Building rural NC’s future one scholar at a time

MOUNT OLIVE — As North Carolina’s rural communities look toward economic revitalization, the University of Mount Olive and the Golden LEAF Foundation are working together to equip students with the skills and leadership needed to drive that change from within.

At a recent luncheon celebrating Golden LEAF scholarship recipients, UMO faculty and Foundation representatives reaffirmed their commitment to preparing graduates who will return home to drive progress in their communities.

At the event, Golden LEAF President and CEO Scott Hamilton commended UMO’s dedication to student success and rural advancement. He explained that the Foundation’s mission has evolved from providing college access to actively preparing students to lead in emerging industries such as advanced manufacturing, precision agriculture, healthcare technology, and entrepreneurship.

Hamilton challenged students to see themselves as “architects of opportunity” for their communities.

“Your journey is essential to North Carolina’s future, because if rural North Carolina doesn’t succeed, North Carolina doesn’t succeed,” Hamilton said. Each year, the program awards 215 renewable scholarships.

In addition to its scholarships, the Foundation offers hands-on learning and professional growth. Arlena Dongilli, scholarship program manager highlighted programs like the Rural Internship Initiative, which places students in paid internships across rural counties, and Golden LEAF Scholars Connect, an online platform connecting more than 2,700 current scholars and alumni. These programs, she noted, are designed to help students gain real-world experience while remaining rooted in the regions that shaped them.

Representing UMO’s scholarship recipients, Taylor Hall, a senior majoring in veterinary bioscience, shared how her Golden LEAF-supported internship solidified her career goals and opened doors to future employment. She expressed gratitude for the Foundation’s role in helping students not only succeed academically but also give back to their home communities.

“Each of us here today is eager to continue our education so that we may serve and strengthen the places we call home,” Hall said.

UMO President H. Edward Croom concluded the event by thanking the Golden LEAF Foundation for its partnership and investment in students’ futures.

“The Golden LEAF Foundation is making a difference in lives across our state, and we’re honored to be a part of that story.”