Scholarships Open Door to Brighter Future for First-Generation College Student
Scholarships from the Western Piedmont Foundation gave a first-generation college student the opportunity to take the first step toward her dream career.
Carrie Russ was born in Avery County, North Carolina and graduated from Avery County High School in 2012. She was initially interested in going into dental hygiene and briefly attended Cape Fear Community College before going to work as a personal trainer for area YMCA organizations.
She moved to Burke County in 2023 and worked as a real estate agent while considering going back to school to earn an Associate in Arts degree.
“I chose to attend Western Piedmont Community College, because it offered a high-quality education close to home in a supportive and affordable environment,” Russ said. “It gave me the opportunity to pursue my educational goals while managing my personal and financial responsibilities.”
She was awarded the Ann Cornwell Patton Scholarship, the Western Piedmont Foundation General Scholarship, the John H. McMurray Scholarship and the Mary H. Warlick Workers’ Legacy Scholarship to attend the college.
“Receiving scholarships this year was a tremendous help financially,” Russ said. “I was going to have to be on a payment plan if I did not get the scholarships that I did. I am truly grateful for the extra help.”
She describes her experience at WPCC as “incredibly rewarding.”
“The instructors and staff have been supportive, encouraging and genuinely invested in my success,” Russ said. “I’ve had the opportunity to grow academically and personally while building the skills and confidence I need to reach my goals.”
She graduated in July 2026 and plans to earn a bachelor’s degree in either physical therapy or sports training.
“I am the first person in my immediate family to finish a college degree,” Russ said. “It feels really meaningful, because I know how much hard work and determination it took to get here. I’m proud to be setting an example for my family and showing that earning a degree is possible. It also motivates me to continue learning, give back to my community and serve as an example that goals like this are achievable with determination and persistence.”
She expressed appreciation for the financial boost that helped her along her educational journey.
“The support of scholarship donors changes lives in ways that go far beyond helping pay for tuition,” Russ said. “It gives students the opportunity to focus on learning, pursue their goals and build a better future without carrying the full weight of financial stress.”
Published: 8/20/2026