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NC Central University offers new scholarship for aspiring principals

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The statue of James E. Shepard, founder of North Carolina Central University, stands tall as a reminder of his significant contributions to education and civil rights.

A partnership between The Innovation Project and North Carolina Central University (NCCU) is providing $1.5 million in scholarship funding for aspiring principals from small, high-need North Carolina school districts.

The Recruitment, Retention, and Promotion of Effective Educators scholarship initiative covers the cost of a two-year Master of School Administration degree program. This includes tuition and a salary for their full-time principal internship, which is completed during their second year. Funding for the scholarship comes from grants, one via the U.S. Department of Education and another from N.C. Department of Public Instruction. 

“This partnership underscores our shared dedication to advancing educational equity and excellence and preparing our aspiring leaders to lead with integrity,  purpose, and through innovation,” NCCU MSA Program Director Portia Gibbs-Roseboro said.

The Innovation Project is a nonprofit that connects school district leaders throughout the state with the purpose of inspiring change and equity. 

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Sharon Contreras, CEO of The Innovation Project, said that with strong support, great teachers can become great principals. 

“The interview process was especially dynamic and illuminated those candidates with the potential to do the work our students need and deserve. I’m thrilled with the outcome and I look forward to seeing these professionals advance in their careers and continue to serve in smaller districts,” Contreras said.

Candidates were selected to be in the scholarship program’s first cohort after nominations, applying, and a group interview process. The 16 scholarship recipients are listed below. 

  • Cecelia Aguilar, Warren County School District
  • Trevor Beverly, Lexington City Schools
  • James Brown, Warren County School District
  • QuaShana Brown, Edgecombe County Public Schools
  • Sylvia Carver, Elizabeth City – Pasquotank Public Schools
  • Wilonda Gillespie-Cates, Vance County Public Schools
  • J’Vonn Davis, Elizabeth City – Pasquotank Public Schools
  • Megan Gentry, Mt. Airy School District
  • Pamela Jordan, Warren County School District
  • Ashley Knowles, Sampson County Schools
  • Brandon Powell, Sampson County Schools
  • Jennivise Lindsay, Vance County Public Schools
  • Kenya Raynor, Edgecombe County Public Schools
  • Elaine Reales, Mt. Airy School District
  • West Scherer, Asheboro City Schools
  • Danielle Wissner, Elizabeth City – Pasquotank Public Schools

The cohort members will begin classes in the upcoming fall semester. In addition to their course work, recipients also committed to a five-year service obligation.

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