Meet the Scholars
Our ELC Scholars represent over 40 educational institutions from around the U.S.
Use the form below to search our scholar directory by scholarship, last name, college/university and college major.
ELC Scholars Directory
Victoria Madu
College/University
- University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
Major
- Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
year
- 2025
Award
- Johnson & Johnson Scholarship
Victoria Madu is a Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering student at UCLA who blends creativity with technical curiosity. Her journey has included working as a pharmacy technician, formulating hair products at home, and baking allergy-friendly recipes—experiences that inspire her approach to engineering. Victoria is actively involved with the National Society of Black Engineers, serving on both her chapter and regional boards. She has earned prestigious scholarships including the Winston C. Doby Legacy and Eugene & Marilyn Stein Engineering Scholarships. In Summer 2025, she will intern with Procter & Gamble in Cape Girardeau, MO, continuing to expand her impact in innovation and outreach.
David Adewumi
College/University
- Morgan State University
Major
- Information Systems
year
- 2025
Award
- Lowe’s Marvin R. Ellison Emerging Leaders Scholarship
David Adewumi is a freshman at Morgan State University majoring in Information Systems in the School of Business and Management. A dedicated campus leader, he serves as a Freshman Class Senator in the Student Government Association, championing student advocacy and campus innovation. David brings a strong foundation in leadership and technology, working as a Library IT Assistant and previously interning with the Office of the State’s Attorney as a Project Management Intern. His experience also includes roles as a Private Tutor and Teacher’s Assistant, reinforcing his commitment to education and mentorship. A participant in the M.I.L.E. Program and an invitee to the TMCF DevCon 2025 conference, David is a consistent Dean’s List scholar and former Cross Country Team President. With a passion for technology, business, and service, he is focused on making a lasting impact at Morgan State and beyond.
Rachel Aguda
College/University
- Drexel University
Major
- Biomedical Sciences
year
- 2025
Award
- Otsuka Scholarship
Rachel Aguda is a master’s student in Biomedical Sciences at Drexel University, aspiring to pursue an MD/PhD. She brings extensive experience in healthcare and research, having worked at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) on eye developmental genetics and volunteered at Johns Hopkins Suburban Hospital. A creative and multitalented leader, Rachel has served as a podcast host, MC, photographer, graphic designer, and event planner across various organizations. She is also a published author and recipient of the 2023 NEI Director’s Award at the NIH for organizing a high-impact initiative for high school students.
Abigail “Abby” Akyea
College/University
- Virginia Commonwealth University
Major
- Information Systems
year
- 2025
Award
- Hewlett Packard Enterprise Scholarship
Abigail “Abby” Akyea is a sophomore at Virginia Commonwealth University majoring in Information Systems. Passionate about the intersection of business, technology, and social impact, she aspires to pursue a career in product management. Abby currently works as a Community Engagement Researcher at VCU, analyzing socioeconomic disparities in low-income neighborhoods to develop strategies for meaningful change. She is the founder of Abby’s Formula for Impact, leading initiatives such as care package drives for cancer patients and food donations for homeless youth. Her commitment to advocacy earned her recognition from the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors for her work with the West Potomac Change Initiative and a partnership with Family Dollar’s “Doing More” youth campaign, which raised $4.5 million and reached 90% audience engagement. Abby was also named the 2023 Southeast Youth of the Year for the Boys & Girls Clubs of America and has advocated for post-secondary access on Capitol Hill. A participant in the Management Leadership for Tomorrow (MLT) program, she continues to use her platform to create inclusive spaces and inspire future leaders to drive meaningful change.
Jade Alford
College/University
- Johnson C. Smith University
Major
- Business Administration
year
- 2025
Award
- Ann Fudge Scholarship
Jade Alford is a Presidential Scholar at Johnson C. Smith University, majoring in Business Administration and recipient of the 2025 Academic Excellence Award and the Centers of Excellence Scholarship. A high achiever from Concord, NC, Jade graduated with honors from Fort Mill High School at 16, later gaining experience in luxury retail sales and earning her real estate license. She now works at the law firm Haynes and Boone while actively participating in the VoiceOver Project, a university-wide service initiative.
Gavin Alvarez-Bynum
College/University
- Kennesaw State University
Major
year
- 2025
Award
- Otsuka Scholarship
Gavin Alvarez-Bynum is a dynamic and service-driven student at Kennesaw State University, where he serves as a President’s Parliament Scholar Ambassador and Resident Assistant. In these roles, he connects with donors, supports fellow students, and fosters inclusive communities on campus. He is also a Social Media Manager and Ascend Scholar, helping students who have experienced homelessness, foster care, or food insecurity. Gavin is completing an Honors Contract with Cisco to earn his CCST cybersecurity certification and was selected as one of only two students for a prestigious study abroad experience in Cambridge, UK. With a strong foundation in leadership, research, and time management, he plans to become a Network Security Engineer, first serving as a Cyber Operations Officer in the U.S. Air Force. Gavin’s commitment to authenticity, mentorship, and problem-solving drives his vision to lead in cybersecurity and inspire others.
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