Greenbrier Historical Society (GHS) is proud to announce the recipients of the prestigious Katherine Johnson Scholarship, which aims to support local minority students in their pursuit of higher education and careers dedicated to serving others. The scholarship program, established in collaboration with the Katherine Johnson Family, will present the scholarships to two deserving students during a special ceremony on Monday, July 31, at 2 p.m. at the North House Museum in Lewisburg.
The two outstanding students who have been selected to receive the Katherine Johnson Scholarship are Koah Carter and Trysten Hughes of Greenbrier East High School. Out of eight applicants, these exceptional individuals stood out for their remarkable academic achievements, commitment to their communities, and ambitious career aspirations.
Koah Carter, residing in White Sulphur Springs, is an accomplished student who has excelled academically with an impressive 4.0 overall GPA. Throughout her time at Greenbrier East, Koah demonstrated her leadership skills and passion for sports, having been an integral member of the National Honors Society, a cheerleader, and an active participant in ladies basketball. Koah’s academic dedication extends further as a member of the MU Alpha Theta honors program. She will be embarking on a journey to North Carolina A&T University in Greensboro, North Carolina, where she will major in Physical Therapy. Koah’s ultimate goal is to become a physical therapist, either in a collegiate setting or for a professional sports league, as she possesses an interest in the body’s healing process. Alongside her academic pursuits, Koah has been actively involved in community service within her church and has contributed to cleaning up the West Virginia State Fair grounds.
Trysten Hughes, a resident of Lewisburg, has also demonstrated exceptional academic prowess with a 4.0 GPA. He has been an integral part of Greenbrier East’s academic and extracurricular landscape, including memberships in the National Honors Society and the MU Alpha Theta honors program. Trysten’s engagement in 4H allowed him to participate in county visual presentations, showcasing his versatility and talents. Moreover, he showcased his artistic and athletic abilities by being a member of the marching band and serving as the color guard captain. Trysten’s involvement in cross-country track and the Go Global Interact Club highlights his dedication to personal growth and community involvement. In the pursuit of his dreams, Trysten will be attending West Virginia University to major in Biology, aspiring to become a physician or surgeon.
The Katherine Johnson Scholarship program was established with the aim of providing support to local minority students as they embark on their college journeys and prepare for impactful careers. Recipients of the scholarship have committed to remaining connected with the Greenbrier County community through GHS during and after their college years. This commitment includes periodic returns to participate in programs that inspire high school students to work diligently and pursue higher education. Additionally, scholarship recipients may serve as summer interns with GHS throughout their college years, supporting the GHS Education Program.
GHS Board President, Janice Cooley, and Board Secretary, Margaret Hambrick, together with Kathy Moore and Joylette Hylick, daughters of the late Katherine Johnson, provide invaluable support to the Katherine Johnson Scholarship program and serve as a beacon of inspiration for the recipients and the entire community.