors, we are seeing a steady increase in the number of students who wish to study abroad, as well as those who submit applications for the Gilman Scholarship. We expect that trend will continue,” said Andre Stevenson, professor of social work and director of international programs.
The newly minted scholars, representing a variety of disciplines, will take their studies abroad to countries including Costa Rica, Ghana, Japan, Panama, South Africa, Spain and Tunisia during J-Term, spring 2025 or summer 2025.
Meet the Vikings setting sail, and those who have returned from the J-Term abroad experience:
- Adrian Belle-McCloud (junior, digital media major)
- Jafar (River) Tucker (sophomore, aviation science major)
- Antwon Cannady (senior, engineering technology major)
- Qimora Mason (junior, computer science /mathematics major)
- Quaysan Miles (sophomore, kinesiology major)
- Luz Rivera (senior, engineering technology /mathematics major)
- Nadrya Godwin (junior, graphic design major)
- Ivan Espinoza Herrera (junior, aviation science major)
- NicCal Hill (senior, social work major)
- Myasia Bradley (senior, history major)
These students exemplify ECSU’s vision of preparing globally competitive citizens. The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship program, aimed at supporting students traditionally underrepresented in studying abroad, empowers participants with the financial means to pursue life-changing educational experiences overseas.
With students venturing into continents far and wide, ECSU continues to encourage cultural exchange and diversity in education. These Gilman Scholars prove that the Viking spirit knows no borders, as they embark on journeys that will shape their futures and leave a mark on the world.